Liquid hand dishwashing cleaning composition

Abstract

To provide a liquid hand dishwashing composition that enables improved grease removal from dishware even when the liquid hand dishwashing composition has been diluted using water at a lower temperature and at the same time achieves the desired composition viscosity.SOLUTION: A liquid hand dishwashing cleaning composition includes from about 5 wt.% to about 50 wt.% of the total composition of a surfactant system. The surfactant system includes from about 40 wt.% to about 90 wt.% of the surfactant system of alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of: alkyl sulfate, alkyl alkoxy sulfate, and mixtures thereof; and a co-surfactant selected from the group consisting of an amphoteric surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, and mixtures thereof. The alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant have a % mol fraction of C12 to C15 chains of at least about 90%. From about 2.0% to about 15% mol fraction of the alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant are C15 alkyl chains.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to liquid hand dishwashing cleaning compositions. [Background technology]

[0002] For dishwashing, people want detergent compositions that provide both effective cleaning, especially grease cleaning, and long-lasting foam. In addition, more and more people are looking to wash their dishes in a more sustainable manner. One way to achieve this is by looking for products that contain a higher percentage of ingredients derived from natural renewable resources. However, only small amounts of liquid detergents are used when washing dishes. Most of the environmental impact from washing dishes comes from using hot water. During manual dishwashing, people often immerse dishes in a cleaning solution made from adding a cleaning composition into a sink filled with hot water to try to strip grease and oily residues from the dishes. In fact, when using liquid dishwashing compositions of the prior art, it was necessary to use hot water having a temperature of about 40°C to help strip grease from dishes. Furthermore, the efficacy of liquid hand dishwashing compositions for grease removal is reduced when the composition is diluted, for example, when dishes are immersed in a sink of cleaning solution.

[0003] In detergent compositions, including liquid detergent compositions, the viscosity of the composition can play an important role in user perception and experience. High viscosity often gives users a connotation of thickness and quality. When it comes to liquid detergent compositions, users often associate a thicker and more viscous consistency with a higher concentration of active ingredients, which users perceive as more effective in cleaning and removing stubborn stains. This perception of thickness can affect consumers' purchase decisions, as consumers may be attracted to products with the idea that products with higher viscosity will deliver superior cleaning performance. However, this preference for high viscosity can present a challenge when it comes to washing dishes in cold water, as the slower dissolution of detergent can hinder foaming and cleaning efficiency. Therefore, finding a balance between viscosity and dissolution rate becomes important in developing liquid detergent compositions that meet both user expectations of thickness and provide effective cleaning performance, especially in cold water conditions.

[0004] Anionic surfactants have been used to provide effective grease cleaning during dishwashing, and alkyl sulfates and alkyl alkoxy sulfates with a high proportion of C12 and C13 chains have been found to be particularly effective. Such sulfated surfactants are derived from synthetic alcohols such as OXO-alcohols and Fisher Tropsh alcohols. Fractional distillation can be used to increase the proportion of C12 and C13 alkyl chains. The viscosity and grease cleaning efficacy of compositions containing alkyl sulfate surfactants with C12 and C13 alkyl chains can be significantly affected by the presence and degree of branching. However, modifying the branching structure to improve grease cleaning performance often leads to a decrease in viscosity, and conversely, adjusting the branching to achieve a desired viscosity compromises grease cleaning efficacy. This trade-off is particularly pronounced when the C12-C13 alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant has a low degree of alkoxylation or is not alkoxylated. These findings highlight the challenge of simultaneously achieving optimal viscosity and grease cleaning properties in compositions containing such alkyl sulfate surfactants.

[0005] Thus, a need remains for liquid hand dishwashing compositions that provide improved grease removal from dishware, even when the compositions are diluted using lower temperature water, This need must be met without compromising the viscosity of the liquid detergent composition.

[0006] EP 0466243 (A1) relates to a method for preparing a secondary alkyl sulfate-containing surface active composition that is substantially free of unreacted organic material and water. EP 3374486 (A1) relates to a cleaning composition with improved suds profile containing one or more branched and non-alkoxylated C6-C14 alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants in combination with one or more linear or branched C4-C11 alkyl or aryl alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants, particularly suitable for use in hand washing of fabrics. WO 2017079960 (A1) relates to a cleaning composition with improved suds profile containing one or more branched non-ethoxylated C6-C14 alkyl sulfate surfactants in combination with one or more linear non-alkoxylated C6-C18 alkyl sulfate surfactants, particularly suitable for hand washing of dishes or fabrics. WO2009143091A1 relates to a light duty liquid detergent composition comprising a blend of C14-C15 alcohol sulfate surfactant and C14-C15 alcohol ethoxylate sulfate surfactant as an effective and efficient foaming agent, the surfactant based product can be a hand dishwashing liquid, a liquid skin cleanser or any type of washing or cleansing product based on surfactant, the light duty liquid detergent composition comprises anionic sulfonate surfactant, amine oxide, C14-C15 alcohol sulfate and C14-C15 alcohol ethoxylate sulfate. WO 2017097913(A1) relates to a dishwashing detergent composition containing a branched alkyl sulfate, the refractive index of the dishwashing detergent composition being 0.10 to 0.30, the viscosity of the dishwashing detergent composition being 800 mPa·s to 1800 mPa·s, and the dishwashing detergent composition containing the alkyl sulfate in an amount of 0.1% to 4.0% by mass based on the total amount of the dishwashing detergent composition. WO 1999019449(A1) relates to a hard surface cleaning product containing a mid-chain branched surfactant.WO 1997039088 A1 relates to mixtures of mid-chain branched primary alkyl sulfate surfactants useful in cleaning compositions, either alone or with other surfactants to tailor the low temperature cleaning properties of the cleaning formulation, particularly for lower water temperature applications, and mid-chain branched primary alkyl sulfate surfactants suitable for use in surfactant mixtures. WO 00 / 42155 A1 relates to detergent compositions comprising pectate lyase and a surfactant selected from mid-chain branched anionic surfactants and / or amine oxide surfactants for superior cleaning performance. EP 2336282 A1 relates to liquid acidic hard surface cleaning compositions having a pH greater than 2.0 and comprising formic acid, citric acid, and an alkaline material. US Patent Publication No. 2023174893(A1) relates to a liquid detergent composition for cleaning substrates such as fabrics comprising a first surfactant that is a mixture of surfactant isomers and a second surfactant that comprises a linear alkyl benzene sulfonate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] European Patent No. 0466243(A1) [Patent Document 2] European Patent No. 3374486(A1) [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2017079960(A1) [Patent Document 4] International Publication No. 2009143091(A1) [Patent Document 5] International Publication No. 2017097913(A1) [Patent Document 6] International Publication No. 1999019449(A1) [Patent Document 7] International Publication No. 1997039088(A1) [Patent Document 8] WO 00 / 42155(A1) [Patent Document 9] European Patent No. 2336282(A1) [Patent Document 10] US Patent Application Publication No. 2023174893(A1) Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention relates to a liquid hand dishwashing cleaning composition comprising 5% to 50% by weight of the total composition of a surfactant system, the surfactant system comprising 40% to 90% by weight of the surfactant system of an alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkyl sulfates, alkyl alkoxy sulfates, and mixtures thereof, and a co-surfactant selected from the group consisting of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof, the alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant having a molar fraction of at least 90% C12 to C15 chains, and 2.0% to 15% molar fraction of the alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant are C15 alkyl chains.

