Liquid softener composition

Abstract

To provide a softener capable of suppressing accumulation of reattached stain without reducing separation stability of the softener and dispersibility of a functional capsule.SOLUTION: A liquid softener composition contains the following components (A) to (D): (A) at least one compound selected from a group consisting of an amine compound with 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups parted by an ester group (-COO-), a salt thereof and a quaternary compound thereof; (B) a nonionic surfactant with a carbon chain of 10 or more carbons and an HLB value of 19.0 to 20.0; (C) a functional capsule; and (D) an unscented fragrance. The content of the component (A) is 3 to 15 mass% based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition; the content of the component (B) is 2 to 8 mass% based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition; and a mass ratio (B / A) of the component (B) to the component (A) is 0.1 to 3.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to liquid softener compositions. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of fabric softeners, products aimed at improving storage stability, lingering fragrance, and the like have been developed (Patent Documents 1 to 5). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-4418 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 7106359 specification [Patent Document 3] JP 2012-127036 A [Patent Document 4] JP 2017-172097 A [Patent Document 5] JP 2000-64179 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The treatment of textile products such as clothing involves washing and softening. The purpose of the washing process is to remove visible dirt and invisible dirt that causes odor (smelly dirt) from the textile product, but some of the dirt may reattach to the textile product. This reattached dirt may accumulate on the textile product if the washing process is repeated. The inventors of the present invention conducted research into the possibility that fabric softeners used after cleaning treatments are suitable for dealing with redeposited stains, and discovered that (1) the incorporation of a nonionic surfactant into a fabric softener reduces the accumulation of redeposited stains, but (2) the incorporation of a high amount of nonionic surfactant reduces the separation stability of the fabric softener and the dispersibility of the functional capsules. Therefore, the objective of the present invention is to provide a fabric softener that can suppress the accumulation of redeposited dirt without reducing the separation stability of the fabric softener and the dispersibility of the functional capsules. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] As a result of intensive research, the present inventors have found that the above-mentioned problems can be solved by blending a specific type of nonionic surfactant with a soft substrate in a specific mass ratio. The present invention is based on this finding.

[0006] That is, the present invention relates to the following [1] to [5]. [1] A liquid fabric softener composition comprising the following components (A) to (D): (A) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of an amine compound having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups separated by ester groups (-COO-) in the molecule, a salt thereof, and a quaternary compound thereof; (B) a nonionic surfactant having a carbon chain having 10 or more carbon atoms and an HLB value of 19.0 to 20.0; (C) Functional capsules, and (D) Free Fragrance Contains The content of the component (A) is 3 to 15% by mass based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition, The content of the (B) component is 2 to 8% by mass based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition, The mass ratio (B / A) of component (B) to component (A) is 0.1 to 3. A liquid softener composition comprising: [2] The component (D) is a free fragrance composition containing multiple types of fragrance ingredients, The liquid fabric softener composition according to [1] above, wherein the average ClogP value of the plurality of fragrance components is 2.0 to 5.0. [3] The liquid fabric softener composition according to [1] above, wherein the component (B) is a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether. [4] The liquid fabric softener composition according to the above [1], wherein the component (B) is a polyoxyethylene alkyl having an average added mole number of ethylene oxide of 75 to 500 moles (the alkyl has 12 to 18 carbon atoms). [5] The liquid fabric softener composition according to the above [1], wherein the mass ratio (B / D) of the component (B) to the component (D) is 1 to 9. Effect of the Invention

[0007] As shown in the examples described later, the liquid softener composition of the present invention can suppress the accumulation of redeposited dirt without impairing its separation stability and the dispersibility of the functional capsules. Therefore, the present invention can provide a liquid softener with commercial value not found in conventional products. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] [Component (A): Cationic Surfactant] The component (A) is "at least one compound selected from the group consisting of amine compounds having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups separated by ester groups (-COO-) in the molecule, their salts, and quaternary compounds." The component (A) is a cationic surfactant. Component (A) is blended to impart flexibility to the textile product and to improve the adsorption of component (B) to the textile product. The carbon number of the "hydrocarbon group interrupted by an ester group (-COO-)" is preferably 10 to 26, more preferably 17 to 26, and even more preferably 19 to 24. When the carbon number is 10 or more, the softening effect is good, and when it is 26 or less, the handleability of the liquid softener composition is good. The "hydrocarbon group interrupted by an ester group (-COO-)" may be a chain-like hydrocarbon group or a hydrocarbon group containing a ring in its structure, and is preferably a chain-like hydrocarbon group. The chain-like hydrocarbon group may be either linear or branched. The hydrocarbon group is interrupted by an ester group (-COO-). That is, the hydrocarbon group has an ester group in its carbon chain, and the carbon chain is interrupted by the ester group. The presence of the ester group improves biodegradability. The number of ester groups in one hydrocarbon group may be one or more. That is, the hydrocarbon group may be interrupted by an ester group at one location or at two or more locations. The carbon atoms of the ester group are counted in the number of carbon atoms of the hydrocarbon group. The hydrocarbon group is usually introduced using an industrially used unhydrogenated fatty acid derived from beef tallow, a fatty acid obtained by hydrogenating or partially hydrogenating an unsaturated portion, an unhydrogenated fatty acid or fatty acid ester derived from a plant such as palm or oil palm, or a fatty acid or fatty acid ester obtained by hydrogenating or partially hydrogenating an unsaturated portion.

[0009] The amine compound is preferably a secondary amine compound (having two long-chain hydrocarbon groups) or a tertiary amine compound (having three long-chain hydrocarbon groups), and more preferably a tertiary amine compound. The amine compound includes a compound represented by the following general formula (A1). [ka] [In the formula, R 1 ~R 3 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a hydrocarbon group having 10 to 26 carbon atoms, -CHCH(Y)OCOR 4 (Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3), an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or -CH2CH(Y)OH (Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3), R 1 ~R 3 At least one of the following is -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 and R 4 is a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms.

