Antimicrobial composition and method of using the same

Abstract

To provide: an antimicrobial composition containing hydrogen peroxide that has increased efficacy against microorganisms and has no unpleasant odor; a wiping product; a method for disinfecting a hard surface; and an antimicrobial composition precursor.SOLUTION: An antimicrobial composition comprises: a hydrogen peroxide source; and a peroxide adjuvant, the peroxide adjuvant comprising an organic acid and / or salt thereof having a pKa from about 1 to about 6, the antimicrobial composition being free of acetic acid. The peroxide adjuvant is present in the composition in an amount sufficient for the composition to achieve at least 3 log10 reduction after a three minute contact time when tested against Clostridium difficile according to ASTM Test Methods E2197-11 and E2839-11.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001]

[0001] This application is related to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 873,629, filed July 12, 2019. No. 60 / 699,999, filed on Oct. 1, 2003, which application is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Antibacterial compositions are used in a wide variety of applications. Generally, antibacterial compositions are used to kill microorganisms. They are used to destroy and / or prevent the growth of microorganisms. Antimicrobial compositions are used to disinfect or sanitize objects, for example, in the food service industry, healthcare, industrial settings, and for consumer households. In one aspect, the antimicrobial compositions are used to sanitize or disinfect surfaces, such as hard, non-porous surfaces.

[0003]

[0003] Some antimicrobial compositions are known to contain hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide has the advantage and benefit of being used as a disinfectant and biocide because it decomposes into oxygen and water and is therefore very safe to use. Another advantage of hydrogen peroxide is that it has broad-spectrum biocidal activity against a variety of organisms. Unfortunately, however, hydrogen peroxide has a relatively low activity rate when used alone.

[0004] In view of the above, those skilled in the art have discovered a hydrogen peroxide-containing antimicrobial solution with enhanced biocidal properties. In particular, those skilled in the art have attempted to produce hydrogen peroxide solutions with improved efficacy and kill rates against various microorganisms. In this regard, hydrogen peroxide has previously been combined with various other chemical species to improve its efficacy against various microorganisms. For example, hydrogen peroxide has previously been combined with acetic acid and / or peracetic acid. While the addition of acetic acid and / or peracetic acid to hydrogen peroxide can increase the efficacy of the antimicrobial composition, the resulting composition has a very unpleasant, pungent odor.

[0005] One particular microorganism that is difficult to control with hydrogen peroxide compositions is Clostridium perfringens. C. difficile is a pathogenic bacteria that can cause severe illness in mammals, especially humans. C. difficile is a pathogen that can cause severe gastrointestinal disease in patients. In fact, C. difficile is the leading cause of hospital-acquired diarrhea and the leading cause of pseudomembranous colitis. The number of cases of C. difficile-associated disease continues to increase each year. For example, patients taking antibiotics or undergoing chemotherapy are particularly susceptible to C. difficile-associated disease. As the frequency of disease increases, hospitals become even more contaminated with C. difficile spores, further increasing the likelihood of infection in susceptible patients.

[0006] In view of the above, a hydrogen peroxide-containing antimicrobial agent having high effectiveness against microorganisms and no unpleasant odor is desired. There is currently a need for antimicrobial compositions. There is also a need for hydrogen peroxide-based antimicrobial compositions that are effective against the microorganism Clostridium difficile. Summary of the Invention

[0007]

[0007] The present disclosure generally relates to a broad range of microorganisms, including Clostridium difficile. The present invention is directed to an antimicrobial composition that is effective against a wide range of microorganisms. Not only are the antimicrobial compositions of the present invention safe and non-toxic, but the compositions are effective against a wide range of microorganisms even when diluted to very low concentrations. Because the antimicrobial compositions can be formulated without acetic acid and / or peracetic acid, there is no unpleasant odor associated with the use of the compositions.

[0008]

[0008] Generally, the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure contain a peroxide source, such as hydrogen peroxide. The peroxide source is combined with an organic sulfonic acid and peroxide adjuvant as directed. Peroxide adjuvants include organic acids having a pKa greater than about 1, e.g., greater than about 2, e.g., greater than about 3, and generally less than about 6, e.g., less than about 5, e.g., less than about 4. In one embodiment, the peroxide adjuvant includes a low molecular weight organic acid and / or salt thereof. In accordance with the present disclosure, the composition exhibits at least a 3 log increase in saturation energy after a 3 minute contact time when tested against Clostridium difficile according to ASTM test methods ASTM E2197-11 and E2839-11. 10 The peroxide adjuvant is present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount sufficient to achieve a reduction of at least 4 log after a 3 minute contact time. 10 reduction of, say, at least 5 logs 10 reduction of, say, at least 6 logs 10 A reduction in

[0009] In one aspect, the peroxide adjuvant has only one or two carbon atoms. The peroxide adjuvant is an organic acid or salt thereof that does not contain formic acid. For example, the peroxide adjuvant can be formic acid, a formic acid salt, or a mixture thereof. Alternatively, the peroxide adjuvant can be glycolic acid, a salt of glycolic acid, or a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the composition contains both formic acid and / or a salt of formic acid and glycolic acid and / or a salt of glycolic acid.

