Compositions, Methods, and Uses

Abstract

1. A solid detergent composition comprising: (a) a salt of an amine and a fatty acid, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms; (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant; (c) at least one anionic surfactant; (d) at least one solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group; and (e) water, wherein the water comprises 20% or less by weight of the total detergent composition.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to detergent compositions.In particular, the present invention relates to unit dose compositions with improved properties for use in toilet care, automatic dishwashing, manual dishwashing, laundry, fabric care, kitchen care, carpet cleaning, air freshener, vehicle care, abrasive products, machine cleaning and maintenance, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, oil field chemical applications, marine applications, personal care, and institutional / industrial cleaning.The detergent compositions can be particularly useful for household cleaning applications, for example in laundry detergent compositions. [Background technology]

[0002] Detergent compositions are generally known for household use, particularly in laundry and automatic dishwashing applications. The compositions can be provided in the form of loose powders or liquids, the dosage of which is measured by the user prior to each use.

[0003] Many consumers prefer to purchase detergent compositions in unit dose form, where a single tablet or pouch is added to a washing machine or dishwasher with a pre-measured dose. Unit dose detergent compositions are often provided in the form of compressed powder tablets or pouches containing a liquid encapsulated in a water-soluble polymer.

[0004] The nature of the ingredients in many compositions means that unit doses must be individually packaged in disposable packaging or housed in a polymer. In some embodiments, the pouch or tablet contains multiple compartments. This is typically to separate incompatible ingredients to prevent them from reacting and deteriorating during storage.

[0005] Many factors are important in the design of a unit dose. When a liquid, compressed powder, or mixture thereof is enclosed or encapsulated in a tablet or pouch, the outer material must dissolve quickly upon use to release the contents. However, it must not easily deteriorate or burst during storage.

[0006] Wrapping or encapsulating tablets adds manufacturing complexity and cost, as does providing multiple compartments in a tablet or pouch, and such products have been known to explode when handled by children, exposing them to harmful detergents, and therefore may be less safe than all solid detergent products.

[0007] It would therefore be highly desirable to provide a unit dose detergent in an easy to handle solid form, preferably one that is not housed or encapsulated in a polymer and does not require a separate protective packaging.

[0008] With environmental considerations becoming increasingly important, it is highly desirable to provide unit dosage forms that may be capable of being provided in plastic-free packaging.

[0009] To reduce the environmental impact of detergents, it is also preferable to provide the compositions in a concentrated form to avoid unnecessary transportation of water. Thus, compositions having low water levels are highly desirable.

[0010] Detergent compositions also need to be aesthetically pleasing and attractive to the consumer. Clear compositions are considered desirable.

[0011] A further challenge in manufacturing unit doses compared to bulk liquid or powder compositions is to provide a composition that has good dissolution characteristics.

[0012] In the manufacture of detergents, the safety of the ingredients used is also important, and irritation to the skin and eyes is reduced as much as possible. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0014] It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel detergent composition that overcomes at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, whether mentioned herein or not. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] According to a first aspect of the present invention, (a) salts of amines and fatty acids, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms; (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant; (c) at least one anionic surfactant; (d) at least one solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group, and (e) water Including, Water accounts for 20% by weight or less of the total detergent composition; A solid detergent composition is provided.

[0016] The solid detergent composition comprises (a) a salt of an amine and a fatty acid, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms.

[0017] The amine is preferably a primary amine, ie, the amine preferably includes an NH2 functional group.

[0018] Suitably, the amine has 3 to 20 carbon atoms, preferably 3 to 12 carbon atoms, for example 3 to 6 carbon atoms, 3 to 5 carbon atoms, or 3 to 4 carbon atoms. Most preferably, the amine has 3 carbon atoms.

[0019] Preferably, the amine is an alkanolamine. The amine may be a monoalkanolamine, a dialkanolamine, a trialkanolamine, an N-alkylalkanolamine, or an N-hydroxyalkylalkanolamine. A suitable N-alkylalkanolamine is a methylalkanolamine. A suitable N-hydroxyalkylalkanolamine is an N-hydroxymethylalkanolamine. Preferably, the amine is a monoalkanolamine.

[0020] Preferably, the hydroxy group of the monoalkanolamine is not attached to a terminal carbon atom.

[0021] Most preferably, the amine is monoisopropanolamine, ie, the compound of formula CH3CH(OH)CH2NH2.

[0022] Component (a) comprises a salt of an amine with a fatty acid. Although reference is made to a fatty acid, it will be understood that the material may comprise a mixture of components. At least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms.

[0023] The fatty acids may comprise a mixture of compounds, typically a mixture of isomers and / or homologues.

[0024] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that natural sources of fatty acids often contain mixtures.

[0025] The inventors have surprisingly found that when using fatty acid salts in the present invention, in order to achieve beneficial properties, at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules must have at least 16 carbon atoms. This characteristic is defined by the number of fatty acid molecules present in component (a) and their carbon numbers. Therefore, the molar ratio of each fatty acid present should be used to determine whether a fatty acid mixture has at least 50% fatty acid molecules with at least 16 carbon atoms. For the avoidance of doubt, the weight ratio of fatty acids present should not be used to determine whether a fatty acid mixture has at least 50% fatty acid molecules with at least 16 carbon atoms.

[0026] Suitably, the fatty acid comprises a compound of the formula RCOOH, where R is an optionally substituted alkyl or alkenyl group. Preferably, R is an unsubstituted alkyl or alkenyl group. In a preferred embodiment, R is an alkyl group.

[0027] Preferred fatty acids are saturated fatty acids.

[0028] The fatty acids may contain some unsaturated components, but predominantly saturated compounds are preferred. Suitably, at least 50%, preferably at least 75% or at least 90% of the fatty acid molecules are saturated. Preferably, all or substantially all of the fatty acid molecules are saturated.

[0029] At least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms. Fatty acid components having less than 16 carbon atoms, such as fatty acids having 12 carbon atoms, may be included, but these are present in a total amount of less than 50 mol%. Natural sources containing C12 fatty acids, such as coconut fatty acids, may be included.

[0030] At least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms. Fatty acids having 16 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably 16 to 24 carbon atoms, more preferably 16 to 20 carbon atoms, and most preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms are preferred.

[0031] In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, of the fatty acid molecules have from 16 to 18 carbon atoms.

[0032] Preferably, at least 90% of the fatty acid molecules are saturated C16-C18 fatty acids.

[0033] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the fatty acid is 16 and C 18 It contains an approximately equimolar mixture of saturated fatty acids.

[0034] Component (a) preferably comprises the monoisopropanolamine salt of a mixture of C16 and C18 fatty acids.

[0035] Components (a), (b) and (c) of the solid detergent composition of this first aspect are preferably provided by different components. Component (a) may be considered to be a nitrogen-containing surfactant and / or an anionic surfactant, but a salt of an amine and a fatty acid, in which at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms, provides only component (a) of the solid detergent composition. Thus, the solid detergent composition comprises one or more nitrogen-containing surfactant components (b) different from component (a) and one or more anionic surfactant components (c) different from components (a) and (b).

