Solid deodorants to mask visual indicators related to product end of life signs

Abstract

A solid deodorant for obscuring a visual indicator associated with a sign of the product life of the solid deodorant prior to use, the solid deodorant being constructed from an elastomeric polymeric material and including a volatile composition, the solid deodorant including at least one region characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40%.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THEINVENTION The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser for dispensing a volatile composition, and more particularly to a solid deodorant configured to obscure a visual indicator associated with a product end-of-life sign. [Background technology]

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

[0003] A gel air freshener device that provides a visual cue is described in WO 03 / 008000(A1) (Givaudan SA). WO 03 / 008000(A1) describes a gel air freshener device that uses contraction of the gel base to move segments of the device, thereby providing a visual cue as to when the gel base is used up. Specifically, an axis may be located inside the device, and as the gel base contracts and the segments move closer together, the axis becomes progressively more pronounced. However, the gel base needs to be opaque to hide the axis before the gel base contracts. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 03 / 008000(A1) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In view of the above, a need remains for an air freshener that can obscure a visual indicator prior to use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention relates to a solid deodorant for obscuring a visual indicator associated with a sign of the product life of the solid deodorant prior to use, the solid deodorant being comprised of an elastomeric polymeric material and including a volatile composition, the solid deodorant including at least one region characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40%. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a solid deodorant for a dispenser of a volatile composition according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser having the solid deodorant of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 1 is a front view of a dispenser of a volatile composition having a solid deodorant with an initial size and a visual indicator in a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible according to the present invention. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 3 in a second configuration in which the visual indicator is visually perceptible. FIG. [Figure 5A] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of providing a visual product life indicator to a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, according to the present invention. [Figure 5B] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of providing a visual product life indicator to a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, according to the present invention. [Figure 5C]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of providing a visual product life indicator to a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser having a solid deodorant with an initial size and a visual indicator in a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible according to the present invention. [Figure 7] 7 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 6 in a second configuration in which the visual indicator is visually perceptible. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a side view of components within the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser having a component holder and a solid deodorant according to the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a component holder for a volatile composition dispenser in accordance with the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the component holder of FIG. 10 with a solid deodorant according to the present invention. [Figure 12] 1A-1D are front views of different texture variations of solid deodorant according to the present invention. [Figure 13] 1A-1D are front views of different texture variations of solid deodorant according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] It has been found that the end-of-life signs in consumer products play an important role in allowing consumers / users to decide when to make new purchases or replenish products.In particular, it is difficult for users of volatile material dispensing products that provide benefits to interior spaces to evaluate whether the volatile composition has run out.In particular, for scented volatile compositions, the absence of scent can be considered as an indicator that the fragrance has run out.However, for unscented volatile compositions that provide benefits without providing scent (scentless benefits), such as odor removal, deodorization, insect repellent, and antibacterial effects, the physical exhaustion of the composition is often the only way to indicate the end of product use.

[0009] The present invention relates to a solid deodorant for obscuring a visual indicator associated with the solid deodorant end of life sign prior to use, a volatile composition dispenser having a visual end of life sign, and a method of providing a visual end of life sign on a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space.

[0010] The solid deodorant is composed of an elastomeric polymeric material and includes a volatile composition, the solid deodorant includes at least one region characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40%. The technical effect of the haze measurement on the at least one region of the solid deodorant is that a visible indicator disposed in or behind the at least one region is less visually perceptible than a transparent solid deodorant having a haze measurement of less than 40% (e.g., 30% or less). Specifically, a haze measurement of at least 40% causes light rays to strike and reflect in various directions toward the user's eye, thereby causing light distortion and rendering the visual indicator visually unperceivable to the human eye. In this way, the visual indicator can be obscured in various ways before and during use without requiring complex design of parts in the volatile composition dispenser designed to obscure the visual indicator.

[0011] In the following description, the solid deodorant described below is a gel composition that includes a perfume as an example of a volatile composition. The gel composition is a polyester polyol that is crosslinked using a crosslinker selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates, and mixtures thereof. However, it will be understood that the solid deodorant can be formed from any gel composition that can be molded into a three-dimensional object and, when cured, is self-supporting and has at least a peripheral evaporative surface and a central evaporative surface.