[0010] In general formula (A1), R 1 ~R 3 In the "hydrocarbon group having 10 to 26 carbon atoms", the number of carbon atoms is preferably 17 to 26, and more preferably 19 to 24. "-CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4In the formula, Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3, and preferably a hydrogen atom. 4 is a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms, preferably a hydrocarbon group having 15 to 19 carbon atoms. 4 When there are multiple R 4 may be the same as each other or may be different. R 4 The hydrocarbon group is a fatty acid or fatty acid methyl ester (R 4 COOMe) (a fatty acid residue) is removed from the carboxyl group. R 4 The fatty acid or fatty acid methyl ester (R 4 COOMe) may be a saturated fatty acid or a saturated fatty acid methyl ester, an unsaturated fatty acid or an unsaturated fatty acid methyl ester, a straight-chain fatty acid or a straight-chain fatty acid methyl ester, or a branched fatty acid or a branched fatty acid methyl ester. Of these, saturated or unsaturated straight-chain fatty acids are preferred. In order to impart good water absorbency to textile products (clothing, etc.) that have been softened, R 4 The higher the unsaturation ratio of the fatty acid or fatty acid methyl ester that is the basis of the above, the more preferable it is. R 4 Specific examples of fatty acids that are the basis of the above include stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, linoleic acid, partially hydrogenated palm oil fatty acid (iodine value 10 to 60), and partially hydrogenated beef tallow fatty acid (iodine value 10 to 60). Among these, it is preferable to use a combination of two or more kinds selected from stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, and linoleic acid in a predetermined amount. In this case, it is preferable that the ratio of those having 16 to 18 carbon atoms is 80% by mass or more from the viewpoint of imparting softness to fibers and clothing, that the ratio of fatty acids having 20 carbon atoms is less than 2% by mass, and that the ratio of fatty acids having 21 to 22 carbon atoms is less than 1% by mass.

[0011] In general formula (A1), R 1 ~R 3 At least one, preferably two, of the groups are -CHCH(Y)OCOR. 4 It is. R 1 ~R 3 Of these, one or two are -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 In this case, the remaining two or one are a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or -CH2CH(Y)OH, and preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, -CH2CH(Y)OH. Here, the alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms is preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group, and particularly preferably a methyl group. Y in -CH2CH(Y)OH is -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 It is the same as the Y in the middle.

[0012] Preferred examples of the compound represented by general formula (A1) include the compounds represented by the following general formulas (A1-2) to (A1-6). [ka] [In each of the formulas (A1-2) to (A1-6), R 9 are each independently a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms. R 9 As the hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms, R 4 The number of carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon group is preferably 15 to 17. 9 When there are multiple R 9 may be the same as each other or may be different.

[0013] The component (A) may be a salt of an amine compound. The salt can be obtained by neutralizing the amine compound with an acid. The acid used for neutralizing the amine compound may be an organic acid or an inorganic acid, such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, methylsulfuric acid, etc. The neutralization of the amine compound can be carried out by a known method. The component (A) may be a quaternized amine compound. The quaternary product is obtained by reacting an amine compound with a quaternizing agent. Examples of the quaternizing agent include alkyl halides such as methyl chloride and dialkyl sulfates such as dimethyl sulfate. When these quaternizing agents are reacted with an amine compound, the alkyl group of the quaternizing agent is introduced to the nitrogen atom of the amine compound, and a salt of a quaternary ammonium ion and a halogen ion or a monoalkyl sulfate ion is formed. The alkyl group introduced by the quaternizing agent is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, more preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group, and particularly preferably a methyl group. The quaternization of an amine compound can be carried out by a known method.

[0014] The component (A) is At least one selected from the group consisting of a compound represented by general formula (A1), a salt thereof, and a quaternary compound thereof is preferred, More preferably, the compound is at least one selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by general formulas (A1-2) to (A1-6), salts thereof, and quaternary compounds thereof. At least one selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by general formulas (A1-4) to (A1-6), salts thereof and quaternary products thereof is particularly preferred. In particular, it is preferable to use a quaternary compound represented by general formula (A1-4), a quaternary compound represented by formula (A1-5), and a quaternary compound represented by formula (A1-6) in combination. The compounds represented by the general formulae (A1) and (A1-2) to (A1-6), their salts and their quaternary derivatives may be commercially available or may be produced by known methods. For example, a composition containing a compound represented by general formula (A1-2) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-2)") and a compound represented by general formula (A1-3) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-3)") can be synthesized by a condensation reaction of a fatty acid composition such as stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, linoleic acid, partially hydrogenated palm oil fatty acid (iodine value 10 to 60), partially hydrogenated beef tallow fatty acid (iodine value 10 to 60), or a fatty acid methyl ester composition in which the fatty acid in the fatty acid composition is replaced with the methyl ester of the fatty acid, with methyldiethanolamine. In this case, from the viewpoint of providing good flexibility, it is preferable to synthesize the compound so that the ratio of the compounds represented by "compound (A1-2) / compound (A1-3)" is 99 / 1 to 50 / 50 by mass ratio. Furthermore, when the quaternary product is used, it is more preferable to use dimethyl sulfate as the quaternary agent. In this case, from the viewpoint of imparting flexibility, it is preferable to synthesize the compound (A1-2) so that the abundance ratio represented by "quaternary product of compound (A1-2) / quaternary product of compound (A1-3)" is 99 / 1 to 50 / 50 by mass ratio.