[0009] The present invention further relates to a method of manually washing dishware, comprising the steps of delivering a composition according to the present invention to a volume of water to form a cleaning solution and immersing the dishware in the solution, preferably wherein the water has a temperature of 30° C. or less. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The liquid hand dishwashing cleaning compositions of the present invention provide good grease removal even when dishes are immersed in the diluted compositions at low temperatures, while also providing a more desirable viscosity.

[0011] definition As used herein, articles such as "a" and "an" used in the claims are understood to mean one or more of what is claimed or described.

[0012] As used herein, the term "comprising" means that steps and ingredients other than those specifically mentioned can be added. This term encompasses the terms "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of." The compositions of the present invention can include, consist of, or consist essentially of the essential elements and limitations of the invention described herein, as well as any additional or optional ingredients, components, steps, or limitations described herein.

[0013] As used herein, the term "dishware" includes, by way of non-limiting examples, cookware and tableware made from ceramic, china, metal, glass, plastic (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, etc.), and wood.

[0014] As used herein, the terms "fat" or "oleaginous" mean that the substance comprises, at least in part (i.e., at least 0.5% by weight of the fat), saturated and unsaturated fats and oils, preferably oils and fats derived from animal sources such as beef, pork, and / or chicken.

[0015] The terms "include / includes / including" are meant to be non-limiting.

[0016] As used herein, the term "particulate soil" refers to inorganic and especially organic solid soil particles, especially food particles, non-limiting examples of which include ultrafine particulate elemental carbon, baked grease particles, and meat particles.

[0017] As used herein, the term "suds profile" refers to the characteristics of a cleaning composition with respect to the foam properties during the dishwashing process. The term "suds profile" of a cleaning composition includes the dissolution and agitation of the cleaning composition in an aqueous washing solution, the foam volume generated during typical manual agitation, and the retention of foam during the dishwashing process. Preferably, a hand dishwashing cleaning composition characterized as having a "good suds profile" tends to have a high and / or persistent foam volume, especially throughout a significant portion or entirety of the manual dishwashing process. This is important since consumers use high foam as an indicator that enough cleaning composition has been dispensed. In addition, consumers also use persistent foam volume as an indication that enough active cleaning ingredients (e.g., surfactants) are present, even toward the end of the dishwashing process. Consumers typically refresh the washing solution when sudsing becomes low. Thus, a low sudsing cleaning composition tends to be replenished by consumers more frequently than necessary due to the low sudsing level.

[0018] It will be understood that the test methods disclosed in the Test Methods section of this application must be used to determine the values ​​of each of the parameters of Applicants' inventions described and claimed herein.

[0019] In all embodiments of the present invention, all percentages are by weight of the total composition unless specifically stated otherwise, as will be apparent from the context, all ratios are by weight unless specifically stated otherwise, and all measurements are made at 25° C. unless otherwise specified.

[0020] Cleaning Composition The cleaning composition is a liquid type hand dishwashing cleaning composition. The cleaning composition is preferably an aqueous cleaning composition. Thus, the composition may contain 50% to 85% by weight, preferably 50% to 75% by weight of water based on the total weight of the composition.

[0021] Preferably, the pH of the composition is from about 6 to about 14, preferably from about 7 to about 12, or more preferably from about 7.5 to about 10, when measured at a 10% dilution in distilled water at 20° C. The pH of the composition can be adjusted using pH adjusting ingredients known in the art.

[0022] The compositions of the present invention may be Newtonian or non-Newtonian, but are preferably Newtonian. Preferably, the compositions have a viscosity of from 10 mPa·s to 10,000 mPa·s, preferably from 100 mPa·s to 5,000 mPa·s, more preferably from 300 mPa·s to 2,000 mPa·s, or most preferably from 500 mPa·s to 1,500 mPa·s, or alternatively a combination thereof.

[0023] Surfactant Systems The cleaning composition comprises from 5% to 50%, preferably from 8% to 45%, most preferably from 15% to 40% by weight of the total composition of a surfactant system comprising an alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant and a co-surfactant to improve surfactant loading after dilution and therefore improve foam mileage.

[0024] The weight ratio of alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant to co-surfactant may be from 1:1 to 8:1, preferably from 2:1 to 5:1, more preferably from 2.5:1 to 4:1.

[0025] Anionic Surfactants The surfactant system comprises from 40% to 90%, preferably from 65% to 85%, more preferably from 70% to 80% by weight of the surfactant system of an alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkyl sulfates, alkyl alkoxy sulfates, and mixtures thereof. The preferred alkyl alkoxy sulfates are alkyl ethoxy sulfates.

[0026] The alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant have a molar fraction % of C12-C15 chains of at least 90%, preferably at least 95%.

[0027] A molar fraction of 2.0% to 15%, more preferably 4.0% to 10%, of the alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant are C15 alkyl chains.

[0028] When the C13 / C12 molar ratio of the alkyl chains is at least 57 / 43, preferably 60 / 40 to 90 / 10, more preferably 60 / 40 to 80 / 20, and most preferably 60 / 40 to 70 / 30, foam persistence is particularly improved, especially in the presence of greasy soil, while at the same time foam persistence in the presence of particulate soil is not impaired.

[0029] To provide a combination of improved grease removal and increased cleaning speed, the average alkyl chain length of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may be from 10 to 14, preferably from 12 to 14, and more preferably from 12 to 13 carbon atoms.

[0030] The relative molar amount of alkyl chains in the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant can be derived from the carbon chain length distribution of the anionic surfactant. The carbon chain length distribution of the alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant can be obtained from the technical data sheet of the surfactant or the alkyl alcohol that constitutes it. Alternatively, the chain length distribution and average molecular weight of the aliphatic alcohol used to make the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant can be determined by methods known in the art. Such methods include capillary gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector on a medium polarity capillary column using hexane as the solvent. The chain length distribution is based on the starting alcohol and the alkoxylated alcohol. Therefore, the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant must be hydrolyzed back to the corresponding alkyl alcohol and alkyl alkoxylated alcohol before analysis, for example using hydrochloric acid.

