Polyurethane gels

Abstract

To provide a silicone-free elastomer gel that has a favorable environmental profile.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to gel compositions comprising a polyurethane elastomer. The polyurethane elastomer is formed from the reaction of a polyol, a polyisocyanate and optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst optionally in the presence of a topically acceptable carrier fluid. The gel composition comprises a personal active ingredient or a healthcare active ingredient, which may be incorporated into the gel composition via a pre-load method or a post-load method. The invention also includes gel pastes and topical formulations containing the polyurethane elastomers, and methods of making the same.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gel composition comprising a polyurethane elastomer. [Background technology]

[0002] Elastomeric gels consist of a cross-linked three-dimensional polymer network suspended in an emollient. They are capable of swelling in the emollient and are useful as oil-phase thickeners in cosmetic formulations. These elastomeric gels have a ball-bearing-like feel on the skin, providing an improved aesthetic appearance and feel. These desirable attributes cannot be achieved with conventional oil gels or linear polymers, making elastomeric gels a unique cosmetic application vehicle.

[0003] Silicone elastomer gels are widely used ingredients in personal care products due to their thickening and gelling efficiency and unique silky, powdery sensory profile. When incorporated into formulations, they provide a smooth, dry, non-greasy feel. Silicone elastomers are compatible with silicone-based fluids. Recently, concerns have been raised regarding the adverse environmental impact of silicone-based ingredients in personal care products. Silicones are resistant to oxidative and chemical attack and are therefore not biodegradable. Furthermore, silicones are derived from fossil fuels and are not considered a renewable resource. As consumers become more educated about the environmental impact of cosmetics, the demand for silicone-free, biodegradable, renewable resource-based ingredients is rapidly increasing.

[0004] To meet these demands, biomass-derived silicone alternatives are beginning to enter the personal care market. However, these linear polymers and emollients do not offer the unique aesthetic appearance that elastomeric gels offer. Therefore, there is a need for silicone-free elastomeric gels with favorable environmental profiles. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention comprises a silicone-free polyurethane elastomer gel containing greater than 99% bio-based materials, which meets the market demand for silicone-free, renewable resource-derived materials while offering the aesthetic benefits of silicone-based elastomers.

[0006] The present invention further relates to a method for preparing a polyurethane elastomer gel by reacting a bio-based polyol with a bio-based polyisocyanate in a reaction medium of a bio-based emollient or a mixture of bio-based emollients at elevated temperatures using a polyurethane catalyst to obtain a polyurethane elastomer rubber, followed by adding a bio-based emollient to the rubber and processing the mixture into a polyurethane elastomer gel.

[0007] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a gel composition comprising a polyurethane elastomer formed, without the need for purification, in a locally acceptable solvent from the reaction of A) a polyol, B) a polyisocyanate, C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst, and D) a locally acceptable carrier fluid.

[0008] In embodiments, the personal care or healthcare active (E) is incorporated into the polyurethane elastomer gel by dissolving the personal care or healthcare active (E) in a topically acceptable carrier fluid during the formation of the polyurethane elastomer gel (pre-load method) or by mixing the personal care or healthcare active (E) with the formed polyurethane elastomer gel (post-load method).

[0009] In a further embodiment, the present invention further provides compounds having the following general structure:

[0010] [ka] wherein n is 2 to 10,000,000; A is an end group selected from hydrogen, isocyanate, and hydroxyl; and R 1 is a C1 to C60 substituted or unsubstituted linear or branched aliphatic group, alicyclic group, aryl group, heterocyclic aliphatic group, or heteroaryl group, optionally containing a heteroatom, and R 2 is a C1 to C60 substituted or unsubstituted linear or branched aliphatic, alicyclic, aryl, heterocyclic aliphatic, or heteroaryl group, optionally containing a heteroatom, and B is a terminal group selected from isocyanate and hydroxyl.

[0011] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method for producing a compound according to the following general reaction scheme:

[0012] [ka] (wherein R is a polyol having two or more functional groups, R 1 Is an isocyanate with a functionality of three or more, and the emollient provides a crosslinked polyurethane elastomeric network with topical acceptable.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a compound according to the following general reaction scheme:

[0014] [ka] (wherein R is a polyol having three or more functional groups, R 1 is an isocyanate having two or more functional groups, and the emollient is topically acceptable) to provide a crosslinked polyurethane elastomeric network.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a compound according to the following general reaction scheme:

[0016] [ka] wherein the emollient is topically acceptable.

[0017] In yet a further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for producing a polyurethane elastomer gel, comprising the steps of adding a cosmetically acceptable emollient, a polyol, and a polyisocyanate to a container; stirring the mixture at room temperature until a clear, homogeneous solution is obtained; adding a polyurethane catalyst while stirring; and heating the reactants to about 60°C for about 23 hours, at which point a soft rubber is formed; cooling the rubber to room temperature; adding a cosmetically acceptable emollient; and processing the mixture into a smooth gel.

[0018] In embodiments, the rubber forms at room temperature. In embodiments, the polyol, polyisocyanate, and emollient are bio-based. In embodiments, the polyol, polyisocyanate, and emollient are not bio-based. In embodiments, bismuth, tin, zinc, or amine isocyanate catalysts are used. In embodiments, the concentration of the bio-based emollient is between 70 and 85 weight percent, based on the total combined weight of the bio-based polyol, bio-based isocyanate, bismuth catalyst, and bio-based emollient or mixture of bio-based emollients. In embodiments, the polyol has a molecular weight ranging from about 500 to 10,000. In embodiments, the number of OH units per polyol is about 2 to 20. In embodiments, the number of NCO units per polyol is about 2 to 6. In embodiments, the bio-based emollient is selected from the group consisting of esters, hydrocarbons, carbonates, vegetable oils, or modified vegetable oils. In embodiments, the bio-based emollient has a spreading value (mm 2 / 10 min. In embodiments, the bio-based emollient has an average molecular weight of 240 to 1200.

[0019] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method for producing a polyurethane elastomer gel, comprising adding triheptanoin, coco-caprylate / caprate, dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer, and a 1,5-pentamethylene diisocyanate-based polyisocyanate to a reaction kettle; stirring the mixture at room temperature until a clear, homogeneous solution is obtained; adding bismuth neodecanoate with stirring; and heating the reaction to 60° C., at which point a colorless rubber is formed.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for producing a polyurethane elastomer gel, comprising the steps of placing a polyurethane elastomer gum in a drum, adding triheptanoin, milling the mixture in a Cowles mixer, passing the resulting suspension through a disperser, cooling the resulting gel to room temperature, and adding undecane and / or tridecane with mixing until a desired viscosity is reached.

[0021] In embodiments, the rubber forms at room temperature for 24 hours without agitation. In embodiments, an alcohol- or amine-containing finish may be added to quench unreacted isocyanate groups. In embodiments, the polyurethane elastomer rubber has a hardness as described herein. In embodiments, the polyurethane elastomer gel has a viscosity as described herein.

[0022] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a polyurethane polyurethane comprising a polyurethane resin prepared by the reaction of A) castor oil, B) isophorone diisocyanate having a molar ratio of isocyanate groups to hydroxyl groups between 1:1 and 1:2, C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst, and D) a cosmetically acceptable carrier fluid (examples of such carrier fluids include diisooctyl succinate, heptyl undecylenate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, coco-caprylate / caprate, triheptanoin, C13-15 alkanes, squalene, undecane, and tridecane). The present invention provides a gel composition comprising a polyurethane elastomer from a reaction, wherein the solvent concentration is between 60% (w / w) and 99.9% (w / w), and wherein the personal care or healthcare active ingredient may be incorporated into the polyurethane elastomer gel by dissolving the personal care or healthcare active ingredient in a topically acceptable solvent during the formation of the polyurethane elastomer gel (pre-dosing method) or by mixing the personal care or healthcare active ingredient with the formed polyurethane elastomer gel (post-dosing method).

[0023] In embodiments, the polyurethane catalyst is a bismuth-based containing catalyst. In embodiments, the carbon content of the topically acceptable solvent is greater than 50% derived from plant sources.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for preparing a polyurethane elastomer gel, comprising the step of: I) reacting A) castor oil, B) isophorone diisocyanate, and (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst in the presence of D) a topically acceptable carrier fluid. In yet a further embodiment, the present invention provides a gel composition prepared according to the method herein.

[0025] In yet a further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for preparing a gel paste composition, the method comprising the steps of: I) shearing a polyurethane elastomer gel herein; and II) mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an additional amount of carrier fluid to form a gel paste composition.

[0026] In yet a further embodiment, the present invention provides a method for preparing a gel paste composition comprising the steps of: I) shearing a polyurethane elastomer gel herein; and II) mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an active ingredient. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a table listing biolastomers compatible with common carrier fluids described in embodiments herein. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 shows an FTIR spectrograph of a (dilinoleic acid / propanediol) copolymer-based pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer according to an embodiment herein. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 shows an FTIR spectrograph of a (dilinoleic acid / propanediol) copolymer-based hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer according to an embodiment herein. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 shows an FTIR spectrograph of a castor oil-based pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer according to embodiments herein. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 shows an FTIR spectrograph of a castor oil-based hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer according to embodiments herein. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 shows an FTIR spectrograph of a (dilinoleic acid / dilinoleic diol copolymer) based pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer according to embodiments herein. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 shows an FTIR spectrograph of a (dilinoleic acid / dilinolediol) copolymer-based hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer according to embodiments herein. [Figure 8]FIG. 1 shows an FTIR spectrograph of a castor oil-based isophorone diisocyanate trimer elastomer according to embodiments herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] definition As used herein, "a" or "an" may mean one or more. As used herein, the words "a" or "an," when used in conjunction with the word "comprising," may mean one or more. As used herein, "another" or "further" may mean at least a second, or third or more.

[0029] The term "about" as used herein means approximately ±10%. When the term "about" is used in conjunction with a numerical value or range, it modifies that numerical value or range by extending the boundaries above or below the stated numerical value. Generally, the term "about" is used herein to modify a numerical value above or below the stated value by 10 percent above or below (high or low), i.e., a variance of ±10%, unless a different variance is indicated (e.g., ±30%, ±20%, ±5%, ±1%, etc.).

[0030] Use of the term "or" in the claims is used to mean "and / or" unless expressly indicated to refer to alternatives only or that the alternatives are mutually exclusive; however, the present disclosure also accommodates definitions that refer to alternatives only and "and / or."

[0031] As used herein, the terms "comprising" (and any variation or form of comprising, e.g., "comprise" and "comprises"), "having" (and any variation or form of having, e.g., "have" and "has"), "including" (and any variation or form of including, e.g., "includes" and "include"), or "containing" (and any variation or form of containing, e.g., "contains" and "contain") are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. It is contemplated that any embodiment discussed herein can be practiced with respect to any method and / or composition of the disclosure.