[0015] A composition containing a compound represented by general formula (A1-4) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-4)"), a compound represented by general formula (A1-5) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-5)"), and a compound represented by general formula (A1-6) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-6)") can be synthesized by a condensation reaction between a fatty acid composition such as stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, linoleic acid, partially hydrogenated palm oil fatty acid (iodine value 10 to 60), or partially hydrogenated beef tallow fatty acid (iodine value 10 to 60) or a fatty acid methyl ester composition and triethanolamine. In this case, from the viewpoint of imparting flexibility, the content ratio of each component relative to the total mass of compounds (A1-4), (A1-5) and (A1-6) is preferably 1 to 60 mass% for compound (A1-4), 5 to 98 mass% for compound (A1-5), and 0.1 to 40 mass% for compound (A1-6), and more preferably 30 to 60 mass% for compound (A1-4), 10 to 55 mass% for compound (A1-5), and 5 to 35 mass% for compound (A1-6). In addition, when the quaternized product is used, it is more preferable to use dimethyl sulfate as the quaternizing agent in order to sufficiently proceed with the quaternization reaction. The abundance ratio of each of the quaternized products of the compounds (A1-4), (A1-5) and (A1-6) is preferably 1 to 60% by mass of the quaternized product of the compound (A1-4), 5 to 98% by mass of the quaternized product of the compound (A1-5) and 0.1 to 40% by mass of the quaternized product of the compound (A1-6) in terms of imparting flexibility, more preferably 30 to 60% by mass of the quaternized product of the compound (A1-4), 10 to 55% by mass of the quaternized product of the compound (A1-5) and 5 to 35% by mass of the quaternized product of the compound (A1-6). In addition, when the compounds (A1-4), (A1-5) and (A1-6) are quaternized, generally, non-quaternized esteramine remains even after the quaternization reaction. In this case, the ratio of "quaternized product / non-quaternized esteramine" is preferably within the range of 70 / 30 to 99 / 1 by mass ratio.

[0016] The component (A) may have a hydroxyl group in the acyl group. The presence of an acyl group having a hydroxyl group can reduce the viscosity of the liquid softener. When reducing the viscosity, the proportion of acyl groups having a hydroxyl group in the acyl group is preferably in the range of 0.1 to 5%.

[0017] Component (A) is a known substance and is readily available on the market or can be prepared. The component (A) may be one type of amine compound, a salt thereof, or a quaternary product thereof, or a mixture of two or more types, for example, a mixture of compounds represented by general formulas (A1-4) to (A1-6).

[0018] The content of component (A) is from 3 to 15% by mass, preferably from 5 to 12% by mass, and more preferably from 8 to 12% by mass, based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0019] [Component (B): Nonionic surfactant] The component (B) is a "nonionic surfactant having a carbon chain with 10 or more carbon atoms and an HLB value of 19.0 to 20.0." Component (B) is blended to inhibit the accumulation of redeposited dirt on textile products.

[0020] The nonionic surfactant used as component (B) has a carbon chain with 10 or more carbon atoms, preferably 10 to 22, and more preferably 12 to 18. Examples of nonionic surfactants having such a carbon chain are those derived from polyhydric alcohols, higher alcohols, higher amines, or higher fatty acids, and specifically include the following (1) to (6). (1) Polyoxyethylene alkyl ether (the alkyl has 10 to 22 carbon atoms) having an average added mole number of ethylene oxide of 60 to 2,000 moles. (2) A polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid alkyl ester (the alkyl has 10 to 22 carbon atoms) having an average added mole number of ethylene oxide of 60 to 2,000 moles. (3) A polyoxyethylene fatty acid alkyl ester (wherein the alkyl has 10 to 22 carbon atoms) having an average added mole number of ethylene oxide of 60 to 2,000 moles. (4) Polyoxyethylene alkyl amine (wherein the alkyl has 10 to 22 carbon atoms) having an average added mole number of ethylene oxide of 60 to 2,000 moles. Of these, the polyoxyethylene alkyl ether (1) is preferred.

[0021] The carbon chain constituting the polyoxyethylene alkyl ether preferably has 12-18 carbon atoms, and more preferably 12-14 carbon atoms. The carbon chain may be either linear or branched, but is preferably linear. The carbon chain may be either saturated or unsaturated, but is preferably a saturated carbon chain. The average number of moles of ethylene oxide (EO) added in the polyoxyethylene alkyl ether is preferably 75 to 500 moles, more preferably 80 to 300 moles, and particularly preferably 90 to 200 moles. The larger the average number of moles of EO added, the higher the blending effect.

[0022] The HLB value of the nonionic surfactant used as component (B) is from 19.0 to 20.0, preferably from 19.1 to 19.6, and more preferably from 19.2 to 19.5. The HLB value can be calculated according to the Griffin method. Although the present invention is not limited by a particular theory, it is believed that by setting the HLB value to 19.0 or more, it is possible to shorten the time for component (1)(B) to adsorb to dirt and disperse it from the textile product, and that component (2)(B) together with component (A) increases the hydrophilicity of the textile surface, thereby suppressing redeposition of dirt or making it easier to remove in the next wash even if redeposition occurs. It is also believed that by setting the HLB value to 20.0 or less, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the separation stability of the liquid softener composition and the dispersibility of the functional capsules.

[0023] Preferred examples of the component (B) include the following: TIFF2025033895000003.tif47144

[0024] Component (B) is a known substance and is readily available on the market or can be prepared. The component (B) may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. The content of component (B) is 2 to 8 mass %, preferably 2.5 to 8 mass %, and more preferably 3 to 6 mass %, based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition. When the content is within the above range, the purpose of the blending can be achieved.

[0025] [Component (C): Functional capsule] The component (C) is blended in order to impart various functions resulting from the core substance encapsulated in the capsule to the liquid fabric softener composition. The functional capsule is composed of a core substance and a wall substance that covers the core substance.

