Volatile composition dispenser having a visual indicator - Patents.com

Abstract

A volatile composition dispenser including a solid component having a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface. The solid component is capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size less than the initial size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface when the solid component is exposed to an ambient environment within the interior space. The solid component is characterized by a shrinkage away from the peripheral evaporation surface of greater than 1% and less than 40%. A visual indicator is located proximate the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component. The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when at least a portion of the solid component shrinks from the initial size to a reduced size to indicate a use status of the dispenser.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THEINVENTION The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser for dispensing a volatile composition, and in particular to an air freshener having a visual indicator for providing a sign of product life. [Background technology]

[0002] It is well known to use various devices to diffuse volatile compounds such as fragrances, germicides, insect repellents, air freshening compositions, deodorants, etc. For example, consumers purchase air fresheners to freshen their homes. Conventional air fresheners release air freshening compositions into the environment for a period of time until the freshening composition is depleted. However, such air fresheners rarely provide consumers with an adequate visual indication that they need to be replaced before or after the freshening composition is depleted. Thus, consumers need a visual cue to more easily tell when the freshening composition in the air freshener is nearly depleted and it is time to replace it.

[0003] A gel air freshener device that provides a visual cue is described in WO 03 / 008000(A1) (Givaudan SA). WO 03 / 008000(A1) describes a gel air freshener device that uses contraction of the gel base to move segments of the device, thereby providing a visual cue as to when the gel base is depleted. However, it is complex to manufacture and may require the segments to be properly aligned and assembled so that the device can perform its function of providing the visual cue.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 10,918,756(B2) describes a solid non-aqueous gel air odorizer having a combination of ingredients that provides a steady supply of active fragrance, deodorant, or insect repellent active ingredients over an extended period of time (at least 30 days, preferably at least 50 days), as well as a transition from opaque to transparent as the active ingredients dissipate. However, without user operating instructions, it may not be intuitive for a user to associate the transparent color of the gel with no or little active ingredients remaining in the odorizer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 03 / 008000(A1) [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 10,918,756(B2) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Notwithstanding the above, there remains a need for a volatile composition dispenser that is intuitive and easy to understand to guide a user in determining when the dispenser needs replacing, either before or when the dispenser is depleted. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser, the dispenser comprising: a solid part comprising a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid part is exposed to an ambient environment within the interior space, the solid part is capable of shrinking from an initial size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface to a reduced size less than the initial size, the solid part being characterized by a shrinkage in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface of greater than 1% and less than 40%; a visual indicator located proximate to a peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component; The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when at least a portion of the solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate an in-use status of the dispenser. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a front view of a volatile composition dispenser having a solid part of an initial size and a visual indicator in a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] 2 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 1 in a second configuration in which the visual indicator is visually perceptible. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, according to the present invention. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, according to the present invention. [Figure 3C] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, according to the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a solid part having at least one textured surface for a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a solid part for a volatile composition dispenser, substantially free of a textured surface, in accordance with the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser having a solid part and a visual indicator of an initial size in a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible according to the present invention. [Figure 7]7 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 6 in a second configuration in which the visual indicator is visually perceptible. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a side view of components within the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser having a component holder and a solid component according to the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a component holder for a volatile composition dispenser in accordance with the present invention. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the component holder of FIG. 10 with a solid component according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] It has been found that end-of-life signs in consumer products play an important role in allowing consumers / users to decide when to make new purchases or replenish products. In particular, it is difficult for users of volatile material dispensing products that provide benefits to interior spaces to evaluate whether the volatile composition has run out. In particular, for scented volatile compositions, the absence of scent can be considered as an indicator that the fragrance has run out. However, for unscented volatile compositions that provide benefits without providing scent (scentless benefits), such as odor removal, deodorization, insect repellent, and antibacterial effects, physical exhaustion of the composition is often the only way to indicate the end of product use.

[0010] The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser having a visual product life indication and a method of providing a visual product life indication to a volatile composition dispenser for dispensing a volatile composition to an interior space. Specifically, the volatile composition dispenser comprises a solid part having a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface. The solid part can shrink from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size due to evaporation of the volatile composition into the air of the interior space when the solid part is exposed to an ambient environment. The shrinkage away from the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid part is greater than 1% and less than 40%. The visual indicator is located proximate to the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid part. The visual indicator is fixed and its appearance and / or position does not change during the product life of the dispenser. Surprisingly, it has been found that a visual product life indication can be incorporated into the design of a volatile composition dispenser by a dispenser having a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator is visible when the solid part shrinks from the initial size to the reduced size to provide a visual cue of the use state of the dispenser.

[0011] In the following description, the dispensers described are consumer products, such as air fresheners, for evaporating a volatile composition within a space, such as rooms in homes and commercial establishments, or enclosed spaces such as passenger compartments in vehicles, to provide various benefits, such as air freshening, odor removal, or fragrance in the space, however, the dispensers may be configured for use in a variety of applications that deliver a volatile composition into the air, and the dispensers may include, for example, consumer products such as, but not limited to, air freshening products.

[0012] Prior to describing the present invention in detail, the following terms are defined for clarity of description. Terms not defined should be given their ordinary meaning as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

[0013] As used herein, "horizontal orientation" refers to the position of a dispenser of a volatile composition according to the present invention with the central evaporation surface facing the surrounding environment in an upward or downward position.

[0014] As used herein, a "solid part" refers to a chemically crosslinked gel composition that is molded into the form of a three-dimensional object having a width, length, and thickness along the x-, y-, and z-axes, respectively. The solid part is self-supporting and includes at least two evaporation surfaces.

[0015] As used herein, "visual indicator" refers to any element that indicates the stage of the product life cycle of a volatile composition dispenser or the condition of use of a volatile composition dispenser.

[0016] As used herein, "visually perceptible" refers to the ability to see a visual indicator and to perceive the information represented by the visual indicator.

