Clear fabric softener formulation

Abstract

The present invention relates to mixtures of cationic surfactants useful for preparing optically clear softening compositions, compositions containing such mixtures, and their use for softening fabrics and / or fibers.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to mixtures of cationic surfactants useful for preparing optically clear softening compositions, compositions containing such mixtures, and their use for softening fabrics and / or fibers. [Background technology]

[0002] Quaternary ester ammonium compounds, commonly referred to as "ester quats" (EQs), are widely used as active ingredients in fabric softeners due to their high softening performance (e.g., softening textile fibers and fabrics as well as keratinous fibers such as hair), their biodegradability, fairly low aquatic toxicity, and good cosmetic compatibility with the skin.

[0003] However, typical fabric softener formulations containing ester quats have the disadvantage of being cloudy and not clear (optically transparent). Optical clarity is a highly desirable property of fabric softening compositions and is important to the visual appeal of such products. Particularly desirable are ester quat formulations that form clear solutions in water. Moreover, such solutions should be stable upon storage.

[0004] Although there are attempts in the state of the art aimed at the related objectives, there remains a need for surfactant mixtures which allow obtaining softening formulations which meet the above requirements even at relatively low EQ concentrations and which do not require the excessive use of solvents or further additives.

[0005] In US Pat. No. 5,999,133, fabric treatments containing specific ester quats are described. However, optically clear fabric softener formulations with high storage stability are only produced in the presence of additional cationic thickeners and nonionic emulsifiers.

[0006] In view of the above, the present invention has as its object the provision of new cationic surfactant mixtures which, when mixed with water at temperatures below 40° C., preferably at room temperature, allow the preparation of clear and stable softener formulations, preferably without the presence of further additives. Furthermore, such formulations preferably exhibit advantageous storage stability under various conditions, advantageous handling properties (ease of handling) and / or advantageous softening properties. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2016 / 096614 Summary of the Invention

[0008] As a solution to the above problem, the present invention relates to a mixture of cationic surfactants obtainable from a process comprising the following steps: step I: esterification according to a) of b) and step II: formation of a cation from the reaction product of step I, a) is a hydroxyl group-containing compound or a mixture of hydroxyl group-containing compounds comprising a.1 and optionally a.2, a.1 represents a compound of the general formula (I): TIFF2025512689000001.tif30170 (in the formula, R 1 is a hydrogen atom, a C1-C6 alkyl group, and a residue: Selected from TIFF2025512689000002.tif12170, R 2 is a C1-C6 alkylene group, R 3 is hydrogen or methyl, and n is 0 or an integer from 1 to 20; and a.2 is a polyol, optionally alkoxylated, characterized by a MW in the range of 60 g / mol to 190 g / mol; b) is a mixture of compounds containing one or more carboxylic acid groups, including b.1 and b.2, where b.1 is a compound of formula (II): R 6 -COOH (II) (In the formula, R 6 is a linear or branched C6-C 23 or mixtures of monocarboxylic acids, or their alkyl esters or glycerides, preferably linear or branched, C6-C 23 an alkyl ester or an alkenyl ester, b.2 represents a compound of the general formula (III): HOOC-L-COOH (III) (wherein L is a saturated or unsaturated linear, branched, or cyclic group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, each carbon atom of which is optionally substituted with a C1-C6 saturated or unsaturated group, preferably (CH(R 7 )) m or one or more R 7 Optionally substituted (C6-C 10 arylene), where each R 7 are independently hydrogen, OH, or a C1-C6 saturated or unsaturated group, and m is 0 or an integer from 1 to 10, where m≧2 represents a chain (CH) m is a dicarboxylic acid or mixture of dicarboxylic acids, optionally containing one or more double bonds and / or cyclic groups, or a reactive derivative(s) thereof; wherein a.1), a.2), b.1), and b.2) are introduced into the reaction system in step I in amounts that result in the following molar ratios: the molar ratio of monoacid(s) / diacid(s) (b.1 / b.2) is between 0.10 and 1.0, The molar ratio between the organic carboxylic acid group and the organic hydroxyl group (COOH / OH) present in the system is 0.30-0.80, and A mixture is provided, wherein the molar ratio between the compound(s) within definition a.2 and the compound(s) under definition a.1 is between 0 and 0.5.

[0009] The present invention further provides the use of the above mixture to prepare an optically clear composition, for example by mixing with water.

[0010] The present invention further provides softener compositions, such as fabric softening compositions and / or keratin-based fiber softening compositions, comprising the above mixtures, as well as concentrated softener compositions comprising such mixtures.

[0011] The present invention further provides the use of the softener composition(s) for softening fabrics and / or keratin-based fibers. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Detailed Description of the Invention The inventors have surprisingly found that certain mixtures of cationic surfactants (esterquats (EQ)), obtainable by reacting a combination of mono- and dicarboxylic acids with alkanolamine(s) and optionally polyol(s) with subsequent formation of the cation, form clear, optically transparent solutions in water at room temperature. These effects can be observed in the absence of further additives and without the need to use high concentrations of EQ or solvents.

[0013] Cationic Surfactant Mixture The cationic surfactant mixture of the present invention can be dissolved directly in water, thereby providing a softener composition that is optically clear and stable on storage under a variety of conditions. No additives are required to achieve the optical clarity and stability of the final composition.

[0014] The cationic surfactant mixture of the present invention can be used to formulate fabric softener compositions that are clear below 40°C, preferably below 30°C, more preferably below 25°C, and above 20°C, most preferably at 20°C. The addition of nonionic surfactants and solvents is optional and is not required for or affects the optical clarity of the final composition. Optical clarity is an attractive and desirable feature of the product. The use of fewer additives is advantageous from an environmental, biological, and skin compatibility, and economic standpoint.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the molar ratio of monoacid(s) / diacid(s) (b.1 / b.2) is between 0.20 and 1.0, preferably between 0.30 and 1.0, and / or the molar ratio between the organic carboxylic acid groups and the organic hydroxyl groups present in the system (COOH / OH) is between 0.40 and 0.70, preferably between 0.50 and 0.70, and / or the molar ratio between the compound(s) within definition a.2 and the compound(s) in definition a.1 is 0 or between 0.1 and 0.5, preferably between 0.1 and 0.5. Without wishing to be bound by theory, each of these specific ratios may further improve the optical transparency. Furthermore, the handling (ease of handling) and / or the softening properties may also be improved.