[0036] Component (b) comprises at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant.

[0037] Component (b) may comprise a mixture of two or more nitrogen-containing surfactants.

[0038] Any suitable nitrogen-containing surfactant can be used, and suitable surfactant compounds will be known to those skilled in the art.

[0039] Preferably, component (b) comprises one or more nitrogen-containing surfactants selected from alkanolamides, amine oxides, and amphoteric or zwitterionic compounds, or mixtures thereof.

[0040] In some embodiments, component (b) comprises an alkanolamide.

[0041] In some embodiments, component (b) comprises an amine oxide.

[0042] In some embodiments, component (b) comprises an amphoteric or zwitterionic nitrogen-containing surfactant, preferably a betaine.

[0043] In some embodiments, component (b) includes a betaine.

[0044] In some embodiments, component (b) includes betaines and alkanolamides.

[0045] In some embodiments, component (b) includes alkanolamides, amine oxides, and betaines.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, component (b) comprises a betaine and an amine oxide.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, component (b) comprises an amine oxide and an alkanolamide.

[0048] Alkanolamide is meant to refer to the reaction product of an alkanolamine and a fatty acid donor (e.g., a fatty acid, a fatty acid ester, or a triglyceride). The alkanolamide may be referred to as a fatty acid alkanolamide. The reaction product of a fatty acid and an alkanolamine preferably contains primarily fatty acid alkanolamide. The reaction product may contain some ester compounds formed by the fatty acid and the alkanolamine. Thus, the reaction product of a fatty acid and an alkanolamine may be a mixture of fatty acid alkanolamide and fatty acid amino ester.

[0049] Alkanolamides can be prepared from monoalkanolamines or dialkanolamines.

[0050] Preferably, the alkanolamides are prepared from monoalkanolamines.

[0051] In some embodiments, the alkanolamides are prepared from dialkanolamines.

[0052] Preferably, the alkanolamide comprises the reaction product of a fatty acid donor and an alkanolamine selected from monoethanolamine, monopropanolamine, monoisopropanolamine, monobutanolamine, and diethanolamine.

[0053] Preferably, the alkanolamide comprises the reaction product of a fatty acid donor and monoisopropanolamine. Thus, the alkanolamide is suitably a fatty acid alkanolamide that comprises a fatty acid moiety.

[0054] Suitably, the fatty acid moiety has the formula RC(O)-, where R is an optionally substituted alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, alkenyl, or hydroxyalkenyl group, such as a hydroxystearic acid group. Preferably, R is an unsubstituted alkyl or alkenyl group. In a preferred embodiment, R is an alkyl group.

[0055] Preferably, R is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 36 carbon atoms, preferably 6 to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably 8 to 24 carbon atoms, for example 10 to 20 carbon atoms.

[0056] In some preferred embodiments, the fatty acid moiety comprises predominantly C12 fatty acids.

[0057] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that natural sources of fatty acids typically contain a mixture of compounds.

[0058] Preferably, the fatty acid moiety is a coconut fatty acid. In such embodiments, the alkanolamide may be formed by reaction of a coconut fatty acid ester with an alkanolamine.

[0059] Preferably, the alkanolamide is formed by reaction of a coconut fatty acid ester with monoisopropanolamine.

[0060] Preferably, the alkanolamide has the formula: [ka] (In the formula, R 1 is alkyl, alkenyl, hydroxyalkyl, and hydroxyalkenyl containing 6 to 22 carbon atoms; R 2 is a hydroxyalkyl group containing 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 carbon atoms; R 3 is hydrogen or an alkyl group, or R 2 (has the same meaning as Preferably, R 2 is a hydroxyisopropyl group, in which case the molecule may be referred to as an alkanoylisopropanolamide. 3 is hydrogen.

[0061] Suitable examples of such fatty acid alkanolamides are cocamide MIPA (i.e., EMPILAN® CIS), cocamide MEA (i.e., EMPILAN® CME / T), cocamide DEA (i.e., EMPILAN® 2502), cocamide methyl MEA, lauramide MEA, lauramide DEA, lauramide MIPA, myristamide MEA, myristamide DEA, myristamide MIPA, stearamide MEA, stearamide DEA, stearamide MIPA, hydroxystearamide MEA, isostearamide DEA, N-tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl lauramide, oleamide MEA, oleamide DEA, oleamide MIPA, soyamide MEA, soyamide DEA, soyamide MIPA, behenamide MEA, behenamide DEA, palmitamide MEA, palmitamide DEA, ricinoleamide MEA, ricinoleamide DEA, ricinoleamide MIPA, tallowamide MEA, tallowamide DEA, undecylenamide MEA, undecylenamide DEA, N-lauroyl-N-methylglucamide, N-cocoyl-N-methylglucamide, or mixtures thereof.

[0062] Most preferably, component (b) comprises cocamide MIPA.

[0063] Preferred amine oxides for use herein are oxides of tertiary amines. Preferably, the amine oxide is an oxide of a tertiary alkyl or alkenyl amine having 6 to 36 carbon atoms, preferably 6 to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably 8 to 24 carbon atoms, for example 10 to 20 carbon atoms.

[0064] Preferably, the amine oxide is an oxide of a tertiary alkylamine. The amine oxide may comprise a mixture of compounds, preferably a mixture of homologues. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that amines obtained from natural sources typically comprise a mixture of compounds.

[0065] Preferably, the amine oxide comprises a mixture of C12-C16 amine oxides.

[0066] In some embodiments, component (b) comprises an amphoteric or zwitterionic nitrogen-containing surfactant.

[0067] Amphoteric or zwitterionic nitrogen-containing surfactants for use as component (b) in the compositions of the present invention have alkyl or alkenyl groups of from 7 to 22 carbon atoms and have the overall structural formula: [ka] (In the formula, R 1 is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 7 to 22 carbon atoms, R 2 and R 3 are each independently an alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or carboxyalkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, m is 2 to 4, n is 0 or 1, X is an alkylene group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms optionally substituted with hydroxyl, and Y is -CO2 or -SO3. may include those that comply with

[0068] Such amphoteric or zwitterionic nitrogen-containing surfactants include those having in the range of 7 to 22 carbon atoms, R 1 The invention may include compounds of the above formulas having different numbers of carbon atoms in the groups. For example, R 1 is derived from natural sources such as coconut fatty acid derivatives.

[0069] Suitable surfactants for use as component (b) have the formula: [ka] The simple betaine and its formula: [ka] (wherein m is 2 or 3). The amidobetaine may include

[0070] In both equations, R 1 , R 2 , and R 3is as defined above. R 1 In particular, coconut-derived C 12 and C 14 It may also be a mixture of alkyl groups, whereby the group R 1 At least half, preferably at least three-quarters, of the R 2 and R 3 is preferably methyl.

[0071] In some preferred embodiments, R 1 may be a C alkyl group, whereby the group R 1 At least half, preferably at least three quarters, of the R 2 and R 3 is preferably methyl.