[0017] As used herein, "vertical orientation" refers to the position of a dispenser of a volatile composition according to the present invention with the central evaporation surface facing the surrounding environment in a forward-facing or rear-facing position.

[0018] As used herein, "non-powered" means that the volatile composition dispenser is passive and does not need to be powered by an external energy source. In particular, the volatile composition dispenser does not need to be powered by a heat source, a gas source, or a current source, and the volatile composition is not dispensed by aerosol means. Furthermore, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0019] As used herein, "top note" refers to perfume raw materials that have high volatility.

[0020] As used herein, "bottom note" refers to perfume raw materials that are less volatile than the top notes.

[0021] As used herein, "vapor" refers to the gaseous form of an organic or inorganic substance that coexists as a solid or liquid at ambient conditions including, but not limited to, temperature, humidity, and air pressure.

[0022] As used herein, "vapor impermeable substrate" refers to a material configured to resist the diffusion of vapors from the dispenser prior to its intended use.

[0023] As used herein, "vapor emission rate" refers to a measure of the passage of vapor through a substrate.

[0024] As used herein, a "volatile composition" refers to a material that can be vaporized at room temperature and atmospheric pressure without the need for an additional energy source. Volatile compositions can be configured for a variety of uses, including, but not limited to, air freshening, deodorization, odor removal, odor neutralization, pest control, vermin control, insect repellent, medicine / drug, disinfectant, sanitizer, mood enhancement, aromatherapy aid, scented composition, unscented composition, or any other use that requires a volatile composition that acts to condition, modify, or otherwise change the air or surrounding environment. Furthermore, not all of the component materials of the volatile composition need be volatile. Suitable volatile compositions in any amount or form, including liquids, solids, gels, or emulsions, may be used. Materials suitable for use herein may include non-volatile compounds, such as carrier substances (e.g., water, solvents, etc.). It should also be understood that when a volatile composition is described herein as being "delivered," "volatilized," or "emitted," this refers to the volatilization of the volatile components of the volatile composition, and that the non-volatile components of the volatile composition do not need to be vaporized.

[0025] For the purpose of illustrating the present invention in detail, the present invention is described below as a non-energized volatile composition dispenser. However, the volatile composition dispenser may be configured for use with an energized device, such as, for example, an electric heating device or a fan. The solid part described below is a gel composition containing a fragrance as an example of a volatile composition. The gel composition is a polyester polyol crosslinked using a crosslinker selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates, and mixtures thereof. However, it will be understood that the solid part may be formed from any gel composition that can be molded into a three-dimensional object and, when cured, is self-supporting and has at least a peripheral evaporation surface and a central evaporation surface.

[0026] The solid parts may be configured in various shapes and sizes to facilitate customization for use of the volatile composition dispenser, such as in vehicles, residential interior spaces, commercial interior spaces, interior spaces of household furniture (e.g., cupboards or lockers), air fresheners in interior spaces of household appliances, etc. Preferably, the household appliances may be selected from the group consisting of refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and automatic dishwashers. The interior space may be the interior environment of a portable consumer product, preferably the portable consumer product may be a bag, luggage, etc.

[0027] Volatile Composition Dispenser The solid components of the present invention may be implemented using, for example, a volatile composition dispenser, such as a device for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space. It is contemplated that the device may be configured for use in a variety of applications to deliver a volatile material into the air and / or to a surface, so long as the volatile material evaporates from the device. For purposes of this disclosure, and without intending to limit the scope of the invention, the device is described as a non-energized device.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a front view of a volatile composition dispenser 1 with a solid part 2 containing a volatile composition according to the present invention. The solid part 2 is configured to contain a volatile composition in a solid phase and includes a plurality of evaporation surfaces from which the volatile composition in the solid phase can evaporate. The volatile composition may be selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorants, disinfectants, insect repellents, malodor reducers, and mixtures thereof. The volatile composition may be in a concentration of 3% to 85% by weight, 15% to 75% by weight, 20% to 60% by weight, or different combinations of the upper and lower percentage limits mentioned above, or any combination of integers within the ranges listed above, based on the weight of the solid part.

[0029] 1, the solid part 2 comprises at least one central evaporation surface 4 and a peripheral evaporation surface 5 surrounding the at least one central evaporation surface 4. The peripheral evaporation surface 5 has at least one edge 6 that defines a portion of the periphery of the solid part 2. The volatile composition dispenser 1 comprises a housing 3 for containing the solid part 2. The housing 3 may comprise a housing opening 7 configured to allow the at least one central evaporation surface 4 and / or the peripheral evaporation surface 5 to be in fluid communication with the interior space. A visual indicator 8 is disposed behind the solid part 2 within the housing 7.

[0030] Figure 2 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser 1 of Figure 1 in a second configuration in which a visual indicator 8 is visible when the solid component 2 shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to provide a visual cue of the use of the dispenser 1. The visual indicator 8 is located on an inner surface of the housing 3 and may be positioned anywhere within the housing in proximity to the peripheral evaporation surface 5.

[0031] The visual indicator 8 may indicate a dispenser status selected from the group consisting of end of dispenser life, a quantitative status indicative of the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof. As shown in Figure 2, the visual indicator 8 may be in the form of a letter that displays the English word "END" to indicate the end of the dispenser's life. Alternatively, the visual indicator 8 may be a set of letters or graphic symbols that indicate the status of the dispenser.

[0032] The volatile composition dispenser 1 described above may be configured in any orientation, such as the vertical orientation during use, such as that shown in FIGS.

[0033] The entire area of ​​the central evaporative surface 4 may include a surface finish as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The technical effect of providing a surface finish to the entire area of ​​the central evaporative surface 4 is to facilitate manufacturing of the solid deodorant and / or to hide details inside the housing 3. However, it will be appreciated that the visual indicator 8 may also be obscured by only texturing at least the areas of the central evaporative surface 4 adjacent to the visual indicator 8, while other areas of the central evaporative surface 4 are texturized as described below.