[0010]

[0010] Organic sulfonic acids are sulfonic acids that are not surfactants. For example, organic sulfonic acids can be C1-C7 alkyl sulfonic acids, sulfonated C1-C7 carboxylic acids, substituted or unsubstituted aromatic sulfonic acids, mixtures thereof, and salts thereof. In another embodiment, the alkyl sulfonic acids and sulfonated carboxylic acids have C1-C5 chains. In the case of substituted aromatic sulfonic acids, the aromatic ring can be substituted with at least one C1-C3 alkyl group. In other words, when the aromatic ring is substituted, the alkyl group can contain three or fewer carbons. Salts of non-surfactant organic sulfonic acids are salts of alkali metals and alkaline earth metals, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Salts can also include ammonium salts. Representative examples of non-surfactant organic sulfonic acids are methanesulfonic acid, benzenesulfonic acid, toluenesulfonic acid, xylenesulfonic acid, ethylbenzenesulfonic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0011] Examples of organic sulfonic acids that can be used include methanesulfonic acid, benzenesulfonic acid, toluenesulfonic acid, xylenesulfonic acid, ethylbenzenesulfonic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0012] In one aspect, the weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and peroxide adjuvant is from about 100:1 to about 1:2, such as from about 20:1 to about 1:1, e.g., from about 8:1 to about 2:1. On the other hand, the weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and organic sulfonic acid can be from about 100:1 to about 1:3, e.g., from about 10:1 to about 1:1.1, e.g., from about 3:1 to about 1:0.9.

[0013] The hydrogen peroxide source (or hydrogen peroxide) may generally be present in the composition in an amount of about 0.2% to about 20% by weight, such as about 1% to about 15% by weight, for example, about 1% to about 8% by weight, for example, about 2% to about 6% by weight. The organic sulfonic acid may generally be present in the composition in an amount of about 0.1% to about 8% by weight, such as about 0.5% to about 6% by weight, for example, about 1% to about 5% by weight. On the other hand, the peroxide adjuvant may generally be present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount of about 0.05% to about 7% by weight, such as about 0.08% to about 5% by weight, for example, about 0.1% to about 4% by weight.

[0014] The antimicrobial composition generally comprises a liquid medium having a pH of less than about 6, such as less than about 5, such as less than about 4, such as less than about 3, such as less than about 2. The pH is generally , greater than about 0.5, for example greater than about 1, for example greater than about 1.25. The composition may also contain a liquid carrier. The liquid carrier may comprise water, an alcohol, or a mixture thereof.

[0015]

[0015] The present disclosure is also directed to an antimicrobial composition precursor. The precursor is formulated for subsequent combination with a hydrogen peroxide source. The antimicrobial composition precursor may include an organic sulfonic acid, typically present in an amount of about 15% to about 60% by weight, combined with a peroxide adjuvant as described above. The peroxide adjuvant may be present in the composition in an amount of about 5% to about 20% by weight. The composition may further include sodium hydroxide in an amount of about 3% to about 20% by weight, e.g., about 8% to about 15% by weight. The remainder of the composition may be water and hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid.

[0016] The present disclosure is also directed to a method for disinfecting a hard or soft surface, the method comprising contacting the surface with the antimicrobial composition described above. The hard surface may be a surface used in the healthcare or veterinary industry. Alternatively, the hard surface may include food processing equipment or a food preparation surface.

[0017] The antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure can be applied to a surface using a variety of techniques. For example, the compositions can be sprayed or otherwise applied directly to a surface. Alternatively, the antimicrobial compositions can be applied to a wiping product, which then applies the composition to the surface. In this regard, the present disclosure is also directed to premoistened wiping products containing the antimicrobial compositions described above.

[0018]

[0018] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are discussed in further detail below.

[0019] A full and enabling disclosure of the present disclosure is set forth in the remainder of the specification, including references to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a cutaway perspective view of one embodiment of a wiping product made in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a wiping product made in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0020] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or components of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021]

[0021] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present discussion is merely a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the present disclosure.

[0022] In general, the present disclosure is directed to antimicrobial compositions containing a hydrogen peroxide source in combination with an organic sulfonic acid and a peroxide adjuvant. The peroxide adjuvant is an organic acid and / or salt thereof, particularly a low molecular weight organic acid and / or salt thereof. The presence of the peroxide adjuvant in combination with the organic sulfonic acid dramatically improves the antimicrobial properties of the composition, especially when compared to compositions containing hydrogen peroxide alone or hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid. The combination of the hydrogen peroxide source with the organic sulfonic acid and peroxide adjuvant has been found to significantly enhance antimicrobial activity against a wide range of microorganisms. More specifically, the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure have been found to be particularly well suited for the destruction and growth inhibition of Clostridium difficile, even at relatively short contact times. For example, the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure exhibit at least a 3-log antimicrobial activity against C. difficile after a 3-minute contact time when tested according to ASTM test methods ASTM E2197-11 and E2839-11. 10 The antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure can achieve at least a 4 log reduction against C. difficile after a 3 minute contact time. 10 reduction of, say, at least 5 logs 10 reduction of, say, at least 6 logs 10 A reduction in the amount of

[0022]

[0023] Although unknown, it is believed that the small organic acid molecules and organic sulfonic acids create a unique combination that activates the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide. Particularly advantageously, the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure have dramatically reduced odor characteristics compared to many conventional products. For example, the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure can be formulated to be acetic acid-free, peracetic acid-free, and / or chlorine bleach-free. The three primary components contained in the antimicrobial compositions have demonstrated synergistic effects against a variety of microorganisms, including C. difficile.