[0032] The use of the term "for example" and its corresponding abbreviation "eg" (whether italicized or not) means that the particular terms listed are representative examples and embodiments of the present disclosure that are not intended to be limited to the particular examples referenced or cited, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0033] As used herein, "between" refers to a range that includes the endpoints of the range. For example, a number between x and y explicitly includes the numbers x and y, as well as any number between x and y.

[0034] As used herein, the term "polyurethane" refers to a material formed by reacting a polyol with an isocyanate in the presence of a suitable catalyst.

[0035] The term "polyol" refers to a material having functional groups containing active hydrogen atoms capable of undergoing reaction with isocyanates. Preferably, the polyol contains at least two hydroxyl, amine, carboxylic acid, and / or thiol groups per molecule.

[0036] The term "polyisocyanate" refers to a material containing two or more isocyanate functional groups.

[0037] The term "bio-based" refers to materials that are primarily made up of matter obtained from living organisms, known as biomass.

[0038] The term "polyurethane elastomeric gum" refers to the reaction product of a polyol, an isocyanate, and a polyurethane catalyst in an emollient medium.

[0039] The term "polyurethane elastomer gel" refers to the product of processed polyurethane elastomer rubber.

[0040] The present invention further relates to a polyurethane elastomer gel comprising a bio-based polyol crosslinked with a bio-based polyisocyanate in a bio-based topically acceptable carrier fluid or a mixture of bio-based topically acceptable carrier fluids. In some embodiments, the reaction is catalyzed by a topically acceptable bismuth polyurethane catalyst. The polyurethane elastomer gels described herein have good compatibility with cosmetic and natural oils and can be used as thickeners for these oils. The polyurethane elastomer gels also provide cosmetic formulations with a smooth, non-sticky, non-greasy, moisturizing skin feel with enhanced playtime. The polarity of the polyurethane elastomer gel allows for its incorporation into polar cosmetic formulation vehicles. Silicone elastomer gels typically used in many formulations are non-polar and generally not compatible with polar formulation vehicles, therefore, polyurethane elastomer gels fulfill a critical requirement in the personal care industry.

[0041] The use of bio-based polyols, bio-based polyisocyanates, and bio-based carrier fluids produces polyurethane elastomer gels containing greater than 99% bio-based materials. Silicone elastomer gels are derived from fossil fuels, which are not renewable resources. It is generally recognized that cosmetic ingredients derived from biomass are considered "natural," and market demand for natural cosmetics is driving the need for silicone-free bio-based elastomers in the industry.

[0042] The present invention relates to a gel composition comprising a polyurethane elastomer that does not require purification and is formed in a topically acceptable solvent from the reaction of component (A) a polyisocyanate, component (B) a polyol, and optionally component (C) a polyurethane reaction catalyst, in optionally component (D) a topically acceptable carrier fluid.

[0043] Component (A) - Polyisocyanate In some embodiments, component (A) has a molecular structure containing two or more isocyanates and can be produced by a number of methods from polyamines or by polymerization of polyisocyanates, and should have two or more reactive isocyanate functional groups within its molecular structure. In some embodiments, the polyisocyanate contains three isocyanate functional groups. The polyisocyanate acts as a crosslinker in the reaction, allowing the creation of three-dimensional polymer networks using difunctional polyol copolymers.

[0044] One preferred example of a polyisocyanate is hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer, which has the following structure:

[0045] [ka]

[0046] Another preferred example of a polyisocyanate is pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer, which has the following structure:

[0047] [ka]

[0048] Another preferred example of a polyisocyanate is hexamethylene diisocyanate, which has the following structure:

[0049] [ka]

[0050] Another preferred example of a polyisocyanate is pentamethylene diisocyanate, which has the following structure:

[0051] [ka]

[0052] Another preferred example of a polyisocyanate is isophorone diisocyanate, which has the following structure:

[0053] [ka]

[0054] Another preferred example of a polyisocyanate is 4,4'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate), which has the following structure:

[0055] [ka]

[0056] Another preferred example of a polyisocyanate is toluene diisocyanate, which has the following structure:

[0057] [ka]

[0058] Another preferred example of a polyisocyanate is hexamethylene diisocyanate biuret.

[0059] Further non-limiting examples of polyisocyanates containing two isocyanate groups include bis(isocyanatomethyl)benzene, 1,3-bis(isocyanatomethyl)cyclohexane, diphenylmethane diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate-based polyisocyanates, 1,5-pentamethylene diisocyanate, isocyanatomethylethylbenzene, isophorone diisocyanate, methylene bis-(4-cyclohexyl isocyanate), M-tetramethylene diisocyanate, meta-tetramethylene xylene diisocyanate, saturated methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, and toluene diisocyanate.

[0060] Component (B) - Polyol In some embodiments, component (B) has a molecular structure containing two or more hydroxyl groups capable of reacting with isocyanates. In certain embodiments, component (B) contains nucleophilic groups other than hydroxyl, and the term "polyol" refers to a material having reactive hydrogens capable of reacting with isocyanates. Preferably, the polyol contains at least two hydroxyl, amine, carboxylic acid, and / or thiol groups per molecule.

[0061] When a polyol containing three or more functional groups is used, a difunctional isocyanate (e.g., containing two isocyanate functional groups) can be used to synthesize the polyurethane elastomer gel. Exemplary difunctional isocyanates are provided herein and include bis(isocyanatomethyl)benzene, 1,3-bis(isocyanatomethyl)cyclohexane, diphenylmethane diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate-based polyisocyanates, 1,5-pentamethylene diisocyanate, isocyanatomethylethylbenzene, isophorone diisocyanate, methylene bis-(4-cyclohexylisocyanate), M-tetramethylene diisocyanate, meta-tetramethylene xylene diisocyanate, saturated methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, and toluene diisocyanate.

[0062] One preferred example of a polyol is castor oil, which naturally contains multiple hydroxyl groups and is biobased. The molecular structure of natural castor oil is a triglyceride with three pendant carbon chains. Generally, each carbon has a double bond at the 9th and 10th positions and a hydroxyl group at the 12th carbon. Natural castor oil has a hydroxyl number of approximately 160-165 and is approximately 89% C. 18 OH and 9% C 18 Thus, not all of the carbon chain lengths in natural or unprocessed castor oil contain OH groups; on average, only about 90% of the chains contain OH groups. The main component of castor oil is ricinolein, which has the following structure:

[0063] [ka]

[0064] Another preferred example of a polyol is a (dilinoleic acid / dilinolediol) copolymer, which is reported to have the following structure:

[0065] [ka]

[0066] Another preferred example of a polyol is (dilinoleic acid / propanediol) copolymer (also referred to as "(dilinoleic acid / propanediol) copolymer"), which has been reported to have the following structure:

[0067] [ka]

[0068] The dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer is 100% biobased, has film-forming properties, is non-greasy, and has good compatibility with cosmetic oils and natural oils. Preferably, the dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer is terminated with hydroxyl groups and should have a low acid value, since hydroxyl groups react more easily with isocyanates than carboxylic acids. The molecular weight of the dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer may be between 500 and 10,000 g / mol, preferably between 1,000 and 3,000 g / mol. Castor oil polyurethane elastomer gel and dilinoleic acid / propanediol polyurethane elastomer gel exhibit similar properties.

[0069] Another preferred example of a polyol is dilinoleic diol, which is reported to have the following structure:

[0070] [ka]

[0071] Another preferred example of a polyol is dilinoleic diamine, which is reported to have the following structure:

[0072] [ka]

[0073] Another preferred example of a polyol is hexamethylenediamine, which has the following structure:

[0074] [ka]

[0075] Other suitable polyols include glycerol, polyglycerol, pentaerythritol, pentaerythritol tetrakis(3-mercaptopropionate), trimethylolpropane, mercaptanized soybean oil, glycerol propoxylate, glyceryl poly(oxypropylene)triamine, and melamine.

[0076] Further exemplary polyols include, but are not limited to, dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer, propylene glycol / azelaic acid copolymer, azelate polyol, propylene glycol / sebacic acid copolymer, 1,3-propanediol / azelaic acid copolymer, 1,3-propanediol / sebacic acid copolymer, 1,3-butanediol / azelaic acid copolymer, 1,3-butanediol / sebacic acid copolymer, 1,4-butanediol / azelaic acid copolymer , (1,4-butanediol / sebacic acid copolymer), (propylene glycol / adipic acid) copolymer, (1,3-propanediol / adipic acid) copolymer, (1,3-butanediol / adipic acid) copolymer, (1,4-butanediol / adipic acid) copolymer, (capryloyl glycerin / sebacic acid) copolymer, (trimethylpentanediol / adipic acid) copolymer, (capryloyl glycerin / sebacic acid) copolymer, diheptyl succinate (and) (capryloyl glycerin / sebacic acid) copolymer -, polyhydroxystearic acid, polyether, polybutylene succinate, polylactic acid, polyethylene terephthalate, polyester, hydroxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene glycol, polyoxazoline, polyglycerol, polystyrene, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polysaccharide, polylactide, polyethylene, starch, cellulose, chitin, chitosan, pullulan, collagen, gelatin, lignin, polysaccharide, alginate, polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate Ingredients: acrylate, poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate), polyamide, polyterpene, polyethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate, polycaprolactone, polytetrahydrofuran, polylactide, polyglycolide, polydioxanone, polycarbonate, polylactide-co-glycolide, polyanhydride, polyphosphazene, polyphosphoester, glycerol, castor oil, jatropha oil, multi-hydroxy soybean oil, palm oil, hydrogenated castor oil, caprylyl glycol, glyceryl caprylate, ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-hexanediol, hexylene glycol, glyceryl undecylenate, methylpropanediol, 1,2-hexanediol, pentaerythritol, dipentaerythritol, tripentaerythritol, trimethylolpropane, isosorbide, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, neopentyl glycol, 1,6-hexanediol, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, methyldiethanolamine, phenyldiethanolamine, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, triethanolamine, diethyltoluenediamine, dimethylthiotoluenediamine, citric acid, lactic acid, polylactic acid, dilinoleic acid, trilinoleic acid, azelaic acid, and sebacic acid.

[0077] Component (C) - Polyurethane reaction catalyst In some embodiments, component (C), a polyurethane reaction catalyst, is optionally used to increase the rate of polyurethane elastomer formation. Bismuth carboxylate is a preferred catalyst for the synthesis of polyurethane elastomer gels due to its favorable toxicity profile and its acceptability for use in topical products.