[0034] method To explain how the solid components and visual indicator function to provide a visual product life indicator in accordance with the present invention, it is useful to understand how the visual indicator is obscured in a first configuration, and how contraction of the solid component 2 in a second configuration uncovers the visual indicator. A method of providing a visual product life sign of a volatile composition dispenser 10 for dispensing a volatile composition into an interior space in accordance with the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C.

[0035] Specifically, the present invention relates to a method for providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, the method comprising: providing a volatile composition dispenser including a volatile composition and a solid component having a peripheral evaporation surface, the solid component being capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size less than the initial size when the solid component is exposed to an ambient environment within an interior space, the solid component being characterized by shrinkage of greater than 1% and less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface; providing a visual indicator located proximate a peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component; exposing the solid component to a volatile composition such that the volatile composition vaporizes to provide a benefit to the interior space; The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when the solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate an in-use status of the dispenser.

[0036] However, the solid component, the visual indicator, and the housing for receiving the solid component may be provided separately in a kit and assembled together to form a volatile composition dispenser. Thus, according to an alternative embodiment, the present invention also relates to a method for providing a visual end of life indication of a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, the method comprising: providing a solid part having a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface, the solid part being capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size less than the initial size when the solid part is exposed to an ambient environment within an interior space, the solid part being characterized by shrinkage of greater than 1% and less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface; providing a visual indicator located proximate a peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component; disposing a solid component and a visual indicator within the container to form a volatile composition dispenser for dispensing the volatile composition; exposing the solid component to a volatile composition such that the volatile composition vaporizes to provide a benefit to the interior space; The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when the solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate an in-use status of the dispenser.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 3A, the volatile composition dispenser 10 comprises substantially the same components as the volatile composition dispenser 1 of FIG. 1, except that a visual indicator 16 is disposed at the bottom of the interior of the housing. The volatile composition dispenser 10 comprises a housing 14 for containing a solid part 12, the solid part 12 containing a volatile composition. The volatile composition dispenser 10 is substantially vertically oriented. The solid part 12 has a length L, a width W, and a thickness D that define a three-dimensional self-supporting structure of the solid part 12. The visual indicator 16 is disposed in the interior 15 of the housing 14 behind the central evaporation surface 18 of the solid part 12 and adjacent to a peripheral evaporation surface 19 that surrounds the peripheral evaporation surface 18. The volatile composition may be described as a fragrance that includes a mixture of fragrance compounds configured to evaporate from the central evaporation surface 18 and / or the peripheral evaporation surface 19. However, it will be understood that any volatile composition that can be evaporated from a solid phase (i.e., within the solid part 12) to a gas phase may be used. The solid component 12 is disposed within the housing 14 such that a gap 17 exists between an inner surface of the housing and at least a portion of the peripheral evaporation surface 19 proximate the visual indicator 16. The gap 17 may be configured to facilitate airflow within the dispenser such that the peripheral evaporation surface is in fluid communication with air within the housing to allow the volatile composition to evaporate from the peripheral evaporation surface 19. Specifically, the gap 17 may be configured to permit contraction of the solid component along a first dimension at a faster rate compared to contraction along a second dimension of the solid component. The first dimension may be one of a length, width, or thickness of the solid component, and the second dimension may be the other one of a length, width, or thickness of the solid component.

[0038] The central evaporative surface 18 is characterized by a central evaporative surface area that is greater than the peripheral evaporative surface area of ​​the peripheral evaporative surface 19 .

[0039] FIG. 3A shows the volatile composition dispenser 10 in a first configuration, and FIG. 3B is a schematic side cross-sectional view of FIG. 3A illustrating how the visual indicator 16 may be obscured in the first configuration of the volatile composition dispenser 10. Referring to FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, the central evaporation surface 18 may include at least one region 18A characterized by an optical property selected from the group consisting of a haze measurement of at least 50%, a total transmittance of less than 30%, and combinations thereof. The optical property may be determined in the first configuration or the second configuration according to the measurement method described herein under this embodiment. Specifically, in the first configuration before the solid component 12 is exposed to air, the visual indicator 16 is obscured by the solid component 12, for example, behind at least one region 18A of the central evaporation surface 18 of the solid component 12. In the case of a transparent or translucent or see-through solid component, at least a portion of the solid component may be characterized by a haze measurement of at least 50%. The surface finish may be textured, such as a matte finish, a three-dimensional surface texture, or a combination of a matte finish and a three-dimensional surface texture. The three-dimensional surface texture may be defined by a plurality of peaks 181 and valleys 182 on at least one region 18A of the central evaporation surface 18.

[0040] 3B, the technological effect of texturing creates an undulating surface on at least one region 18A of the central evaporation surface 18. By having an undulating surface, light rays hit and reflect in different directions towards the user's eye, which causes light distortion and makes the visual indicator visually undetectable to the human eye.

[0041] With reference to FIG. 3A, the solid component 12 has an initial length L1 and the dispenser 10 is in a first configuration in which the visual indicator 16 is not visible.

[0042] 3C, when the solid part 12 is exposed to the ambient environment, the solid part 12 exhibits shrinkage in a direction away from the peripheral evaporative surface 19 and is characterized by a reduced length L2. The shrinkage is determined based on calculating the difference between L1 and L2 of the solid part 12, where L1 is defined by the length from the peripheral evaporative surface 19 to the opposite side 21 of the peripheral evaporative surface 19.

[0043] The technical effect of a solid part having a shrinkage rate of more than 1% and less than 40% is that the remainder of the solid part 12 has sufficient structure for the solid part 12 to be a self-supporting structure that does not require a container to support the solid part on a mounting surface. In addition, it also provides sufficient surface area for ease of removal for a user to remove from the mounting surface. The mounting surface may be the product mounting location within an interior space, such as an interior surface, fixture, furniture, etc.