[0072] In some preferred embodiments, R 1 may be a C alkyl group, whereby the group R 1 At least half, preferably at least three quarters, of the R 2 and R 3 is preferably methyl.

[0073] In some preferred embodiments, R 1 may be a mixture of C8 and C10 alkyl groups, whereby the group R 1 At least half, preferably at least three quarters, of the R 2 and R 3 is preferably methyl.

[0074] The surfactant component (b) has the formula: [ka] (wherein m is 2 or 3), or variations thereof; -(CH2)3SO3 - teeth, [ka] is replaced by R in these formulas 1 , R 2 , and R 3 is as previously defined, It may contain sultaines (or sulfobetaines).

[0075] The surfactant component (b) may include amphoacetates and diamphoacetates. Amphoacetates generally have the following formula: [ka] in accordance with Diamphoacetates generally have the following formula: [ka] where R is an aliphatic group of 7 to 22 carbon atoms and M is a cation such as sodium, potassium, ammonium, or substituted ammonium.

[0076] Suitable acetate amphoteric surfactants include lauroamphoacetate, alkylamphoacetates, cocoampho(di)acetate, cocoamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, sodium cocoamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, disodium capryloamphodiacetate, disodium lauroamphoacetate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, and disodium wheat germamphodiacetate.

[0077] Suitable betaine surfactants are alkylamidobetaines, alkylbetaines, C 12 / 14Alkyl dimethyl betaine, cocoamidopropyl betaine, tallow bis(hydroxyethyl) betaine, hexadecyl dimethyl betaine, coco dimethyl betaine, alkyl amidopropyl sulfobetaine, alkyl dimethylamine betaine, cocoamidopropyl dimethyl betaine, alkyl amidopropyl dimethylamine betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, lauryl betaine, lauryl amidopropyl betaine, cocoamido betaine, lauryl amido betaine, alkyl amino betaine, alkyl amido betaine, coco betaine betaine, lauryl betaine, dimethicone propyl PG-betaine, oleyl betaine, N-alkyl dimethyl betaine, coco biguamide derivatives, C8 amido betaine, C12 amido betaine, lauryl dimethyl betaine, alkyl amidopropyl betaine, amido betaine, alkyl betaine, cetyl betaine, oleamidopropyl betaine, isostearamidopropyl betaine, lauramidopropyl betaine, 2-alkyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethyl imidazolinium betaine, 2-alkyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethyl imidazolinium betaine, 2-alkyl-N-sodium carboxymethyl-N-carboxymethyloxyethyl imidazolinium betaine, N-alkylamidopropyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)ammonium betaine, N-alkyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)ammonium betaine, cocodimethyl betaine, apricotamidopropyl betaine, isostearamidopropyl betaine, myristamidopropyl betaine, palmitamidopropyl These include pyru betaine, cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, undecylenamidopropyl betaine, cocoamidosulfobetaine, alkylamido betaines, C12 / 18 alkylamidopropyl dimethylamine betaine, lauryl dimethyl betaine, ricinoleamido betaine, tallow amino betaine, octylamidopropyl betaine, decylamidopropyl betaine, C8 amidopropyl betaine, C10 amidopropyl betaine, C8-C10 amidopropyl betaine, and C12-C18 amidopropyl betaine.

[0078] Suitable glycinate-based amphoteric surfactants include cocoamphocarboxyglycinate, tallowamphocarboxygycinate, capryloamphocarboxyglycinate, oleoamphocarboxyglycinate, bis-2-hydroxyethyl tallowglycinate, laurylamphoglycinate, tallowpolyamphoglycinate, cocoamphoglycinate, oleic acid polyamphoglycinate, NC 10 / 12 Fatty acid amidoethyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl) glycinate, NC 12 / 18 Fatty acid amidoethyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl) glycinate, and dihydroxyethyl tallow glycinate.

[0079] Preferred acetate-based amphoteric surfactants for use as component (b) include sodium lauroamphoacetate, disodium lauroamphoacetate, and mixtures thereof.

[0080] Preferred betaine surfactants for use as component (b) are the amidobetaines. Particularly preferred compounds include cocoamidopropyl betaine and amidopropyl betaines prepared from C8 and / or C10 fatty acids.

[0081] Preferably, component (b) comprises one or more of the reaction products of fatty acids having 8 to 20 carbon atoms with monoalkanolamines, amine oxides having 8 to 20 carbon atoms, and amidobetaines prepared from C6-C20 fatty acids.

[0082] Component (c) comprises at least one anionic surfactant.

[0083] Component (c) may comprise a mixture of two or more anionic surfactants.

[0084] Any suitable anionic surfactant may be included. Such compounds are known to those skilled in the art.

[0085] Suitable anionic surfactants for use herein include salts of the following: fatty acids, alkoxylated carboxylic acids, ester carboxylates, ethoxylated ester carboxylates, mono or dialkyl sulfates, mono or dialkyl ether sulfates, lauryl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkylaryl sulfonates, primary alkane disulfonates, alkene sulfonates, hydroxyalkane sulfonates, isethionates, alkyl isethionates, acyl isethionates, acyl alkyl isethionates, alkyl glyceryl ether sulfonates, alpha olefin sulfonates, alkoxylated ester carboxylates, mono or dialkyl sulfates, mono or dialkyl ether sulfates, lauryl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl aryl sulfonates, primary alkane disulfonates, alkene sulfonates, hydroxyalkane sulfonates, isethionates, alkyl isethionates, acyl isethionates, acyl alkyl isethionates, alkyl glyceryl ether sulfonates, alpha olefin sulfon ... Sulfonates, alkyl phosphates, sulfonates of alkylphenol polyglycol ethers, alkyl sulfopolycarboxylate esters, alkyl sulfosuccinates, alkyl ether sulfosuccinates, taurates, acyltaurates, products of condensation of fatty acids with oxy- and aminoalkanesulfonic acids, sulfated derivatives of fatty acids with polyglycols, alkyl and acyl sarcosinates, sulfoacetates, alkyl phosphates, alkyl phosphate esters, acyl lactates, sulfated fatty acids, alkanolamides of lipoamino acids and acyl-substituted amino acids, such as acyl glycinates and acyl glutamates. Particularly exemplary salts are, where applicable, the sodium, potassium, ammonium, magnesium, and triethanolamine salts.

[0086] Preferred anionic surfactants include alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl glyceryl ether sulfates, taurates, acyltaurates, (alkyl)isethionates, (alkyl)acylisethionates, acyl-substituted amino acids, sarcosinates, sulfosuccinates, sulfosuccinamates, sulfoacetates, monoalkyl phosphate esters, dialkyl phosphate esters, monoalkyl ether phosphate esters, dialkyl ether phosphate esters, alpha olefin sulfonates, acyl lactates, alkyl ether carboxylates, and glyceryl ether carboxylates.

[0087] Particularly preferred anionic surfactants for use herein include alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, taurates, isethionates, acyl-substituted amino acids, sarcosinates, and sulfosuccinates.

[0088] Reference herein to taurate surfactants or acyltaurates includes compounds such as sodium lauroyl methyl taurate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, and sodium methyl oleoyl taurate, which may also be considered as alkyl acyltaurates.