[0031] The alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant preferably has an average alkoxylation degree of 2.0 or less, preferably 0.6 or less, more preferably 0.1 or less. Most preferably, the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant does not contain alkoxylation. Such alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant provides improved grease cleaning. The average alkoxylation degree is the molar average alkoxylation degree (i.e., the molar average alkoxylation degree) of all alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants. Therefore, when calculating the molar average alkoxylation degree, the number of moles of non-alkoxylated sulfate anionic surfactant is included. Molar average degree of alkoxylation = (x1 * Alkoxylation degree of surfactant 1 + x2 * Alkoxylation degree of surfactant 2 +....) / (x1+x2+....) where x1, x2, ... are the moles of each alkyl (or alkoxy) sulfate anionic surfactant in the mixture, and the degree of alkoxylation is the number of alkoxy groups in each alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant.

[0032] The preferred alkyl alkoxy sulfates are the alkyl ethoxy sulfates.

[0033] The alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may have a weight average degree of branching of more than 10%, preferably 25% to 60%, more preferably 30% to 50%. The C15 alkyl chain of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may have a weight average degree of branching of more than 10%, preferably 25% to 60%, most preferably 30% to 50%.

[0034] The C12 alkyl chain of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may have a weight average degree of branching of more than 10%, preferably 15% to 60%, most preferably 20% to 50%. The C13 alkyl chain of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may have a weight average degree of branching of more than 10%, preferably 20% to 60%, most preferably 25% to 50%. The C14 alkyl chain of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may have a weight average degree of branching of 0% to 20%, preferably 0% to 15%, more preferably 0% to 10%.

[0035] C2 branching (measured counting carbon atoms from the sulfate group for non-alkoxylated alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants and counting from the alkoxy group furthest from the sulfate group for alkoxylated alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants) is preferred. The alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant may contain at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, and most preferably at least 25% C2 branching by weight of the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant.

[0036] The branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may contain C2 branches at a level of greater than 60% by weight, more preferably greater than 80% by weight, and most preferably greater than 95% by weight of the branched C15 alkyl content of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant.

[0037] The C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may comprise a C2 branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant, the C2 branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant having a molar fraction of at least 50%, preferably 60% to 90%, most preferably 70% to 85% of 2-methyl and 2-ethyl branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant. The C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant may comprise a C2 branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant, the C2 branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant having a molar fraction of at least 40%, preferably 40% to 75%, most preferably 55% to 65% of 2-methyl branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant.

[0038] It has been found that formulating the composition of the present invention using alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants with the above branching degree provides improved low temperature stability, as well as improved grease removal when washing at low temperature under full sink conditions.In addition, such compositions require less solvent to achieve good physical stability at low temperature.Thus, the composition can contain lower levels of organic solvent, less than 5.0% by weight of the cleaning composition, while still having improved low temperature stability.More branched surfactants also provide faster initial foam generation, but typically lower foam persistence.The weight average branching described herein has been found to provide improved low temperature stability, initial foam generation, and foam persistence.

[0039] The weight average degree of branching of the anionic surfactant mixture can be calculated using the following formula: Weight average branching degree (%) = [(x1 * Weight percent of branched chain alcohol 1 in alcohol 1 + x2 * (wt% of branched alcohol 2 in alcohol 2 + ....) / (x1 + x2 + ....)] * 100 (where x1, x2, ... are the weights (in grams) of each alcohol in the total alcohol mixture used as starting material prior to (alkoxylation and) sulfation to produce the alkyl(alkoxy)sulfate anionic surfactant.) The weight average degree of branching calculation includes the weight of the alkyl alcohol used to form the unbranched alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant.

[0040] The weight average degree of branching and branching distribution can usually be obtained from the technical data sheet of the surfactant or its constituent alkyl alcohol. Alternatively, branching can be determined through analytical methods known in the art, including capillary gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector on a medium polarity capillary column using hexane as the solvent. The weight average degree of branching and branching distribution are based on the starting alcohol used to produce the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant.

[0041] Suitable counterions include alkali metal cations, alkaline earth metal cations, alkanolammonium, or ammonium or substituted ammonium, preferably sodium.

[0042] Suitable examples of commercially available alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants include those derived from alcohols sold by Shell under the trade name Neodol®, or by Sasol under the trade names Lial®, Isalchem®, and Safol®, or some of the natural alcohols manufactured by Procter & Gamble Chemicals. Based on the relative fractions of C13 and C12 in the starting alcohol, obtained from technical data sheets from the supplier or from analysis using methods known in the art, the alcohols can be blended to achieve the desired mole fractions of C12 and C13 chains and the desired C13 / C12 ratio.

[0043] Performance including grease cleaning, foaming, low temperature stability, and end product viscosity can be influenced by the breadth of the alkoxylation distribution of the alkoxylated alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant. The alkoxylation distribution, including its breadth, can be varied through the selection of catalysts and process conditions when making the alkoxylated alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant.

[0044] Without being bound by theory, the amount of 1,4-dioxane by-product in alkoxylated, especially ethoxylated, alkyl sulfates can be minimized through strict control of process conditions and raw material composition during the alkoxylation, especially ethoxylation and sulfation steps. The 1,4-dioxane by-product can be further reduced by stripping, distillation, evaporation, centrifugation, microwave irradiation, molecular sieving, or catalytic or enzymatic degradation steps of the resulting 1,4-dioxane. Processes for controlling the 1,4-dioxane content in alkoxylated / ethoxylated alkyl sulfates have been widely described in the art. Alternatively, the art also describes the control of 1,4-dioxane levels in detergent formulations through the addition of 1,4-dioxane inhibitors to formulations containing 1,4-dioxane, such as 5,6-dihydro-3-(4-morpholinyl)-1-[4-(2-oxo-1-piperidinyl)phenyl]-2(1H)-pyridone, 3a-hydroxy-7-oxo-mixture of cholanic acid, 3-(N-methylamino)-L-alanine, and mixtures thereof. By strictly controlling 1,4-dioxane throughout the raw materials and detergent manufacturing process, the residual 1,4-dioxane content of the product formulation can be less than 10 ppm, preferably less than 5 ppm, and even more preferably less than 1 ppm.

[0045] The surfactant system may contain additional anionic surfactants, including sulfonate such as HLAS or sulfosuccinate anionic surfactants.However, the composition preferably contains less than 30% by weight of the surfactant system, preferably less than 15% by weight, more preferably less than 10% by weight of the additional anionic surfactants.Most preferably, the surfactant system does not contain any additional anionic surfactants other than alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants.

[0046] Co-Surfactant In order to improve surfactant loading after dilution and therefore improve lather persistence, the surfactant system includes a co-surfactant in addition to the anionic surfactant.

[0047] Suitable co-surfactants are selected from the group consisting of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. The co-surfactant is preferably an amphoteric surfactant, more preferably an amine oxide surfactant.