[0044] The solid part 12 may be made from any known material that provides a self-supporting structure and may have a mixture of vaporizable and non-vaporizable components, so long as the amount of vaporizable and non-vaporizable components is configured to provide a shrinkage of more than 1% and less than 40%. Vaporizable components may include volatile compositions and water. Non-vaporizable components may include components suitable for forming solid parts, including, but not limited to, gelling materials, elastomers, polyurethanes, and the like.

[0045] Table 1 shows examples of aqueous gel compositions according to the present invention.

[0046] [Table 1]

[0047] The solid part may be non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% water by weight, and more preferably being substantially free of water.

[0048] The solid component may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of ethyl cellulose polymers, chemically crosslinked polyols or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

[0049] Table 2 shows examples of non-aqueous gel compositions containing ethyl cellulose polymers that can have shrinkage between 1% and 40%.

[0050] [Table 2]

[0051] The solid part may be a chemically crosslinked polyol, wherein the polyol or a derivative thereof is selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol is selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof, and is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent.

[0052] The solid part may also be molded from a moldable material, such as any one of the non-aqueous gel compositions described below.

[0053] Non-aqueous gel composition: Gel compositions are formed using crosslinkers that form covalent bonds that are mechanically and thermally stable, and therefore less susceptible to disruption once formed. In contrast, physical crosslinks rely on microstructural changes to achieve stability, such as crystalline or highly entangled regions.

[0054] Physical gels can also hold high concentrations of hydrophobic materials, such as fragrances, but are more delicate to handle, as such physical gels are more easily destroyed during manipulation. In addition, such physical gels typically exhibit a greater decrease in volume as the hydrophobic material evaporates, and typically decrease in length at a level of 50% to 90% as the hydrophobic material evaporates, as compared to the crosslinked gels of the present invention. In contrast, the crosslinked gels of the present invention exhibit less shrinkage as the hydrophobic material is released, typically by about 1% to 40%, preferably 3% to 30%, more preferably 4% to 20%, or a different combination of the upper and lower percentages above, or any combination of integers within the ranges listed above, at the end of a period of 1 to 75 days, preferably 1 to 60 days, more preferably 1 to 45 days.

[0055] The gel composition may have an elastic modulus G' of greater than 0.1 kPa, preferably greater than 1 kPa, even more preferably greater than 2 kPa, and less than 100 kPa.

[0056] The gel may be a chemically crosslinked polyol or its derivative. Suitable polyols or its derivatives may be selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols, and mixtures thereof. Polyols, polyester polyols, and polyglycerols contain multiple hydroxyl groups and are suitable for forming gels with compact networks. In addition, the resulting gel has a higher affinity for less hydrophobic materials.

[0057] Suitable polyols or derivatives thereof may have a molecular weight of 60 Da to 10000 Da, preferably 150 Da to 3000 Da, more preferably 500 Da to 2000 Da, even more preferably 600 Da to 1300 Da. Longer polyols and derivatives thereof provide greater flexibility of the gel.

[0058] Suitable polyols and their derivatives do not contain terminal hydroxyl groups. Secondary alcohols are particularly suitable. Primary alcohols with terminal hydroxyl groups typically result in more linear chains and more compact networks. A combination of primary and secondary alcohols is preferred because it results in a more desirable correlation length.

[0059] When secondary alcohols are used, gels with more optimal pore size are obtained. Lightly branched polyols such as poly(diethylene glycol adipate) and its derivatives result in softer gels. Preferred polyols and their derivatives have at least two hydroxyl groups per molecule, more preferably at least three hydroxyl groups per molecule.

[0060] Polyols are compounds that contain multiple hydroxyl groups. Diol polyols with two hydroxyl functionalities result after crosslinking in linear polymers or more open networks with large pore sizes. In contrast, hydroxyl functional monomers with more than two functionalities form more compact gels with smaller pore sizes. Suitable polyols include ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, pentaerythritol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, 4,6-di-tert-butylbenzene-1,2,3-triol, propanetriol (glycerol), 1,2,5-hexanetriol, 1,2,4-cyclohexanetriol, 2,5-dimethylhexane-1,2,6-triol, 3-hydroxymethylpentane-1,2,5-triol, 1,3,6-hexanetriol, 1,1,5,5-pentanetretraol, 1,2,5,6-hexanetretraol, 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexanehexol (sorbitol), and mixtures thereof.

[0061] The polyester polyol is a hydroxyl-containing ester. Suitable polyester polyols can be selected from the group consisting of aliphatic polyester polyols, aromatic polyester polyols, organic oil-based polyester polyols, and mixtures thereof. Organic oil-based polyester polyols are preferred. Preferred organic oils are vegetable oils, as they typically contain high levels of unsaturation (C=C bonds) and naturally contain hydroxyl groups. Suitable polyester polyols include hexanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-,1,1',1''-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester; pentanoic acid, 5-amino-4-hydroxy-,1,1',1''-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester; polycaprolactone triol; castor oil, hydroxy sunflower oil (HSO), and mixtures thereof.

[0062] Castor oil is particularly suitable. Castor oil (ricinus oil) is a pale yellow and viscous liquid extracted from the beans of the castor plant (ricinus communis). Castor oil is composed mainly of triglycerides of fatty acids containing 87-90% ricinoleic acid (cis-12-hydroxyoctadec-9-enoic acid) and can be obtained in high purity grades. Castor oil and its derivatives have been used as polyols for polyurethanes and adhesives. Castor oil can be partially hydrogenated. Castor oil offers branching lengths and hydroxyl group positions that have been found to be particularly suitable for providing chemically crosslinked gels with pore sizes that result in slow release of hydrophobic materials, especially when the hydrophobic material is a fragrance. In addition, chemically crosslinked gels derived from castor oil show less syneresis of hydrophobic materials from the gel.