[0016] In one embodiment of the invention, the alkanolamine(s) of formula (I) are selected from triethanolamine, N-methyldiethanolamine, N-methyldiisopropanolamine, and triisopropanolamine, each of which is optionally alkoxylated with ethylene oxide or propylene oxide, and mixtures thereof.

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, in the dicarboxylic acid(s) of formula (III), each L is selected from ethane-1,2-diyl, 1-hydroxyethane-1,2-diyl, cis-ethene-1,2-diyl, trans-ethene-1,2-diyl, propane-1,2-diyl, propane-1,3-diyl, butane-1,4-diyl, pentane-1,5-diyl, hexane-1,6-diyl, cyclohexane-1,4-diyl, octane-1,8-diyl, and 1,4-phenylenyl, preferably butane-1,4-diyl, hexane-1,6-diyl, or octane-1,8-diyl.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the dicarboxylic acid of formula (III) is selected from succinic acid, malic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, sebacic acid, pimelic acid, suberic acid, maleic acid, and terephthalic acid, acids obtained by thermal oligomerization of unsaturated fatty acids, and mixtures thereof.

[0019] In one embodiment of the invention, the reactive derivative(s) of the dicarboxylic acid(s) of general formula (III) are one or more selected from halides, anhydrides, preferably mixed anhydrides with acetic acid, or cyclic anhydrides.

[0020] The inventors have surprisingly found that by using the specific ratios of components as in the present invention, it is possible to obtain cationic surfactant mixtures which, even when using a wider variety of monocarboxylic acid(s) than in the prior art, allow the preparation of clear and stable softener formulations when mixed with water at temperatures below 40°C, preferably below 30°C, more preferably below 25°C, and above 20°C, most preferably at 20°C.

[0021] For example, the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) may be synthetic fatty acids and / or may be obtained from fats or oils of natural origin, optionally hydrogenated, or may be derived from oils of vegetable origin which are optionally hydrogenated.

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) are selected from those obtained from tallow, palm, olive, coconut, sunflower, soybean, rapeseed, grape pomace, and grapes, each of which may be hydrogenated, partially hydrogenated, or non-hydrogenated.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, the iodine value of the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) is preferably 5 or more, more preferably 35 or more, even more preferably 45 or more, most preferably 50 or more, and / or is preferably 280 or less, more preferably 180 or less, even more preferably 100 or less, most preferably 80 or less. Preferably, the iodine value of the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) is 5 to 280, more preferably 5 to 180, more preferably 35 to 180, more preferably 45 to 100, more preferably 45 to 80, most preferably 50 to 80. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the use of monocarboxylic acid(s) having such an iodine value may contribute to an even further improvement in the optical transparency and / or storage stability at various temperatures of the aqueous formulations obtained from the mixture of cationic surfactants according to the invention.

[0024] In one embodiment of the invention, the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) are selected from the group consisting of caproic acid, caprylic acid, 2-ethylhexanoic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, isotridecanoic acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, palmoleic acid, stearic acid, isostearic acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, petroselinic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, eleostearic acid, arachidic acid, gadoleic acid, behenic acid, and erucic acid, and may be prepared, for example, by pressure splitting of natural fats and oils, as described by Roelen's oxo synthesis. and mixtures thereof obtained in the dimerization of unsaturated fatty acids, obtained in the reduction of aldehydes from glycerol, glycerol, tert-butanoic acid ...

[0025] In one embodiment of the present invention, the compounds corresponding to a.1 and / or a.2 may be of natural or synthetic origin.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, polyol a.2 is one or more selected from trimethylolpropane (TMP), glycerin, neopentyl glycol (NPG), and sorbitol, each of which may be optionally alkoxylated, preferably ethoxylated, where polyol a.2 is more preferably trimethylolpropane (TMP) or absent.

[0027] Step I is an esterification step in which a) and b) are reacted. In an exemplary embodiment, monoacid b.1 and diacid b.2 are combined with alkanolamine a.1 and optionally polyol b.2. The resulting mixture is heated. Preferably, the mixture is heated to reflux under atmospheric pressure, for example at 140° C. to 200° C., preferably at 160° C. to 180° C., for 1 hour to 5 hours, preferably 2 hours to 4 hours. Preferably, step I is carried out until water is no longer distilled off from the reaction mixture.

[0028] The reaction product obtained from step I is subjected to cation formation in step II. Preferably, an organic solvent is added before step II. Step II may correspond to the formation of an addition salt of the alkanolamine ester obtained from step I with an inorganic or organic acid, preferably the inorganic or organic acid being one or more selected from hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, citric acid, and lactic acid. Alternatively, step II may correspond to the quaternization of the reaction mixture of step I with an alkylating agent(s), preferably the alkylating agent being one or more selected from methyl chloride, methyl bromide, dimethyl sulfate, diethyl sulfate, and dimethyl carbonate. Step II may be carried out at room temperature or at elevated temperature, for example 40° C. to 100° C., preferably 50° C. to 90° C., preferably for 1 hour to 5 hours, more preferably 2 hours to 4 hours, or until the amine value is verified to be virtually completely absent by acid / base assay.

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, the mixture further comprises an organic solvent, preferably an alcohol, more preferably ethanol, n-propanol or isopropanol, butanol, glycol, propanediol or butanediol, glycerol, diglycol, propyl diglycol or butyl diglycol, ethylene glycol methyl ether, ethylene glycol ethyl ether, ethylene glycol propyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, diethylene glycol methyl ether, diethylene glycol ethyl ether, propylene glycol methyl, ethyl or propyl ether, dipropylene glycol methyl or ethyl ether, methoxy triglycol, ethoxy triglycol or butoxy triglycol, 1-butoxyethoxy-2-propanol, 3-methyl-3-methoxybutanol, or propylene glycol t-butyl ether. For example, such a solvent may be added during the preparation process, for example before, during and / or after step II, preferably before step II.

[0030] In one embodiment of the present invention, the content of the organic solvent in the cationic surfactant mixture is 0% to 30% by weight, preferably 0% to 20% by weight, and more preferably 10% to 20% by weight.

[0031] In one embodiment of the invention, the mixture is essentially water-free.

[0032] In one embodiment of the invention, the mixture consists essentially of the reaction product of steps I and II, and optionally an organic solvent. Preferably, the mixture consists of the reaction product of steps I and II, the solvent, if present, unreacted starting materials, and inevitable impurities from the manufacturing process, if present.

[0033] Softener Composition Further provided is a softener composition, preferably a fabric softening composition and / or a keratin-based fiber softening composition, comprising the cationic surfactant mixture according to the invention, which preferably further comprises water.