[0026] As the core material, any material generally used as an encapsulating material in the field of liquid fabric softeners can be used without any particular limitation, including, for example, fragrances, essential oils, whitening agents, insect repellents (repellents), silicones, waxes, flavorings, vitamins, skin care agents, enzymes, probiotics, dyes, pigments, fragrance precursors, cooling agents, warming agents, attractants such as pheromones, antibacterial agents, bleaching agents, flavorings, sweeteners, waxes, medicines, fertilizers, and herbicides. The core material may be of a single type or of a combination of multiple types.

[0027] As the wall material, any encapsulation material generally used in the field of liquid softeners can be used without any particular limitation, including natural polymers such as gelatin and agar, oily film-forming substances such as fats and oils and waxes, and synthetic polymers such as polyacrylic acid, polyvinyl, polymethacrylic acid, melamine, and urethane. A single type of wall material may be used, or multiple types may be used in combination.

[0028] Specific examples of encapsulated fragrances having a fragrance as a core material include BLUEFLOWERPOP "FFMHN2814" manufactured by Firmenich, GreenBreeze, ORCHARD GARDEN CAPS, RAINBOW CAPS, VELVET CAPS, AURORACAPS, and COSMICCAPS manufactured by Givaudan, and UNICAP101 and UNICAP503 manufactured by IFF. Specific examples of cooling capsules that contain a cooling agent as the core material include MultiSal SalCool, HydroSal FreshCool, and SalSphere SalCool manufactured by SALVONA Technologies, and Neoage AROMA-C manufactured by NICCA CHEMICAL CO., LTD. Specific examples of heat-sensitive capsules that have a heat-sensitive agent as the core material include Riken Resin RMC-TO manufactured by Miki Riken Co., Ltd. and Hydrosal Heat manufactured by SALVONA Technologies. Specific examples of repellent capsules that use a repellent as a core material include Aninsen CLC-3600S, which uses a toluamide compound manufactured by Yamato Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., and Aninsen PCR-U, which uses a piperidine compound. Other specific examples include Riken Resin NFHO-W (antibacterial effect), Riken Resin RMC-HBP (insect repellent effect) and RMC-PT (insect repellent effect) manufactured by Miki Riken Co., Ltd.

[0029] The particle size of the functional capsules is preferably 10 μm to 30 μm. Functional capsules within this particle size range have excellent adsorption to textile products and can be stably dispersed in the liquid softener composition.

[0030] Component (C) is a known substance and is readily available on the market or can be prepared. The component (C) may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. The content of the core substance of component (C) is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but is preferably 0.01 to 1 mass %, more preferably 0.05 to 0.5 mass %, based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition. When the content is within the above range, a better blending effect can be obtained.

[0031] [(D) Ingredient: Free Fragrance] Free fragrance refers to free fragrance that is not encapsulated. The component (D) is blended to improve the fragrance retention of the liquid fabric softener composition and to impart a fragrance to textile products. As the component (D), any fragrance component that is generally used as a fragrance in the field of liquid fabric softeners can be used without any particular limitation. The component (D) can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. The component (D) may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. Specific examples of the component (D) include aldehydes, phenols, alcohols, ethers, esters, hydrocarbons, ketones, lactones, musks, fragrances having a terpene skeleton, natural fragrances, animal fragrances, etc. Specific examples of each fragrance are shown below. [Aldehydes] Undecylenic aldehyde, lauryl aldehyde, aldehyde C-12 MNA, mirac aldehyde, α-amyl cinnamic aldehyde, cyclamen aldehyde, citral, citronellal, ethyl vanillin, heliotropin, anisaldehyde, hexyl cinnamic aldehyde, octanal, ligustral, lilial, lyral, tripral, vanillin, helional, etc. [Phenols] Eugenol, isoeugenol, etc. [Alcohols] Citronellol, dihydromyrcenol, dihydrolinalool, geraniol, linalool, nerol, sandalol, santalex, terpineol, tetrahydrolinalool, menthol, borneol, 1-decanal, bacdanol, phenylethyl alcohol, etc. [Ethers] Cedrumbar, Grisalva, methyl eugenol, methyl isoeugenol, etc. [Esters] cis-3-hexenyl acetate, cis-3-hexenyl propionate, cis-3-hexenyl salicylate, p-cresyl acetate, pt-butylcyclohexyl acetate, amyl acetate, methyl dihydrojasmonate, amyl salicylate, benzyl salicylate, benzyl acetate, cedryl acetate, citronellyl acetate, decahydro-β-naphthyl acetate, dimethyl Benzyl carbinyl acetate, Erica propionate, ethyl acetoacetate, Erica acetate, geranyl acetate, geranyl formate, hedione, linalyl acetate, β-phenylethyl acetate, hexyl salicylate, styrallyl acetate, terpinyl acetate, vetiberyl acetate, ot-butyl cyclohexyl acetate, manzanate, allyl heptanoate, etc. [Hydrocarbons] Limonene (especially d-limonene), α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, camphene, terpinolene, etc. [Ketones] α-ionone, β-ionone, methyl-β-naphthyl ketone, α-damascone, β-damascone, δ-damascone, damascenone, cis-jasmone, methylionone (methyl ionone), allylionone, cashmeran, dihydrojasmone, Iso-E Super, Vertofix, isolonedifolanone, coavone, carvone, rosephenone, raspberry ketone, dynascone, and maltol, etc. [Lactones] γ-Decalactone, γ-undecalactone, γ-nonalactone, γ-dodecalactone, coumarin, ambroxan, etc. [Musks] Cyclopentadecanolide, ethylene brassylate, galaxolide, musk ketone, tonalide, tonalide, nitro musks, etc. [Fragrances having a terpene skeleton] Geraniol, nerol, linalool, citral, citronellol, menthol, mint, citronellal, myrcene, α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, terpineol, carvone, ionone (e.g. β-ionone), camphene, borneol, etc. [Natural fragrance] Examples of essential oils include orange oil, lemon oil, lime oil, petitgrain oil, yuzu oil, neroli oil, bergamot oil, lavender oil, lavandin oil, abies oil, anise oil, bay oil, boreal rose oil, ylang-ylang oil, citronella oil, geranium oil, peppermint oil, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, eucalyptus oil, lemongrass oil, patchouli oil, jasmine oil, rose oil, cedar oil, vetiver oil, galbanum oil, oakmoss oil, pine oil, camphor oil, sandalwood oil, camphor oil, turpentine oil, clove oil, clove leaf oil, cassia oil, nutmeg oil, cananga oil, and thyme oil. [Animal fragrance] Musk incense, spirit cat incense, beaver incense, ambergris, etc.