[0048] The weight ratio of anionic surfactant to co-surfactant may be from 1:1 to 8:1, preferably from 2:1 to 5:1, more preferably from 2.5:1 to 4:1.

[0049] The surfactant system may comprise from 0.1% to 20%, preferably from 0.5% to 15%, more preferably from 2% to 10% by weight of the cleaning composition of a co-surfactant. The surfactant system of the cleaning composition of the present invention may comprise from 10% to 40%, preferably from 15% to 35%, more preferably from 20% to 30% by weight of the surfactant system of a co-surfactant.

[0050] The amine oxide surfactant may be linear or branched, with linear being preferred. Suitable linear amine oxides are typically water-soluble and characterized by the formula R1-N(R2)(R3)O, where R1 is a C8-18 alkyl and the R2 and R3 moieties are selected from the group consisting of C1-3 alkyl groups, C1-3 hydroxyalkyl groups, and mixtures thereof. For example, R2 and R3 may be selected from the group consisting of methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, 2-hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxypropyl, and 3-hydroxypropyl, and mixtures thereof, with one or both of R2 and R3 being preferably methyl. Linear amine oxide surfactants may include, inter alia, linear C10-C18 alkyl dimethyl amine oxides and linear C8-C12 alkoxyethyl dihydroxyethyl amine oxides.

[0051] Preferably, the amine oxide surfactant is selected from the group consisting of alkyl dimethylamine oxide, alkyl amidopropyl dimethylamine oxide, and mixtures thereof. Preferred are alkyl dimethylamine oxides such as C8-18 alkyl dimethylamine oxide or C10-16 alkyl dimethylamine oxide (such as cocodimethylamine oxide). Suitable alkyl dimethylamine oxides include C10 alkyl dimethylamine oxide surfactants, C10-12 alkyl dimethylamine oxide surfactants, C12-C14 alkyl dimethylamine oxide surfactants, and mixtures thereof. Particularly preferred are C12-C14 alkyl dimethylamine oxides. Preferably, the alkyl chain of the alkyl dimethylamine oxide is a linear alkyl chain, preferably a C12-C14 alkyl chain, more preferably a C12-C14 alkyl chain derived from coconut oil or palm oil.

[0052] Alternative suitable amine oxide surfactants include mid-branched amine oxide surfactants. As used herein, "mid-branched" means that the amine oxide has one alkyl moiety with n1 carbon atoms, and one alkyl branch in the alkyl moiety has n2 carbon atoms. The alkyl branch is located on the alpha carbon from the nitrogen on the alkyl moiety. This type of branching of amine oxides is also known in the art as internal amine oxides. The sum of n1 and n2 may be 10-24, preferably 12-20, more preferably 10-16 carbon atoms. The number of carbon atoms in one alkyl moiety (n1) is preferably the same or similar to the number of carbon atoms in one alkyl branch (n2), thereby providing symmetry between the one alkyl moiety and the one alkyl branch. As used herein, "symmetric" means that in at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 75% to 100% by weight of the mid-branched amine oxide used herein, |n1-n2| is 5 or less, preferably 4, most preferably 0 to 4 carbon atoms. The amine oxide further comprises two moieties independently selected from a C1-3 alkyl, a C1-3 hydroxyalkyl group, or a polyethylene oxide group containing an average of 1 to 3 ethylene oxide groups. Preferably, these two moieties are selected from a C1-3 alkyl, more preferably both are selected as a C1 alkyl.

[0053] Alternatively, the amine oxide surfactant may be a mixture of amine oxides, including a mixture of low cut and mid cut amine oxides. Thus, the amine oxide of the composition of the present invention may be: a) 10% to 45% by weight of an amine oxide of a low cut amine oxide having the formula R1R2R3AO, where R1 and R2 are independently selected from hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl, or mixtures thereof, and R3 is selected from C10 alkyl, or mixtures thereof; b) 55% to 90% by weight of the amine oxide, a mid-cut amine oxide of formula R4R5R6AO, where R4 and R5 are independently selected from hydrogen, C1 to C4 alkyl, or mixtures thereof, and R6 is selected from C12 to C16 alkyl, or mixtures thereof.

[0054] In the low cut amine oxides preferred for use herein, R3 is n-decyl, and preferably R1 and R2 are both methyl. In the mid cut amine oxides of formula R4R5R6AO, preferably R4 and R5 are both methyl.

[0055] Preferably, the amine oxide comprises less than 5% by weight of the amine oxide, more preferably less than 3% by weight of the amine oxide of formula R7R8R9AO, where R7 and R8 are selected from hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl and mixtures thereof, and R9 is selected from C8 alkyl and mixtures thereof. By limiting the amount of amine oxide of formula R7R8R9AO, both physical stability and foam persistence are improved.

[0056] Suitable zwitterionic surfactants include betaine surfactants, including alkyl betaines, alkyl amido betaines, amido azolinium betaines, sulfo betaines (INCI sultaines), and phospho betaines, preferably satisfying formula (I): R 1 -[CO-X(CH2) n ] x -N + (R 2 )(R3)-(CH2) m -[CH(OH)-CH2] y -Y - In formula (I), R1 is selected from the group consisting of saturated or unsaturated C6-22 alkyl residues, preferably C8-18 alkyl residues, more preferably saturated C10-16 alkyl residues, and most preferably saturated C12-14 alkyl residues; X is selected from the group consisting of NH, NR4 (wherein R4 is a C1-4 alkyl residue), O, and S; n is an integer of 1 to 10, preferably 2 to 5, and more preferably 3; x is 0 or 1, preferably 1; R2 and R3 are independently selected from the group consisting of C1-4 alkyl residues, substituted hydroxy such as hydroxyethyl, and mixtures thereof, preferably both R2 and R3 are methyl; m is an integer from 1 to 4, preferably 1, 2, or 3; y is 0 or 1; Y is selected from the group consisting of COO, SO3, OPO(OR5)O, or P(O)(OR5)O, where R5 is H or a C1-4 alkyl residue.

[0057] Preferred betaines are the alkyl betaines of formula (IIa), the alkyl amidopropyl betaines of formula (IIb), the sulfo betaines of formula (IIc) and the amido sulfo betaines of formula (IId), R 1 -N + (CH3)2-CH2COO - (IIa) R 1 -CO-NH-(CH2)3-N + (CH3)2-CH2COO - (IIb) R 1 -N + (CH3)2-CH2CH(OH)CH2SO3 - (IIc) R 1 -CO-NH-(CH2)3-N + (CH3)2-CH2CH(OH)CH2SO3 - (IId) In the formula, R1 has the same meaning as in formula (I). Particularly preferred are carbobetaines of formula (IIa) and (IIb) [i.e., in formula (I), Y - =COO-], more preferred are alkylamidobetaines of formula (IIb).