[0034] Such compositions may not only exhibit advantageous storage stability under a variety of conditions, but may also exhibit additional advantageous properties, such as handling (ease of handling) and / or softening properties.

[0035] Such compositions are clear solutions at room temperature and may be stable to storage at room temperature or at 5° C. or at 40° C., for example for at least 2 months.

[0036] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition is optically clear at room temperature, preferably at a temperature of 26°C to 40°C, more preferably at a temperature of 20°C to 50°C, even more preferably at a temperature of 16°C to 50°C, and most preferably at a temperature of 5°C to 60°C.

[0037] In the composition, the water content is preferably greater than 50% (w / w), more preferably greater than 80% (w / w), and most preferably greater than 85% (w / w). The solid residue is preferably less than 50%, more preferably less than 25%, and even more preferably between 15% and 2%. Clear diluted formulations are preferably formulated with a solid residue of 2% to 20% (e.g., EQ + optional nonionic surfactant) and a minimum water content of 75%.

[0038] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition further comprises a fragrance. The fragrance consists of one or more substances. The average logP of the fragrance substance(s) is between 1 and 6, preferably between 1 and 4, preferably between 2 and 4. The weight ratio between the above defined cationic surfactant mixture according to the present invention and the fragrance is between 99:1 and 40:60, more preferably between 80:20 and 60:40, even more preferably between 80:20 and 70:30.

[0039] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition further comprises a nonionic surfactant. The weight ratio between the cationic surfactant mixture and the nonionic surfactant is preferably 100:0 (i.e., no nonionic surfactant is present) to 70:30. The nonionic surfactant can advantageously improve the solubility of the perfume in the composition, especially when a large amount of perfume is used (e.g., more than 1% by weight of the composition, optionally up to 3% by weight or more). Preferably, when the amount of perfume in the composition is 0.3% by weight or less, no nonionic surfactant is used, otherwise, nonionic surfactant can be used optionally. Furthermore, adding a nonionic surfactant can further improve the good stability of the formulation during storage.

[0040] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition further comprises a thickening agent, for example a thickening polymer. The weight ratio of the cationic surfactant mixture to the thickening agent is preferably 100:0 to 10:5, more preferably 100:1 to 10:2. The thickening agent can be added to increase the viscosity of the composition. Suitable thickening agents are, for example, PEG-150 distearate, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose and its derivatives, PEG-120 methyl glucose dioleate, PEG-120 methyl glucose trioleate (and) propanediol, ethoxylated sorbitan triisostearate (for example, PEG-160 sorbitan triisostearate, for example, Kaopan TW IS-559S, manufactured by Kao Chemicals Europe, SL), and methylenebisacrylamide crosslinked copolymers of acrylamide and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate methyl chloride (such as FLOSOFT 222, manufactured by SNF).

[0041] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises (i) a mixture of the cationic surfactants described above and (ii) optionally one or more nonionic surfactants, the sum of components (i) and (ii) being 2% by weight to 20% by weight, wherein: The content of component (i) is 2% by weight to 20% by weight, preferably 5% by weight to 15% by weight, based on the weight of the composition; The content of component (ii) is 0 wt% to 10 wt%, preferably 0 wt% to 7 wt%, more preferably 0 wt% to 5 wt%, even more preferably 0 wt% to 2 wt%, and most preferably 0 wt% to 0.05 wt%, relative to the weight of the composition.

[0042] A preferred embodiment of the composition according to the present invention comprises, preferably consists essentially of, and more preferably consists of, an ester quat (EQ), water, or an EQ, water, a thickener, or an EQ, water, up to 3.0% by weight of a fragrance, or an EQ, water, a non-ionic surfactant(s), a fragrance, or an EQ, water, a thickener, a fragrance, or an EQ, an organic solvent such as ethanol or glycerin, and a fragrance.

[0043] A preferred embodiment of the anhydrous composition according to the present invention comprises, preferably consists essentially of, and more preferably consists of, an ester quat (EQ), or EQ, a thickener, or EQ, a fragrance, or EQ, a non-ionic surfactant(s), a fragrance, or EQ, a thickener, a fragrance, or EQ, an organic solvent such as ethanol or glycerin, and a fragrance.

[0044] The present invention further provides a concentrated softener composition comprising the above cationic surfactant mixture and having a water content of less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%. Such a composition may be liquid and transparent at temperatures between 26° C. and 60° C., preferably between 20° C. and 40° C., more preferably between 16° C. and 60° C., most preferably between 0° C. and 80° C. Particularly good transparency is achieved at a water content of less than 5% (w / w), preferably between 0% (w / w) and 5% (w / w), most preferably in the absence or essentially absence of water.

[0045] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the liquid and transparent composition comprises the mixture of cationic surfactants described above in an amount of 1% (w / w) to 20% (w / w) (diluted compositions) or more than 95% (w / w) (concentrated compositions).

[0046] In one embodiment of the present invention, the concentrated fabric softener composition comprises: A)Fragrance, Here, preferably, (i) the flavouring consists of one or more substances; and / or (ii) the average log P of the fragrance substance(s) is between 1 and 6; and / or (iii) the perfume may be an encapsulated perfume, preferably the perfume is encapsulated in a biodegradable microcapsule, more preferably the microcapsule is based on chitosan; and / or B) nonionic surfactants, Further comprising: Preferably, the weight ratios of the components mentioned are in accordance with the following ratios: P:C is a value between 0:100 and 60:40. NI:C is 0:100 to 30:70. P corresponds to a fragrance, optionally a microencapsulated fragrance, C corresponds to a cationic surfactant mixture, NI corresponds to non-ionic surfactant.

[0047] As used herein, nonionic surfactant(s) refers to fatty acids, linear or branched alkoxylated or nonalkoxylated esters of fatty acids, particularly fatty acids containing from 8 to 18 carbon atoms, alkoxylated or nonalkoxylated Guerbet alcohols, glycerol and polyglycerol esters, which may be optionally alkoxylated, xylitol esters, alkoxylated or nonalkoxylated sorbitan esters, esters of sugars such as glucose, fructose, galactose, mannose, xylose, arabinose, ribose, 2-deoxyribose, and sucrose, C 8~18They may be selected from non-ionic surfactants having an amide group derived from amines such as fatty alcohols, alkyl polyglucosides, glucamines, and derivatives of methylethanolamine, diethanolamine, isopropanolamine, and monoethanolamine with linear or branched fatty acids, in particular with linear or branched fatty acids containing from 8 to 18 carbon atoms, waxes such as paraffins, microcrystalline waxes derived from petroleum, and synthetic waxes, and pentaerythritol esters, in particular with tallow, hydrogenated tallow, palm, behenic, or oleic chains; preferably, the non-ionic surfactants are selected from ethoxylated glycerol esters, sorbitan monoesters, and pentaerythritol esters, in particular with tallow, hydrogenated tallow, palm, behenic, or oleic chains.