[0023]

[0024] The antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure can be used in a wide variety of applications. In one aspect, for example, the antimicrobial compositions can be used to sanitize or disinfect hard, non-porous surfaces. For example, the antimicrobial compositions are well suited for disinfecting or sanitizing flooring, countertops, ceramic surfaces, metal surfaces, glass surfaces, stone surfaces, and the like.

[0024]

[0025] The antimicrobial compositions are also well suited for sanitizing soft surfaces. Examples of soft surfaces include, but are not limited to, upholstery, fabrics, upholstered cowhides, and the like. These include sofas, chairs, seat cushions, upholstered cushions, pillows, upholstered furniture, woven window treatments, curtains, drapes, shower curtains, woven gym / laundry / diaper bags, backpacks, woven hampers, woven dog / pet bedding, blankets, upholstered car seats, woven stuffed animals, and toys.

[0025]

[0026] Antimicrobial compositions can be used to clean surfaces and destroy and / or prevent the growth of microorganisms on surfaces. Antimicrobial compositions can be used in a variety of fields. For example, antimicrobial compositions are well suited for use in the healthcare industry to disinfect surfaces and / or disinfect instruments. Antimicrobial compositions can be used in hospitals, for example, to prevent the spread of C. difficile. Antimicrobial compositions can be used in the food service industry to disinfect and sanitize food processing equipment and other food processing surfaces, or to clean produce such as vegetables. Antimicrobial compositions can also be sold for consumer use. The compositions can be used in concentrated or diluted forms depending on the application.

[0026]

[0027] Antimicrobial compositions generally contain a peroxide source in combination with an organic sulfonic acid and peroxide adjuvant. The peroxide source can include hydrogen peroxide. However, in other embodiments, the peroxide source can also include a compound that generates hydrogen peroxide. The hydrogen peroxide source can be, for example, alkali metal hydrogen peroxide, alkali salts of percarbonates and persulfates, and solutions of organic peroxides. Organic peroxides can include dicumyl peroxide, dialkyl peroxides, urea peroxide, and the like. Hydrogen peroxide itself can offer numerous advantages and benefits. Not only is hydrogen peroxide active against a broad range of microorganisms, but it is also relatively safe to use. Hydrogen peroxide can oxidize and / or bleach surfaces while decomposing into very safe by-products, namely, oxygen and water.

[0027]

[0028] The amount of hydrogen peroxide included in the composition can depend on many factors, including the ultimate end use. Hydrogen peroxide can be added to the composition to generate one or more peroxyacids. Generally, hydrogen peroxide can be added in excess so that it remains in the composition after reaction equilibrium with respect to the other components is reached. In one aspect, the antimicrobial composition can generally contain a hydrogen peroxide source in an amount of about 0.2% to about 20% by weight (including all 0.1% by weight increments therebetween). For example, the hydrogen peroxide source can be present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, e.g., greater than about 1% by weight, e.g., greater than about 1.5% by weight, e.g., greater than about 2% by weight, e.g., greater than about 2.5% by weight, e.g., greater than about 3% by weight. The hydrogen peroxide source can generally be present in an amount less than about 15% by weight, e.g., less than about 10% by weight, e.g., less than about 8% by weight, e.g., less than about 6% by weight.

[0028]

[0029] According to the present disclosure, the antimicrobial composition also contains an organic sulfonic acid. The sulfonic acid may be a non-surfactant. Examples of usable sulfonic acids include C1-C7 alkyl sulfonic acids, sulfonated C1-C7 carboxylic acids, substituted or unsubstituted aromatic sulfonic acids, mixtures thereof, and salts thereof. In another embodiment, the alkyl sulfonic acids and sulfonated carboxylic acids have a C1-C5 chain. In the case of substituted aromatic sulfonic acids, the aromatic ring can be substituted with at least one C1-C3 alkyl group. In other words, when the aromatic ring is substituted, the alkyl group can contain three or fewer carbons. Salts of non-surfactant organic sulfonic acids include salts of alkali metals and alkaline earth metals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Salts can also include ammonium salts. Representative examples of non-surfactant organic sulfonic acids are methanesulfonic acid, benzenesulfonic acid, toluenesulfonic acid, xylenesulfonic acid, ethylbenzenesulfonic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0029]

[0030] The organic sulfonic acid may generally be present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight, including all 0.1% by weight increments therebetween. For example, the organic sulfonic acid may be present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, such as greater than about 1% by weight, such as greater than about 1.5% by weight, such as greater than about 2% by weight, and generally less than about 8% by weight, such as less than about 6% by weight, for example less than about 5% by weight.