[0089] Illustrative examples of preferred anionic surfactants include sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauroyl methyl taurate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, sodium methyl oleoyl taurate, sodium cocoyl isethionate, sodium lauroyl isethionate, sodium cocoyl methyl isethionate, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, sodium lauroyl glycinate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, sodium lauryl sarcosinate, and disodium oleamide monoisopropanolamine (MIPA) sulfosuccinate.

[0090] Suitable alkyl or alkenyl sulfates and ether sulfates have the formula: R 1 CH2(OR 2 ) n OSO3M (In the formula, R 1 is a C5-C39 alkyl or alkenyl group, R 2 is an alkylene group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and n is 0 to 12. It is a compound of the formula:

[0091] Preferably, R 1 is a C7-C15 alkyl or alkenyl group, or a C9-C13 alkyl or alkenyl group, preferably an alkyl group. For example, R 1can be a C11 alkyl group.

[0092] R 2 is preferably a propylene or especially an ethylene moiety. Preferably, n is 0-6, preferably 0-4, for example 0-3. In some embodiments, n is 0. In some embodiments, n is 2. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates typically comprise a mixture of compounds having different n numbers due to the statistical nature of the alkoxylation reactions used to form them. In such reactions, some molecules will not be alkoxylated and therefore some molecules with n=0, e.g., alkyl sulfates, may be present.

[0093] In some preferred embodiments, n is 2 or 3, or a mixture of compounds where n is 2 and compounds where n is 3.

[0094] In some preferred embodiments, n is 1.

[0095] The above n number preferably represents the average n number of a mixture of such alkyl or alkenyl sulfates and ether sulfates.

[0096] Suitable anionic surfactants include salts of alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, fatty acids, carboxylates, alkyl sulfonates, aryl sulfonates, alkyl benzene sulfonates, isethionates, alkyl phosphates, sulfosuccinates, taurates, sarcosinates, sulfoacetates, lactates, acyl amino acids, and phosphonates.

[0097] Suitable anionic surfactants for use in the laundry composition of the present invention typically comprise one or more moieties selected from the group consisting of carbonate, phosphate, phosphonate, sulfate, sulfonate, carboxylate, and mixtures thereof.The anionic surfactant may be one of alkyl or alkenyl sulfate, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfate, alkyl sulfonate, alkenyl sulfonate, and hydroxyalkyl sulfonate, or a mixture of more than one of them.Preferred anionic surfactants include lauryl ether sulfate and taurate (including acyltaurate and alkyl acyltaurate).A particularly preferred anionic surfactant is lauryl ether sulfate.

[0098] Component (d) comprises at least one solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group.

[0099] Suitable such solvents include monohydric alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, and aryloxy alcohols.

[0100] Suitable solvents are monohydric alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, and alkoxy alcohols.

[0101] Preferred solvents are miscible with water.

[0102] Suitable simple monohydric alcohols include methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, and butanol.

[0103] Preferably, component (d) comprises a polyhydric alcohol or an alkoxy alcohol.

[0104] Suitable alkoxy alcohols include diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, and 2-butoxyethanol.

[0105] One particularly preferred alkoxyalcohol for use herein is 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol.

[0106] Suitable aryloxy alcohols include 2-phenoxyethanol.

[0107] Suitable polyhydric alcohols include glycerol, ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, and 2-methylpentanediol.

[0108] Suitable polyhydric alcohols include glycerol, ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, and polypropylene glycol.

[0109] A mixture of propylene glycol and dipropylene glycol is particularly preferred.

[0110] Preferably, component (d) comprises propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-methylpentanediol, 2-phenoxyethanol, or mixtures thereof.

[0111] In some embodiments, component (d) includes propylene glycol and dipropylene glycol.

[0112] In some embodiments, component (d) includes 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol and dipropylene glycol.

[0113] In some embodiments, component (d) comprises a mixture of propylene glycol and 2-phenoxyethanol.

[0114] In some embodiments, component (d) may include a second solvent in addition to the solvent containing at least one hydroxyl functional group. The second solvent may be a water-immiscible solvent. Suitable such solvents may be selected from one or more of hydrocarbon oils, alkyl carbonates, synthetic and vegetable oils, essential oils, oily esters, silicone oils, or fragrances.

[0115] In such embodiments, the ratio of the solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group to the second solvent (non-water miscible solvent) may be from 100:1 to 1:5, suitably from 10:1 to 1:2, 5:1 to 1:1, or 3:1 to 1:1.

[0116] Component (e) comprises water.

[0117] The water content of the composition is less than 20% by weight.

[0118] It is preferred that water is present in the composition.

[0119] Preferably the composition comprises at least 0.1% by weight of water, preferably at least 0.5% by weight, suitably at least 1% by weight.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises 5 to 20% by weight of water.

[0121] In some embodiments, the composition comprises less than 19% water by weight, such as less than 18% or less than 17% water by weight.

[0122] For the avoidance of doubt, when the amount of an ingredient in a composition is listed in weight %, this means the weight percentage of the specified ingredient to the total composition being referred to, e.g., the total solid detergent composition.

[0123] Component (a) is preferably present in the composition of the present invention in an amount of 0.1 to 50% by weight, preferably 1 to 40% by weight, more preferably 5 to 30% by weight, for example 10 to 25% by weight or 15 to 23% by weight.

[0124] Component (b) is preferably present in the composition of the present invention in an amount of 0.1 to 50% by weight, preferably 1 to 40% by weight, more preferably 3 to 35% by weight, for example 5 to 32% by weight or 6 to 30% by weight.

[0125] Component (c) is preferably present in the composition of the present invention in an amount of 0.1 to 50% by weight, preferably 1 to 40% by weight, more preferably 2 to 30% by weight, for example 5 to 25% by weight or 8 to 18% by weight.

[0126] Component (d) is preferably present in the composition of the present invention in an amount of 0.1 to 60% by weight, preferably 1 to 50% by weight, more preferably 5 to 40% by weight, for example 8 to 38% by weight or 10 to 35% by weight.

[0127] Preferably, the solid detergent composition according to the first aspect of the present invention comprises: (a) 5 to 30% by weight, preferably 10 to 25% by weight, of a salt of an amine with a fatty acid, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms; (b) 1 to 40% by weight, preferably 5 to 32% by weight, of a nitrogen-containing surfactant; (c) 2 to 30% by weight, preferably 5 to 25% by weight, of an anionic surfactant; (d) 5 to 40% by weight, preferably 8 to 38% by weight, of a solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group, and (e) less than 20% by weight, preferably 5 to 20% by weight, more preferably 6 to 18% by weight, of water Includes.

[0128] In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises: (a) a salt of a monoalkanolamine having 3 to 6 carbon atoms and a mixture of fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) nitrogen-containing surfactants selected from alkanolamides, amine oxides, betaines, and mixtures thereof; (c) one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, hydroxyalkyl sulfonates, and taurates; (d) a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, aryloxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) water Includes.