[0048] Suitable nonionic surfactants include glyceryl-6 cocoate (e.g., Levenol F-200), glyceryl-17 cocoate (e.g., Levenol C-201), ethoxylated C 13~15 Alcohols (e.g., including 7EO, e.g., Findet 1315 / 19), ethoxylated C 16~18 Alcohols (eg containing 23 EO, for example Findet 1618 / 35) and in particular ethoxylated hydrogenated castor oils (eg containing 40 EO, for example Findet ARH-52) are suitable.

[0049] The softener composition or concentrated softener composition may have a viscosity at 20° C. of 2 cps to 50,000 cps measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer using spindle 2 at 60 rpm or spindle 4 at 12 rpm. Preferably, such compositions have a viscosity of 2 mPa·s to 5,000 mPa·s, optionally 2 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s, measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer using spindle 4 at 12 rpm, or have a viscosity of 2 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s, measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer using spindle 2 at 30 rpm.

[0050] For example, concentrated EQs and their mixtures with NIs, fragrances and / or glycols may have viscosity values ​​between 100 mPa·s and 50,000 mPa·s. Diluted formulations (2% active ingredient to 50% active ingredient) may have viscosity values ​​between 2 mPa·s and 500 mPa·s.

[0051] use The invention further provides the use of the cationic surfactant mixture described above for preparing an optically clear composition, and also provides a method of preparing an optically clear composition from the mixture, for example comprising combining the mixture with water. The composition thus obtained can be used in a method of softening fabrics and / or keratin-based fibers, comprising contacting the fabrics and / or fibers with a composition according to any one of aspects 25 to 36.

[0052] Additionally, the clear concentrated composition can be used to soften fabrics and / or keratin-based fibers, i.e., a fabric softener can be prepared by the user by directly mixing the composition with tap water or by directly introducing the composition into a washing machine.

[0053] The present invention further provides the following aspects.

[0054] 1. The following steps: Step I: esterification of a) with b) Step II: Formation of a cation from the reaction product of step I; A mixture of cationic surfactants obtainable from a process comprising: a) is a hydroxyl group-containing compound or a mixture of hydroxyl group-containing compounds comprising a.1 and optionally a.2, a.1 represents a compound of the general formula (I): TIFF2025512689000003.tif30170 (in the formula, R 1 is a hydrogen atom, a C1-C6 alkyl group, and a residue: Selected from TIFF2025512689000004.tif13170, R 2 is a C1-C6 alkylene group, R 3 is hydrogen or methyl, and n is 0 or an integer from 1 to 20; and a.2 is a polyol, optionally alkoxylated, characterized by a MW in the range of 60 g / mol to 190 g / mol; b) is a mixture of compounds containing one or more carboxylic acid groups, including b.1 and b.2, where b.1 is a compound of formula (II): R 6 -COOH (II) (In the formula, R 6 is a linear or branched C6-C 23 or mixtures of monocarboxylic acids, or their alkyl esters or glycerides, preferably linear or branched, C6-C 23 an alkyl ester or an alkenyl ester, b.2 represents a compound of the general formula (III): HOOC-L-COOH (III) (wherein L is a saturated or unsaturated linear, branched, or cyclic group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, each carbon atom of which is optionally substituted with a C1-C6 saturated or unsaturated group, preferably (CH(R 7 )) m or one or more R 7 Optionally substituted (C6-C 10 arylene), where each R 7 are independently hydrogen, OH, or a C1-C6 saturated or unsaturated group, and m is 0 or an integer from 1 to 10, where m≧2 represents a chain (CH) m is a dicarboxylic acid or mixture of dicarboxylic acids, optionally containing one or more double bonds and / or cyclic groups, or a reactive derivative(s) thereof; wherein a.1), a.2), b.1), and b.2) are introduced into the reaction system in step I in amounts that result in the following molar ratios: the molar ratio of monoacid(s) / diacid(s) (b.1 / b.2) is between 0.10 and 1.0, The molar ratio between the organic carboxylic acid group and the organic hydroxyl group (COOH / OH) present in the system is 0.30-0.80, and A mixture, wherein the molar ratio between the compound(s) within definition a.2 and the compound(s) under definition a.1 is between 0 and 0.5.

[0055] 2. The mixture according to embodiment 1, wherein the molar ratio of monoacid(s) / diacid(s) (b.1 / b.2) is between 0.20 and 1.0, preferably between 0.30 and 1.0.

[0056] 3. The mixture according to any one of the above aspects, wherein the molar ratio between the organic carboxylic acid groups and the organic hydroxyl groups (COOH / OH) present in the system is from 0.40 to 0.70, preferably from 0.50 to 0.70.

[0057] 4. A mixture according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the molar ratio between the compound(s) within definition a.2 and the compound(s) under definition a.1 is 0 or between 0.1 and 0.5, preferably between 0.1 and 0.5.

[0058] 5. The amounts of compound a.1, compound a.2, compound b.1, and compound b.2 are introduced into the reaction system in step I in the following molar ratios: the molar ratio of monoacid(s) / diacid(s) (b.1 / b.2) is between 0.30 and 1.0; The molar ratio (COOH / OH) between the organic carboxylic acid group and the organic hydroxyl group present in the system is 0.40 to 0.70, preferably 0.50 to 0.70, and The mixture according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the molar ratio between the compound(s) within definition a.2 and the compound(s) under definition a.1 is 0 or between 0.1 and 0.5.

[0059] 6. The mixture according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the alkanolamine(s) of formula (I) are selected from triethanolamine, N-methyldiethanolamine, N-methyldiisopropanolamine, and triisopropanolamine, each of which is optionally alkoxylated with ethylene oxide or propylene oxide, and mixtures thereof.

[0060] 7. The mixture according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein in the dicarboxylic acid(s) of formula (III), each L is selected from ethane-1,2-diyl, 1-hydroxyethane-1,2-diyl, cis-ethene-1,2-diyl, trans-ethene-1,2-diyl, propane-1,2-diyl, propane-1,3-diyl, butane-1,4-diyl, pentane-1,5-diyl, hexane-1,6-diyl, cyclohexane-1,4-diyl, octane-1,8-diyl, and 1,4-phenylenyl, preferably butane-1,4-diyl, hexane-1,6-diyl, or octane-1,8-diyl.