[0078] Preferably, bismuth neodecanoate is used as the polyurethane catalyst. Zinc, tin, and amine-based polyurethane catalysts may also be used. Suitable polyurethane catalysts include, but are not limited to, triethylenediamine, N,N,N',N",N"-pentamethyldiethylenetriamine, 1,2-dimethylimidazole, N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl-1,6-hexanediamine, N,N',N'-trimethylaminoethylpiperazine, 1,1'-[[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]imino]bispropan-2-ol, N,N,N'-trimethylaminoethylethanolamine, N,N',N"-tris(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-hexahydro-s-triazine, 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane, stannous octoate, stannous oxalate, stannous oxide, stannous chloride, dioctyltin di(2-hexylhexanoate), and the like. (I)-solution, dioctyltin dithioglycolate, dioctyltin dilaurate, dioctyltin oxide blend, dibutyltin dilaurate, monobutyltin tris-(2-ethylhexanoate), dioctyltin diketonate, dioctyltin diacetate, dioctyltin oxide, dibutyltin diacetate, modified dibutyltin diacetate, dibutyltin oxide, monobutyltin dihydroxychloride, organotin oxides, monobutyltin oxide, dioctyltin dicarboxylate, dioctyltin carboxylate, dioctyltin stannoxane, zinc neodecanoate, zinc octanoate, zinc acetylacetonate, zinc oxalate, zinc acetate, bismuth carboxylate, and zinc neodecanoate.

[0079] Component (D) - Carrier Fluid

[0080] In some embodiments, the polyurethane elastomer is optionally contained in a topically acceptable carrier fluid (D). In exemplary embodiments, the carrier fluid is a "topically acceptable carrier fluid" that is a solvent for topical application to skin surfaces, i.e., skin, lips, mucous membranes, etc. The terms "topically acceptable" and "cosmetically acceptable" may be used interchangeably herein, and a topically acceptable carrier fluid may also be referred to herein as an "emollient." Typically, but not necessarily, the carrier fluid may be the same solvent used to carry out the polyurethane elastomer reaction as described above. The topically acceptable carrier fluid used in the synthesis of polyurethane elastomer rubbers and gels may be completely biobased, partially biobased, or non-biobased. As used herein, "biobased" refers to materials that are primarily derived from living organisms, known as biomass.

[0081] The topically acceptable carrier fluid should be compatible with the reaction to form the polyurethane elastomer rubber described herein so that the rubber is not too hard and / or too brittle to be processed into a gel. When processing the polyurethane elastomer rubber into a gel, a carrier fluid with appropriate polarity should be used to swell the elastomer granules during milling. If the emollient is unable to swell the granules, the polyurethane elastomer rubber will not be able to process into a smooth gel. Triglycerides, esters, and ethers with appropriate polarity can be used to swell the elastomer granules during the milling process. In some embodiments, the topically acceptable carrier fluid comprises a triglyceride, ester, alkane, ether, or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the topically acceptable carrier fluid is triheptanoin or a mixture of triheptanoin and coco-caprylate / co-caprate. Triheptanoin is the preferred carrier fluid for swelling the elastomer granules as described herein. Triheptanoin has a relatively high polarity, is 100% biobased, has a low viscosity and a light, non-greasy skin feel.

[0082] Once the polyurethane elastomer rubber has been processed into a smooth gel, a volatile carrier fluid with a dry skin feel can be added to the gel with high shear mixing until the desired viscosity is reached. The volatile carrier fluid serves to enhance the dry feel of the polyurethane elastomer gel on the skin. Triglycerides, esters, ethers, and alkanes can be used in this process. Preferably, undecane and / or tridecane and / or palm alkanes are used.

[0083] The stability of polyurethane elastomer gels depends, in part, on the carrier fluid or mixture of carrier fluids used to synthesize the polyurethane elastomer rubber and gel. If the carrier fluid is too low in polarity, the gel may initially form but separate over time. Generally, triglycerides, esters, ethers, and alkanes can be used in various combinations. Preferably, a mixture of triheptanoin, coco-caprylate / coco-caprate, and undecane and / or tridecane in a ratio of about 1 / 1 / 0.5 is used. If separation occurs, surfactants may be used to maintain gel stability.

[0084] The topically acceptable carrier fluid preferably has a viscosity between 1 and 65 mPas at 20° C. The spreading value of the topically acceptable carrier fluid is preferably between 500 and 2500 mm 2Suitable topically acceptable carrier fluids for the synthesis of polyurethane elastomer rubbers and processing of polyurethane elastomer gels include, but are not limited to, bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-1, bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-1, bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2, dicaprylic / capric butylene glycol, shea butter, caprylic / capric glycerides, caprylic / capric triglyceride, caprylic / capric / myristic / stearic triglyceride, caprylic / capric / succinic triglyceride, caprylyl methicone, coco-caprylate / caprate, decamethylcyclopentasiloxane, decyl oleate, dimethiconol, diphenylsilanediol, Dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane, Ethyltrisiloxane, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Citric Acid / Lactic Acid / Linoleic Acid / Oleic Acid, Glyceryl Citric Acid / Lactic Acid / Linoleic Acid / Oleic Acid, Glyceryl Cocoate, Glyceryl Isostearate, Glyceryl Oleate, Glyceryl Ricinoleate, Glyceryl Ricinoleate, Tocopherol, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Hexamethyldisilazane, Hexamethyldisiloxane, Hydrogenated Cocoglycerides, Hydrogenated Palm Oil, Hydroxytrimethylsilane, Isopropoxytrimethylsilane, Methylheptyl Isostearate, Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane, Oleyl Erucate, Olus OilOil), Organic Modified Siloxane, Organic Silicone Fluid, PCA Glyceryl Oleate, PEG-6 Caprylic / Capric Glycerides, Phenyltrichlorosilane, Poly(dimethylsiloxane), Poly(ethylene glycol)-containing Siloxane, Polydimethylsiloxane, Polyglyceryl-2 Caprate, Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate, Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Polyglyceryl-4 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl Cocoate Ingredients include: Triglyceride-4, propylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, dicaprylic / capric acid propylene glycol, dicaprylic / capric acid propylene glycol, dicaprylic / capric acid propylene glycol, silicone oil, stearalkonium bentonite, stearalkonium hectorite, stearalkonium hectorite, triheptanoin, trimethyl(bromodifluoromethyl)silane, trimyristin, and tristearin.

[0085] In some embodiments, the topically acceptable carrier fluid comprises from about 0% to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition, from about 1% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition, from about 10% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition, from about 20% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition, from about 30 ... The gel composition may be present in a concentration of about 40% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w), about 50% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition, about 60% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition, about 70% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition, about 80% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition, or about 90% (w / w) to about 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition. In certain embodiments, the gel composition does not contain a topically acceptable carrier fluid. In some embodiments, the method for preparing the gel composition herein is carried out in the presence of a topically acceptable carrier fluid. In further embodiments, the method for preparing the gel composition herein is not carried out in the presence of a topically acceptable carrier fluid.

[0086] Ingredient (E) - Active ingredient In some embodiments, the gel compositions herein further comprise component (E) an active ingredient.

[0087] In some embodiments, component (E) is a "pharmaceutical active" selected from any personal or healthcare active. As used herein, "pharmaceutical active" refers to any compound or mixture of compounds known in the art as an additive in personal care formulations, typically added for the treatment of skin, lips, or to provide cosmetic and / or aesthetic benefits. "Healthcare active" refers to any compound or mixture of compounds known in the art to provide a pharmaceutical or medical benefit. Thus, "healthcare active" includes materials commonly used and considered active ingredients or active drug ingredients as defined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration, Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter I, Parts 200-299 and 300-499. Thus, active ingredients can include any ingredient intended to provide pharmacological activity or other direct effect in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or to affect the structure or any function of the human or other animal body. This phrase may include ingredients that may undergo chemical changes in the manufacture of a drug product and that may be present in the drug product in a modified form intended to impart a specified activity or effect.

[0088] Some representative examples of active ingredients include drugs, vitamins, minerals, hormones, topical antimicrobial agents such as antibiotic active ingredients, antifungal active ingredients for the treatment of athlete's foot, jock itch or ringworm, acne active ingredients, astringent active ingredients, deodorant active ingredients, wart remover active ingredients, corn and callus remover active ingredients, pediculicide active ingredients for the treatment of head, pubic (pubic) and body lice, active ingredients for the control of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis, and sunburn prevention and treatment.

[0089] Active ingredients useful in the methods of the present invention include vitamins and their derivatives, including "provitamins." Vitamins useful herein include, but are not limited to, vitamin A, retinol, CC esters of retinol, vitamin E, tocopherol, esters of vitamin E, and mixtures thereof. Retinol includes trans-retinol, 1,3-cis-retinol, 11-cis-retinol, 9-cis-retinol, and 3,4-didehydro-retinol, vitamin C and its derivatives, vitamin B, vitamin B provitamin B5, panthenol, vitamin B, vitamin B2, niacin, folic acid, biotin, and pantothenic acid. Other suitable vitamins and INCI names for vitamins considered for inclusion herein are ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl methylsilanol pectin, ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, ascorbyl glucoside, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, sodium ascorbate, disodium ascorbyl sulfate, potassium (ascorbyl / tocopheryl) phosphate.

[0090] It should be noted that retinol is the International Cosmetic Ingredient Nomenclature (INCI) designated by the Cosmetic and Toiletries Manufacturers Association (CTFA), Washington, D.C., for Vitamin A. Other suitable vitamins and INCI names for vitamins considered for inclusion herein are retinol acetate, retinol palmitate, retinol propionate, o-tocopherol, tocophersolan, tocopherol acetate, tocopherol linoleate, tocopherol nicotinate, and tocopherol succinate.

[0091] The pharmaceutically active ingredient used in the method according to the present invention may be an active drug ingredient. Representative examples of some suitable active drug ingredients that may be used include hydrocortisone, ketoprofen, timolol, pilocarpine, adriamycin, mitomycin C, morphine, hydromorphone, diltiazem, theophylline, doxorubicin, daunorubicin, heparin, penicillin G, carbenicillin, cephalothin, cefoxitin, cefotaxime, 5-fluorouracil, cytarabine, 6-azauridine, 6-thioguanine, vinblastine, vincristine, bleomycin sulfate, aurothioglucose, suramin, mebendazole, clonidine, scopolamine, propranolol, phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, ouabain, atropine, haloperidol, isosorbide, nitroglycerin, ibuprofen, ubiquinone, indomethacin, prostaglandins, naproxen, salbutamol, guanabenzamide, benzodiazepine, benzocaine, benzophenone, benzocaine ... Z), labetalol, pheniramine, metrifonate, and steroids.

[0092] Considered herein to be included as active drug ingredients for the purposes of the present invention are anti-acne agents such as benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin, antibacterial agents such as chlorohexadiene gluconate, antifungal agents such as miconazole nitrate, anti-inflammatory agents, corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as diclofenac, antipsoriatic agents such as clobetasol propionate, anesthetic agents such as lidocaine, anti-itch agents, anti-dermatitis agents, and agents generally considered to be barrier agents.