[0032] The component (D) is preferably a fragrance composition containing the fragrance components described above (hereinafter also referred to as "free fragrance composition"). In particular, a fragrance composition containing fragrance components of aldehydes, ketones, and hydrocarbons is preferred. Specific examples of this preferred fragrance composition include those containing one or more of the following fragrance components: [Aldehydes] Undecylenic aldehyde, lauryl aldehyde, aldehyde C-12 MNA, mirac aldehyde, α-amyl cinnamic aldehyde, cyclamen aldehyde, citral, citronellal, heliotropin, anisaldehyde, α-hexyl cinnamic aldehyde, octanal, ligustral, lilial, lyral, tripral, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, helional [Ketones] α-Ionone, β-Ionone, Methyl-β-naphthyl ketone, α-damascone, β-damascone, δ-damascone, cis-Jasmone, Methylionone (Methylionone), Allylionone (Allylionone), Cashmeran, Dihydrojasmone, ISOE Super, Vertofix, Isolondifolanone, Corebon, Rosephenone, Raspberry Ketone, Dynascon, Maltol [Hydrocarbons] Limonene, α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, terpinolene

[0033] When the free fragrance composition contains aldehydes, ketones, and hydrocarbons as fragrance components, from the viewpoint of freeze recovery, the total mass of these fragrance components is preferably 10 mass% or more, more preferably 30 mass% or more, and particularly preferably 50 mass% or more, relative to the total mass of the fragrance composition.

[0034] The free fragrance composition may contain a fragrance solvent. As the fragrance solvent, any solvent generally used in the field of liquid fabric softeners can be used without any particular limitation. Fragrance solvents include acetin (triacetin), MMB acetate (3-methoxy-3-methylbutyl acetate), sucrose diacetate hexaisobutyrate, ethylene glycol dibutyrate, hexylene glycol, dibutyl sebacate, methyl carbitol (diethylene glycol monomethyl ether), carbitol (diethylene glycol monoethyl ether), TEG (triethylene glycol), propylene glycol, diethyl phthalate, tripropylene glycol, aborin (dimethyl phthalate), dipropylene glycol (DPG), farnesene, dioctyl adipate, tributyrin (glyceryl t Examples of such active ingredients include glyceryl stearate (glyceryl stearate), ... The content of the solvent for the fragrance composition is, for example, 0.1 to 30 mass %, and preferably 1 to 20 mass %, relative to the total mass of the free fragrance composition.

[0035] The free fragrance composition may contain a fragrance antioxidant. As the fragrance antioxidant, any antioxidant commonly used in the field of liquid fabric softeners may be used without any particular limitation. Specific examples include 3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxytoluene (BHT), t-butyl-p-hydroxyanisole (BHA), p-methoxyphenol, β-naphthol, phenyl-α-naphthylamine, tetramethyldiaminodiphenylmethane, γ-oryzanol, vitamin E (α-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, δ-tocopherol), 2,2'-ethylidenebis(4,6-di-t-butylphenol), tris(tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol) 1 / 3 citrate, bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)sebacate, quercetin, and 4,4'-bis(α,α-dimethylbenzyl)diphenylamine. Preferred is 2,6-di-t-dibutyl-4-hydroxytoluene. The content of the antioxidant is, for example, 0.001 to 10% by mass, and preferably 0.01 to 5% by mass, relative to the total mass of the free fragrance composition.

[0036] The ClogP value of the component (D) is preferably 2.0 to 5.0, more preferably 2.0 to 4.0, and even more preferably 2.4 to 3.6. When the ClogP value is 2.0 or more, the dispersion stability of the liquid softener composition is improved. When the ClogP value is 5.0 or less, the viscosity stability of the liquid softener composition is improved. The ClogP value is the 1-octanol / water partition coefficient P of a compound (the ratio of equilibrium concentrations in 1-octanol and in water) expressed in the form of logarithm logP to the base 10. The ClogP value can be determined by decomposing the chemical structure of a compound into its components and integrating the hydrophobic fragment constant f value of each fragment using the f value method (hydrophobic fragment constant method) (see, for example, Clog 3 Reference Manual Daylight Software 4.34, Albert Leo, David Weininger, Version 1, March 1994). When component (D) is composed of multiple types of fragrance ingredients, the average value (ClogP value) of each fragrance ingredient shall be the ClogP value of component (D).

[0037] The content of the (D) component is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but is preferably 0.1 to 3 mass %, more preferably 0.5 to 1.5 mass %, based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition. When the content is within the above range, a better blending effect can be obtained.

[0038] [Mass ratio of component (B) to component (A)] The mass ratio (B / A) of the component (B) to the component (A) is 0.1 to 3, and preferably 0.2 to 1.5. When the mass ratio is within this range, the accumulation of redeposited dirt can be suppressed without decreasing the separation stability of the liquid softener composition and the dispersibility of the component (C).