[0061] 8. The mixture according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the dicarboxylic acid of formula (III) is selected from succinic acid, malic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, sebacic acid, pimelic acid, suberic acid, maleic acid, and terephthalic acid, acids obtained by thermal oligomerization of unsaturated fatty acids, and mixtures thereof.

[0062] 9. The mixture according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the reactive derivative(s) of the dicarboxylic acid(s) of general formula (III) are one or more selected from halides, anhydrides, preferably mixed anhydrides with acetic acid, or cyclic anhydrides.

[0063] 10. The mixture according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) are synthetic fatty acids and / or are obtained from naturally occurring fats or oils, and are optionally hydrogenated.

[0064] 11. The mixture according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) are derived from an oil of vegetable origin, which is optionally hydrogenated.

[0065] 12. The mixture according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) are selected from those obtained from tallow, palm, olive, coconut, sunflower, soybean, rapeseed, grape pomace, and grapes, each of which may be hydrogenated, partially hydrogenated, or non-hydrogenated.

[0066] 13. The mixture according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the iodine value of the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) is preferably 5 or more, more preferably 35 or more, even more preferably 45 or more, most preferably 50 or more, and / or preferably 280 or less, more preferably 180 or less, even more preferably 100 or less, most preferably 80 or less.

[0067] 14. The mixture according to any one of the above aspects, wherein the iodine value of the monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) is 5 to 280, more preferably 5 to 180, more preferably 35 to 180, 35 to 100, more preferably 45 to 100, more preferably 45 to 80, and most preferably 50 to 80.

[0068] 15. The monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) include caproic acid, caprylic acid, 2-ethylhexanoic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, isotridecanoic acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, palmoleic acid, stearic acid, isostearic acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, petroselinic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, eleostearic acid, arachidic acid, gadoleic acid, behenic acid, and erucic acid, and may be prepared, for example, by pressure splitting of natural fats and oils, by reduction of aldehydes from the synthesis of oxo-olefins, or by the dimerization of unsaturated fatty acids. 5. The mixture according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the fatty acids are one or more selected from the group consisting of stearic acid, isostearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, 2-ethylhexanoic acid, 2-octyldodecanoic acid, capric acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, partially hydrogenated coconut fatty acid, palm fatty acid, partially hydrogenated distilled palm fatty acid, hydrogenated distilled palm fatty acid, palm kernel fatty acid, tallow fatty acid, distilled tallow fatty acid, and rapeseed fatty acid, and mixtures thereof obtained by polymerization of the fatty acids.

[0069] 16. A mixture according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the compounds corresponding to a.1 and / or a.2 are of natural origin.

[0070] 17. A mixture according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the compounds corresponding to a.1 and / or a.2 are of synthetic origin.

[0071] 18. The mixture according to any one of the above aspects, wherein step II corresponds to forming an addition salt of the alkanolamine ester obtained from step I with an inorganic or organic acid, wherein preferably the inorganic or organic acid is one or more selected from hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, citric acid, and lactic acid.

[0072] 19. The mixture according to any one of aspects 1 to 17, wherein step II corresponds to quaternizing the reaction mixture of step I with alkylating agent(s), wherein preferably the alkylating agent is one or more selected from methyl chloride, methyl bromide, dimethyl sulfate, diethyl sulfate, and dimethyl carbonate.

[0073] 20. The mixture according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein polyol a.2 is one or more selected from trimethylolpropane (TMP), glycerin, sorbitol, and neopentyl glycol (NPG), each of which may be optionally alkoxylated, preferably ethoxylated, and wherein polyol a.2 is more preferably trimethylolpropane (TMP) or is absent.

[0074] 21. The mixture according to any one of the previous aspects, further comprising an organic solvent, preferably an alcohol, more preferably ethanol, n-propanol or isopropanol, butanol, glycol, propanediol or butanediol, glycerol, diglycol, propyl diglycol or butyl diglycol, ethylene glycol methyl ether, ethylene glycol ethyl ether, ethylene glycol propyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, diethylene glycol methyl ether, diethylene glycol ethyl ether, propylene glycol methyl, ethyl or propyl ether, dipropylene glycol methyl or ethyl ether, methoxytriglycol, ethoxytriglycol or butoxytriglycol, 1-butoxyethoxy-2-propanol, 3-methyl-3-methoxybutanol, or propylene glycol t-butyl ether.

[0075] 22. The mixture according to aspect 21, wherein the content of the organic solvent is 0% by weight to 30% by weight, preferably 0% by weight to 20% by weight, and more preferably 10% by weight to 20% by weight.

[0076] 23. The mixture of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the mixture is essentially water-free.

[0077] 24. The mixture of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the mixture consists essentially of the reaction product of Step I and Step II, and optionally an organic solvent.

[0078] 25. The mixture according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the mixture consists of the reaction product of Step I and Step II, solvent, if present, unreacted starting materials, and inevitable impurities from the manufacturing process, if present.

[0079] 26. A softener composition, preferably a fabric softening composition and / or a keratin-based fibre softening composition, comprising a cationic surfactant mixture according to any one of the above aspects.

[0080] 27. The composition of embodiment 26, further comprising water.

[0081] 28. The composition according to aspect 26 or 27, which is optically transparent at room temperature, preferably at a temperature of 26°C to 40°C, more preferably 20°C to 50°C, even more preferably 16°C to 50°C, and most preferably 5°C to 60°C.

[0082] 29. The moisture content is preferably greater than 75% (wt / wt), more preferably greater than 80% (wt / wt), more preferably greater than 85% (wt / wt), most preferably greater than 90% (wt / wt), and / or A composition according to any one of aspects 26 to 28, wherein the solid residue is no more than 25% (wt / wt), preferably no more than 20% (wt / wt), more preferably no more than 15% (wt / wt), even more preferably no more than 10% (wt / wt), and most preferably between 2% (wt / wt) and 10% (wt / wt).