[0129] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise: (a) a salt of a monoalkanolamine having 3 to 6 carbon atoms and a mixture of fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) nitrogen-containing surfactants selected from alkanolamides, amine oxides, betaines, and mixtures thereof; (c) one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, and hydroxyalkyl sulfonates; (d) a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) water Includes.

[0130] In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises: (a) a salt of a monoalkanolamine having 3 to 6 carbon atoms and a mixture of fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) a nitrogen-containing surfactant selected from alkanolamides, amine oxides, and amphoteric or zwitterionic compounds, or mixtures thereof; (c) one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, hydroxyalkyl sulfonates, and taurates; (d) a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, aryloxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) water Includes.

[0131] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise: (a) a salt of a monoalkanolamine having 3 to 6 carbon atoms and a mixture of fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) a nitrogen-containing surfactant selected from alkanolamides, amine oxides, and amphoteric or zwitterionic compounds, or mixtures thereof; (c) one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, and hydroxyalkyl sulfonates; (d) a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) water Includes.

[0132] In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises: (a) a salt of monoisopropanolamine and a mixture of fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) nitrogen-containing surfactants selected from cocoamidopropyl betaine and amidopropyl betaines prepared from C8 and / or C10 fatty acids; (c) one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, hydroxyalkyl sulfonates, and taurates; (d) a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, aryloxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) water Includes.

[0133] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise: (a) a salt of monoisopropanolamine and a mixture of fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) nitrogen-containing surfactants selected from cocoamidopropyl betaine and amidopropyl betaines prepared from C8 and / or C10 fatty acids; (c) one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, and hydroxyalkyl sulfonates; (d) a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) water Includes.

[0134] In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises: (a) 5 to 30% by weight, preferably 10 to 25% by weight, of a salt of a mixture of monoalkanolamines having 3 to 6 carbon atoms and fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) 1 to 40% by weight, preferably 5 to 32% by weight, of a nitrogen-containing surfactant selected from alkanolamides, amine oxides, betaines, and mixtures thereof; (c) 2 to 30% by weight, preferably 5 to 25% by weight, of one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, hydroxyalkyl sulfonates, and taurates; (d) 5 to 40% by weight, preferably 8 to 38% by weight, of a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, aryloxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) less than 20% by weight, preferably 5 to 20% by weight, more preferably 6 to 18% by weight, of water Includes.

[0135] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise: (a) 5 to 30% by weight, preferably 10 to 25% by weight, of a salt of a mixture of monoalkanolamines having 3 to 6 carbon atoms and fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) 1 to 40% by weight, preferably 5 to 32% by weight, of a nitrogen-containing surfactant selected from alkanolamides, amine oxides, betaines, and mixtures thereof; (c) 2 to 30% by weight, preferably 5 to 25% by weight, of one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, and hydroxyalkyl sulfonates; (d) 5 to 40% by weight, preferably 8 to 38% by weight, of a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) less than 20% by weight, preferably 5 to 20% by weight, more preferably 6 to 18% by weight, of water Includes.

[0136] In a preferred embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises: (a) 5 to 30% by weight, preferably 10 to 25% by weight, of a salt of monoisopropanolamine with a mixture of fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) 1 to 40% by weight, preferably 5 to 32% by weight, of a nitrogen-containing surfactant selected from cocoamidopropyl betaine and amidopropyl betaines prepared from C8 and / or C10 fatty acids; (c) 2 to 30% by weight, preferably 5 to 25% by weight, of one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, hydroxyalkyl sulfonates, and taurates; (d) 5 to 40% by weight, preferably 8 to 38% by weight, of a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, aryloxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) less than 20% by weight, preferably 5 to 20% by weight, more preferably 6 to 18% by weight, of water Includes.

[0137] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise: (a) 5 to 30% by weight, preferably 10 to 25% by weight, of a salt of monoisopropanolamine with a mixture of fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids; (b) 1 to 40% by weight, preferably 5 to 32% by weight, of a nitrogen-containing surfactant selected from cocoamidopropyl betaine and amidopropyl betaines prepared from C8 and / or C10 fatty acids; (c) 2 to 30% by weight, preferably 5 to 25% by weight, of one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, and hydroxyalkyl sulfonates; (d) 5 to 40% by weight, preferably 8 to 38% by weight, of a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof; and (e) less than 20% by weight, preferably 5 to 20% by weight, more preferably 6 to 18% by weight, of water Includes.

[0138] The solid detergent composition of this first aspect may be suitable for any one or more of the following uses: toilet care, automatic dishwashing, manual dishwashing, laundry, fabric care, kitchen care, carpet cleaning, air freshener, vehicle care, abrasive products, machine cleaning and maintenance, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, oil field chemical applications, marine applications, personal care, and institutional / industrial cleaning.

[0139] In some preferred embodiments, the composition of the first aspect further comprises (f) a non-ionic surfactant.

[0140] Suitable non-ionic surfactants are known to those skilled in the art.

[0141] Suitable nonionic surfactants include alkyl alkoxylates, alkenyl alkoxylates, C6-C22 alcohol condensates with ethylene oxide / propylene oxide block polymers, C14-C22 mid-chain branched alcohols, C14-C22 mid-chain branched alkyl alkoxylates, alkyl polysaccharides (e.g., alkyl polyglycosides), methyl ester ethoxylates, polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, ether-capped poly(oxyalkylated) alcohol surfactants, acyl polyethoxylated glycerol esters (e.g., cocoyl POE glycerol esters), and mixtures thereof.

[0142] In some embodiments, the nonionic surfactant may be a condensation product of a linear or branched chain fatty alcohol containing 6 to 22 carbon atoms with 4 to 30 moles of ethylene oxide having an HLB of 8 to 15.

[0143] Preferably, the non-ionic surfactant comprises an alkoxylated compound. Preferably, the alkoxylated non-ionic surfactant comprises at least two alkoxy residues, preferably at least two ethoxy residues.

[0144] Suitable alkoxylated nonionic surfactants include any compound containing one or more alkylene oxide residues and a hydrophobic group. Preferred nonionic surfactants are compounds containing one or more ethylene oxide and / or propylene oxide residues and a hydrophobic group. Suitable nonionic surfactants can be formed by reaction of an aliphatic alcohol, an acid or an amide with an alkylene oxide. Preferably, the hydrophobic group comprises a hydrocarbon chain having at least 4 carbon atoms, preferably at least 5 carbon atoms, more preferably at least 6 carbon atoms. Preferably, the hydrophobic group comprises 6 to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably 6 to 21 carbon atoms, most preferably 8 to 18 carbon atoms. Preferably, the hydrophobic group is an alkyl group. The nonionic surfactant component (f) may comprise one or more hydrophobic residues.

[0145] Preferred nonionic surfactants for use herein are alkoxylated alcohols prepared from C8-C20 alcohols and 2 to 16 equivalents of ethylene oxide.

[0146] Particularly preferred nonionic surfactants are alkoxylated alcohols, such as C12-16 or C12-18 alcohols ethoxylated with 7 equivalents of ethylene oxide or C10 alcohols ethoxylated with 5 equivalents of ethylene oxide.