[0063] Polyglycerols are hydroxy-containing ethers. Polyglycerols are typically obtained by polymerization of alkylene oxides, such as epoxides. Suitable alkylene oxides include ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, butylene oxide, and mixtures thereof, using chain initiators such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, neopentyl glycol, pentaerythritol, hexanetriol, sorbitol, glycerol, and mixtures thereof. Suitable polyglycerols can be selected from the group consisting of α,α-diglycerol, α,β-diglycerol, hyperbranched polyglycerol, dendritic polyglycerol, and mixtures thereof. Hyperbranched polyglycerols are aliphatic polyethers with multiple hydroxyl end groups obtained from the asymmetric polyaddition of glycidol to glycerol, resulting in a spherical branch-on-branch structure that provides special internal flexibility. Dendritic polyglycerols are hyperbranched polyglycerols with a well-defined, symmetrical and spherical three-dimensional structure around a core. Apart from improving gel elasticity, the dendritic structure with a sterically shielded core together with the exceptionally high functional groups of hyperbranched polyglycerols produces flexible gels with relatively small pore sizes, which increases the longevity of the final composition by slowing down the diffusion rate as a result of physical encapsulation of hydrophobic materials as well as improved H-bonding and van der Waals interactions. Such polyglycerols can be purchased from Nanopartica GmbH (Germany) and Sigma-Aldrich. Suitable polyglycerols include polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, poly(diethylene glycol), poly(dipropylene glycol), poly(1,4-butanediol), poly(neopentyl glycol), poly(1,6-hexanediol), and mixtures thereof. The polyglycerol preferably has 2 to 50 repeat units, preferably 4 to 30 repeat units.

[0064] Any suitable crosslinking agent may be used, but crosslinking agents selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates, and mixtures thereof are preferred. The crosslinking agent may be a linear, branched, or cyclic isocyanate, and mixtures thereof. Cyclic isocyanates and mixtures thereof are preferred. Suitable cyclic isocyanates include heterocyclic isocyanates such as 1,3,5-tris(5-isocyanatopentyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione.

[0065] Suitable crosslinking agents include 1,4-butane diisocyanate (BDI), 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), L-lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI), 4,4'-methylenebis(cyclohexyl isocyanate) (H12MDI), glycolide-ethylene glycol-glycolide isocyanate (Bezwada, LLC), 4,4'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), 2,4'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), 2,2'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), 2,4-toluene diisocyanate (2,4-TDI). , 2,6-toluene diisocyanate (2,6-TDI), poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate) (PDI), 1,3-bis(2-isocyanatopropan-2-yl)benzene, poly(pentamethylene diisocyanate), and mixtures thereof, preferably 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), L-lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI), poly(pentamethylene diisocyanate), poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate) (PDI), 1,3,5-tris(5-isocyanatopentyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione, and mixtures thereof. Such crosslinkers are available from Sigma-Aldrich and Covestro under the trade name Desmodur® eco N 7300.

[0066] The crosslinker may have a viscosity of less than 2.500 mPa·s at 25° C. and an isocyanate equivalent of 15% to 40%, preferably 18% to 30%. Such crosslinkers are more easily blended with polyols. As a result, a more homogeneous gel can be obtained.

[0067] The gel is preferably essentially free or free of unreacted isocyanates and / or isothiocyanates.

[0068] The gel may further comprise a hydroxyl-containing polymer, a hydroxyl-containing oligomer, or a mixture thereof. The hydroxyl-containing polymer and / or oligomer can be used to change the elasticity of the gel composition and therefore the perfume release longevity (a higher elastic modulus G' will slow the release of the perfume).

[0069] Suitable hydroxyl-containing polymers may be selected from the group consisting of poloxamer, gelatin, carrageenan, chitin, chitosan, and mixtures thereof.

[0070] Poloxamers are non-ionic triblock copolymers composed of a central hydrophobic chain of polyoxypropylene (poly(propylene oxide)) flanked by two hydrophilic chains of polyoxyethylene (poly(ethylene oxide)). Suitable poloxamers have a weight average molecular weight of 1500 g / mol to 15000 g / mol and a weight percentage of poly(ethylene oxide) of 10% to 80%, preferably 50% to 80%. Suitable poloxamers are commercially available from BASF under the trade name Pluronic®.

[0071] Gelatins are usually translucent, colorless, and typically obtained from collagen from various animal body parts. They are commonly used as gelling agents in the food, pharmaceutical industry, vitamin capsules, photography, and cosmetic manufacturing. Suitable gelatins may have a bloom of 90 to 300. Bloom is a test for measuring the strength of gels or gelatins, and is measured according to the method outlined in US Patent No. 1,540,979 by Bloom. The test measures the weight in grams required to press a 4 mm gel at a temperature of 25°C with a plunger having a diameter of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) against its surface without breaking it. The result is expressed in bloom (grade) units. This is usually between 30 and 300 blooms. To perform the bloom test on gelatin, a 6.67% by weight gelatin solution is kept at 10°C for 17 to 18 hours before testing.

[0072] Carrageenans are, for example, sulfated polysaccharides derived from red algae commonly known as Irish moss. They are typically composed mainly of α-D-galactopyranose-4-sulfate units and 3,6-anhydro-α-D-galactopyranose units. At least three forms, designated "iota", "kappa" and "lambda" carrageenans, respectively, are known, which differ in the ratio of the two galactopyranose units and thus in their sulfate ester content.

[0073] Kappa carrageenan is the major component in aqueous extracts from Chondrus crispus and Gigartina stellata. It has a lower sulfate content than iota and lambda carrageenans.