[0083] 30. A)Fragrance, Here, preferably, (i) the flavouring consists of one or more substances; and / or (ii) the average log P of the fragrance substance(s) is between 1 and 6; and / or (iii) the weight ratio between the cationic surfactant mixture and the fragrance is from 99:1 to 40:60, more preferably from 80:20 to 60:40, even more preferably from 80:20 to 70:30; and / or (iv) the perfume may be partially encapsulated, preferably the perfume is encapsulated in a biodegradable microcapsule, more preferably the microcapsule is based on chitosan; and / or B) nonionic surfactants, The weight ratio between the cationic surfactant mixture and the nonionic surfactant is 100:0 to 70:30; and / or C) thickeners, wherein the weight ratio of the mixture according to any one of Aspects 1 to 25 to the thickener is 100:0 to 10:5, preferably 100:1 to 10:2; 30. The composition of any one of aspects 26 to 29, further comprising:

[0084] 31. (i) a mixture of cationic surfactants as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 25; and (ii) optionally one or more nonionic surfactants; Including, The total amount of component (i) and component (ii) is 2% by weight to 20% by weight, The content of component (i) is 2% by weight to 20% by weight, preferably 5% by weight to 15% by weight, based on the weight of the composition; The composition according to any one of Aspects 26 to 30, wherein the content of component (ii) is 0 wt% to 6 wt%, preferably 0 wt% to 4 wt%, more preferably 0 wt% to 3 wt%, even more preferably 0 wt% to 2 wt%, and most preferably 0 wt% to 0.05 wt%, based on the weight of the composition.

[0085] 32. A concentrated fabric softener composition comprising the cationic surfactant mixture according to any one of aspects 1 to 25 and having a water content of less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, preferably less than 5%.

[0086] 33. The composition of embodiment 32, which is liquid and transparent at a temperature of 26°C to 60°C, preferably 20°C to 40°C, more preferably 16°C to 60°C, and most preferably 0°C to 80°C.

[0087] 34. A)Fragrance, Here, preferably, (i) the flavouring consists of one or more substances; and / or (ii) the average log P of the fragrance substance(s) is between 1 and 6; and / or (iii) the perfume may be an encapsulated perfume, preferably the perfume is encapsulated in a biodegradable microcapsule, more preferably the microcapsule is based on chitosan; and / or B) nonionic surfactants, and / or C) characterized in that the weight ratios of the components listed are in accordance with the following ratios: P:C is a value between 0:100 and 60:40. NI:C is 0:100 to 30:70. P corresponds to a fragrance, optionally a microencapsulated fragrance, C corresponds to the cationic surfactant mixture according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25; The composition according to any one of claims 32 to 33, wherein NI corresponds to a non-ionic surfactant.

[0088] 35. The nonionic surfactant(s) may be any of the following: fatty acids, linear or branched alkoxylated or nonalkoxylated esters of fatty acids, especially fatty acids containing 8 to 18 carbon atoms, alkoxylated or nonalkoxylated Guerbet alcohols, glycerol and polyglycerol esters, which may be optionally alkoxylated, xylitol esters, alkoxylated or nonalkoxylated sorbitan esters, esters of sugars such as glucose, fructose, galactose, mannose, xylose, arabinose, ribose, 2-deoxyribose, and sucrose, C 8~1835. The composition according to aspect 30, 31 or 34, wherein the nonionic surfactant is selected from nonionic surfactants having an amide group derived from amines such as fatty alcohols, alkyl polyglucosides, glucamines, and derivatives of methylethanolamine, diethanolamine, isopropanolamine and monoethanolamine with linear or branched fatty acids, in particular linear or branched fatty acids containing from 8 to 18 carbon atoms, waxes such as paraffins, microcrystalline waxes derived from petroleum and synthetic waxes, and in particular pentaerythritol esters having tallow chains, hydrogenated tallow chains, palm chains, behenic acid chains or oleic acid chains, preferably the nonionic surfactant is selected from ethoxylated glycerol esters, sorbitan monoesters and pentaerythritol esters, in particular pentaerythritol esters having tallow chains, hydrogenated tallow chains, palm chains, behenic acid chains or oleic acid chains.

[0089] 36. The composition according to any one of aspects 26 to 35, preferably aspects 32 to 35, characterized in that the composition has a viscosity at 20° C. of from 200 cps to 50,000 cps, measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer using spindle 2 at 60 rpm or using spindle 4 at 12 rpm.

[0090] 37. The composition comprises: A) having a viscosity of 200 mPa·s to 5000 mPa·s, optionally 200 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s, measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer with spindle 4 at 12 rpm, or B) The composition of embodiment 36, having a viscosity of 200 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s as measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer using spindle 2 at 30 rpm.

[0091] 38. Use of a mixture according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25 for preparing an optically clear composition; or a process for preparing an optically clear composition from a mixture according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25.

[0092] 39. The use or process of embodiment 38, comprising combining the mixture with water.

[0093] 40. A method for softening fabrics and / or keratin-based fibers, comprising the use of a composition according to any one of aspects 26 to 37 for softening fabrics and / or keratin-based fibers, or contacting the fabrics and / or fibers with a composition according to aspect 36 or 37.

[0094] 41. Use of a composition according to any one of aspects 32 to 37 for softening fabrics and / or keratin-based fibers, comprising preparing a fabric softener by mixing the composition with tap water or comprising directly introducing the composition into a washing machine; or a method for preparing a fabric softener suitable for softening fabrics and / or keratin-based fibers, comprising mixing the composition with tap water or directly introducing the composition into a washing machine.

[0095] As used herein, a "clear" or "optically transparent" appearance of a mixture / composition / formulation refers to essentially complete light transmission, e.g., preferably 90% or more, more preferably 95% or more, even more preferably 98% or more, and most preferably 99% or more. Preferably, unless otherwise specified, the light transmission of such mixtures / compositions / formulations is measured at λ=600 nm (1 cm thickness, 20° C.).

[0096] As used herein, when the ratio (e.g., molar ratio) "x / y" between a compound(s) within a first definition "x" and a compound(s) with a second definition "y" is 0, this means that there is no, or essentially no, compound within the first definition "x".

[0097] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, "stable" or "stable in storage" refers to the compositions comprising the cationic surfactant mixture according to the present invention maintaining the above essentially complete light transmission immediately after their preparation and after storage.Preferably, the compositions are stable at 20°C for at least 7 days, at 5°C for at least 7 days, at 20°C for at least 14 days, at 20°C for at least 28 days, or at 40°C for at least 28 days.

[0098] As used herein, viscosity is measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer at 20° C. using spindle 2 at 30 rpm or 60 rpm (preferably for low viscosities), or spindle 4 at 12 rpm (preferably for high viscosities).