[0030]

[0031] The antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure further contain a peroxide adjuvant. In one aspect, the peroxide adjuvant is an organic acid having a pKa of less than about 6, e.g., less than about 5, e.g., less than about 4, e.g., less than about 3, e.g., less than about 2. The pKa of the organic acid is generally greater than about 1, e.g., greater than about 2, e.g., greater than about 3, e.g., greater than about 4. In one aspect, the peroxide adjuvant includes a low molecular weight organic acid and / or a salt thereof. The organic acid or salt thereof may, for example, contain less than about 10 carbon atoms per molecule, e.g., less than about 8 carbon atoms, e.g., less than about 6 carbon atoms, e.g., less than about 4 carbon atoms, e.g., less than about 3 carbon atoms. In one aspect, the peroxide adjuvant may include a carboxylic acid, such as formic acid, having only one carbon atom, and / or a carbonic acid. In other embodiments, the organic acid may include a dicarboxylic acid, such as oxalic acid. In yet another aspect, the organic acid may be a tricarboxylic acid, such as citric acid. Alternatively, the peroxide adjuvant may comprise an alpha hydroxy acid having fewer than 3 carbon atoms, and may include glycolic acid or a salt thereof. The peroxide adjuvant may also comprise a mixture of any of the above organic acids.

[0031]

[0032] Only a small amount of peroxide adjuvant needs to be present in the antimicrobial composition to produce a synergistic result. For example, the peroxide adjuvant can generally be present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount of about 0.05% to about 10% by weight (including all 0.1% by weight increments therebetween). In one aspect, the peroxide adjuvant is present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount greater than about 0.08% by weight, such as greater than about 0.1% by weight, such as greater than 0.2% by weight, such as greater than 0.5% by weight, such as greater than 0.8% by weight, or greater than 1% by weight. The peroxide adjuvant is generally present in an amount less than about 7% by weight, such as less than about 5% by weight, for example less than about 4% by weight.

[0032]

[0033] The weight ratio between the hydrogen peroxide source and the organic sulfonic acid, and between the hydrogen peroxide source and the peroxide adjuvant, can vary depending on the particular application and desired results. In one aspect, the weight ratio between the hydrogen peroxide source and the organic sulfonic acid can be from about 100:1 to about 1:3, e.g., from about 10:1 to about 1:1.1, e.g., from about 3:1 to about 1:0.9. On the other hand, the weight ratio between the hydrogen peroxide source and the peroxide adjuvant is generally from about 100:1 to about 1:2, e.g., from about 20:1 to about 1:1, e.g., from about 8:1 to about 2:1. As used herein, weight ratios and weight percentages refer to the total amount of organic sulfonic acid present and the total amount of peroxide adjuvant present.

[0033]

[0034] The antimicrobial composition may also contain a liquid carrier. The liquid carrier may be a solubilizer for one of the components in the composition. The liquid carrier may include water, alcohol, or a mixture thereof. Alcoholic solvents that can be used include ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, benzyl alcohol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, or a mixture thereof. The amount of liquid carrier present in the composition can be adjusted to control the hydrogen peroxide level in the composition. The liquid carrier may be present in an amount of about 20% to about 95% by weight, for example, about 50% to about 92% by weight. For example, one or more liquid carriers may be present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount greater than about 60% by weight, for example, greater than about 70% by weight, for example, greater than about 80% by weight, for example, greater than about 85% by weight, for example, greater than about 90% by weight, and generally less than about 95% by weight.

[0034]

[0035] The solubility and compatibility of the liquid antimicrobial composition can be further improved by adding appropriate amounts of other solubilizing agents, such as hydrotropes, surfactants, or mixtures thereof, to improve the solubility and physical properties of the solution.

[0035]

[0036] Examples of hydrotropic agents include n-octanesulfonate, xylenesulfonate, naphthalenesulfonate, or mixtures thereof. Suitable surfactants can be selected from the group of ionic, nonionic, and amphoteric surfactants, preferably nonionic and / or ionic surfactants or mixtures thereof. Suitable nonionic surfactants include alkoxylated alcohols, such as ethoxylated alcohols, alkoxylated glycols, such as C6-C 18 Examples of suitable surfactants include alkoxylated ethylene glycol or propylene glycol with alkyl groups, alkylated glycols, or mixtures thereof. Suitable ionic surfactants include alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, and their corresponding alkyl sulfonic acids, alkyl ether sulfonic acids, alkyl benzene sulfates, and their corresponding sulfonic acids. Other suitable surfactants include quaternary ammonium salts or tertiary amine N-oxides. Each of the above surfactants can be used alone or in combination with other surfactants.