[0058] Suitable betaines may be selected from the group consisting of capryl / capramidopropyl betaine, cetyl betaine, cetylamidopropyl betaine, cocamidoethyl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, coco betaine, decyl betaine, decylamidopropyl betaine, hydrogenated tallow betaine / amidopropyl betaine, isostearamidopropyl betaine, lauramidopropyl betaine, lauryl betaine, myristyl amidopropyl betaine, myristyl betaine, oleadopropyl betaine, oleyl betaine, palmamidopropyl betaine, palmitamidopropyl betaine, palm kernelamidopropyl betaine, stearamidopropyl betaine, stearyl betaine, tallowamidopropyl betaine, tallow betaine, undecylenamidopropyl betaine, undecyl betaine, and mixtures thereof, or [named according to INCI]. Preferred betaines are selected from the group consisting of cocamidopropyl betaine, coco betaine, lauramidopropyl betaine, lauryl betaine, myristyl amidopropyl betaine, myristyl betaine, and mixtures thereof. Cocamidopropyl betaine is particularly preferred.

[0059] Nonionic surfactants: This surfactant system can include nonionic surfactant.The addition of nonionic surfactant is believed to reduce viscosity sensitivity to the variation of starting alcohol in alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant, improve ability to reach desired viscosity value, and improve low temperature stability, foam persistence, and grease cleaning, which means that less branching at position C2 and above is required for alkyl sulfate surfactant.Therefore, the addition of nonionic surfactant can provide more flexibility in the selection of starting alcohol used to make the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant of the present composition.

[0060] The non-ionic surfactant is preferably selected from the group consisting of alkoxylated alkyl alcohols, alkyl polyglucosides and mixtures thereof, more preferably the non-ionic surfactant is selected from alkoxylated alkyl alcohols, most preferably ethoxylated alcohols.

[0061] The surfactant system may contain a non-ionic surfactant at a level of from 1% to 25%, preferably from 1.25% to 15%, more preferably from 1.5% to 10% by weight of the surfactant system.

[0062] Suitable alkoxylated nonionic surfactants may be linear or branched, primary or secondary alkyl alkoxylated nonionic surfactants, which may contain an average of 8 to 18, preferably 9 to 15, more preferably 10 to 14 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain.

[0063] Alkyl ethoxylated nonionic surfactants are preferred. Suitable alkyl ethoxylated nonionic surfactants may contain an average of 5 to 12, preferably 6 to 10, more preferably 7 to 8 units of ethylene oxide per mole of alcohol. Such alkyl ethoxylated nonionic surfactants may be derived from synthetic alcohols such as OXO-alcohols and Fisher Tropsh alcohols, or from naturally occurring alcohols, or mixtures thereof. Suitable examples of commercially available alkyl ethoxylated nonionic surfactants include those derived from synthetic alcohols sold by Shell under the trade name Neodol® or by Sasol under the trade names Lial®, Isalchem®, and Safol®, or some of the natural alcohols manufactured by Procter & Gamble Chemicals.

[0064] Suitable nonionic surfactants include alkyl polyglucoside ("APG") surfactants. Alkyl polyglucoside nonionic surfactants typically have higher foaming power than other nonionic surfactants, such as alkyl ethoxylated alcohols.

[0065] The combination of alkyl polyglucosides and alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants has been found to provide improved polymeric grease removal, foam persistence performance, reduced viscosity change with surfactant and / or system changes, and more sustained Newtonian rheology.

[0066] The alkyl polyglucoside surfactant may be selected from C6-C18 alkyl polyglucoside surfactants. The alkyl polyglucoside surfactant may have a number average degree of polymerization of 0.1-3.0, preferably 1.0-2.0, more preferably 1.2-1.6. The alkyl polyglucoside surfactant may comprise a blend of short chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactants having alkyl chains containing 10 or less carbon atoms and medium to long chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactants having alkyl chains containing more than 10 carbon atoms to 18 carbon atoms, preferably 12-14 carbon atoms.

[0067] The short chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactants have a unimodal chain length distribution of C8-C10, the medium to long chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactants have a unimodal chain length distribution of C10-C18, while the medium chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactants have a unimodal chain length distribution of C12-C14. In contrast, the C8-C18 alkyl polyglucoside surfactants typically have a unimodal distribution of alkyl chains from C8-C18, such as C8-C16. Thus, the combination of a short chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactant with a medium to long chain or medium chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactant has a broader chain length distribution, or even a bimodal distribution, than the unblended C8-C18 alkyl polyglucoside surfactant. Preferably, the weight ratio of short chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactant to long chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactant is from 1:1 to 10:1, preferably from 1.5:1 to 5:1, more preferably from 2:1 to 4:1. Such a blend of short chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactant and long chain alkyl polyglucoside surfactant results in faster dissolution of the detergent solution in water and improved initial foaming combined with improved foam stability.

[0068] The anionic surfactant and the alkyl polyglucoside surfactant may be present in a weight ratio of greater than 1:1 to 10:1, preferably from 1.5:1 to 5:1, more preferably from 2:1 to 4:1.

[0069] C8-C16 alkyl polyglucosides are commercially available from several sources (e.g., Simusol® surfactants from Seppic Corporation, and Glucopon® 600 CSUP, Glucopon® 650 EC, Glucopon® 600 CSUP / MB, and Glucopon® 650 EC / MB from BASF Corporation). Glucopon® 215UP is a preferred short chain APG surfactant. Glucopon® 600 CSUP is a preferred medium to long chain APG surfactant.

[0070] Further ingredients: The composition can include additional components such as those selected from amphiphilic alkoxylated polyalkyleneimines, cyclic polyamines, triblock copolymers, salts, hydrotopes, organic solvents, other adjunct components such as those described herein, and mixtures thereof.

[0071] Amphiphilic alkoxylated polyalkyleneimines: The composition of the present invention may further comprise an amphiphilic polymer in an amount of 0.05% to 2%, preferably 0.07% to 1% by weight of the total composition. Suitable amphiphilic polymers may be selected from the group consisting of amphiphilic alkoxylated polyalkyleneimines and mixtures thereof. Amphiphilic alkoxylated polyalkyleneimine polymers have been found to reduce gel formation on hard surfaces being cleaned when the liquid composition is added directly to a cleaning implement (such as a sponge) prior to cleaning and then contacted with a heavily oily surface, particularly when the cleaning implement contains little to no water, e.g., when a lightly pre-moistened sponge is used.

[0072] Preferred amphiphilic alkoxylated polyethyleneimine polymers have the general structure of formula (I):

[0073] [ka] wherein the polyethyleneimine backbone has a weight average molecular weight of 600, n in formula (I) is an average of 10, m in formula (I) is an average of 7, and R in formula (I) is selected from hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl, and mixtures thereof, preferably hydrogen. The permanent degree of quaternization in formula (I) may be 0%-22% of the nitrogen atoms of the polyethyleneimine backbone. The molecular weight of this amphiphilic alkoxylated polyethyleneimine polymer is preferably 10,000-15,000 Da.