[0093] The pharmaceutically active ingredient E) of the present invention may be a protein, such as an enzyme. Encapsulating the enzyme in a polyurethane elastomer gel has the advantage of preventing the enzyme from inactivating and maintaining the enzyme's biological activity for a longer period of time. Enzymes include, but are not limited to, commercially available enzymes, improved enzymes, recombinant enzymes, wild-type enzymes, mutants not found in nature, and mixtures thereof. For example, suitable enzymes include hydrolases, cutinases, oxidases, transferases, reductases, hemicellulases, esterases, isomerases, pectinases, lactases, peroxidases, laccases, catalases, and mixtures thereof. Hydrolases include, but are not limited to, proteases (bacterial, fungal, acid, neutral, or alkaline), amylases (alpha or beta), lipases, mannanases, cellulases, collagenases, lysozymes, superoxide dismutases, catalases, and mixtures thereof. Proteases include, but are not limited to, trypsin, chymotrypsin, pepsin, pancreatin, and other mammalian enzymes; papain, bromelain, and other plant enzymes; subtilisin, epidermin, nisin, naringinase (L-rhamnosidase), urokinase, and other bacterial enzymes. Lipases include, but are not limited to, triacylglycerol lipase, monoacylglycerol lipase, lipoprotein lipase, such as steapsin, elepsin, pepsin, and other mammalian, plant, and bacterial lipases, as well as purified versions. Natural papain is preferred as the enzyme. Furthermore, stimulating hormones, such as insulin, can be used with these enzymes to enhance their effectiveness.

[0094] The pharmaceutically active ingredient may also be a sunscreen. The sunscreen may be selected from any sunscreen known in the art that protects the skin from the harmful effects of exposure to sunlight. The sunscreen compound is typically selected from organic compounds, inorganic compounds, or mixtures thereof that absorb ultraviolet (UV) rays. Thus, representative, non-limiting examples that may be used as sunscreens include aminobenzoic acid, cinoxate, diethanolamine methoxycinnamate, digalloyl trioleate, dioxybenzone, ethyl 4-bis(hydroxypropyl)aminobenzoate, glyceryl aminobenzoate, homosalate, lawsone with dihydroxyacetone, menthyl anthranilate, octocrylene, octyl methoxycinnamate, octyl salicylate, oxybenzone, padimate O, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid, red petrolatum, sulisobenzone, titanium dioxide, trolamine salicylate, acetaminosalol, allatoin, PABA, benzalphthalide, benzophenone, benzophenone 1-12, 3-benzylidene camphor, benzylidene camphor hydrolyzed collagen sulfonamide, benzylidene camphor sulfonic acid, benzyl salicylate, bomelone, bumetrizole, iozole), butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, butyl PABA, ceria / silica, ceria / silica talc, cinoxate, DEA methoxycinnamate, dibenzoxazole naphthalene, di-t-butylhydroxybenzylidene camphor, digalloyl trioleate, diisopropyl methyl cinnamate, dimethyl PABA ethyl cetearyldimonium tosylate, dioctyl butamido triazone, diphenylcarbomethoxyacetoxynaphthopyran, disodium bisethylphenylthiamin triazine stilbene disulfonate, disodium distyrylbiphenyl triaminotriazine stilbene disulfonate, disodium distyrylbiphenyl disulfonate, drometrizole, drometrizole trisiloxane, ethyl dihydroxypropyl PABA, ethyl diisopropyl cinnamate, ethyl methoxycinnamate, ethyl PABA, ethyl urocanate, etorocrylene ferulic acid, glyceryl dimethoxycinnamate octanoate, glyceryl PABAGlycol salicylate, homosalate, isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate, isopropyl benzyl salicylate, isopropyl dibenzoylmethane, isopropyl methoxycinnamate, menthyl anthranilate, menthyl salicylate, 4-methylbenzylidene, camphor, octocrylene, octrizole, octyl dimethyl PABA, octyl methoxycinnamate, octyl salicylate, octyl triazone, PABA, PEG-25 PABA, pentyl dimethyl, PABA, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid, polyacrylamidomethyl benzylidene camphor, potassium methoxycinnamate, potassium phenylbenzimidazole sulfonate, red petrolatum, sodium phenylbenzimidazole sulfonate, sodium urocanate, TEA phenylbenzimidazole sulfonate, TEA salicylate, terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid, titanium dioxide, zinc dioxide, cerium dioxide dioxide), TriPABA, panthenol, urocanic acid, and VA / crotonate / methacryloxybenzophenone-1 copolymer.

[0095] The sunscreen may be a single agent or a combination of two or more agents. Alternatively, the sunscreen is a cinnamate-based organic compound, or alternatively, the sunscreen is octyl methoxycinnamate, such as Uvinul® MC80 (an ester of para-methoxycinnamic acid and 2-ethylhexanol).

[0096] Component (E) may also be a fragrance or flavoring. The flavoring may be any flavoring or fragrance active ingredient commonly used in the flavoring industry. These compositions typically belong to various chemical classes, such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, esters, ethers, acetates, nitrites, terpene hydrocarbons, heterocyclic nitrogen- or sulfur-containing compounds, and essential oils of natural or synthetic origin. Many of these flavoring ingredients are described in detail in standard textbooks, such as "Perfume and Flavor Chemicals," 1969, S. Arctander, Montclair, NJ.

[0097] Fragrances may be exemplified by, but are not limited to, perfume ketones and perfume aldehydes. Examples of perfume ketones include buccoxime, isojasmone, methyl beta naphthyl ketone, musk indanone, tonalide / musk plus, alpha damascone, beta damascone, delta damascone, isodamascone, damascenone, damarose, methyl dihydrojasmonate, menthone, carvone, camphor, fenchone, alpha lonone, beta lonone, gamma methyl lonone, fleuramone, dihydrojasmone, cis jasmone, iso-E-super, methyl cedrenyl ketone or methyl cedrylone, acetophenone, methyl acetophenone, para-methoxy acetophenone, methyl beta naphthyl ketone, benzyl acetone, benzophenone, para-hydroxyphenyl butanone, celery ketone, cetearyl ... ketone) or LiveScone, 6-isopropyldecahydro-2-naphthone, dimethyloctenone, Freskomenthe, 4-(1-ethoxyvinyl)-3,3,5,5-tetramethylcyclohexanone, methylheptenone, 2-(2-(4-methyl-3-cyclohexen-1-yl)propyl)cyclopentanone, 1-(p-menthen-6(2)-yl)-1-propanone, 4-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-2-butanone, 2-acetyl -3,3-Dimethylnorbornane, 6,7-dihydro-1,1,2,3,3-pentamethyl-4(5H)-indanone, 4-damascol, Dulcinyl or Cassione, Gelsone, Hexylone, Isocyclone E. Methylcyclocitrone, Methyl Lavender Ketone, Oliven, para-tert-butyl-cyclohexanone, Verdone, Delphone, Muscone, Neobutenone, Plica tone, Veloutone, 2,4,4,7-tetramethyl-oct-6-en-3-one, and Tetrameran.

[0098] More preferably, the perfume ketone is selected from alpha damascone, delta damascone, isodamascone, carvone, gamma-methyl-lonone, iso-E-super, 2.4.4.7-tetramethyl-oct-6-en-3-one, benzylacetone, beta damascone, damascenone, methyl dihydrojasmonate, methyl cedrylone, and mixtures thereof, for their odor properties.

[0099] Preferably, the perfume aldehyde is selected for its odor properties from the following: adoxal, anisaldehyde, thymal, ethyl vanillin, florhydral, helional, heliotropin, hydroxycitronellal, koavone, lauric aldehyde, lyral, methylnonylacetaldehyde, PT bucinal, phenylacetaldehyde, undecylenic aldehyde, vanillin, 2,6,10-trimethyl-9-undecenal, 3-dodecen-1-al, α-n-amylcinnamaldehyde, 4-methoxybenzaldehyde, benzaldehyde, 3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-propanal, 2-methyl-3-(para-methoxyphenylpropanal, 2-methyl -4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-2(1)-cyclohexen-1-yl)butanal, 3-phenyl-2-propenal, cis- / trans-3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadien-1-al, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octen-1-al, (3,7-dimethyl-6-octenyl)oxyacetaldehyde, 4-isopropylbenzylaldehyde, 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-octahydro-8.8-dimethyl-2-naphthaldehyde, 2,4-dimethyl-3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde, 2-methyl-3-(isopropylphenyl)propanal, 1-decanal, decyl aldehyde, 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal, 4-(tricyclo[5.2.1.0(2,6)-Decylidene-8)-butanal, Octahydro-4,7-methano-1H-indenecarboxaldehyde, 3-ethoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, para-ethyl-α,α-dimethylhydrocinnamaldehyde, α-methyl-3,4-(methylenedioxy)-hydrocinnamaldehyde, 3,4-methylenedioxybenzaldehyde, α-n-hexylcinnamaldehyde, m-cymene-7-carboxaldehyde, α-methylphenylacetaldehyde, 7-hydroxy-3,7-dimethyloctanal, undecene nal, 2,4,6-trimethyl-3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde, 4-(3)(4-methyl-3-pentenyl)-3-cyclohexene-carboxaldehyde, 1-dodecanal, 2,4-dimethylcyclohexene-3-carboxaldehyde, 4-(4-hydroxy-4-methylpentyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde, 7-methoxy-3,7-dimethyloctan-1-al, 2-methylundecanal, 2-methyldecanal, 1-nonanal, 1-octanal, 2,6,10-trimethyl-5.9-Undecadienal, 2-methyl-3-(4-tertbutyl)propanal, dihydrocinnamaldehyde, 1-methyl-4-(4-methyl-3-pentenyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde, 5(or 6)-methoxyhexahydro-4,7-methanoindan-1(or 2)-carboxaldehyde, 3,7-dimethyloctan-1-al, 1-undecanal, 10-undecen-1-al, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde, 1-methyl-3-(4-methylpentyl)-3-cyclohexenecarboxaldehyde boxaldehyde), 7-hydroxy-3,7-dimethyloctanal, trans-4-decenal, 2,6-nonadienal, para-tolylacetaldehyde, 4-methylphenylacetaldehyde, 2-methyl-4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl)-2-butenal, ortho-methoxycinnamaldehyde, 3,5,6-trimethyl-3-cyclohexenecarboxaldehyde, 3,7-dimethyl-2-methylene-6-octenal, phenoxyacetaldehyde, 5,9-dimethyl-4,8-decadienal, peony aldehyde aldehyde)(6,10-dimethyl-3-oxa-5,9-undecadien-1-al), hexahydro-4,7-methanoindan-1-carboxaldehyde, 2-methyloctanal, α-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)benzeneacetaldehyde, 6,6-dimethyl-2-norpinene-2-propionaldehyde, paramethylphenoxyacetaldehyde, 2-methyl-3-phenyl-2-propen-1-al, 3,5,5-trimethylhexanal, hexahydro-8,8-dimethyl-2-naphthaldehyde, 3-propyl-bicyclo[2.2.It is selected from 1-hept-5-ene-2-carbaldehyde, 9-decenal, 3-methyl-5-phenyl-1-pentanal, methylnonylacetaldehyde, hexanal, trans-2-hexenal, 1-p-menthene-q-carboxaldehyde and mixtures thereof. More preferred aldehydes, due to their odor characteristics, are selected from 1-decanal, benzaldehyde, furohydral, 2,4-dimethyl-3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde, cis / trans-3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadien-1-al, heliotropin, 2,4,6-trimethyl-3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde, 2,6-nonadienal, α-amyl-cinnamaldehyde, α-n-hexyl-cinnamaldehyde, PT bucinal, lyral, thymal, methylnonylacetaldehyde, hexanal, trans-2-hexenal, and mixtures thereof. Among the above list of perfume ingredients, some are trade names known to those skilled in the art and include isomers. Such isomers are also suitable for use in the present invention.