[0036]

[0037] When present, one or more hydrotropes may be included in the antimicrobial composition in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight, such as from about 0.2% to about 2% by weight. One or more surfactants may be present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.005% to about 12% by weight, such as from about 0.2% to about 7% by weight.

[0037]

[0038] In one embodiment, the antimicrobial composition of the present disclosure may further comprise a stabilizer. The stabilizer may be added to prevent premature degradation of the components during storage of the concentrate and / or prior to contact with surfaces or microorganisms. The stabilizer may be for stabilizing hydrogen peroxide. Examples of suitable stabilizers include phosphorus-containing acids, polycarboxylic acids, and phosphates. In one embodiment, the stabilizer may include phosphoric acid or a derivative of phosphoric acid. The stabilizer may also include a metal chelator. Examples of stabilizers are phosphoric acid, 1-hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid (HEDP), phytic acid, aminophosphates, phosphonates and sodium glutamate, ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid, NaH2PO4, sodium tripolyphosphate, organic phosphonic acids, amino-phosphonates, silver dihydrogen citrate, diphosphonic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), N-(hydroxyethyl)-ethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), tri(methylene phosphate), diethylenetriamine-penta(methylene phosphate), 2-hydroxyethyliminobis(ethylene phosphate). , citric acid, nitrotriacetic acid (NTA), 2-hydroxyethylimino-diacetic acid (HEIDA) and its salts, cyclohexane-1,2-diaminotetrakismethylenephosphonic acid or watersol, diethylenetriaminepenta(methylenephosphonic acid), colloidal stannate, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), citrate, gallate, malate, malonate, oxaloacetate, oxalate, pill The additives may include pyruvates, and succinates, or mixtures thereof.

[0038]

[0039] The stabilizer may be a single component or a mixture of the above phosphoric acid derivative and chelating agent. The amount of the stabilizer may be about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, preferably about 0.05% to about 5% by weight, and more preferably about 0.1% to about 1.0% by weight.

[0039]

[0040] Other additives may also be added to the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure to provide the compositions with properties appropriate for their end use, typical examples being corrosion inhibitors, emulsifiers, fragrances, dyes, preservatives, antifoaming agents and mixtures thereof.

[0040]

[0041] In one embodiment, for example, the antimicrobial composition can contain a corrosion inhibitor. Corrosion inhibitors that can be used include borate, phosphate, polyphosphate, sodium benzoate, sodium gluconate, sodium silicate, sodium molybdate, sodium bisulfate, benzotriazole, or mixtures thereof. When present, the corrosion inhibitor can be present in the composition in an amount of about 0.001% to about 10% by weight, for example, about 0.01% to about 1% by weight.

[0041]

[0042] To prepare an antimicrobial composition according to the present disclosure, various components can be added together to form a liquid medium. Generally, the ingredients and components used to prepare the antimicrobial composition can be mixed in any suitable order. However, in one aspect, the hydrogen peroxide source can be added last to the remainder of the ingredients.

[0042]

[0043] In one aspect, the peroxide adjuvant can be first mixed with water. The organic sulfonic acid can then be added, followed by hydrogen peroxide. If desired, a stabilizer can then be added, followed by sodium hydroxide in an amount to achieve the desired pH level.

[0043]

[0044] In one embodiment, a relatively concentrated antimicrobial composition is manufactured and sold or otherwise distributed to an end user, who can then dilute the concentrated solution during or before use. Particularly conveniently, the antimicrobial composition can be diluted with water, such as tap water.

[0044]

[0045] In one embodiment, a relatively concentrated antimicrobial composition is prepared containing hydrogen peroxide in an amount of about 15% to about 60% by weight, e.g., about 30% to about 55% by weight, one or more organic sulfonic acids in an amount of about 5% to about 35% by weight, e.g., about 15% to about 30% by weight, and one or more peroxide adjuvants in an amount of about 2% to about 12% by weight, e.g., about 4% to about 10% by weight. In one aspect, the concentrated antimicrobial composition may contain hydrogen peroxide in an amount of about 35% to about 50% by weight, organic sulfonic acids in an amount of about 22% to about 27% by weight, peroxide adjuvants in an amount of about 4% to about 8% by weight, and water in an amount of about 15% to about 22% by weight. If other ingredients are present, the water content may be reduced accordingly.

[0045]

[0046] In yet another aspect, an antimicrobial composition precursor can be formulated that can be subsequently combined with a peroxide source. The peroxide source can be added, for example, to the composition at the time of application. In this manner, the peroxide source remains fully activated. For example, the antimicrobial composition precursor can contain an organic sulfonic acid in combination with a peroxide adjuvant and a base, such as a metal hydroxide. The base can be, for example, sodium hydroxide. In one aspect, the antimicrobial composition precursor can contain the organic sulfonic acid in an amount greater than about 15% by weight, e.g., greater than about 25% by weight, e.g., greater than about 35% by weight, and typically less than about 60% by weight, e.g., less than about 50% by weight, e.g., less than about 45% by weight. The peroxide adjuvant can be present in the composition in an amount greater than about 5% by weight, e.g., greater than about 8% by weight, and typically less than about 20% by weight, e.g., less than about 15% by weight, e.g., less than about 12% by weight. The composition can contain a base, such as sodium hydroxide, in an amount greater than about 3% by weight, e.g., less than about 50% by weight, e.g., less than about 45% by weight. For example, greater than about 7% by weight, such as greater than about 9% by weight, and generally less than about 20% by weight, such as less than about 15% by weight, such as less than about 12% by weight. The antimicrobial composition precursor may further contain water and other additives. When ready for use, the antimicrobial composition precursor can be combined with a source of hydrogen peroxide and additional water to achieve the antimicrobial formulation.