[0099] As used herein, the "iodine number" (or "iodine value", IV) describes the degree of unsaturation of, for example, fatty acids and can be determined according to EN 14111:2003. EXAMPLES

[0100] Example 1 Synthesis procedure (i) Esterification: 115.1 grams (0.42 mol) of tallow fatty acid and 202.9 grams (1.39 mol) of adipic acid were introduced into a glass reactor under an inert atmosphere. Then, 292.3 grams (1.96 mol) of triethanolamine were introduced with 65.8 grams (0.49 mol) of trimethylolpropane, added with stirring. The mixture was heated at 160°C to 180°C for at least 4 hours to remove water from the reaction. The end point of the reaction was monitored by acid number assay until the value was less than 2 mg KOH / g.

[0101] The esterification yielded a yellowish liquid product consisting essentially of unreacted triethanolamine and trimethylolpropane along with a mixture of unesterified fatty acids and adipic acid, triethanolamine mono-, di-, and triestered with fatty acids, triethanolamine mono-, di-, and triestered with adipic acid, or combinations thereof, trimethylolpropane mono-, di-, and triestered with fatty acids, trimethylolpropane mono-, di-, and triestered with adipic acid, or combinations thereof.

[0102] (ii) Quaternization: 611.5 grams of the product from the esterification step (containing 1.94 moles of amine equivalent product) was mixed with 149.0 grams (3.23 moles) of ethanol, followed by the addition of 232.4 grams (1.84 moles) of dimethyl sulfate with stirring at a temperature between 50° C. and 90° C.

[0103] After 4 hours of digestion, an acid / base assay verified the virtually complete absence of amine value. 992.9 grams of final product was obtained.

[0104] calculation Monocarboxylic acid / dicarboxylic acid molar ratio: 0.42 mol tallow fatty acid / 1.39 mol adipic acid = 0.30

[0105] COOH / OH equivalent ratio: (1 equivalent x 0.42 mol tallow fatty acid + 2 equivalents x 1.39 mol adipic acid) / (3 equivalents x 1.96 mol triethanolamine + 3 equivalents x 0.49 mol trimethylolpropane) = 0.44

[0106] Polyol / Triethanolamine Molar Ratio: 0.49 mol trimethylolpropane / 1.96 mol triethanolamine = 0.25

[0107] Example 2 Further exemplary EQ mixtures (Table 1) were prepared by procedures similar to those of Example 1.

[0108] TIFF2025512689000005.tif122170

[0109] Solubility measurements 88.3 g of deionized water at 20° C. was added to a beaker equipped with a magnetic stirrer at low stirring speed. Then 11.7 g of each EQ mixture was added with stirring at 20° C. The resulting mixture is stirred for 15 minutes at 20° C. To quantify the optically clear appearance, the transmittance was measured at λ=600 nm (1 cm thickness, 20° C.) immediately (t=0) or after various storage periods and temperatures (Table 2).

[0110] TIFF2025512689000006.tif53170

[0111] These results demonstrate that the EQ mixtures of the present invention can be dissolved directly in water, thereby providing optically clear and stable compositions upon storage under a variety of conditions. No additives are required to achieve the optical clarity and stability of the final composition.

[0112] Example 3 Further exemplary EQ mixtures were prepared by procedures similar to those of Example 1 and measured under the conditions of Example 2 (transmittance measured at λ=600 nm, 1 cm thickness, t=0, 20° C.).

[0113] TIFF2025512689000007.tif138170

[0114] Example 4 88.5 g of distilled water is added to the flask at room temperature. 0.2 g of thickening polymer (hydroxyethyl cellulose, NATROSOL 250 HHX) is added to the water and the mixture is left stirring until homogenous. Then 10 g of the product of the present invention (EQ reference number 25106) is added and adequate stirring is given at room temperature. The mixture is left stirring for 15 minutes. Then 1 g of commercial LEVENOL C-201 is added to the mixture and this is left stirring for 15 minutes. Once mixed, 0.3 g of fragrance is added to the mixture with stirring. After 15 minutes, the mixture is removed and the mixture is left at room temperature for 24 hours before measuring the transmittance at λ=600 nm, 1 cm thickness and 20° C. (Tables 5 and 6).

[0115] These results demonstrate that the EQ mixtures of the present invention can be used to formulate fabric softener compositions that are clear at 20° C. The addition of nonionic surfactants and solvents is optional and is not required or impacts the optical clarity of the final composition.

[0116] TIFF2025512689000008.tif57170

[0117] TIFF2025512689000009.tif98170

Claims

1. The following steps: Step I: esterification of a) with b) Step II: Formation of a cation from the reaction product of step I; A mixture of cationic surfactants obtainable from a process comprising: a) is a hydroxyl group-containing compound or a mixture of hydroxyl group-containing compounds comprising a.1 and optionally a.2, wherein a. 1 is represented by the general formula (I): (In the formula, R １ is hydrogen, C １ ~C ６ Alkyl groups and residues: is selected from R ２ is C １ ~C ６ is an alkylene group, R ３ is hydrogen or methyl, and n is 0 or an integer from 1 to 20; and a. 2 is a polyol, optionally alkoxylated, characterized by a MW in the range of 60 g / mol to 190 g / mol; b) is a mixture of compounds containing one or more carboxylic acid groups, including b.1 and b.2, where b. 1 is represented by the formula (II): R ６ -COOH (II) (In the formula, R ６ is a linear or branched C ６ ~C ２３ or mixtures of monocarboxylic acids, or their alkyl esters or glycerides, preferably linear or branched C ６ ~C ２３ an alkyl ester or an alkenyl ester, b. 2 is represented by the general formula (III): HOOC-L-COOH (III) where L is a group in which each carbon atom is C １ ~C ６ is a saturated or unsaturated linear, branched, or cyclic group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, optionally substituted with a saturated or unsaturated group of the formula: ７ )) ｍ or one or more R ７ Optionally substituted by (C ６ ~C １０ arylene), each R ７ are independently hydrogen, OH, or C １ ~C ６ m is an integer from 0 to 10, where m≧2 is a chain (CH) ｍ is a dicarboxylic acid or mixture of dicarboxylic acids, optionally containing one or more double bonds and / or cyclic groups, or a reactive derivative(s) thereof; wherein a.1), a.2), b.1) and b.2) are introduced into the reaction system of step I in amounts resulting in the following molar ratios: the molar ratio of monoacid(s) / diacid(s) (b.1 / b.2) is between 0.10 and 1.0; The molar ratio between the organic carboxylic acid groups and the organic hydroxyl groups (COOH / OH) present in the system is between 0.30 and 0.80; and A mixture, wherein the molar ratio between the compound(s) in definition a.2 and the compound(s) in definition a.1 is from 0 to 0.