[0074] Chitosan is typically obtained by deacetylation under alkaline conditions of chitin, the second most abundant biopolymer in nature after cellulose. Chitin can be found as an important component of the exoskeleton of animals, especially crustaceans, mollusks, and insects, and is also the major polymer in the cell walls of certain fungi. Chitin and chitosan are linear polysaccharides consisting of randomly distributed β-(1-4) linked D-glucosamine (deacetylated units) and N-acetyl-glucosamine (acetylated units). Chitosan has two types of reactive groups that can be grafted: free amine groups on the deacetylated units, and hydroxyl groups on the C3 and C6 carbons on the acetylated or deacetylated units.

[0075] The chitosan of the present invention may have a molecular weight of 10,000 g / mol to 4,000,000 g / mol, preferably 70,000 g / mol to 1,600,000 g / mol. Suitable chitosans may have a degree of deacetylation of at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 75%.

[0076] The gel composition may be transparent or translucent. The gel composition may have any suitable shape, such as a star, a circle, or a pyramid. The gel composition may be colored by adding a dye. The gel composition of the present invention may be molded into a desired shape or even 3D printed.

[0077] The gel composition may be of any suitable shape or size, as both shape and size define the evaporation surface area of ​​the gel composition. It is known that the shape and size of the gel composition can affect the release and lifespan of hydrophobic materials. For example, a thin sheet will result in faster release and shorter lifespan compared to a sphere of the same mass of gel composition. A suitable gel composition has a surface area of ​​150 cm 2 Less than 3.0 to 100 cm, preferably 3.0 to 100 cm 2 , more preferably 6.0 to 60 cm 2 may have an evaporation surface area of

[0078] The evaporation surface area can be measured by creating a 3D model of the gel composition using CAD software and calculating the surface area using CAD software. Any suitable CAD software can be used, such as AutoCAD® 2013.

[0079] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a solid part 20 for a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention.

[0080] Specifically, solid part 20 includes the same features as solid part 1 of Figure 1, with a central evaporation surface 21 and a peripheral evaporation surface 22 surrounding central evaporation surface 21. Central evaporation surface 21 includes a three-dimensional pattern 23 that defines an undulating surface that extends across all of central evaporation surface 21. Solid part 20 may be characterized by a haze measurement of at least 50% to obscure a visual indicator in a first configuration of the volatile composition dispenser.

[0081] 5 is a front perspective view of a different design of solid part 30 having a similar size and shape as solid part 20 of FIG. 3, but without a textured surface. Solid part 30 has substantially the same characteristics as solid part 20 of FIG. 3, except that solid part 30 does not substantially include a textured surface. To obscure the visual indicator in the first configuration, solid part 30 may be characterized by a total transmittance of less than 30%. A total transmittance of less than 30% of solid part 30 can be obtained by adding a color dye during the construction of solid part 30. The technique of adding the color dye depends on the construction material used to make solid part 30. The construction material includes the ingredients for making the gel composition described above.

[0082] Figure 6 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser 50 according to the present invention, comprising a housing 51 with a solid part 52. In Figure 6, the solid part 52 is at an initial size and has a visual indicator 58 in a first configuration in which the visual indicator 58 is not visually perceptible according to the present invention.

[0083] Figure 7 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser 50 of Figure 6 in a second configuration in which the visual indicator 58 is visually perceptible. Specifically, the housing 51 further comprises an inner surface 53, and the visual indicator 58 is disposed on the inner surface 53.

[0084] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of components within the volatile composition dispenser 50 of FIG. 6. The housing 51 may include a front cover 54 and a rear frame 56, which when assembled define a housing interior for receiving the solid component 52. A component holder 60 may be disposed between the front cover 54 and the rear cover 56, the component holder 60 configured to hold the solid component 52 in place within the housing. Each of the front cover 54 and the rear frame 56 is provided with a plurality of openings 403 (hereinafter "openings") for vaporizing the volatile composition within the solid component 52 into an interior space. The component holder 60 includes an anchor 62 for removably attaching the solid component 52 to the component holder 60, and a central opening 64 configured to surround the solid component 52. The solid component 52 may include the opening 64 sized and shaped to mate with the anchor 62. Specifically, the opening 64 extends through an end 66 of the solid component 52.

[0085] Figure 9 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser 70 having a component holder 72 and a solid component 74 in accordance with the present invention. Specifically, the dispenser 70 has substantially the same features as the dispenser 50 of Figure 8, but differs from the dispenser 50 in that it lacks a housing. The component holder 72 includes anchors 76 for supporting the solid component 74 in a suspended configuration above a surface of the interior space, and the solid component 74 is removably attached to the anchors 76. A central evaporation surface 75 of the solid component 74 faces forward, and a visual indicator (not shown) may be provided on an opposite side of the central evaporation surface 75.

[0086] 10 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a component holder 80 for a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention. The component holder 80 comprises a bottom surface 82 and a sidewall 83 extending from the bottom surface 82 and defining an interior cavity for receiving a solid component. An anchor 84 is disposed on the bottom surface 83 for removably attaching the solid component to the component holder 80. The anchor 84 may comprise a protrusion extending from the bottom surface 83. The anchor 84 comprises an anchor top portion 85 and an anchor side portion 86 surrounding the anchor top portion 85.

[0087] Figure 11 is a front perspective view of the component holder 80 of Figure 10 with a solid component 90 in accordance with the present invention. Solid component 90 includes an anchor-receiving opening 92 for removable attachment to anchor 84. Anchor-receiving opening 92 may include a first opening 93 having a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of anchor 84. Anchor-receiving opening 92 may further include a second opening 94 extending from first opening 93 through a periphery of solid component 90.

[0088] The housing, front cover, back cover, and component holder may be made from plastic, paper, or any material that is chemically compatible with the solid components.