[0046]

[0047] Generally, antimicrobial compositions have a neutral to acidic pH. The pH of the composition can be, for example, from about 2 to about 6, such as from about 1 to about 4, for example, from about 1.25 to about 3.

[0048] The antimicrobial compositions can be used in any suitable application where disinfection, sanitizing, cleaning and / or bleaching is desired. The antimicrobial compositions can be used for consumer home applications, healthcare applications, food processing or food service applications, surface sterilization applications in dairies and breweries, veterinary applications, and / or clean room applications.

[0047]

[0049] The antimicrobial composition can also be applied to the facing surface using a variety of methods and techniques, for example, the antimicrobial composition can be sprayed onto the facing surface or the object can be immersed in the composition.

[0048]

[0050] One particularly useful application method is to impregnate the antimicrobial composition into a wipe substrate. The wipes can be single-use (disposable) wipes impregnated with the antimicrobial composition and housed in a container for dispensing the wipes to a user. The container of wipes can contain one wipe or several wipes. Suitable containers can be pouches containing a single wipe, like wet wipes that the user tears open, or pouches or other containers with resealable openings containing several wipes in stacks, rolls, or other suitable formats that allow removal of one wipe at a time through the opening. Pouches are generally made of fluid-impermeable materials, such as films, coated paper, or foils, or other similar fluid-impermeable materials. Another method for dispensing the wipes of the present disclosure is to house the wipes in a fluid-impermeable container with an opening for removal of the wipes from the container. The container can be a fluid-impermeable molded plastic container with a lid. Typically, the lid has an opening for removal of the wipes from the container. The wipes in the container can be in an interleaved format so that as one wipe is removed from the container, the next wipe is placed in the opening of the container, ready for the user to remove the next wipe. Alternatively, the wipes can be a continuous material with perforations between the individual wipes in the continuous material. Perforated continuous wipe material can be in either a folded or roll format. Typically, in a roll format, the wipe material is dispensed from the center of the rolled material. As with the interleaved format, as a wipe is removed from the container, the next wipe is placed in the opening, facilitating removal of the next wipe when needed.

[0049]

[0051] The antimicrobial composition can be impregnated into a wipe, rendering the wipe pre-moistened so that the antimicrobial composition is delivered or released to the surface when the wipe is wiped across the surface to be treated. Typically, the antimicrobial composition is saturated within the wipe such that the wipe delivers the antimicrobial composition to the surface through the wiping action. Typically, the antimicrobial composition is present in an amount of about 2 to 6 parts by weight per part by weight of wiper substrate, more preferably about 3 to 5 parts by weight per part by weight of wiper substrate. These ranges achieve full saturation of the substrate. It is noted that the amount of antimicrobial composition may be increased or decreased to achieve full saturation of the wipe substrate, depending on the particular wipe substrate.

[0050]

[0052] Suitable wipe substrates include woven and nonwoven fabrics. Essentially any nonwoven fabric can be used. Exemplary nonwoven fabrics include, but are not limited to, meltblown, co-woven, and non-woven fabrics. Coform, spunbond, airlaid, hydroentangled nonwovens, spunlace, bonded carded webs Optionally, the nonwoven fabric may be a laminate of a film material and a laminate. The wipe substrate may also be laminated. The fibers used to manufacture the wipe substrate may be cellulosic, thermoplastic, or mixtures thereof. The fibers may be continuous, discontinuous, staple, or mixtures thereof. The basis weight of the nonwoven fabric may vary from about 12 grams per square meter to over 200 grams per square meter.

[0051]

[0053] Once applied to a surface, the antimicrobial composition can remain on the surface for a period of time. As noted above, it has been unexpectedly discovered that the described antimicrobial compositions dramatically reduce the contact time required to kill target microorganisms.

[0052]

[0054] 1 and 2, exemplary embodiments of wiping products made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. Referring to FIG. 1, for example, wiping product 10 is shown. Wiping product 10 includes a dispenser 12. Dispenser 12 includes a base 14 and a top 16. Top 16 defines an opening or slot 18 through which pre-moistened wipes are dispensed. The pre-moistened wipes may be stored in dispenser 12 as a single roll of material or stacked as individual wipes. Wipes 20 are for disinfecting any suitable hard surface and may be pre-saturated or pre-moistened with the antimicrobial composition of the present disclosure, as described above.