[0100] Component (E) may also be one or more plant extracts. Examples of these ingredients are as follows: Angelica extract, avocado extract, hydrangea extract, althaea extract, arnica extract, aloe extract, apricot extract, apricot kernel extract, ginkgo biloba extract, fennel extract, turmeric curcuma extract, oolong tea extract, star anise extract, echinacea extract, scutellaria root extract, phellodendron bark extract, coptis chinensis extract, barley extract, hypericum extract, white nettle extract, watercress extract, orange extract, dried seawater, seaweed extract, hydrolyzed elastin, hydrolyzed wheat flour, hydrolyzed silk, chamomile extract, carrot extract, mugwort extract, licorice extract, hibiscus tea extract, pyracantha fortuneana extract, Fortuneana fruit extract, kiwi extract, cinchona extract, cucumber extract, guanosine, gardenia extract, kumazasa extract, kudzu extract, walnut extract, grapefruit extract, clematis extract, chlorella extract, mulberry extract, gentian extract, black tea extract, yeast extract, burdock extract, fermented rice bran extract, rice germ oil, comfrey extract, collagen, bilberry extract, gardenia extract, Chinese cabbage extract, Bupleurum extract, umbilical cord extract, salvia extract, saponaria extract, bamboo extract, hawthorn extract, Japanese pepper extract, shiitake mushroom extract, rehmannia root extract, purple extract, perilla extract, linden extract, meadowsweet extract, peony extract, calamus root extract, white birch extract, horsetail extract, ivy extract, hawthorn extract, Sambucus nigra migra extract, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) extract, peppermint (Mentha piperita) extract, sage extract, mallow extract, cnidium officinale root extract, Japanese green swertia extract, soybean extract, jujube extract, thyme extract, tea extract, clove extract, grass grass (Gramineae imperata)cyrillo extract, Satsuma mandarin peel extract, Angelica acutiloba extract, Calendula extract, Peach kernel extract, Spruce extract, Houttuyna cordata extract, Tomato extract, Natto extract, Ginseng extract, Green tea extract (Camellia sine sis), Garlic extract, Wild rose extract, Hibiscus extract, Bakumondo extract, Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) extract, Parsley extract, Honey, Witch hazel extract, Cinnamal extract, Japanese laurel extract, Bisabolol extract, Loquat extract, Dandelion extract, Butterbur extract, Japanese holly extract, Butterbur extract, Grape extract, Propolis extract, Loofah (lufa) extract, Safflower extract, Peppermint extract, Tilia extract, Peony extract, Hop extract, Pine extract, Horse chestnut extract, Skunk cabbage (Lysichiton camtschatcese) extract, soapberry peel extract, common mint extract, peach extract, cornflower extract, eucalyptus extract, saxifrage extract, citron extract, Job's tears extract, mugwort extract, lavender extract, apple extract, lettuce extract, lemon extract, astragalus extract, rose extract, rosemary extract, Roman chamomile extract, and royal jelly extract.

[0101] The amount of component (E) present in the polyurethane gel composition can vary, but is typically in the following range: 0.05 to 50 weight percent, alternatively 1 to 25 weight percent, or alternatively 1 to 10 weight percent, based on the weight of polyurethane elastomer present in the composition, i.e., the total weight of components (A), (B), (C), and (D) in the gel composition.

[0102] Component (E) may be added to the polyurethane gel composition during the production of the polyurethane elastomer (pre-dosing method) or may be added after the formation of the polyurethane elastomer gel (post-dosing method).

[0103] The pre-dosing method includes reacting (A) a polyisocyanate, (B) a polyol, and (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst, optionally in (D) a carrier fluid, and (E) mixing a personal care or health care active with the polyurethane elastomer gel to form the active-containing polyurethane elastomer gel.

[0104] The post-dosing method includes the steps of (I) reacting (A) a polyisocyanate, (B) a polyol, (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst, optionally in (D) a carrier fluid to form a polyurethane elastomer gel, (II) shearing the polyurethane elastomer gel into a smooth paste, and (III) (E) mixing a personal care or health care active with the polyurethane elastomer gel to form the active-containing polyurethane elastomer gel. The personal care active may also be mixed as a component of a separate mixture with one or more excipients.

[0105] Polyurethane elastomer The polyurethane elastomers of the present invention can be obtained as the polyurethane reaction product of components (A) a polyisocyanate, (B) a polyol, and (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst, optionally in (D) a carrier fluid. The term "polyurethane reaction" refers to the addition of a compound containing a hydroxyl group (e.g., component (A)) to a compound containing an isocyanate group (e.g., component (B)) in the presence of a catalyst (e.g., component (C)), where the molar ratio of hydroxyl groups to isocyanate groups is 1:1. Alternatively, this ratio may range from 8:1 to 0.9:1. The polyurethane reaction is carried out in the presence of a solvent, which is the same as the carrier fluid described as component (D), and is used without further purification.

[0106] In certain embodiments, the present invention provides crosslinked polyurethane elastomeric networks formed from the reaction of castor oil with isophorone diisocyanate, according to the following general structure and prepared according to the following general scheme (the structure shown is based on ricinolein, the major triglyceride component of castor oil):

[0107] [ka]

[0108] In a further embodiment, the structure of the polyurethane elastomer is a crosslinked polymer network of repeating units (dilinoleic acid / propanediol) copolymer, alkyl carbamate, and triazinetrione. A typical chemical structure of the polyurethane polymer network is depicted below and is formed according to the following reaction scheme:

[0109] [ka]

[0110] In certain embodiments, the polyurethane elastomer gel described above is prepared in a three-step process. First, a dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer is reacted with 1,5-pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer in a reaction medium of triheptanoin and coco-caprylate / caprate in the presence of bismuth neodecanoate while mixing at elevated temperatures. The molecular weight of the dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer ranges from approximately 1,000 to 3,000. The molar ratio of NCO of the polyisocyanate to OH of the copolymer may be between 2:1 and 1:2. The amount of bismuth neodecanoate in the reaction mixture may be between approximately 0.05 and 2.25% by weight. The reaction occurs between the hydroxyl groups of the copolymer and the isocyanate groups of the polyisocyanate in the presence of a catalyst, creating a urethane linkage -RNHCOOR'-. The product is a crosslinked polyurethane elastomer gum containing the topically acceptable carrier fluids triheptanoin and coconut alkanes (caprylate / caprate) entrapped in an elastomeric matrix. The resulting off-white gum is soft, not brittle, and slightly tacky to the touch. In a second step, the gum is diluted with a carrier fluid, such as triheptanoin, and milled into a gel using a high-shear mixture, disperser, or homogenizer. The resulting gel concentrate is thick, smooth, and free of granular particles. When applied to the skin, the gel is easily absorbed and spreads evenly without pilling. In a third step, a carrier fluid, such as undecane and / or tridecane, or coconut alkanes, can be added to the gel concentrate in a high-shear mixer until the desired viscosity is reached.

[0111] The hardness of polyurethane elastomer rubber is an important factor that determines whether it can be easily processed into a gel. If the polyurethane elastomer rubber is too hard, the rubber particles will not swell properly during processing or be crushed into a smooth gel. If the polyurethane elastomer rubber is too soft, it will not be easily processed into a gel due to stickiness and a lack of swellable particles. Five factors primarily determine the hardness of polyurethane elastomer rubber.

[0112] First, the solids content, determined by the weight percent of reactants in the synthesis of polyurethane elastomer rubber, is a crucial factor in determining the hardness and gelling ability of polyurethane elastomer rubber. If the solids content is too high, the rubber will be hard and brittle. If the solids content is too low, the rubber will be sticky and soft. In practice, the total weight percent of reactants in rubber formation can be between 70 and 95%.

[0113] Second, the type of locally acceptable carrier fluid affects the hardness and processing of polyurethanes. If coco-caprylate / coco-caprate is used as the sole carrier fluid, the polyurethane elastomer rubber can be too hard and brittle and therefore cannot be processed into a smooth gel. Using triheptanoin or a mixture of triheptanoin and coco-caprylate / coco-caprate in a ratio of 4:1 to 1:1 can produce polyurethane elastomer rubber with the appropriate hardness. A 3:1 ratio is preferably used.

[0114] Third, the ratio of polyol to polyisocyanate-based polyisocyanate affects the hardness of the polyurethane elastomer rubber. If the molar ratio of hydroxyl groups to isocyanate is too high or too low, insufficient crosslinking occurs, resulting in a soft and sticky product that cannot be processed into a gel. The molar ratio of NCO of the isocyanate to OH of the polyol can be between 2:1 and 1:2.

[0115] Fourth, the amount of bismuth catalyst used in the synthesis of polyurethane elastomer rubber is another factor that determines its ability to be processed into a gel. If too much catalyst is used, the rubber will cure excessively during heating and become too hard to process into a gel. If too little catalyst is used, the rubber will not form. In practice, the amount of bismuth catalyst can be about 0.05 to 2.25 wt.%.

[0116] Fifth, the reaction temperature should not exceed 80°C, otherwise the elastomeric rubber may be over-cured, resulting in a rubber that is too hard. Furthermore, temperatures above 80°C may cause solvent exudation. The reaction temperature for rubber formation should be about 40-80°C.

[0117] Method for measuring viscosity of polyurethane elastomer gel paste When used with a suitable Brookfield viscometer equipped with a special T-bar spindle, the Brookfield HELIPATH™ stand allows viscosity / consistency measurements in centipoise for materials with properties similar to pastes, putties, creams, gelatin, or wax. The viscosity of polyurethane elastomer blends was determined using a Brookfield Model DV-II+ Pro viscometer equipped with a HELIPATH™ stand (Brookfield Model D) and a T-bar spindle (Brookfield HELIPATH™ spindle set). All were purchased from Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc. (11 Commerce Boulevard, Middleboro, Mass., USA). A sample size of 50 g in a 4-ounce round-bottom bottle was required. Prior to measurement, the following preparation procedure was used: air bubbles were first removed from the sample by centrifugation, followed by 2 hours under vacuum. After degassing, the sample was conditioned at 25°C for a minimum of 4 hours. Measurements were performed according to the typical procedure for the HELIPATH™ spindle. Typically, spindle 93 (T-bar spindle E) was used, with a standard setting of 6.5 rpm. The spindle speed was kept constant at 6.5 rpm.

[0118] Topical preparations Also provided herein are topical formulations comprising gel compositions or gel pastes. In such formulations, the gel compositions or gel pastes are preferably used as thickeners or stabilizers for the topical formulations. Other components of topical formulations are known in the art and may include, for example, various ingredients such as emulsion stabilizers, emulsifiers, skin conditioners, suspending agents, etc. The amount of these additional ingredients may be on the order of about 0.01% to about 50% by weight.