[0147] In some embodiments, the nitrogen-containing surfactant of component (b) can be provided by a nonionic surfactant that is a nitrogen-containing surfactant. For the avoidance of doubt, component (f), when present, is present in the composition in addition to the nitrogen-containing detergent of component (b).

[0148] Component (f) is preferably present in the composition of the present invention in an amount of from 1 to 30% by weight, preferably from 2 to 20% by weight, more preferably from 5 to 15% by weight.

[0149] The compositions of the present invention may contain one or more additional ingredients.

[0150] Suitable additional ingredients may include any ingredient commonly used in detergent compositions.

[0151] Suitable additional ingredients for use in automatic dishwashing compositions include cationic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, enzymes, organic solvents, glass corrosion inhibitors, corrosion inhibitors, fragrances, fragrance carriers, chelating agents, enzymes, bleaches, bleach activators, biocides, rinse aids, dyes, pigments, fragrances, glass care agents, pH adjusters, builders (preferably silicates or zeolites), peroxide based compounds (especially hydrogen peroxide), chlorine bleaches, perborate compounds, bleach activators, and catalysts.

[0152] When the composition of the first aspect is an automatic dishwashing composition, it may include any of these ingredients.

[0153] Preferably, the composition of the first aspect of the present invention is a laundry detergent composition.

[0154] Suitable additional ingredients for inclusion in laundry compositions are known to those skilled in the art and include chelants, builders, bleaches, bleach activators, pigments, dispersants, polymeric dispersants, dyes, dye transfer inhibitors, fragrances, fragrance delivery systems, enzymes, enzyme stabilizers, biocides, probiotics, preservatives, pH adjusters, phosphates, silicates, zeolites, peroxide based compounds (especially hydrogen peroxide, chlorine bleach), perborate compounds, percarbonate compounds, bleach activators and catalysts, cationic surfactants, redeposition additives, brighteners, suds suppressors, fabric softeners, and hydrotropes.

[0155] In some preferred embodiments, the compositions of the first aspect include a redeposition agent. These compounds help to keep the salts in solution during the wash cycle of the washing machine.

[0156] Suitable redeposition reagents are known to those skilled in the art. Such components often include a polyimide. One suitable compound is sold under the trademark Sokalan HP20, which is an ethoxylated polyethylene polyimine.

[0157] The anti-redeposition agent is typically included in an amount of 0.1 to 2% by weight.

[0158] Preferably, the composition or first aspect comprises a chelating agent. Suitable chelating agents are known to those skilled in the art.

[0159] Suitable chelating agents include ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid, methylglycine diacetate, glutamic acid N,N-diacetate, iminodisuccinic acid, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, diethylenetriaminepentamethylenephosphonic acid, etidronic acid, citric acid, and anions, salts and mixtures thereof.

[0160] Preferred chelating agents for use herein are phosphonate chelating agents.

[0161] The chelating agent is typically included in an amount of 0.1 to 2% by weight.

[0162] Other preferred ingredients for inclusion in the composition of the first embodiment include probiotics, enzymes, dye transfer inhibitors, and wash performance boosting polymers. Wash performance boosting polymers are known to those skilled in the art. For example, the composition of the first embodiment can include polyacrylates, polycarboxylates, cellulose derivatives, terephthalic acid-based polyesters, ethylene / propylene glycol-based polymers, poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP), poly(vinylpyridine N-oxide) (PVP-NO), poly(vinylpyridine betaine), biodegradable polymer dispersants (e.g., polyamino acid polymers such as polyaspartates and polysaccharides such as oxidized starch), poly(vinyl alcohol), polyalkylene glycols, and copolymers of alkylene oxide and vinyl acetate, modified ethoxylated urethanes, or multifunctional polyethyleneimines.

[0163] Dye transfer inhibitors are also known to those of skill in the art.

[0164] The compositions of the present invention are solid. This means that the compositions are solid at temperatures encountered during normal storage and / or prior to use of the compositions, such as ambient or room temperatures (e.g., 15°C to 25°C, or 18°C ​​to 22°C). Preferably, the compositions are solid at temperatures below 50°C. The solid detergent composition preferably has a melting point of at least 50°C.

[0165] In a preferred embodiment, the detergent composition of the first aspect is provided in a unit dose form.

[0166] Preferably, the present invention provides a solid laundry composition in a unit dose form.

[0167] The compositions of the present invention can offer many advantages over prior art compositions.

[0168] The compositions of the present invention are highly effective detergents and have low water content. They therefore contain high levels of active ingredients. This allows small unit doses to be provided.

[0169] Preferably, each unit dose has a mass of 5 to 100 g, preferably 5 to 75 g, more preferably 10 to 50 g, suitably 15 to 40 g, preferably 20 to 30 g.

[0170] Preferably, the compositions of the present invention are sufficiently non-irritating and non-toxic that they may be directly handled by the user. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the unit doses of the present invention do not include any separate coatings, encapsulations, or envelopes.

[0171] The unit dosage form may be provided in plastic-free packaging.

[0172] In some embodiments, the unit dose form does not include a powder. In such embodiments, the unit dose form preferably consists essentially of or consists of the solid detergent composition of the first aspect. Preferably, such unit dose form is preferably completely transparent.

[0173] In some embodiments, the unit dose form comprises a solid detergent composition of a first aspect and a second composition.

[0174] Preferably, the solid detergent compositions of the present invention are provided as a solid block of material of substantially uniform hardness.

[0175] In some particularly preferred embodiments, the compositions of the present invention are transparent, meaning that light can pass through the material and it is possible to look through the material and observe objects on the other side of the material.

[0176] Clarity can be suitably measured using the test described in Example 4.

[0177] Providing a clear composition is highly appealing to consumers.

[0178] The compositions of the present invention preferably have favorable dissolution characteristics. It is particularly important that the unit dose dissolves quickly and completely at the start of the wash and does not clog any part of the machine.

[0179] The dissolution rate of the compositions of the present invention can be measured using the method described in Example 3.

[0180] Preferably, the compositions of the present invention have a dissolution rate, as measured by the method of Example 3, of at least 0.5 g / min, preferably at least 0.6 g / min, more preferably at least 0.7 g / min.

[0181] To obtain the desirably homogeneous and preferably transparent compositions of the present invention, the compositions are preferably prepared from the melt.

[0182] Preferably, the melting point of the composition of the present invention is at least 45°C, preferably at least 50°C.

[0183] The melting point of the composition of the first aspect is preferably 45 to 70°C, more preferably 50 to 65°C.

[0184] One technique by which the melting point of a composition of the invention can be determined is described in Example 5.

[0185] In a preferred embodiment, the solid detergent composition of this first aspect is transparent, has a dissolution rate of at least 0.5 g / min, as measured by the method of Example 3, and has a melting point of 45 to 70°C.

[0186] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the solid detergent composition of this first aspect is transparent, has a dissolution rate of at least 0.7 g / min, as measured by the method of Example 3, and has a melting point of 50-65°C.