[0089] The following examples are intended to more fully illustrate the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention, since many variations thereof are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. All parts, percentages and ratios herein are expressed as weight percent unless otherwise specified. EXAMPLES

[0090] Data is provided demonstrating the volatile composition dispenser of the present invention has an improved visual indicator to provide a sign of product life to the consumer. Solid parts according to the present invention are prepared based on the composition details set forth in Table 1 below and evaluated for their respective shrinkage (results are shown in Table 2).

[0091] [Table 3]

[0092] The solid part inventive sample is prepared according to the procedure described below with the composition details set out in Table 1.

[0093] Preparation procedure: The polyol or its derivative is mixed with the volatile composition and optionally a hydroxyl-containing polymer is added. The crosslinker is then added at a temperature between 5°C and 35°C, preferably between 15°C and 30°C, and further mixed to obtain a homogeneous mixture. The mixture is poured into a mold of the desired shape and cured at a curing temperature, preferably between 20°C and 30°C. Such a temperature limits the evaporation of the volatile components of the hydrophobic material. Alternatively, the mixture may be kept below 5°C to avoid curing. Curing then starts only when the temperature is increased to the curing temperature.

[0094] The polyol or derivative thereof may be mixed with the crosslinker and, optionally, the hydroxyl-containing polymer, preferably at a temperature of 20° C. to 85° C., more preferably at 30° C. to 75° C., for 10 minutes to 10 hours, preferably 15 minutes to 2 hours. The mixture may be cooled and the hydrophobic material may be added, preferably at a temperature of 10° C. to 40° C., more preferably at 15° C. to 30° C., and further mixed, for example, for 15 to 120 minutes. The mixture is poured into a desired mold and cured, preferably at a temperature of 20° C. to 30° C.

[0095] Alternatively, all of the components of the gel composition may be blended at a low temperature, such as below 5° C., before the temperature is increased to the curing temperature.

[0096] result The shrinkage results of the inventive samples 1 to 6 in Table 1 are shown below in Table 2. Specifically, the shrinkage is determined based on the following formula (1). Shrinkage rate = (initial length - contracted length) / initial length x 100% During the ceremony, Initial length = length or diameter of the solid part before use Reduced Length = Length or diameter of a solid part after a given period of use.

[0097] [Table 4]

[0098] All of the above inventive samples 1-6 have shrinkage between 6.3% and 12.5%, i.e., less than 40%. As a result, each of the samples at the end of life is a single integral piece with a size large enough to be easily removed, thereby reducing messiness. In contrast, conventional gels leave behind gelling polymers after the water and fragrance evaporate, and the remaining gelling polymers cause stickiness within the gel. Furthermore, the remaining gel also sticks to the container and is prone to tearing, resulting in a dirty residue.

[0099] A solid part according to the present invention is prepared according to the procedure described above, based on the composition details set forth in Table 3 below. The solid part is evaluated for visual perceptibility of the visual indicator in a first configuration (results are shown in Table 4).

[0100] [Table 5]

[0101] [Table 6]

[0102] A PerkinElmer Lambda 950 UV / VIS / NIR spectrophotometer (with 150 mm integrating sphere) instrument is used to measure the total transmittance, diffuse transmittance, and haze measurements for each of the comparative and inventive samples according to the ASTM 01003-13 test method for haze. A lower haze measurement corresponds to a clearer solid part.

[0103] Specifically, the haze is determined by the following formula: Haze = Diffuse transmittance / (Total transmittance (reflected transmittance and diffuse transmittance)) x 100%

[0104] Referring to Table 4, Comparative Sample 7 has a total transmittance much greater than 30% and a haze measurement much less than 50%. Thus, the visual indicators are still visually perceptible for Inventive Samples 8 and 9.

[0105] One embodiment is as follows. A. A volatile composition dispenser comprising: a solid part comprising a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid part is exposed to an ambient environment within the interior space, the solid part is capable of shrinking from an initial size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface to a reduced size less than the initial size, wherein the solid part is characterized by shrinkage of more than 1% and less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface; a visual indicator located proximate to a peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component; A dispenser having a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when at least a portion of the solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate a use status of the dispenser. B. The dispenser of paragraph A, wherein the shrinkage is between 3% and 30%, preferably between 4% and 20%, at the end of a period of between 1 and 75 days, preferably between 1 and 60 days, more preferably between 1 and 45 days. C. The dispenser of paragraphs A or B, further comprising a housing configured to receive the solid component and a gap between a peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component and an inner surface of the housing, the gap configured to permit contraction of the solid component along a first dimension at a faster rate compared to contraction of the solid component along a second dimension. D. The dispenser of paragraph C, further comprising an anchor disposed within the housing, the solid component being removably attached to the anchor to provide the clearance. E. The dispenser of any one of paragraphs A to D, wherein the solid part has a central evaporation surface and the visual indicator is disposed behind the central evaporation surface. F. The dispenser of any one of paragraphs A to E, wherein the visual indicator indicates a condition of the dispenser selected from the group consisting of end of dispenser life, a quantitative condition indicative of the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof, preferably the visual indicator is a set of letters or graphic symbols indicative of the condition of the dispenser, more preferably the visual indicator is a single word or graphic symbol indicative of end of dispenser life. G. The dispenser of any one of paragraphs A to F, wherein the volatile composition is selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorants, disinfectants, insect repellents, odor reducers, and mixtures thereof, and preferably the volatile composition is present in a concentration of 3% to 85% by weight of the solid component, preferably 15% to 75% by weight, and more preferably 20% to 60% by weight of the solid component. H. The dispenser of any one of paragraphs A to G, wherein the solid components are non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% water by weight, and more preferably substantially free of water. I. The dispenser of any one of paragraphs A through H, wherein the solid part comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of ethyl cellulose polymers, chemically crosslinked polyols or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof. J. The dispenser according to paragraph I, wherein the solid part comprises a chemically crosslinked polyol, wherein the polyol or a derivative thereof is selected from the group consisting of polyol, polyester polyol, polyglycerol and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof. K. The dispenser of any one of paragraphs A through J, wherein at least a portion of the solid part is characterized by an optical property selected from the group consisting of a haze measurement of at least 40%, a total transmittance of less than 30%, and combinations thereof. L. The dispenser of any one of paragraphs D-K, wherein the anchor is contained within the component holder. M. The dispenser of paragraph L, wherein the component holder includes a central opening configured to receive a solid component. N. A solid part for a volatile composition dispenser, the solid part comprising: A solid component comprising a volatile composition, at least one central evaporation surface, and a peripheral evaporation surface surrounding the central evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to an ambient environment within the interior space, the solid component is capable of shrinking from an initial size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface to a reduced size smaller than the initial size, wherein the solid component is characterized by shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface, and the central evaporation surface is less than 150 cm 2 Less than 3.0 to 100 cm, preferably 3.0 to 100 cm 2 , more preferably 6.0 to 60 cm 2 A solid part characterized by its central evaporative surface area. O. A method for providing a visual end of life indicator of a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, the method comprising: providing a volatile composition dispenser including a volatile composition and a solid component having a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to an ambient environment within an interior space, the solid component is capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size, wherein the solid component is characterized by shrinkage of greater than 1% and less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface; providing a visual indicator located proximate a peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component; exposing the solid component to a volatile composition such that the volatile composition vaporizes to provide a benefit to the interior space; A method, wherein the dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when the solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate a use status of the dispenser. P. A method for providing a visual product life indication of a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, the method comprising: providing a solid part having a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid part is exposed to an ambient environment within an interior space, the solid part is capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size, wherein the solid part is characterized by shrinkage of greater than 1% and less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface; providing a visual indicator located proximate a peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component; disposing a solid component and a visual indicator within the container to form a volatile composition dispenser for dispensing the volatile composition; exposing the solid component to a volatile composition such that the volatile composition vaporizes to provide a benefit to the interior space; A method, wherein the dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when the solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate a use status of the dispenser.