[0074] More preferably, the amphiphilic alkoxylated polyethyleneimine polymer has the general structure of formula (I), but the polyethyleneimine backbone has a weight average molecular weight of 600 Da, n in formula (I) is an average of 24, m in formula (I) is an average of 16, and R in formula (I) is selected from hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl, and mixtures thereof, preferably hydrogen. The permanent degree of quaternization of formula (I) may be 0%-22% of the nitrogen atoms of the polyethyleneimine backbone, preferably 0%. The molecular weight of this amphiphilic alkoxylated polyethyleneimine polymer is preferably 25,000-30,000, most preferably 28,000 Da.

[0075] Amphiphilic alkoxylated polyethyleneimine polymers can be made by the methods described in more detail in WO 2007 / 135645.

[0076] Cyclic Polyamines The composition may include a cyclic polyamine having an amine functionality to aid in cleaning. The composition of the invention preferably comprises from 0.1% to 3%, more preferably from 0.2% to 2%, especially from 0.5% to 1% of a cyclic polyamine by weight of the composition.

[0077] Cyclic polyamines have at least two primary amine functional groups. The primary amine may be present at any position in the cyclic amine, but it has been found that better performance is obtained from the standpoint of grease cleaning when the primary amine is present at the 1,3 positions. It has also been found that cyclic amines in which one of the substituents is -CH3 and the remaining are H provide improved grease cleaning performance.

[0078] Thus, the most preferred cyclic polyamines for use in the cleaning compositions of the present invention are those selected from the group consisting of 2-methylcyclohexane-1,3-diamine, 4-methylcyclohexane-1,3-diamine, and mixtures thereof. These particular cyclic polyamines, when formulated with the surfactant system of the compositions of the present invention, function to improve the foam and grease cleaning profile throughout the dishwashing process.

[0079] Suitable cyclic polyamines may be supplied by BASF under the trade name Baxxodur, with Baxxodur ECX-210 being particularly preferred.

[0080] A combination of cyclic polyamines and magnesium sulfate is particularly preferred.Thus, the composition may further comprise magnesium sulfate at a level of from 0.001% to 2.0%, preferably from 0.005% to 1.0%, more preferably from 0.01% to 0.5% by weight of the composition.

[0081] Triblock Copolymer The composition of the present invention may comprise a triblock copolymer. The triblock copolymer may be present at a level of 0.1% to 10%, preferably 0.5% to 7.5%, more preferably 1% to 5% by weight of the total composition. Suitable triblock copolymers include alkylene oxide triblock copolymers, defined as triblock copolymers having alkylene oxide moieties according to formula (I): (EO)x(PO)y(EO)x, where EO stands for ethylene oxide, and each x represents the number of EO units in the EO block. Each x may independently average 5 to 50, preferably 10 to 40, more preferably 10 to 30. Preferably, x is the same for both EO blocks, and "same" means that the difference in x between the two EO blocks is within a maximum of 2 units, preferably within a maximum of 1 unit, and more preferably both x are the same number of units. PO stands for propylene oxide, and y represents the number of PO units in the PO block. Each y can be set to an average of 28 to 60, preferably 30 to 55, and more preferably 30 to 48.

[0082] Preferably, the ratio of y to each x in the triblock copolymer is 3:1 to 2:1. The ratio of y to the average x of the two EO blocks in the triblock copolymer is preferably 3:1 to 2:1. Preferably, the triblock copolymer has an average weight percentage of total EO that is 30% to 50% by weight of the triblock copolymer. Preferably, the triblock copolymer has an average weight percentage of total PO that is 50% to 70% by weight of the triblock copolymer. It is understood that the average total weight percentage of EO and PO for the triblock copolymer sums to 100%. The triblock copolymer can have an average molecular weight of 2060 to 7880, preferably 2620 to 6710, more preferably 2620 to 5430, and most preferably 2800 to 4700. The average molecular weight is determined using 1H NMR spectroscopy (see Thermo scientific application note number AN52907).

[0083] A triblock copolymer has the basic structure ABA, where A and B are different homopolymeric and / or monomeric units. In this case, A is ethylene oxide (EO) and B is propylene oxide (PO). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the phrase "block copolymer" is synonymous with this definition of "block polymer."

[0084] Triblock copolymers according to formula (I) having specific EO / PO / EO configurations and respective homopolymer lengths have been found to enhance the foam hold performance of liquid hand dish detergent compositions in the presence of greasy soils and / or foam consistency throughout dilution in the cleaning process.

[0085] Suitable EO-PO-EO triblock copolymers are commercially available from BASF, e.g., under the Pluronic® PE series, and from Dow Chemical Company, e.g., under the Tergitol® L series. Particularly preferred triblock copolymers from BASF are sold under the trade names Pluronic® PE6400 (MW about 2900, about 40 wt. % EO) and Pluronic® PE9400 (MW about 4600, 40 wt. % EO). Particularly preferred triblock copolymers from Dow Chemical Company are sold under the trade name Tergitol® L64 (MW about 2700, about 40 wt. % EO).

[0086] Preferred triblock copolymers are readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions.

[0087] The compositions of the present invention may further comprise at least one active agent selected from the group consisting of salts, hydrotropes, organic solvents, and mixtures thereof.

[0088] salt: The composition of the present invention may contain from 0.05% to 2% by weight of the total composition, preferably from 0.1% to 1.5% by weight, or more preferably from 0.5% to 1% by weight of a salt, preferably a monovalent or divalent inorganic salt or mixtures thereof, more preferably selected from sodium chloride, sodium sulfate and mixtures thereof, with sodium chloride being most preferred.

[0089] Hydrotropes: The composition of the present invention may comprise from 0.1% to 10%, or preferably from 0.5% to 10%, or more preferably from 1% to 10% by weight of the total composition of a hydrotrope or mixture thereof, preferably sodium cumene sulfonate.

[0090] Organic solvents: The composition may contain 0.1% to 10% by weight of the organic solvent, or preferably 0.5% to 10% by weight, or more preferably 1% to 10% by weight of the total composition. Suitable organic solvents include organic solvents selected from the group consisting of alcohols, glycols, glycol ethers, and mixtures thereof, preferably alcohols, glycols, and mixtures thereof. Ethanol is a preferred alcohol. Polyalkylene glycols, particularly polypropylene glycol (PPG), are preferred glycols. The polypropylene glycol may have a molecular weight of 400 to 3000, preferably 600 to 1500, more preferably 700 to 1300. The polypropylene glycol is preferably poly-1,2-propylene glycol.