[0039] [Mass ratio of component (B) to component (D)] The mass ratio (B / D) of the component (B) to the component (D) is preferably 1 to 9, more preferably 2 to 6, and even more preferably 2.5 to 4.5. When the mass ratio is within the above range, the accumulation of redeposited dirt can be suppressed without decreasing the separation stability of the liquid softener composition.

[0040] [Optional ingredients] The liquid softener composition may contain the following optional components other than the essential components (A) to (D) described above, provided that the effects of the present invention are not impaired.

[0041] [Water-soluble solvent] The water-soluble solvent is blended in order to further improve the stability of the liquid softener composition, in particular, to further improve the freeze recovery property. As the water-soluble solvent, any water-soluble solvent that is generally blended in a liquid fabric softener can be used without any particular limitation. Examples of the water-soluble solvent include primary alcohols having 2 to 3 carbon atoms (ethanol, isopropanol, etc.), glycols having 2 to 6 carbon atoms (ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, etc.), polyhydric alcohols having 3 to 8 carbon atoms (diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, etc.), etc. Among these, primary alcohols and polyhydric alcohols, which are excellent in terms of fragrance and cost, are preferred, and ethanol is more preferred. Water-soluble solvents are known materials and are readily available commercially or can be prepared. The water-soluble solvent may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds. The content of the water-soluble solvent is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but is preferably 0 to 30% by mass, and more preferably 0.1 to 20% by mass, based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition. [Preservatives] The preservative is added to the liquid fabric softener composition in order to enhance the preservative and bactericidal power of the liquid fabric softener composition and to maintain the preservative properties during long-term storage. As the preservative, any preservative that is generally added to liquid fabric softeners can be used without any particular limitation. Examples of preservatives include isothiazolone organic sulfur compounds, benzisothiazolone organic sulfur compounds, benzoic acids, and 2-bromo-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol. Examples of isothiazolone organic sulfur compounds include 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, 2-n-butyl-3-isothiazolone, 2-benzyl-3-isothiazolone, 2-phenyl-3-isothiazolone, 2-methyl-4,5-dichloroisothiazolone, 5-chloro-2-methyl-3-isothiazolone, 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, and mixtures thereof. Of these, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one are preferred, and a mixture of 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one is more preferred, with a mixture of about 77% by mass of the former and about 23% by mass of the latter and a diluted solution thereof (e.g., an isothiazolone solution) being particularly preferred, and a specific example is Caisson CG-ICP manufactured by The Dow Chemical Company. Examples of benzisothiazolone-based organic sulfur compounds include 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, 2-methyl-4,5-trimethylene-4-isothiazolin-3-one, and related compounds such as dithio-2,2-bis(benzmethylamide), and mixtures thereof. Among these, 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one is particularly preferred, and specific examples include Nippacide manufactured by Clariant Co., Ltd., Proxel BDN, Proxel GXL, Proxel XL, Proxel LV, Proxel CRL, Proxel NBZ, Proxel AM, and Proxel B20 manufactured by Lonza Co., Ltd. Examples of the benzoic acids include benzoic acid or a salt thereof, parahydroxybenzoic acid or a salt thereof, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, ethyl parahydroxybenzoate, propyl parahydroxybenzoate, butyl parahydroxybenzoate, and benzyl parahydroxybenzoate. Preservatives are known materials and are readily available commercially or can be prepared. A single type of preservative may be used, or multiple types may be used in combination. The content of the preservative is not particularly limited as long as the purpose of the blending can be achieved, but it is preferably 0.0001 to 1% by mass based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0042] [Inorganic salts] The inorganic salt is added to the liquid softener composition in order to improve the usability of the composition. As the inorganic salt, any inorganic salt that is generally blended into liquid fabric softeners can be used without any particular limitation. Examples of inorganic salts include sodium chloride, sodium sulfate, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium citrate, etc. Among these, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and sodium citrate are preferred, and calcium chloride is more preferred. Inorganic salts are known materials and are readily available commercially or can be prepared. The inorganic salt may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds. The content of the inorganic salt is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but is preferably 0.001 to 1 mass %, more preferably 0.01 to 0.1 mass %, based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition. When the content is within the above range, the blending purpose can be achieved while improving the separation stability of the liquid softener composition.

[0043] [Antibacterial Agents] The antibacterial agent is added to the liquid fabric softener composition to enhance its shelf life. As the antibacterial agent, any antibacterial agent that is generally blended into liquid fabric softeners can be used without any particular limitation. Examples of antibacterial agents include diclosan, triclosan, benzalkonium chloride, bis-(2-pyridylthio-1-oxide) zinc, 8-oxyquinoline, biguanide compounds (e.g., polyhexamethylene biguanide), chlorhexidine hydrochloride, polylysine, etc. Among these, diclosan, benzalkonium chloride, biguanide compounds, and chlorhexidine hydrochloride are preferred. The content of the antibacterial agent is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but is preferably 0.001 to 5% by mass based on the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition.

[0044] 〔water〕 The liquid softener composition is preferably an aqueous composition that contains water. As the water, tap water, purified water, pure water, distilled water, or ion-exchanged water can be used. Among them, ion-exchanged water is preferable. The water content is not particularly limited, but is preferably 50 to 95% by mass, and more preferably 70 to 90% by mass, based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0045] [pH of liquid softener composition] The pH of the liquid softener composition is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of suppressing hydrolysis of the ester groups contained in the molecules of component (A) that occurs over time during storage, the pH at 25° C. is preferably adjusted to a range of 1 to 6, and more preferably to a range of 2 to 4. Any inorganic or organic acid or alkali can be used as the pH adjuster.