[0119] As used herein, "emulsion stabilizer" refers to a composition that helps prevent an emulsion from separating into its oily and aqueous components. In embodiments, the emulsion stabilizer utilized in the formulations described herein is a naturally occurring gum or modified gum or a natural mineral. Exemplary emulsion stabilizers include, but are not limited to, acacia, cellulose, crystalline cellulose, gellan, guar, locust bean, xanthan, magnesium aluminum silicate, bentonite, or hectorite clay, and the like, including combinations thereof.

[0120] As used herein, "skin conditioner" refers to a composition that acts as a lubricant on the surface of the skin or increases the moisture content of the surface of the skin. Exemplary skin conditioners for use in the formulation include, but are not limited to, adipates, alkyl benzoates, C8 or higher fatty acid esters, esterified erucates, laurates, neopentanoates, salicylates, stearates, triglycerides, carbonates, glycols, glycerin, mineral oils, and the like, including combinations thereof.

[0121] As used herein, "emulsifier" refers to a composition that aids in the formation of an oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsion. Exemplary emulsifiers for use in the formulation include, but are not limited to, polysorbates, ethoxylated fatty acids, fatty acids neutralized with sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, or amines, substituted glucosides, sodium lauryl and lauryl ether sulfates, ethoxylated esters, lecithin and lecithin derivatives, and the like, including combinations thereof.

[0122] As used herein, "suspending agent" refers to a composition that modifies the interface between solid particles and a liquid medium to improve the resistance of the particles to coming together and falling out of solution. Exemplary suspending agents for use in the formulation include, but are not limited to, hydroxystearic acid, polyhydroxystearic acid, sodium polyacrylate polymers, methyl methacrylate crosspolymers, and the like, including combinations thereof.

[0123] In additional embodiments, polyurethane elastomers may be utilized in a solid-based format, such as insoles or soles that conform to the foot.

[0124] Exemplary Embodiments Embodiment 1: (A) a polyisocyanate or mixture of polyisocyanates containing two or more isocyanate functional groups; (B) a polyol or mixture of polyols containing two or more hydroxyl, amine, thiol, or carboxylic acid functional groups; (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst, and (D) Optional locally acceptable carrier fluid 1. A gel composition comprising a polyurethane elastomer gel prepared from the reaction of:

[0125] Embodiment 2: The gel composition of embodiment 1, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of esters, triglycerides, hydrocarbons, silicone fluids, oils, and combinations thereof.

[0126] Embodiment 3: The gel composition of embodiment 1, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of diisooctyl succinate, heptyl undecylenate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, coco-caprylate / caprate, triheptanoin, caprylic / capric triglyceride, dodecane, tridecane, C13-15 alkane, squalene, squalene, isoamyl laurate, isopentyl laurate, caprylic / capric / myristate / stearic triglyceride, caprylic / capric / succinate triglyceride, isopropyl myristate, jojoba esters, tricaprylin, and palm oil.

[0127] Embodiment 4: The gel composition of embodiment 1, further comprising a pharmaceutically active ingredient dissolved in a topically acceptable carrier fluid.

[0128] Embodiment 5: The gel composition of embodiment 1, wherein the polyisocyanate or mixture of polyisocyanates is a low molecular weight polyisocyanate or mixture of polyisocyanates, and the polyol or mixture of polyols contains two or more hydroxyl, amine, thiol, or carboxylic acid groups.

[0129] Embodiment 6: (A) Castor oil, (B) isophorone diisocyanate having a molar ratio of isocyanate groups to hydroxyl groups of 1:1 to 1:2; (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst, and (D) a topically acceptable carrier fluid at a concentration of 60% (w / w) to 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition. 1. A gel composition comprising a polyurethane elastomer from the reaction of A gel composition wherein a personal care or healthcare active is optionally incorporated into the polyurethane elastomer gel by dissolving the personal care or healthcare active in a topically acceptable solvent during the formation of the polyurethane elastomer gel or by mixing the personal care or healthcare active with the formed polyurethane elastomer gel.

[0130] Embodiment 7: The gel composition of embodiment 6, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of esters, triglycerides, hydrocarbons, silicone fluids, and combinations thereof.

[0131] Embodiment 8: The gel composition of embodiment 6, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of diisooctyl succinate, heptyl undecylenate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, and coco-caprylate / caprate.

[0132] Embodiment 9: The gel composition of embodiment 6, further comprising a pharmaceutically active ingredient dissolved in a topically acceptable carrier fluid.

[0133] Embodiment 10: The gel composition of embodiment 1, wherein the polyurethane catalyst is a bismuth-group-containing catalyst.

[0134] Embodiment 11: The gel composition of embodiment 6, wherein the polyurethane catalyst is a bismuth-group-containing catalyst.

[0135] Embodiment 12: The gel composition of embodiment 1, wherein greater than 50% of the carbon content of the topically acceptable solvent is obtained from a plant source.

[0136] Embodiment 13: The gel composition of embodiment 6, wherein greater than 50% of the carbon content of the topically acceptable solvent is obtained from a plant source.

[0137] Embodiment 14: A method for preparing a gel composition according to embodiment 1, comprising: (A) polyol, (B) isophorone diisocyanate, and (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst; Optionally (D) locally acceptable carrier fluid reacting in the presence of

[0138] Embodiment 15: A method for preparing a gel composition according to embodiment 6, comprising: (A) Castor oil, (B) isophorone diisocyanate, and (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst; Optionally (D) locally acceptable carrier fluid reacting in the presence of

[0139] Embodiment 16: A gel composition prepared according to the method of embodiment 14.

[0140] Embodiment 17: A gel composition prepared according to the method of embodiment 15.

[0141] Embodiment 18: A method for preparing a gel paste composition, comprising: (I) shearing the gel composition of embodiment 1; and (II) mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an additional amount of carrier fluid to form a gel paste composition. A method comprising:

[0142] Embodiment 19: A method for preparing a gel paste composition, comprising: (I) shearing the gel composition of embodiment 1; and (II) mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an active ingredient; A method comprising:

[0143] Embodiment 20: A method for preparing a gel paste composition, comprising: (I) shearing the gel composition of embodiment 6; and (II) mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an additional amount of carrier fluid to form a gel paste composition. A method comprising:

[0144] Embodiment 21: A method for preparing a gel paste composition, comprising: (I) shearing the gel composition of embodiment 6; and (II) mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an active ingredient; A method comprising:

[0145] Embodiment 22: A method for producing a polyurethane elastomer, comprising: I) mixing a polyisocyanate reactant and a polyol reactant, optionally in a topically acceptable carrier fluid, to form a reaction mixture having a reactant concentration of about 80% (w / w), wherein the polyisocyanate reactant contains two or more isocyanate functional groups and the polyol reactant contains two or more hydroxyl groups; II) optionally adding a polyurethane reaction catalyst; and III) Optionally, heating the reaction mixture to about 80° C. to form a polyurethane elastomer. A method comprising:

[0146] Embodiment 23: The method of embodiment 22, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of esters, triglycerides, hydrocarbons, silicone fluids, and combinations thereof.

[0147] Embodiment 24: The method of embodiment 22, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of diisooctyl succinate, heptyl undecylenate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, coco-caprylate / caprate, and combinations thereof.

[0148] Embodiment 25: The method of embodiment 22, further comprising dissolving the pharmaceutically active ingredient in a topically acceptable carrier fluid.

[0149] Embodiment 26: The method of embodiment 22, wherein the polyisocyanate reactant is obtained from the polymerization of another polyisocyanate.

[0150] Embodiment 27: The method of embodiment 22, further comprising preparing the polyisocyanate reactant from hexamethylene diisocyanate.

[0151] Embodiment 28: The method of embodiment 22, further comprising preparing the polyisocyanate reactant from pentamethylene diisocyanate.

[0152] Embodiment 29: A polyurethane elastomer gel paste prepared by the method of embodiment 18.

[0153] Embodiment 30: A polyurethane elastomer gel paste prepared by the method of embodiment 19.

[0154] Embodiment 31: A polyurethane elastomer gel paste prepared by the method of embodiment 20.

[0155] Embodiment 32: A polyurethane elastomer gel paste prepared by the method of embodiment 21.

[0156] Embodiment 33: A topical formulation comprising the gel composition of embodiment 1 or embodiment 6 and a pharmaceutically active ingredient, wherein the pharmaceutically active ingredient is a personal care active ingredient or a healthcare active ingredient.

[0157] Embodiment 34: A topical formulation comprising the polyurethane elastomer gel paste of any one of embodiments 29 to 32 and a pharmaceutically active ingredient, wherein the pharmaceutically active ingredient is a personal care active ingredient or a healthcare active ingredient.

[0158] Embodiment 35: A foot-conforming insole or shoe sole comprising the gel composition of embodiment 1 or embodiment 6.

[0159] Embodiment 36: A medically acceptable medical gel comprising the gel composition of embodiment 1 or embodiment 6.

[0160] Embodiment 37: A topical formulation comprising the gel composition of embodiment 1 or embodiment 6.

[0161] The present disclosure is further illustrated by the following examples, which are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Certain modifications and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure provides, but is not limited to, the following formulation examples. [Example]

[0162] [Example 1] Preparation of Polyurethane Elastomer Gels Based on Dilinoleic Acid / Propanediol Copolymers Using Triheptanoin, Coco-Alkyl Caprylate / Caprate, and Undecane and Tridecane Triheptanoin, coco-caprylate / caprate, dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer, and pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer were added to a reaction kettle. The mixture was stirred at room temperature until a clear, homogeneous solution was obtained. Bismuth neodecanoate was added with stirring, and the reaction was heated to 60°C for approximately 1 hour, at which point an off-white, soft rubber formed. After rubber formation, the rubber was cooled to room temperature.

[0163] The polyurethane elastomer gum was then placed in a drum and triheptanoin was added with high shear mixing. The resulting suspension was then passed through a disperser and the resulting gel was cooled to room temperature. Undecane and / or tridecane were then added with mixing until the desired viscosity was reached.

[0164] [Example 2] Preparation of Polyurethane Elastomer Gels Based on Dilinoleic Acid / Propanediol Copolymers Using Triheptanoin, Coco-Alkyl Caprylate / Caprate, and Coco-Alkane A polyurethane elastomer gum was prepared according to Example 1. A polyurethane elastomer gel was prepared by placing the polyurethane elastomer gum in a drum, and then adding triheptanoin with high shear mixing. The resulting suspension was then passed through a disperser, and the resulting gel was cooled to room temperature. Palm alkane was then added with mixing until the desired viscosity was reached.

[0165] [Example 3] Preparation of Polyurethane Elastomer Gels Based on Dilinoleic Acid / Propanediol Copolymers Using Triheptanoin and Coco-Alkyl Caprylate / Caprate A polyurethane elastomer gum was prepared according to Example 1. A polyurethane elastomer gel was prepared by placing the polyurethane elastomer gum in a drum, and then adding triheptanoin with high shear mixing. The resulting suspension was then passed through a disperser, and the resulting gel was cooled to room temperature. Coco-caprylate / caprate was then added with mixing until the desired viscosity was reached.