[0091] Supplementary ingredients The cleaning compositions may optionally contain many other adjunct ingredients such as builders (preferably citrates), chelants, conditioning polymers, other cleaning polymers, surface modifying polymers, structurants, emollients, humectants, skin rejuvenation actives, enzymes, carboxylic acids, scrubbing particles, fragrances, malodor control agents, pigments, dyes, opacifiers, pearlescent particles, inorganic cations such as alkaline earth metals such as Ca / Mg ions, antimicrobial agents, preservatives, viscosity modifiers (e.g., salts such as NaCl and other mono-, di-, and trivalent salts), and pH adjusters and buffering means (e.g., carboxylic acids such as citric acid, HCl, NaOH, KOH, alkanolamines, carbonates such as sodium carbonate, bicarbonates, sesquicarbonates, etc.).

[0092] Cleaning Method The compositions of the present invention may be used in a method for manually washing dishware.

[0093] A preferred method comprises the steps of delivering a liquid hand dishwashing composition of the present invention to a volume of water to form a cleaning solution and immersing dishware in the solution, preferably the water having a temperature of no more than 30° C. The dishware is washed with the composition in the presence of the water.

[0094] Typically, 0.5 mL to 20 mL, preferably 3 mL to 10 mL, of the detergent composition, preferably in liquid form, can be added to water to form a wash solution. The actual amount of detergent composition used will be at the discretion of the user and will typically depend on factors such as the particular product formulation of the detergent composition, including the concentration of active ingredients in the detergent composition, the number of soiled dishes to be washed, the degree of soiling of the dishes, etc.

[0095] The detergent composition can be combined with 2.0 L to 20 L, typically 5.0 L to 15 L, of water, such as in a sink, to form a wash liquor. After the soiled dishware is immersed in the resulting wash liquor, a cloth, sponge, or similar cleaning implement is used to wipe the soiled surface of the dishware. The cloth, sponge, or similar cleaning implement is contacted with the dishware for a period of time, typically ranging from 1 to 10 seconds, although the actual time will vary with each application and user preference.

[0096] Optionally, the dishware can then be rinsed. By "rinsing" herein is meant contacting the dishware washed in the process according to the invention with a large amount of water. By "large amount" is usually meant about 1.0 to about 20 L or under running water.

[0097] Alternatively, the composition herein in its undiluted form can be applied to the tableware to be treated. "In its undiluted form" means herein that the composition is applied directly to the surface to be treated or to a cleaning device or implement such as a brush, sponge, nonwoven or woven material without any significant dilution by the user prior to application. "In its undiluted form" also includes slight dilution due to, for example, the presence of water on the surface of the cleaning device or the addition of water by the consumer to remove residual amounts of the composition from a bottle. Thus, the composition in undiluted form includes a mixture having the composition and water in a ratio ranging from 50:50 to 100:0, preferably 70:30 to 100:0, more preferably 80:20 to 100:0, even more preferably 90:10 to 100:0, depending on the user's habits and cleaning tasks.

[0098] Such methods of neat application include contacting a dish with the liquid hand dish detergent composition in its neat form. The composition may be poured directly onto the dish from its container. Alternatively, the composition may first be applied to a cleaning device or implement, such as a brush, sponge, nonwoven material, or woven material. The cleaning device or implement, and the resulting liquid dishwashing composition in neat form, are then directly contacted with each surface of the soiled dish to remove the soiling. The cleaning device or implement is typically contacted with each dish surface for a period ranging from about 1 to about 10 seconds, although the actual application time will depend on factors such as the degree of soiling of the dish. Preferably, the contact of the cleaning device or implement with the dish surface is accompanied by wiping.

[0099] The dishes can then be rinsed either by immersion in clean water or under running water.

[0100] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to the use of the hand dishwashing cleaning compositions of the present invention to provide improved grease removal when washing dishware at such low temperatures, particularly when the liquid detergent composition is diluted to form the wash liquor.

[0101] Packaged product The hand dishwashing detergent composition can be packaged in a container, typically a plastic container. Suitable containers include an orifice. Suitable containers include conventional upright dispenser containers, where the orifice is at the top of the container, and inverted / bottom dispenser containers, where the orifice is at the bottom of the container. In the case of inverted / bottom dispenser containers, the orifice may be capped and / or equipped with a slit valve, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,611,531. Typically, the container is equipped with a cap, and the orifice is typically equipped on the cap. The cap can be equipped with an inlet, and the orifice is at the outlet of the inlet. The inlet can have a length of 0.5 mm to 10 mm.

[0102] The orifice may have an open cross-sectional area at the outlet of from 3 mm to 20 mm, preferably from 3.8 mm to 12 mm, more preferably from 5 mm to 10 mm, and the container further comprises a composition according to the invention. The cross-sectional area is measured perpendicular to the liquid outlet from the container (i.e. perpendicular to the liquid flow during dispensing).

[0103] The container can typically contain 200 mL to 5,000 mL, preferably 350 mL to 2000 mL, and more preferably 400 mL to 1,000 mL of the liquid hand dishwashing detergent composition.

[0104] Test Method In order that the invention described and claimed herein may be more fully understood, the assays described below should be used.

[0105] Test method 1: pH pH is measured as a 10% solution in demineralized water at 20° C. unless otherwise indicated.

[0106] Test method 2: Removal and emulsification of oils and greases The grease release and emulsification benefits from different compositions when diluted, and the effect of wash liquor temperature, were estimated using the following procedure.

[0107] The test liquid hand dishwashing composition was diluted in water having a water hardness of 7 dH (125 ppm CaCO3 equivalent) to a level of 10% by weight of the liquid hand dishwashing composition in water. 150 mL of the resulting cleaning liquor was added to a glass bottle (212 mL bottle supplied by Covera, item reference: 2051 / TOC58-OB / 01). The bottle containing the cleaning liquor was maintained at the test temperature (either 22° C. or 46° C.).

[0108] Olive oil and consumer average beef tallow (CABF, L2802405 / 200B3 / E3, supplied by J&R coordinating services Inc, Ohio, USA) in a 25:75 weight ratio were blended together by heating the CABF to 50°C and then blending the olive oil to the desired ratio while mixing for 10 minutes at 100 rpm using an overhead mixer. The fat mix was coated onto a polypropylene spoon (supplied by AVA, material name 00561586, "Lepel Herbruikbaar Wit PP 18cm 50 Stuks WIT") and the spoon was placed into a jar containing the washing liquid. The time required for the fat blend to peel off from the spoon was measured. The endpoint was determined visually, when the fat came off as large chunks that floated to the top, which is estimated to account for 90% of the fat peeling.

[0109] Test method 2: Viscosity measurement Viscosity is measured at 20 °C with a Brookfield RT viscometer using spindle 31 with the RPM of the viscometer adjusted to achieve 40%-60% torque. EXAMPLES

[0110] The following examples are given to further illustrate the present invention and should not be construed as limiting thereof, since many variations of the present invention are possible without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0111] Example 1: Compositions of the invention and comparative compositions The grease release benefit of the compositions of the present invention was evaluated against the grease release benefit of comparative compositions.