[0046] [Viscosity of Liquid Softener Composition] The viscosity of the liquid softener composition is not particularly limited as long as it does not impair its usability, but it is preferable that the viscosity is less than 800 mPa s at 25° C. Taking into account the increase in viscosity over time during storage, it is more preferable that the viscosity of the liquid softener composition immediately after production is less than 500 mPa s, and even more preferable that it is less than 300 mPa s. If it is in such a range, usability such as ease of handling when put into a washing machine is good. The viscosity of the liquid softener composition can be measured using a B-type viscometer (manufactured by TOKIMEC Corporation).

[0047] [Manufacturing method] The liquid fabric softener composition can be produced by a known method, for example, a method similar to the method for producing a conventional liquid fabric softener composition using a cationic surfactant as the main component. For example, an emulsion can be prepared by mixing an oil phase containing component (A), a portion of component (B), and component (D) with an aqueous phase containing a preservative at a temperature equal to or higher than the melting point of component (A), and then adding and mixing the remaining component (B), component (C), and other components as necessary to the obtained emulsion.

[0048] [Method of using the liquid softener composition] The method of treating the textile product is not particularly limited, and it can be used in the same way as conventional liquid softeners. For example, there is a method of dissolving the liquid softener composition in rinsing water at the stage of washing, or a method of dissolving the liquid softener composition in water in a container such as a basin, and then putting the textile product in the container for immersion treatment. In either case, it is used after diluting to an appropriate concentration, and the liquor ratio (weight ratio of the treatment liquid to the textile product) is preferably 3 to 100 times, particularly 5 to 50 times. Specifically, it is used in an amount such that the concentration of the (A) component is preferably 0.01 ppm to 1000 ppm, more preferably 0.1 ppm to 300 ppm, based on the total amount of water used. The type of textile product is not particularly limited. Examples of textile products include clothes, curtains, sofas, carpets, towels, handkerchiefs, sheets, pillowcases, etc. The type of material for the textile product is not particularly limited, and examples of the material include natural fibers such as cotton, silk, and wool, and chemical fibers such as polyester. EXAMPLES

[0049] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the examples and comparative examples, the blending amount of each component is shown in mass % (based on the pure content unless otherwise specified).

[0050] [Component (A)] The following A-1 to A-2 were used. A-1: A cationic surfactant synthesized according to the procedure described in Example 4 of JP 2003-12471 A. A-1 is a compound represented by the general formulae (A1-4), (A1-5) and (A1-6) (wherein R 9 is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 15 to 17 carbon atoms) quaternized with dimethyl sulfate. A-2: Trade name "Stepantex SE-88", manufactured by Stepan Corporation. A-2 is a compound represented by the general formulas (A1-4), (A1-5) and (A1-6) (wherein R 9 is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 15 to 17 carbon atoms) quaternized with dimethyl sulfate.

[0051] [(B) component] The following B-1 to B-5 were used. TIFF2025033895000004.tif73148

[0052] The physical properties of B-1 to B-5 are as follows: B-5 was used as a comparative example. TIFF2025033895000005.tif31120

[0053] [(C) component] The following C-1 was used. C-1: GreenBreeze (encapsulated fragrance manufactured by Givaudan (particle size: 10-20 μm))

[0054] [(D) component] Fragrance compositions D-1 to D-2 having the compositions shown in the table below were used. The numerical value of each fragrance component in the table is the mass % relative to the total mass of the fragrance composition.

[0055] TIFF2025033895000006.tif173120

[0056] [Other ingredients] The following common ingredients were used, the amounts being based on the total weight of the liquid fabric softener composition:

[0057] TIFF2025033895000007.tif41158

[0058] [Method of preparing liquid softener composition] Liquid fabric softener compositions were prepared having the compositions shown in Table 1. In Table 1, the units of values ​​for each component are mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition, except for component (C), which is expressed as mass % of the encapsulated fragrance relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition as the core material. In Table 1, "B / A" indicates the mass ratio of component (B) to component (A).

[0059] A liquid fabric softener composition was prepared using a glass container (inner diameter 100 mm, height 150 mm) and an agitator (Ajiter SJ type, manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation) according to the following procedure. First, component (A), a portion of component (B), and component (D) were mixed and stirred to obtain an oil phase mixture. On the other hand, the preservative was dissolved in ion-exchanged water for the balance to obtain an aqueous phase mixture, the mass of which was equivalent to the remainder obtained by subtracting the mass of the oil phase mixture from 980 g. Next, the oil phase mixture heated to above the melting point of component (A) was placed in a glass container and stirred, while the aqueous phase mixture heated to above the melting point of component (A) was added in two separate portions and stirred. The aqueous phase mixture was divided into two portions at a ratio of 30:70 (mass ratio), and stirring (rotation speed 1,000 rpm) was performed for 3 minutes after the first addition of the aqueous phase mixture and for 2 minutes after the second addition of the aqueous phase mixture. Thereafter, the remaining components (B), (C), and the common components other than the preservative were added, and ion-exchanged water was added to bring the total mass to 1,000 g to obtain the desired liquid fabric softener composition.

[0060] [Evaluation of redeposited dirt accumulation] 1-1. Pretreatment of fabric to be evaluated A commercially available cotton knitted fabric (manufactured by Tanigashira Shoten) was subjected to the following pretreatment three times using the commercially available detergent "Top Platinum Clear" (manufactured by Lion Corporation) and a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S), and after drying, it was cut into a 5 x 5 cm piece to be used as the evaluation cloth. Pretreatment: Wash with standard amount of detergent, 30 times bath ratio, and 45°C tap water (10 minutes), followed by rinsing with water (10 minutes), twice.