[0166] [Example 4] Preparation of Polyurethane Elastomer Gels Based on Dilinoleic Acid / Propanediol Copolymer Using Triheptanoin A polyurethane elastomer gum was prepared according to Example 1. A polyurethane elastomer gel was prepared by placing the polyurethane elastomer gum in a drum, and then adding triheptanoin with high shear mixing. The resulting suspension was then passed through a disperser, and the resulting gel was cooled to room temperature. Triheptanoin was then added with mixing until the desired viscosity was reached.

[0167] [Example 5] Preparation of Castor Oil-Based Pentamethylene Diisocyanate Trimer Polyurethane Elastomer: Triheptanoin, castor oil, and pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer were added to a bottle. The mixture was stirred at room temperature until a clear, homogeneous solution was obtained. Bismuth neodecanoate was added with stirring, and the reaction was heated to 60°C for approximately 1 hour, at which point an off-white, soft rubber formed. After rubber formation, the rubber was cooled to room temperature.

[0168] The polyurethane elastomer gum was then placed in a steel container and triheptanoin was added with high shear mixing until the desired viscosity was reached.

[0169] In one particular example, triheptanoin (202.0 grams), castor oil (32.0 grams), pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer (15.9 grams), and bismuth neodecanoate (2.5 grams) were added to a stainless steel reaction vessel. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained. The reaction mixture was placed in an aluminum container and heated to 80°C for 1 hour, at which point a translucent rubber formed.

[0170] The polyurethane elastomer rubber was then crushed into small pieces and placed in a metal container, triheptanoin was added, and the mixture was then homogenized into a smooth gel paste of the desired viscosity using a Silverson L5M-A homogenizer equipped with a 30 mm diameter rotor, a Square Hole High Shear Screen, and operated at 4500-8000 revolutions per minute.

[0171] In another example, triheptanoin (41.1 grams), castor oil (6.7 grams), pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer (3.31 grams), and bismuth neodecanoate (0.5 grams) were added to a 4-ounce glass bottle. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 10 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained. The reaction mixture was covered and heated to 80°C for 19.5 hours, at which point a translucent rubber formed. The hardness of a 50-gram sample of the gel was 1.72 Newtons, as determined using a Stable Micro Systems Texture Analyzer equipped with a TA-18B Stable Micro Systems probe and a 5-kilogram load cell inserted 5 mm into the gel surface.

[0172] [Example 6] Preparation of castor oil / isophorone diisocyanate polyurethane elastomers Diisooctyl succinate (440 grams), castor oil (71.1 grams) having a hydroxyl number of 166.87 mg / g, isophorone diisocyanate (23.5 grams) having an isocyanate content of 37.80%, and bismuth neodecanoate (5.33 grams) were added to a stainless steel reaction vessel. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained, and 50 grams of the mixture was poured into a 4-ounce glass bottle. The remainder of the reaction mixture and a 50-gram sample were heated to 75°C for 18 hours, at which point a translucent gel formed. The hardness of a 50-gram sample of the gel was 2.85 N, as determined using a Stable Micro Systems Texture Analyzer equipped with a TA-18B Stable Micro Systems probe and a 5-kilogram load cell inserted 5 mm into the gel surface.

[0173] The polyurethane elastomer gel was then broken into small pieces and placed in a metal container, and heptyl undecylenate was added before homogenizing into a smooth gel paste of the desired viscosity using a Silverson L5M-A homogenizer equipped with a 30 mm diameter rotor, a Square Hole High Shear Screen, and operating at 4500-8000 revolutions per minute.

[0174] In one particular example, triheptanoin (293.5 grams), castor oil (87.9 grams) having a hydroxyl number of 166.87 mg / g, isophorone diisocyanate (29.0 grams) having an isocyanate content of 37.80%, and bismuth neodecanoate (8.9 grams) were added to a glass reaction vessel. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained, and 50 grams of the mixture was poured into a 4-ounce glass bottle. The remainder of the reaction mixture and a 50-gram sample were covered and heated to 75°C for 19.5 hours, at which point a translucent rubber formed. The hardness of a 50-gram sample of the gel was 3.69 N, as determined using a Stable Micro Systems Texture Analyzer equipped with a TA-18B Stable Micro Systems probe and a 5-kilogram load cell inserted 5 mm into the gel surface.

[0175] The polyurethane elastomer rubber was then crushed into small pieces and placed in a metal container, triheptanoin was added, and the mixture was then homogenized into a smooth gel paste of the desired viscosity using a Silverson L5M-A homogenizer equipped with a 30 mm diameter rotor, a Square Hole High Shear Screen, and operated at 4500-8000 revolutions per minute.

[0176] [Example 7] Preparation of (Dilinoleic Acid / Propanediol) Copolymer-Based Hexamethylene Diisocyanate Trimer Elastomers Heptyl undecylenate (1959.2 g), dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer (410.0 g) having a hydroxyl value of 56 mg / g, hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer (70.0 g) having an isocyanate content of 22.77%, and bismuth neodecanoate (10.0 g) were added to a plastic reaction vessel. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained, and 50 grams of the mixture was poured into a 4-ounce glass bottle. The remainder of the reaction mixture and the 50 gram sample were covered and allowed to stand at 25°C for 25 hours, at which point a translucent rubber had formed. The hardness of a 50 gram sample of the gel was 3.14 N, as determined using a Stable Micro Systems Texture Analyzer equipped with a 5 kilogram load cell equipped with a TA-18B Stable Micro Systems probe inserted 5 mm into the gel surface.

[0177] The polyurethane elastomer rubber was then crushed into small pieces and placed in a metal container, and heptyl undecylenate was added before homogenizing into a smooth gel paste of the desired viscosity using a Silverson L5M-A homogenizer equipped with a 30 mm diameter rotor, a Square Hole High Shear Screen, and operating at 4500-8000 revolutions per minute.

[0178] [Example 8] Preparation of pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomers based on (dilinoleic acid / propanediol) copolymers Coco-caprylate / caprate (445.0 grams), dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer (87.5 grams), pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer (20.6 grams), and bismuth neodecanoate (3.2 grams) were added to a stainless steel reaction vessel. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 10 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained. The reaction mixture was heated to 80°C for 1 hour, at which point a translucent rubber formed.

[0179] The polyurethane elastomer rubber was then broken into small pieces and placed in a metal container, and the coco-caprylate / caprate was added, followed by homogenization to a smooth gel paste of the desired viscosity using a Silverson L5M-A homogenizer equipped with a 30 mm diameter rotor, a Square Hole High Shear Screen, and operating at 4500-8000 revolutions per minute.

[0180] In one particular example, 39.5 grams of coco-caprylate / caprate, 7.8 grams of dilinoleic acid / propanediol copolymer having a hydroxyl value of 56 mg / g, 1.8 grams of pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer having an isocyanate content of 23.5%, and 0.3 grams of bismuth neodecanoate were added to a 4-ounce glass bottle. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 10 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained. The reaction mixture was covered and heated to 80°C for 19.5 hours, at which point a translucent rubber formed. The hardness of a 50-gram sample of the gel was 7.12 Newtons, as determined using a Stable Micro Systems Texture Analyzer equipped with a TA-18B Stable Micro Systems probe and a 5-kilogram load cell inserted 5 mm into the gel surface.

[0181] [Example 9] Preparation of castor oil-based hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomers Triheptanoin (2354.7 grams), castor oil (373.0 grams), hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer (188.6 grams) having an isocyanate content of 22.77%, and bismuth neodecanoate (27.0 grams) were added to a plastic reaction vessel. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained, and 50 grams of the mixture was poured into a 4-ounce glass bottle. The remainder of the reaction mixture and the 50 gram sample were covered and allowed to stand at room temperature for 20 hours, at which point a translucent rubber had formed. The hardness of a 50 gram sample of the gel was 2.72 Newtons, as determined using a Stable Micro Systems Texture Analyzer equipped with a TA-18B Stable Micro Systems probe and a 5 kilogram load cell inserted 5 mm into the gel surface.

[0182] The polyurethane elastomer rubber was then crushed into small pieces and placed in a metal container, triheptanoin was added, and the mixture was then homogenized into a smooth gel paste of the desired viscosity using a Silverson L5M-A homogenizer equipped with a 30 mm diameter rotor, a Square Hole High Shear Screen, and operated at 4500-8000 revolutions per minute.

[0183] [Example 10] Preparation of (Dilinoleic Acid / Dilinolediol) Copolymer-Based Hexamethylene Diisocyanate Trimer Elastomers Coco-caprylate / caprate (826.3 g), dilinoleic acid / dilinolediol copolymer (172.8 g) having a hydroxyl value of 56 mg / g, hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer (29.5 g) having an isocyanate content of 22.77%, and bismuth neodecanoate (4.23 g) were added to a glass reaction vessel. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained, and 50 grams of the mixture was poured into a 4-ounce glass bottle. The remainder of the reaction mixture and the 50-gram sample were covered and heated to 75°C for 17 hours, at which point a translucent rubber had formed. The hardness of a 50-gram sample of the gel was 4.51 N, as determined using a Stable Micro Systems Texture Analyzer equipped with a 5-kilogram load cell equipped with a TA-18B Stable Micro Systems probe inserted 5 mm into the gel surface.

[0184] The polyurethane elastomer rubber was then broken into small pieces and placed in a metal container, and the coco-caprylate / caprate was added, followed by homogenization to a smooth gel paste of the desired viscosity using a Silverson L5M-A homogenizer equipped with a 30 mm diameter rotor, a Square Hole High Shear Screen, and operating at 4500-8000 revolutions per minute.

[0185] [Example 11] Preparation of (Dilinoleic Acid / Dilinolediol) Copolymer-Based Pentamethylene Diisocyanate Trimer Elastomers Coco-caprylate / caprate (231.6 g), dilinoleic acid / dilinolediol copolymer (49.0 g) having a hydroxyl value of 56 mg / g, pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer (7.7 g) having an isocyanate content of 23.5%, and bismuth neodecanoate (1.2 g) were added to a glass reaction vessel. The mixture was vigorously stirred at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes until a clear, homogeneous mixture was obtained, and 50 grams of the mixture was poured into a 4-ounce glass bottle. The remainder of the reaction mixture and the 50-gram sample were covered and heated to 80°C for 19.5 hours, at which point a translucent rubber had formed. The hardness of a 50-gram sample of the gel was 0.49 N, as determined using a Stable Micro Systems Texture Analyzer equipped with a 5-kilogram load cell equipped with a TA-18B Stable Micro Systems probe inserted 5 mm into the gel surface.