[0106] All documents cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patents or patent applications, and any patent applications or patents to which this application claims priority or benefit, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, unless expressly stated to the contrary. The citation of any document shall not be deemed to be prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, or to teach, suggest or disclose such invention, either alone or in combination with any other reference(s). Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0107] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. 1. A volatile composition dispenser comprising: a solid part comprising a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid part is exposed to an ambient environment within an interior space, the solid part is capable of shrinking from an initial size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface to a reduced size smaller than the initial size, the solid part being characterized by a shrinkage of greater than 1% and less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface; a visual indicator located proximate the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component; The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when at least a portion of the solid component shrinks from the initial size to the reduced size to indicate an in-use state of the dispenser.

2. A dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the shrinkage is between 3% and 30%, preferably between 4% and 20%, at the end of a period of between 1 and 75 days, preferably between 1 and 60 days, more preferably between 1 and 45 days.

3. 3. The dispenser of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a housing configured to receive the solid component and a gap between the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component and an inner surface of the housing, the gap configured to permit contraction of the solid component along a first dimension at a faster rate than contraction of the solid component along a second dimension.

4. The dispenser of claim 3 further comprising an anchor disposed within said housing, said solid component being removably attached to said anchor to provide said gap.

5. 5. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the solid part comprises a central evaporation surface, and the visual indicator is disposed behind the central evaporation surface.

6. 6. A dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the visual indicator indicates a condition of the dispenser selected from the group consisting of end of life of the dispenser, a quantitative condition indicative of the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof, preferably the visual indicator is a set of letters or graphic symbols indicating the condition of the dispenser, more preferably the visual indicator is a single word or graphic symbol indicating end of life of the dispenser.

7. 7. A dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the volatile composition is selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorants, disinfectants, insect repellents, malodour reducers and mixtures thereof, preferably the volatile composition is present in a concentration of from 3% to 85% by weight of the solid part, preferably from 15% to 75% by weight, more preferably from 20% to 60% by weight of the solid part.

8. A dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the solid components are non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% water by weight, more preferably substantially free of water.

9. 9. The dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the solid component comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of ethyl cellulose polymers, chemically crosslinked polyols or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

10. 10. The dispenser according to claim 9, wherein said solid part comprises a chemically cross-linked polyol, said polyol or a derivative thereof being selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably said polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, even more preferably said polyester polyol is cross-linked using a cross-linking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof.

11. 11. The dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least a portion of the solid part is characterized by an optical property selected from the group consisting of a haze measurement of at least 40%, a total transmittance of less than 30%, and combinations thereof.

12. The dispenser of claim 4 , wherein the anchor is contained within a component holder.

13. The dispenser of claim 12 , wherein the component holder includes a central opening configured to receive the solid component.

14. A solid part for a volatile composition dispenser, the solid part comprising: a volatile composition; at least one central evaporation surface; and a peripheral evaporation surface surrounding the central evaporation surface, wherein when the solid part is exposed to an ambient environment within an interior space, the solid part is capable of shrinking from an initial size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface to a reduced size smaller than the initial size, the solid part being characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface, and the central evaporation surface is more than 150 cm ２ Less than 3.0 cm, preferably 3.0 to 100 cm ２ , more preferably 6.0 to 60 cm ２ A solid part characterized by its central evaporative surface area.

15. 1. A method for providing a visual end of life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, the method comprising: providing a solid part having a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid part is exposed to an ambient environment within the interior space, the solid part is capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size, the solid part being characterized by a shrinkage of greater than 1% and less than 40% in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface; providing a visual indicator located proximate the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component; disposing the solid component and the visual indicator within a container to form a volatile composition dispenser for dispensing a volatile composition; exposing the solid component to cause the volatile composition to vaporize to provide a benefit to the interior space; The method, wherein the dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when the solid component shrinks from the initial size to the reduced size to indicate an in-use state of the dispenser.

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