[0112] Liquid hand dish detergent compositions were prepared using alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants based on the starting alcohols summarized in Tables 1 and 2.

[0113] The following alcohol blends were prepared by mixing the following alkyl alcohols:

[0114] [Table 1] * To make alkyl sulfates for use in comparative compositions 1 C12 and C13 branched and linear alcohols supplied by Sasol 2 C13 branched (~20%, mostly C2) and linear (~80%) alcohols supplied by Shell 3 Mainly C13 branched and linear alcohols of alcohol example 1 from EP 3919594 4 Predominantly C13 and C15 branched and linear (~60%) alcohols supplied by Exxon 5 Natural (i.e., linear) mid-cut alcohols (C12-C14) supplied by Sasol 6 Alcohol from Example 1 of US Patent Application Publication No. 2023174893(A1)

[0115] The resulting blend had the following alkyl chain and branching distribution:

[0116] [Table 2]

[0117] [Table 3]

[0118] "mol % branched" refers to the mole percentage of alkyl chains that have a branch. "mol % C2 branched" refers to the mole percentage of alkyl chains that have a branch at the C2 position. "mol % C2 methyl branched" refers to the mole percentage of alkyl chains that have a methyl branch at the C2 position. "mol % C2 methyl or ethyl branched" refers to the mole percentage of alkyl chains that have either a methyl or ethyl branch at the C2 position. "mol % C2 propyl + branched" refers to the mole percentage of alkyl chains that have a propyl or higher branch at the C2 position. "mol % 2-Me branched / mol % C2 branched" refers to the ratio of "mol % C2 methyl branched" to "mol % C2 methyl branched" expressed as a percentage. "Mole % 2-Me-C15 branched / mole % 2-C15 branched" refers to the ratio of the mole percentage of C15 alkyl chains with a methyl branch at the C2 position to the mole percentage of C15 alkyl chains with a branch at the C2 position.

[0119] Table 4: Compositions used in the comparative tests: The alcohol blend was converted to an alkyl sulfate blend in a falling film reactor and then formulated into the following compositions:

[0120] [Table 4] 6 Sold under the trade name Neodol® and supplied by Shell 7 Powered by BASF 8 Molecular weight 2000 g / mol 9 Fragrances and dyes

[0121] Table 5: Results: The information regarding the % C15 in the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant and the type of branching is repeated below. The viscosity and grease removal obtained at a typical wash temperature (46°C) and at low temperature (22°C) are also shown in the table below.

[0122] [Table 5]

[0123] As can be seen from the above results, for detergent compositions containing C12-C13 alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants, it is difficult to provide good grease removal at both warm and cold temperatures when the branching is adjusted to provide the desired viscosity (see results from Comparative Examples A and B). For detergent compositions containing C12-C13 alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants, when the branching is adjusted to provide the desired warm and cold temperature grease removal, the resulting viscosity is lower, resulting in the need to make further formulation adjustments to compensate. In contrast, by adding C15 alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants at the required level to the compositions of the present invention, the desired viscosity can be achieved while also providing both good grease removal at warm and cold temperatures. If the mole % of C15 in the alkyl sulfate is increased above the mole % required for the compositions of the present invention, the desired viscosity is achieved. However, the grease removal efficacy is reduced for both warm and cold temperature washes.

[0124] Dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​recited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

Claims

1. A liquid hand dishwashing cleaning composition comprising from 5% to 50% by weight of the total composition of a surfactant system, said surfactant system comprising: i) 40% to 90% by weight of the surfactant system of an alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkyl sulfates, alkyl alkoxy sulfates, and mixtures thereof; ii) a co-surfactant selected from the group consisting of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof; A composition characterized in that the alkyl chains of said alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant have a mole fraction percent of C12 to C15 chains of at least 90%, and 2.0% to 15% of said alkyl chains of said alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant are C15 alkyl chains.

2. 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the liquid hand dishwashing cleaning composition comprises from 8% to 45%, preferably from 15% to 40% of said surfactant system by weight of the total composition.

3. 3. The composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein a molar fraction of 4.0% to 10% of the alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant are C15 alkyl chains.

4. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant has a weight average degree of branching of more than 10%, preferably from 25% to 60%, more preferably from 30% to 50%.

5. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the C15 alkyl chains of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant have a weight average degree of branching of more than 10%, preferably from 25% to 60%, most preferably from 30% to 50%.

6. a. the C12 alkyl chain of said alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant has a weight average degree of branching of greater than 10%, preferably from 15% to 60%, and most preferably from 20% to 50%; b. the C13 alkyl chains of said alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant have a weight average degree of branching of greater than 10%, preferably from 20% to 60%, and most preferably from 25% to 50%; c. A composition according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the C14 alkyl chain of said alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant has a weight average degree of branching of from 0% to 20%, preferably from 0% to 15%, more preferably from 0% to 10%.

7. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant contains C2 branching at a level of greater than 60%, more preferably greater than 80%, most preferably greater than 95% by weight of the branched C15 alkyl content of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant.

8. 8. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant comprises a 2-branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant, said 2-branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant having a molar fraction of 2-methyl and 2-ethyl branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant of at least 50%, preferably from 60% to 90%, most preferably from 70% to 85%.

9. 9. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant comprises a 2-branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant, said 2-branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant having a molar fraction of 2-methyl branched C15 alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant of at least 40%, preferably from 40% to 75%, most preferably from 55% to 65%.

10. 10. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the surfactant system comprises less than 30%, preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10% by weight of the composition of further anionic surfactant, and most preferably the surfactant system is free of further anionic surfactant.

11. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the average alkyl chain length of the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant is from 10 to 14, preferably from 12 to 14, more preferably from 12 to 13 carbon atoms.

12. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight ratio of said alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant to said co-surfactant is from 1:1 to 8:1, preferably from 2:1 to 5:1, more preferably from 2.5:1 to 4:

1.

13. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant has an average degree of alkoxylation of not more than 2.0, preferably not more than 0.6, more preferably not more than 0.1, and most preferably the alkyl sulfated anionic surfactant is free of alkoxylation.

14. 14. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the co-surfactant is an amphoteric surfactant, preferably an amine oxide surfactant, more preferably the amine oxide surfactant is selected from the group consisting of alkyl dimethyl amine oxides, alkyl amidopropyl dimethyl amine oxides, and mixtures thereof.

15. 15. A method of manually washing dishware, comprising the steps of delivering a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 14 to a volume of water to form a cleaning solution and immersing the dishware in said solution, preferably wherein the water has a temperature of 30°C or less.

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