[0186] The polyurethane elastomer rubber was then broken into small pieces and placed in a metal container, and the coco-caprylate / caprate was added, followed by homogenization to a smooth gel paste of the desired viscosity using a Silverson L5M-A homogenizer equipped with a 30 mm diameter rotor, a Square Hole High Shear Screen, and operating at 4500-8000 revolutions per minute.

[0187] [Example 12] Formulation of polyurethane elastomers To explore the ability to formulate the polyurethane elastomers described herein as topical formulations, the following experiments were performed.

[0188] Table 1 below lists exemplary polyurethane elastomers ("biolastomers") herein along with comparative elastomers. The compositions in Table 1 omit the isocyanate crosslinker of Biolastomers A and C, which is hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer. In Biolastomer D, IPDI is isophorone diisocyanate.

[0189] [Table 1]

[0190] The biolastomers described above were added to the following common topical carriers to determine their ability to be formulated as topical preparations:

[0191] A 5 to 1 scoring system was utilized in Figure 1, with a score of "5" indicating a firm gel and a score of "1" indicating a flowable gel. At the amounts tested, the biolastomers described herein exhibited good compatibility with fatty alcohols > triglycerides > esters, less compatibility with hydrocarbons, and no compatibility with silicones.

[0192] The three biolastomers were then mixed with different sunscreen agents to test their compatibility with the active agents and their ability to be used as formulation substances. Tables 2-4 list the results for the three biolastomers mentioned above.

[0193] [Table 2]

[0194] [Table 3]

[0195] [Table 4]

[0196] The results of these experiments demonstrate that the biolastomers described herein are highly compatible with organic and physical sunscreens and do not adversely affect the clarity of the final formulation.

[0197] The processability of the biolastomers was then evaluated in both oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions as follows.

[0198] [Table 5]

[0199] The following elastomer gels * Each of the following elastomer gels was investigated: Biolastomer A, Biolastomer C, Biolastomer D, Velvesil DM Gel, and Dowsil 9040. All elastomer gels were added to the oil phase (B) of the formulation as a premix with caprylyl methicone. The premix was homogenized before addition. Small particles of elastomer were visible in the premix but not in the product. Phase A was added very slowly to Phase B with high speed mixing (cold process, standard w / Si emulsion preparation). No significant differences were observed in the processability of any of the elastomer gels in w / o emulsions, confirming that the biolastomers described herein can be easily processed in water-in-oil emulsions.

[0200] The processability of the elastomer gel in oil-in-water emulsion was investigated as follows.

[0201] [Table 6]

[0202] The following elastomer gels *Each of the following was investigated: control (no elastomer), Biolastomer C, Biolastomer D, Biolastomer A, Velvesil DM6, and DM9040. The water (A) and oil (B) phases were separately heated to 70°C, then mixed and homogenized. At 50°C, a carbomer premix was added, mixed, and neutralized. A premix was required for Biolastomers C and D, but not for Biolastomer, Velvesil DM6, and DM9040. The experimental results showed that the ease of processability, from highest to lowest, was Velvesil DM > DC9040 > Biolastomer A > Biolastomer C ≒ Biolastomer D.

[0203] The sensory (skin feel) properties of the elastomers were also evaluated. The results showed the following: Control - "flat" feel, no cushioning. Biolastomer C - provided a smooth cushioning feel, moisturized, no dry feeling, and left the skin soft. Biolastomer D - slightly glossy and lubricated, felt smooth, bouncy, and cushioned after use. Biolastomer A - between C and D. Velvesil DM - powdery, dry cushioning feel, with the benefit of a matte finish. Dowsil 9040 - powdery but with a bouncy cushioning feel, less dry than Velvesil DM, with the benefit of a matte finish.

[0204] The following was also evaluated for the elastomer formulations: Rheology: Shear thinning behavior of the biolastomer. Ease of production: One kilogram of biolastomer in emollient was prepared using a Ross mixer and in-line homogenizer to evaluate shear sensitivity.

[0205] [Example 13] Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of polyurethane elastomers Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was carried out to analyze the molecular structure of the polyurethane elastomer.

[0206] The FTIR spectrograph of the (dilinoleic acid / propanediol) copolymer-based pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer is shown in Figure 1.

[0207] The FTIR spectrograph of the (dilinoleic acid / propanediol) copolymer-based hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer is shown in FIG.

[0208] The FTIR spectrograph of the castor oil-based pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer is shown in FIG.

[0209] The FTIR spectrograph of the castor oil-based hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer is shown in FIG.

[0210] The FTIR spectrograph of the (dilinoleic acid / dilinolediol) copolymer-based pentamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer is shown in FIG.

[0211] The FTIR spectrograph of the (dilinoleic acid / dilinolediol) copolymer-based hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer elastomer is shown in FIG.

[0212] The FTIR spectrograph of the castor oil-based isophorone diisocyanate trimer elastomer is shown in FIG.

Claims

1. (A) a polyisocyanate or mixture of polyisocyanates containing two or more isocyanate functional groups; (B) a polyol or mixture of polyols containing two or more hydroxyl, amine, thiol, or carboxylic acid functional groups; (C) optionally, a polyurethane reaction catalyst, and (D) Optionally, a locally acceptable carrier fluid 1. A gel composition comprising a polyurethane elastomer gel prepared from the reaction of:

2. 10. The gel composition of claim 1, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of esters, triglycerides, hydrocarbons, silicone fluids, oils, and combinations thereof.

3. 10. The gel composition of claim 1, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of diisooctyl succinate, heptyl undecylenate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, coco-caprylate / caprate, triheptanoin, caprylic / capric triglyceride, dodecane, tridecane, C13-15 alkane, squalene, isoamyl laurate, isopentyl laurate, caprylic / capric / myristate / stearic triglyceride, caprylic / capric / succinate triglyceride, isopropyl myristate, jojoba esters, tricaprylin, and palm oil.

4. 10. The gel composition of claim 1, further comprising a pharmaceutically active ingredient dissolved in a topically acceptable carrier fluid.

5. 10. The gel composition of claim 1, wherein the polyisocyanate or mixture of polyisocyanates is a low molecular weight polyisocyanate or mixture of polyisocyanates and the polyol or mixture of polyols contains two or more hydroxyl, amine, thiol, or carboxylic acid groups.

6. (A) Castor oil, (B) isophorone diisocyanate having a molar ratio of isocyanate groups to hydroxyl groups between 1:1 and 1:2; (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst, and (D) optionally a topically acceptable carrier fluid at a concentration of 60% (w / w) to 99.9% (w / w) of the gel composition; 1. A gel composition comprising a polyurethane elastomer from the reaction of A gel composition wherein a personal care or healthcare active is optionally incorporated into the polyurethane elastomer gel by dissolving the personal care or healthcare active in a topically acceptable solvent during the formation of the polyurethane elastomer gel or by mixing the personal care or healthcare active with the formed polyurethane elastomer gel.

7. 7. The gel composition of claim 6, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of esters, triglycerides, hydrocarbons, silicone fluids, and combinations thereof.

8. 7. The gel composition of claim 6, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of diisooctyl succinate, heptyl undecylenate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, and coco-caprylate / caprate.

9. 10. The gel composition of claim 6, further comprising a pharmaceutically active ingredient dissolved in a topically acceptable carrier fluid.

10. 10. The gel composition of claim 1, wherein the polyurethane catalyst is a bismuth-group-containing catalyst.

11. 7. The gel composition of claim 6, wherein the polyurethane catalyst is a bismuth-group-containing catalyst.

12. 10. The gel composition of claim 1, wherein greater than 50% of the carbon content of the topically acceptable solvent is obtained from a plant source.

13. 7. The gel composition of claim 6, wherein greater than 50% of the carbon content of the topically acceptable solvent is derived from plant sources.

14. 10. A method for preparing the gel composition of claim 1, comprising: (A) polyol, (B) isophorone diisocyanate, and (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst , optionally (D) A method comprising reacting in the presence of a locally acceptable carrier fluid.

15. 10. A method for preparing the gel composition of claim 6, comprising: (A) Castor oil, (B) isophorone diisocyanate, and (C) optionally a polyurethane reaction catalyst , optionally (D) locally acceptable carrier fluid reacting in the presence of

16. 15. A gel composition prepared according to the method of claim 14.

17. 16. A gel composition prepared according to the method of claim 15.

18. 1. A method for preparing a gel paste composition, comprising: I) shearing the gel composition of claim 1; and II) mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an additional amount of carrier fluid to form a gel paste composition. A method comprising:

19. 1. A method for preparing a gel paste composition, comprising: I) shearing the gel composition of claim 1; and II) Mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an active ingredient A method comprising:

20. 1. A method for preparing a gel paste composition, comprising: I) shearing the gel composition of claim 6; and II) mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an additional amount of carrier fluid to form a gel paste composition. A method comprising:

21. 1. A method for preparing a gel paste composition, comprising: I) shearing the gel composition of claim 6; and II) Mixing the sheared polyurethane elastomer gel with an active ingredient A method comprising:

22. 1. A method for producing a polyurethane elastomer, comprising: I) mixing a polyisocyanate reactant and a polyol reactant, optionally in a topically acceptable carrier fluid, to form a reaction mixture having a reactant concentration of about 80% (w / w), wherein the polyisocyanate reactant contains two or more isocyanate functional groups and the polyol reactant contains two or more hydroxyl groups; II) optionally adding a polyurethane reaction catalyst; and III) optionally heating the reaction mixture to about 80°C to form a polyurethane elastomer.

23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of esters, triglycerides, hydrocarbons, silicone fluids, and combinations thereof.

24. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the topically acceptable carrier fluid is selected from the group consisting of diisooctyl succinate, heptyl undecylenate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, coco-caprylate / caprate, and combinations thereof.

25. 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising dissolving the pharmaceutically active ingredient in a topically acceptable carrier fluid.

26. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the polyisocyanate reactant is obtained from the polymerization of another polyisocyanate.

27. 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising preparing the polyisocyanate reactant from hexamethylene diisocyanate.

28. 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising preparing the polyisocyanate reactant from pentamethylene diisocyanate.

29. 20. A polyurethane elastomer gel paste prepared by the method of claim 18.

30. 20. A polyurethane elastomer gel paste prepared by the method of claim 19.

31. 21. A polyurethane elastomer gel paste prepared by the method of claim 20.

32. 22. A polyurethane elastomer gel paste prepared by the method of claim 21.

33. 10. A topical formulation comprising the gel composition of claim 1 or claim 6 and a pharmaceutically active ingredient, wherein the pharmaceutically active ingredient is a personal care active ingredient or a healthcare active ingredient.

34. 33. A topical formulation comprising the polyurethane elastomer gel paste of any one of claims 29 to 32 and a pharmaceutically active ingredient, wherein the pharmaceutically active ingredient is a personal care active ingredient or a healthcare active ingredient.

35. 10. A foot-conforming insole or shoe sole comprising the gel composition of claim 1 or claim 6.

36. A medically acceptable medical gel comprising the gel composition of claim 1 or claim 6.

37. 10. A topical formulation comprising the gel composition of claim 1 or claim 6.

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