[0187] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for producing a solid detergent composition, comprising the steps of: (i) containing at least the following components: (a) salts of amines and fatty acids, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms; (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant; (c) at least one anionic surfactant; (d) at least one solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group, and (e) up to 20% by weight water preparing a molten composition comprising: (ii) shaping and / or cooling the composition obtained in step (i); A method is provided, comprising:

[0188] Step (i) comprises providing a molten composition comprising components (a) to (e). The molten composition may comprise one or more further components as described in relation to the first aspect. Preferably, the composition further comprises (f) a non-ionic surfactant.

[0189] Preferred features of the second aspect are as described in relation to the first aspect.

[0190] Step (i) involves providing a composition in molten form by combining components (a)-(e).

[0191] Components (a) through (e) can be added in any order.

[0192] In some embodiments, one or more components may be melted and then additional components may be added to the mixture.

[0193] In some embodiments, the liquid ingredients are mixed together first, followed by addition of the solid ingredients.

[0194] Component (a) may be added as a salt in step (i) or may be formed in situ by separate addition of fatty acid and amine. The formation of the salt of component (a) may not convert all of the fatty acid and / or all of the amine into a salt. Thus, component (a) may contain some free fatty acid and / or some free amine. Preferably, all or substantially all of the fatty acid is converted into a salt with the amine. Preferably, all or substantially all of the amine is converted into a salt with the fatty acid.

[0195] In a preferred embodiment, step (i) of the method of the second aspect comprises (p) melting component (b); (q) adding component (c) with heating and mixing; (r) adding component (a) to the mixture obtained according to steps (p) and (q); This is accompanied by:

[0196] Components (d) and (e) can be added at any stage and are typically included together with one of the other components. In general, the raw materials may contain a certain amount of water or solvent.

[0197] Other ingredients, including additional surfactants, dyes, fragrances, chelating agents, and active anti-redeposition agents, may be added at any stage.

[0198] In preferred embodiments where a non-ionic surfactant (f) is included, it is preferably added during step (p) or step (q).

[0199] Throughout step (i), the mixture is preferably heated to a temperature of at least 60°C, preferably at least 65°C, for example to a temperature of 70-80°C or 70-75°C.

[0200] Step (i) is preferably completed when a homogenous mixture is obtained.

[0201] Step (ii) involves shaping and / or cooling the composition obtained in step (i).

[0202] Step (ii) preferably involves forming the composition into a unit dose.

[0203] In some embodiments, step (ii) may involve pouring the molten composition into a mould. In such embodiments, this is preferably carried out at a temperature of at least 65°C, preferably at least 70°C.

[0204] After being poured into the mold, the composition can be actively or passively cooled.

[0205] In a preferred embodiment, the mold is sized to provide a unit dose.

[0206] In some embodiments, step (ii) may involve contacting the composition provided in step (i) with a cooled belt or may involve moving the composition provided in step (i) to a cooled chamber.

[0207] The composition may be dispensed onto a belt to provide unit dose tablets, or poured to provide strips or blocks which are then cut into unit doses.

[0208] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a packaged detergent product comprising a container and a solid detergent composition, the solid detergent composition comprising: (a) salts of amines and fatty acids, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms; (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant; (c) at least one anionic surfactant; (d) a solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group, and (e) up to 20% by weight water A packaged detergent product is provided, comprising:

[0209] Preferred features of the third aspect are as described in relation to the first and second aspects.

[0210] Preferably, the packaged detergent product comprises a container and a plurality of unit doses of the detergent composition.

[0211] Preferably, the unit doses are not individually wrapped. Preferably, they are in a homogenous form. Preferably, they are not coated or encapsulated.

[0212] Advantageously, the container may be made of cardboard. It does not contain plastic.

[0213] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of laundering an article, comprising the steps of: loading the article into a washing machine; adding a solid detergent composition to the washing machine; and running a selection cycle of the washing machine, the solid detergent composition comprising: (a) salts of amines and fatty acids, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms; (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant; (c) at least one anionic surfactant; (d) a solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group, and (e) up to 20% by weight water A method is provided, comprising:

[0214] Preferably the composition is provided in unit dosage form, preferably as a transparent, homogeneous solid.

[0215] Preferred features of the fourth aspect are as described in relation to the first, second and third aspects.

[0216] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a use of a solid detergent composition in toilet care, automatic dishwashing, manual dishwashing, laundry, fabric care, kitchen care, carpet cleaning, air freshener, vehicle care, abrasive products, machine cleaning and maintenance, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, oil field chemical applications, marine applications, personal care or institutional / industrial cleaning, comprising the steps of: The solid detergent composition comprises: (a) salts of amines and fatty acids, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecules have at least 16 carbon atoms; (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant; (c) at least one anionic surfactant; (d) a solvent containing at least one hydroxy functional group, and (e) water Including, Water accounts for 20% by weight or less of the total detergent composition; Use is provided.

[0217] The solid detergent composition may have any of the suitable features and advantages described in relation to the first, second and third aspects.

[0218] Preferably, this fifth aspect involves the use of the solid detergent composition in domestic cleaning applications, especially laundry.

[0219] Any feature of any embodiment may be combined with any other embodiment as appropriate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0220] The invention will now be further described with reference to the following non-limiting examples. EXAMPLES

[0221] A composition of the present invention was prepared as follows: C8-C 10A blend of amidopropyl betaine, propylene glycol and water was mixed with dipropylene glycol and ethoxylated polyethylene polyimine. The mixture was stirred and heated to 75-80°C. Alcohol ethoxylate (C 12 -C 18 Alcohol and 7EO) were added at 70°C, followed by the slow addition of sodium laureth-1-sulfate. Monoisopropylamine and fatty acid (1:1 C 16 :C 18 ) was added. Fragrance and color were added and mixing was continued until homogenization was achieved. The mixture was discharged from the vessel at a temperature of at least 75°C and poured into molds. EXAMPLES

[0222] Additional compositions of the invention were prepared using procedures similar to those described in Example 1.

[0223] The composition details are given in Table 1, where "Comp." indicates a comparative example: [Table 1] JPEG2025513250000010.jpg50170 JPEG2025513250000011.jpg235170 JPEG2025513250000012.jpg50170

[0224] The abbreviations used in Table 1 are defined as follows in Table 2: [Table 2] JPEG2025513250000014.jpg145170 EXAMPLES

[0225] The dissolution rates of the compositions were measured using the following method, with reference to Figures 2A, B, and C: Device 5000mL beaker Variable speed laboratory stirrer · Impeller stirrer 9.5 cm long (Fig. 2c) Hot plate with temperature probe Stopwatch ·oven Distilled water A silicone mold capable of containing approximately 15 g of a sample of the test composition Analytical procedures Approximately 15 grams of the molten test composition (70-75°C) was poured into a silicone mold. The exact weight dispensed was recorded (W1). The composition was cooled to room temperature (i.e., 18°C ​​to 22°C) in the silicone mold and allowed to stand (solidify) for 60 minutes (see Figure 2A). A 5000 mL glass beaker was filled with deionized water (4000 mL) and placed on a hot plate. A temperature probe was immersed in the water (Figure 2B). The water was heated to 30°C and this temperature was maintained throughout the analysis. Overhead stirring was applied to the contents of the glass beaker using an impeller (Figure 2C) with a stirrer speed of 300 RPM. Once the temperature had stabilized at 30°C, the molded test composition was added and a stopwatch was immediately started. Once the sample was completely dissolved, the stopwatch was stopped and the dissolution time in seconds was noted (T1). The dissolution rate (g / min) was calculated from W1 and T1. Use a flashlight to enhance the visibility of the sample in the beaker. EXAMPLES