[0053]

[0055] Referring to Figure 2, an alternative embodiment of wiping product 22 is shown. As shown in Figure 2, wiping product 22 is particularly well suited for cleaning floors. As noted above, for example, the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure can be formulated for use on floors without harming or adversely affecting floor coatings or floor finishes.

[0054]

[0056] As shown in Figure 2, wiping product 22 includes a handle 24 attached to a substrate holder 26. Substrate holder 26 includes a plurality of attachment devices 28 designed to matingly attach to pre-moistened wipes 30. Pre-moistened wipes 30 include a liquid-absorbent substrate saturated or moistened with the antimicrobial composition of the present disclosure.

[0055]

[0057] The present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following examples. [Example]

[0056]

[0058] The following examples illustrate some of the benefits and advantages of the present disclosure.

[0059] A variety of antibacterial formulations were manufactured and tested against C. difficile using the following test procedures:

[0057]

[0060] ASTM Standard E2197-11. Standard Quantitative Disk Carrier Test Method (QCT-2) for Determining Bactericidal, Virucidal, Fungicidal, Mycobactericidal, and Sporicidal Activities of Chemicals Chemicals).

[0058]

[0061] ASTM E2839-11. Standard Test Method for Production of Clostridium difficile Spores for Use in Efficacy Evaluation of Antimicrobial Agents.

[0059]

[0062] Office of Pesticides Programs Microbiology Laboratory Environmental Science Center, Fort Meade, MD SOP Number: MB-31.01 Revision Date: 02-05-2014.

[0060]

[0063] In a first set of experiments, two different antimicrobial compositions were formulated and tested. Sample No. 1 was prepared in accordance with the present disclosure and contained both an organic sulfonic acid and a peroxide adjuvant. The following results were obtained:

[0061]

[0064] Table 1

[0062] [Table 1]

[0063]

[0065] The liquid formulation was subjected to 3-hour immersion using the ASTM Quantitative Carrier test method (ASTM E2197-11 and ASTM E2839-11). The effectiveness against Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) spores was evaluated at a contact time of 1 minute.

[0064]

[0066] As shown above, Sample No. 1, produced in accordance with the present disclosure, performed dramatically and unexpectedly better than Sample No. 2 when tested against C. difficile.

[0065]

[0067] Four additional antimicrobial compositions were then formulated and tested, as shown in the table below.

[0068] Table 2

[0066] [Table 2]

[0067]

[0069] As shown above, Samples 5 and 6, which contained both an organic sulfonic acid and formic acid, were effective against C. difficile. Glycolic acid was also present in Sample 6, enhancing the efficacy of the composition.

[0068]

[0070] Four additional antimicrobial formulations were formulated in accordance with the present disclosure. The amounts of sodium formate and formic acid were varied in each sample. The following results were obtained:

[0071] Table 3

[0069] [Table 3]

[0070]

[0072] Three additional antimicrobial formulations were formulated in accordance with the present disclosure, with varying amounts of total free formic acid in the formulations.

[0073] Table 4

[0071] [Table 4]

[0072]

[0074] As shown above, all formulations (containing 0.9% or more total formic acid) were sufficient to enhance the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide against C. difficile.

[0075] Three additional antibacterial formulations were formulated, and the pH of the formulations was adjusted to determine their effectiveness.

[0073]

[0076] Table 6

[0074] [Table 5]

[0075]

[0077] The pH of the formulation was adjusted using sodium hydroxide. As shown above, a pH range of about 1 to about 3 exhibits high efficacy against C. difficile.

[0078] The following are examples of concentrated formulations that can be subsequently diluted with water and used as antimicrobial compositions.

[0076]

[0079] Table 7. Examples of concentrates

[0077] [Table 6]

[0078]

[0080] In one aspect, an antimicrobial composition precursor can be formulated which is then combined with a source of hydrogen peroxide. The following are examples of antimicrobial composition precursors:

[0081] Table 8

[0079] [Table 7]

[0080]

[0082] The antimicrobial composition precursors can be formulated into antimicrobial compositions using, for example, the following formulations.

[0083] Table 9

[0081] [Table 8]

[0082]

[0084] These and other modifications and variations to the present invention may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, which is more particularly set forth in the appended claims. It should also be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchanged in whole or in part. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that the foregoing description is by way of example only and is not intended to limit the present invention, which is more particularly set forth in the appended claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 10. Wiping Products 12 Dispenser 14 Bottom 16 Top 18 slots 20 wipes 22 Wiping Products 24 Handle 26 Substrate holder 28 Mounting device 30 wipes

Claims

1. 1. An antimicrobial composition comprising: a source of hydrogen peroxide; Peroxide adjuvants and wherein the peroxide adjuvant comprises an organic acid and / or salt thereof having a pKa of from about 1 to about 6, the antimicrobial composition does not contain acetic acid, and the composition exhibits a 3 log β-gamma-gamma after a 3 minute contact time when tested against Clostridium difficile according to ASTM test methods E2197-11 and E2839-11. １０ The antimicrobial composition, wherein the peroxide adjuvant is present in the composition in an amount sufficient to achieve the above reduction.

2. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1 further comprising an organic sulfonic acid.

3. 3. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein the peroxide adjuvant comprises an organic acid containing 1 or 2 carbon atoms and / or a salt thereof.

4. The antimicrobial composition of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the peroxide adjuvant comprises formic acid, a formate salt, or a mixture thereof.

5. The antimicrobial composition of any of claims 1-2, wherein the peroxide adjuvant comprises glycolic acid, a salt of glycolic acid, or a mixture thereof.

6. The antimicrobial composition of any preceding claim, wherein the peroxide adjuvant comprises a dicarboxylic or tricarboxylic acid, such as oxalic acid.

7. The antibacterial composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which does not contain peracetic acid.

8. The antimicrobial composition of any one of claims 1 to 7, which does not contain bleach.

9. The organic sulfonic acid is C １ -C ５ Alkyl sulfonic acid, sulfonated C １ -C ５ The present invention relates to a method for producing a carboxylic acid, a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic sulfonic acid, a mono-alkylphenyl sulfonic acid, a di-alkylphenyl sulfonic acid, or a mixture thereof, wherein the substituted aromatic sulfonic acid is at least one C １ -C ３ The antimicrobial composition of claim 2 , substituted with an alkyl group.

10. 3. The antimicrobial composition of claim 2, wherein the organic sulfonic acid comprises methanesulfonic acid or benzenesulfonic acid.

11. 3. The antimicrobial composition of claim 2, wherein the organic sulfonic acid comprises toluene sulfonic acid, xylene sulfonic acid, ethylbenzene sulfonic acid, or a mixture thereof.

12. 12. The antimicrobial composition of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the hydrogen peroxide source comprises hydrogen peroxide, and the hydrogen peroxide and peroxide adjuvant are present in the composition in a weight ratio of from about 100:1 to about 1:2, such as from about 20:1 to about 1:1, for example from about 8:1 to about 2:

1.

13. 3. The antimicrobial composition of claim 2, wherein the hydrogen peroxide source comprises hydrogen peroxide, and the hydrogen peroxide and the organic sulfonic acid are present in the composition in a weight ratio of about 100:1 to about 1:3, such as about 10:1 to about 1:1.1, for example, about 3:1 to about 1:0.

9.

14. The hydrogen peroxide source comprises hydrogen peroxide, and the hydrogen peroxide is present in the composition in an amount of about 0.2% to about 20% by weight, e.g., about 1% to about 15% by weight, e.g., about 1% to about 8% by weight. The antibacterial composition according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. 15. An antimicrobial composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the peroxide adjuvant is present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.05% to about 7% by weight, such as from about 0.08% to about 5% by weight, for example from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight.

16. 3. The antimicrobial composition of claim 2, wherein the organic sulfonic acid is present in the composition in an amount of about 0.1% to about 8% by weight, such as about 0.5% to about 6% by weight, for example, about 1% to about 5% by weight.

17. 17. The antimicrobial composition of any preceding claim, comprising formic acid and / or a formate salt in combination with glycolic acid and / or a glycolate salt.

18. 18. The antimicrobial composition of any of claims 1 to 17, having a pH of about 1 to about 5.

19. 19. The antimicrobial composition of any of claims 1 to 18, further comprising a liquid carrier, wherein the liquid carrier comprises water, an alcohol, or a mixture thereof.

20. The composition exhibits a resistance of at least 4 log after a 3 minute contact time when tested against C. difficile according to ASTM test methods E2197-11 and E2839-11 １０ reduction, e.g., at least 5 log １０ reduction, e.g., at least 6 log １０ The antimicrobial composition of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the antimicrobial composition achieves a reduction in

21. A wiping product comprising: a liquid-absorbing substrate; and The antibacterial composition according to any one of claims 1 to 20. wherein the antimicrobial composition is absorbed into the substrate.

22. 1. A method for disinfecting a hard surface, comprising: A method comprising contacting a surface with the antimicrobial composition of any of claims 1 to 20.

23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the hard surface comprises a surface used in the healthcare or veterinary industry.

24. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the hard surface comprises food processing equipment or a food preparation surface.

25. A method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the antimicrobial composition is applied to a liquid-absorbing substrate and then the surface is contacted with the substrate.

26. An antimicrobial composition precursor comprising: an organic sulfonic acid; Peroxide adjuvants and wherein the peroxide adjuvant comprises an organic acid and / or a salt thereof having a pKa of about 1 to about 6, the antimicrobial composition precursor does not comprise an acidic acid, and the organic sulfonic acid is The antimicrobial composition precursor is present in the composition in an amount of about 15% to about 60% by weight, and the peroxide adjuvant is present in the composition in an amount of about 5% to about 20% by weight.

27. 27. The antimicrobial composition precursor of claim 26, wherein the peroxide adjuvant comprises formic acid, a formate salt, or a mixture thereof.

28. 28. An antimicrobial composition comprising the antimicrobial composition precursor of claim 26 or 27 in combination with a source of hydrogen peroxide.

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