5.

2. The amounts of compound a.1, compound a.2, compound b.1, and compound b.2 are introduced into the reaction system in step I in the following molar ratios: the molar ratio of monoacid(s) / diacid(s) (b.1 / b.2) is between 0.30 and 1.0; the molar ratio between the organic carboxylic acid groups and the organic hydroxyl groups (COOH / OH) present in said system is between 0.40 and 0.70, preferably between 0.50 and 0.70; and 2. The mixture according to claim 1, wherein the molar ratio between the compound(s) within definition a.2 and the compound(s) under definition a.1 is 0 or between 0.1 and 0.

5.

3. A) the alkanolamine(s) of formula (I) are selected from triethanolamine, N-methyldiethanolamine, N-methyldiisopropanolamine, and triisopropanolamine, each of which is optionally alkoxylated with ethylene oxide or propylene oxide, and mixtures thereof; and / or B) the dicarboxylic acid(s) of formula (III) are / are selected from succinic acid, malic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, sebacic acid, pimelic acid, suberic acid, maleic acid and terephthalic acid, acids obtained by thermal oligomerization of unsaturated fatty acids, and / or mixtures thereof; C) said monocarboxylic acid(s) of formula (II) are synthetic fatty acids or are obtained from fats or oils of natural origin and are optionally hydrogenated, preferably from oils of vegetable origin, optionally hydrogenated, wherein preferably said monocarboxylic acids of formula (II) are selected from those obtained from tallow, palm, olive, coconut, sunflower, soybean, rapeseed, grape pomace and grapes, each of which may be hydrogenated, partially hydrogenated or non-hydrogenated, and / or D) The mixture according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the compounds corresponding to a.1 and / or a.2 are of natural origin.

4. A) step II corresponds to the formation of an addition salt of the alkanolamine ester obtained from step I with an inorganic or organic acid, Here, preferably, the inorganic acid or the organic acid is one or more selected from hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, citric acid, and lactic acid, or B) Step II corresponds to the quaternization of the reaction mixture of step I with alkylating agent(s); The mixture according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the alkylating agent is preferably one or more selected from methyl chloride, methyl bromide, dimethyl sulfate, diethyl sulfate, and dimethyl carbonate.

5. A softener composition, preferably a fabric softening composition and / or a keratin-based fibre softening composition, comprising a cationic surfactant mixture according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. further comprising water, wherein preferably the water content is preferably greater than 75% (w / w), more preferably greater than 80% (w / w), more preferably greater than 85% (w / w), most preferably greater than 90% (w / w); and / or 6. The composition of claim 5, wherein the solid residue is not more than 25% (wt / wt), preferably not more than 20% (wt / wt), more preferably not more than 15% (wt / wt), even more preferably not more than 10% (wt / wt), and most preferably between 2% (wt / wt) and 10% (wt / wt).

7. A) fragrance, Here, preferably, (i) the flavouring comprises one or more substances; and / or (ii) the average log P of the perfume substance(s) is between 1 and 6; and / or (iii) the weight ratio between said cationic surfactant mixture and said fragrance is from 99:1 to 40:60, more preferably from 80:20 to 60:40, even more preferably from 80:20 to 70:30; and / or (iv) the perfume may be partially encapsulated, preferably the perfume is encapsulated in a biodegradable microcapsule, more preferably the microcapsule is based on chitosan; and / or B) a nonionic surfactant; the weight ratio between the cationic surfactant mixture and the non-ionic surfactant is from 100:0 to 70:30; and / or C) thickeners, wherein the weight ratio of the mixture according to any one of claims 1 to 5 to the thickener is between 100:0 and 10:5, preferably between 100:1 and 10:2; The composition of claim 5 or 6, further comprising:

8. (i) a mixture of cationic surfactants as defined in any one of claims 1 to 4; (ii) optionally one or more nonionic surfactants; Including, The sum of components (i) and (ii) is 2% by weight to 20% by weight, The content of component (i) is 2% by weight to 20% by weight, preferably 5% by weight to 15% by weight, based on the weight of the composition; 8. The composition according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the content of component (ii) is from 0% to 6% by weight, preferably from 0% to 4% by weight, more preferably from 0% to 3% by weight, even more preferably from 0% to 2% by weight, and most preferably from 0% to 0.05% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.

9. A concentrated fabric softener composition comprising a cationic surfactant mixture according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and having a water content of less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, preferably less than 5%.

10. 10. The composition according to claim 9, which is liquid and transparent at a temperature of from 26°C to 60°C, preferably from 20°C to 40°C, more preferably from 16°C to 60°C, and most preferably from 0°C to 80°C.

11. A) fragrance, Here, preferably, (i) the flavouring comprises one or more substances; and / or (ii) the average log P of the perfume substance(s) is between 1 and 6; and / or (iii) the perfume is an encapsulated perfume, preferably the perfume is encapsulated in a biodegradable microcapsule, more preferably the microcapsule is based on chitosan; and / or B) a nonionic surfactant; and / or C) characterized in that the weight ratios of the listed components are in accordance with the following ratios: P:C is a value between 0:100 and 60:40; NI:C is 0:100 to 30:70; P corresponds to said perfume, optionally a microencapsulated perfume, C corresponds to a cationic surfactant composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, 11. The composition according to claim 9 or 10, wherein NI corresponds to the non-ionic surfactant.

12. characterized by a viscosity at 20° C. of 2 cps to 50,000 cps measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer using spindle 2 at 60 rpm or spindle 4 at 12 rpm, wherein preferably A) the composition has a viscosity of from 2 mPa·s to 5000 mPa·s, optionally from 2 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s, measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer using spindle 4 at 12 rpm; or B) The composition according to any one of claims 5 to 11, wherein the composition has a viscosity of from 2 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s measured in a Brookfield LVT viscometer using spindle 2 at 30 rpm.

13. Use of the mixture according to any one of claims 1 to 4 for preparing an optically transparent composition.

14. Use of a composition according to any one of claims 5 to 12 for softening fabrics and / or keratin-based fibres.

15. 13. Use of a composition according to any one of claims 9 to 12 for softening fabrics and / or keratin-based fibres, comprising preparing a fabric softener by mixing said composition with tap water or comprising introducing a unit dose or said composition directly into a washing machine.

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