[0226] The clarity of the compositions was evaluated by the following method: Device Transparent Petri capsule, inner diameter approximately 50 mm, height approximately 12 mm (Figure 3A) Pasteur pipette ·Industrial balance A piece of white paper with 14-point bold type printed on it (Figure 3B) Analytical procedures The test composition was melted at 70-75°C. A sample (14.00 g) of the molten test composition was weighed into a clear Petri capsule, which was then covered with a lid. The samples were cooled to 25°C and left to sit for at least 60 minutes. The lid was removed. A Petri capsule was placed on a piece of white paper over bold type printed on it. The clarity of the bold type was visually assessed as follows:

[0227] Calculating the results A test composition was defined as "transparent" if 14 point bold type could be clearly read through a 6.35 mm section of material (corresponding to a 14.00 g test sample in a transparent Petri capsule as described above).

[0228] FIG. 1 shows some diagrams of test compositions that passed or failed this test. EXAMPLES

[0229] The melting points of the test compositions were determined by the following method: Device Temperature-controlled water bath Analytical procedures A sample of the test composition (approximately 50 g) was weighed into a clear glass or plastic container and allowed to warm to room temperature. The bath temperature was set to the starting temperature, typically around 45°C. The starting temperature was recorded. Once the bath temperature was reached, the container containing the sample was immersed and held at the starting temperature for 30 minutes. The bath temperature was increased in 0.5°C increments and held at each temperature for 15 minutes. The experiment was terminated when the coexistence of liquid and solid phases was visually observed at the end of the 15-minute holding period. The melting point was defined as (T-0.4℃), where T was the bath temperature at the end of the experiment. EXAMPLES

[0230] The compositions in Table 1 were tested for dissolution rate, clarity, and melting point using the procedures of Examples 3-5. The results are shown in Table 3. [Table 3]

Claims

1. (a) A salt of an amine and a fatty acid, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecule has at least 16 carbon atoms, (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant, (c) at least one anionic surfactant, (d) at least one solvent containing at least one hydroxyl functional group, and (e) Water Includes, Water accounts for 20% or less by weight of the entire detergent composition. Solid detergent composition.

2. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein component (a) is a salt of a mixture of a monoalkanolamine having 3 to 6 carbon atoms and a fatty acid, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids.

3. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein component (b) comprises a nitrogen-containing surfactant selected from alkanolamides, amine oxides, betaines, and mixtures thereof.

4. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein component (c) comprises one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, hydroxyalkyl sulfonates, and taurates.

5. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein component (d) comprises a solvent selected from polyhydric alcohols, alkoxy alcohols, aryloxy alcohols, and mixtures thereof.

6. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein component (a) is present in an amount of 5 to 30% by weight.

7. The solid detergent composition according to claim 6, wherein component (a) is present in an amount of 10 to 25% by weight.

8. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein component (b) is present in an amount of 1 to 40% by weight.

9. The solid detergent composition according to claim 8, wherein component (b) is present in an amount of 5 to 32% by weight.

10. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein component (c) is present in an amount of 2 to 30% by weight.

11. The solid detergent composition according to claim 10, wherein component (c) is present in an amount of 5 to 25% by weight.

12. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein component (d) is present in an amount of 5 to 40% by weight.

13. The solid detergent composition according to claim 12, wherein component (d) is present in an amount of 8 to 38% by weight.

14. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, comprising component (f) a nonionic surfactant.

15. Component (a) is a salt of a mixture of monoisopropanolamine and fatty acids, wherein at least 80% of the fatty acid molecules are C16-C18 fatty acids. Component (b) is selected from cocoamidopropyl betaine and amidopropyl betaine prepared from C8 and / or C10 fatty acids. Component (c) is one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkenyl sulfonates, hydroxyalkyl sulfonates, and taurates. A solid detergent composition according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

16. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, provided in unit dose form.

17. The solid detergent composition according to claim 16, wherein each unit dose has a mass of 10 to 50 g.

18. The solid detergent composition according to claim 17, wherein each unit dose has a mass of 15 to 40 g.

19. The solid detergent composition according to claim 18, wherein each unit dose has a mass of 20 to 30 g.

20. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, having a melting point of 50 to 65°C.

21. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, having a dissolution rate of at least 0.6 g / min.

22. The solid detergent composition according to claim 21, having a dissolution rate of at least 0.7 g / min.

23. The solid detergent composition according to claim 1, which is transparent.

24. A method for producing a solid detergent composition, (i) at least the following components: (a) A salt of an amine and a fatty acid, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecule has at least 16 carbon atoms, (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant, (c) at least one anionic surfactant, (d) at least one solvent containing at least one hydroxyl functional group, and (e) up to 20% by weight of water A step of preparing a molten composition containing, (ii) A step of molding and / or cooling the composition obtained in step (i) The method, including the method described above.

25. A packaged detergent product comprising a container and a solid detergent composition, wherein the solid detergent composition is (a) A salt of an amine and a fatty acid, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecule has at least 16 carbon atoms, (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant, (c) at least one anionic surfactant, (d) A solvent containing at least one hydroxyl functional group, and (e) up to 20% by weight of water The packaged detergent product, including the aforementioned product.

26. The packaged detergent product according to claim 25, comprising a container and a plurality of unit doses of the detergent composition.

27. ​​The packaged detergent product according to claim 26, wherein the unit dose is not individually wrapped.

28. A method for washing an article, comprising the steps of: putting the article into a washing machine; adding a solid detergent to the washing machine; and performing a washing cycle of the washing machine, wherein the solid detergent composition is (a) A salt of an amine and a fatty acid, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecule has at least 16 carbon atoms, (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant, (c) at least one anionic surfactant, (d) A solvent containing at least one hydroxyl functional group, and (e) up to 20% by weight of water The method, including the method described above.

29. The use of solid detergent compositions in toilet care, automatic dishwashing, manual dishwashing, laundry, fabric care, kitchen care, carpet cleaning, air fresheners, vehicle care, abrasive products, machine cleaning and maintenance, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, oilfield chemical applications, marine applications, personal care, or facility / industrial cleaning, The aforementioned solid detergent composition (a) A salt of an amine and a fatty acid, wherein at least 50% of the fatty acid molecule has at least 16 carbon atoms, (b) at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant, (c) at least one anionic surfactant, (d) A solvent containing at least one hydroxyl functional group, and (e) Water Includes, Water accounts for 20% or less by weight of the entire detergent composition. The aforementioned use.

Images