[0061] 1-2. Flexible processing The fabric to be evaluated was subjected to the softening treatment described below, dehydrated for 1 minute, and then dried at room temperature. Softening treatment: 10 pieces of evaluation cloth, charged cotton cloth and PE cloth (cotton cloth:PE cloth=7:3) were put into a Terg-o-tometer (manufactured by UNITED STATES TESTING Co., Ltd.) and softening treatment was carried out for 3 minutes at 120 rpm with a bath ratio of 20 (30 g of evaluation cloth, 600 ml of tap water) and tap water at 15° C. The amount of the liquid fabric softener composition used was 0.2 g (standard amount).

[0062] 1-3. Applying dirt Five pieces of evaluation cloth were coated with 100 μL of grease (a mixture of cholesterol, cholesterol oleate, triolein, oleic acid, squalene and carbon black) to be used as soiled cloth, and then dried for 24 hours to prepare "soiled cloth." The remaining five sheets, to which no stain was applied, were designated "resoil re-evaluation cloths" and were used to evaluate the accumulation of redeposited stains.

[0063] 1-4. Washing and softening treatment The soiled cloth and the cloth for evaluating re-soiling properties were subjected to the following cleaning treatment using a model detergent (polyoxyethylene (7) lauryl / myristyl ether 15%, linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid 7.5%). Washing treatment: 10 pieces of evaluation cloth (5 pieces of soiled cloth and 5 pieces of re-soiling evaluation cloth), charged cotton cloth and PE cloth (cotton cloth:PE cloth = 7:3) were placed in a Terg-o-tometer (manufactured by UNITED STATES TESTING Co., Ltd.) and washed for 10 minutes at 120 rpm with a bath ratio of 20 (30 g of evaluation cloth, 600 ml of tap water) and 15°C tap water. The amount of model detergent used was the standard amount. After dehydration for 1 minute, the evaluation fabric was subjected to the same softening treatment as in "1-2. Softening Treatment." After dehydration for 1 minute, the evaluation fabric was dried at room temperature.

[0064] 1-5. Evaluation of redeposition stains The above-mentioned treatments 1-2 to 1-4 were repeated three times, and then the "accumulation of redeposited dirt" was evaluated. The reflectance (Z value) of the resoiling evaluation cloth before and after three repeated treatments was measured using a reflectometer (spectrophotometer SE2000, manufactured by Nippon Denshoku Industries Co., Ltd.), and ΔZ was calculated according to the following formula. ΔZ = (Z value before processing) - (Z value after processing) The average ΔZ value of the five pieces of soil re-evaluation cloth was applied to the following criteria to evaluate the "effect of inhibiting accumulation of redeposition soil." The results are shown in the "Appearance evaluation (blackness)" column in Table 1. ◎◎◎, ◎◎, ◎, and ○ were rated as acceptable. <Evaluation criteria> ◎◎◎:△Z is less than 2 ◎◎:△Z is 2 or more and less than 3 ◎: △Z is 3 or more and less than 4 ○: △Z is 4 or more and less than 5 △:△Z is 5 or more and less than 6 ×:△Z is 6 or more

[0065] [Evaluation of dispersibility of functional capsules] 80 mL of the liquid fabric softener composition was placed in a lightweight PS glass bottle (PS-No. 11, manufactured by Tanuma Glass Industry Co., Ltd.) and sealed to prepare an evaluation sample. The evaluation sample was stored at 25°C for 3 months. After storage, the dispersibility of the functional capsules was visually evaluated by a specialist panelist (one person) according to the following evaluation criteria. The results are shown in the "Capsule dispersibility" column in Table 1. ◎ and ○ were deemed to be acceptable. <Evaluation criteria> ◎: Recognized to be equivalent to the sample before storage ○: Floating is observed, but easily redispersed with light shaking ×: Floating was observed, and there was adhesion to the glass bottle, so redispersion was difficult with light shaking.

[0066] [Evaluation of separation stability of liquid softener composition] 80 mL of the liquid fabric softener composition was placed in a lightweight PS glass bottle (PS-No. 11, manufactured by Tanuma Glass Industry Co., Ltd.) and sealed to prepare an evaluation sample. The evaluation sample was stored at 25°C for 6 months. The liquid state after storage was visually evaluated by a specialist panelist (one person) according to the following evaluation criteria. The results are shown in the "Liquid Separation" column in Table 1. ◎ and ○ were deemed to be acceptable. <Evaluation criteria> ◎: No translucent layer is visible ○: A very slight translucent layer can be seen ×: A clearly translucent layer is observed [Industrial Applicability]

[0067] The present invention can be used in the field of fabric softeners.

[0068] [Table 1]

Claims

1. A liquid fabric softener composition comprising the following components (A) to (D): (A) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of an amine compound having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups separated by ester groups (-COO-) in the molecule, a salt thereof, and a quaternary compound thereof; (B) a nonionic surfactant having a carbon chain containing 10 or more carbon atoms and an HLB value of 19.0 to 20.0; (C) a functional capsule, and (D) Free Fragrance Contains The content of the component (A) is 3 to 15% by mass based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition, The content of the component (B) is 2 to 8% by mass based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition, The mass ratio (B / A) of the component (B) to the component (A) is 0.1 to 3. A liquid softener composition comprising:

2. The component (D) is a free fragrance composition containing multiple types of fragrance components, 2. The liquid fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the average ClogP value of the plurality of fragrance components is from 2.0 to 5.

0.

3. 2. The liquid fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein component (B) is a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether.

4. 2. The liquid softener composition according to claim 1, wherein component (B) is a polyoxyethylene alkyl having an average added mole number of ethylene oxide of 75 to 500 moles (said alkyl having 12 to 18 carbon atoms).

5. 2. The liquid softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the mass ratio (B / D) of the component (B) to the component (D) is 1 to 9.

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