[0012] The solid deodorant may be configured in various shapes and sizes to facilitate customization for use of the dispenser of the volatile composition, such as an air freshener in a vehicle, a residential interior space, a commercial interior space, an interior space of a household furniture (e.g., a cupboard or a locker), an interior space of a household appliance, etc. Preferably, the household appliance may be selected from the group consisting of a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a washing machine, and an automatic dishwasher. The interior space may be the interior environment of a portable consumer product, and preferably, the portable consumer product may be a bag, luggage, etc.

[0013] The solid deodorant of the present invention may be implemented using a dispenser of a volatile composition, such as, for example, a device for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space. It is contemplated that the device may be configured for use in a variety of applications for delivering a volatile material into the air and / or to a surface, so long as the volatile material evaporates from the device. For purposes of this disclosure, and without intending to limit the scope of the invention, the device is described as a non-powered device.

[0014] For the purpose of illustrating the present invention in detail, the present invention is described below as a non-energized volatile composition dispenser. However, the volatile composition dispenser may be configured to be used with an energized device, such as an electric heating device or a fan. Specifically, the described volatile composition dispenser is a consumer product, such as an air freshener, for evaporating a volatile composition in a space to provide various effects, such as air freshening, odor removal, or fragrance, such as rooms in homes and commercial facilities, or enclosed spaces such as passenger compartments in vehicles. However, the dispenser may be configured to be used in various applications to deliver volatile materials into the air, and the dispenser may include, but is not limited to, consumer products, such as air freshener products.

[0015] Prior to describing the present invention in detail, the following terms are defined for clarity of description. Terms not defined should be given their ordinary meaning as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

[0016] As used herein, "horizontal orientation" refers to the position of a dispenser of a volatile composition according to the present invention with the central evaporation surface facing the surrounding environment in an upward or downward position.

[0017] As used herein, a "solid deodorant" refers to a chemically crosslinked gel composition that is molded into the form of a three-dimensional object having a width, length, and thickness along the x-, y-, and z-axes, respectively. The solid deodorant is self-supporting and includes at least two evaporative surfaces.

[0018] As used herein, "visual indicator" refers to any element that indicates the stage of the product life cycle of a volatile composition dispenser or the condition of use of a volatile composition dispenser.

[0019] As used herein, "visually perceptible" refers to the ability to see a visual indicator and to perceive the information represented by the visual indicator.

[0020] As used herein, "vertical orientation" refers to the position of a dispenser of a volatile composition according to the present invention with the central evaporation surface facing the surrounding environment in a forward-facing or rear-facing position.

[0021] As used herein, "non-powered" means that the volatile composition dispenser is passive and does not need to be powered by an external energy source. Specifically, the volatile composition dispenser does not need to be powered by a heat source, a gas source, or a current source, and the volatile composition is not dispensed by aerosol means. Additionally, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0022] As used herein, "top note" refers to perfume raw materials that have high volatility.

[0023] As used herein, "bottom note" refers to perfume raw materials that are less volatile than the top notes.

[0024] As used herein, "vapor" refers to the gaseous form of an organic or inorganic substance that coexists as a solid or liquid at ambient conditions including, but not limited to, temperature, humidity, and air pressure.

[0025] As used herein, "vapor impermeable substrate" refers to a material configured to resist the diffusion of vapors from the dispenser prior to its intended use.

[0026] As used herein, "vapor emission rate" refers to a measure of the passage of vapor through a substrate.

[0027] As used herein, "volatile material" refers to a material that can be vaporized at room temperature and atmospheric pressure without the need for an additional energy source. Volatile compositions can be configured for a variety of uses, including, but not limited to, air freshening, deodorization, odor removal, odor neutralization, pest control, insect control, insect repellent, medicine / drug, disinfectant, sanitizer, mood enhancer, aromatherapy aid, scented composition, unscented composition, or any other use that requires a volatile composition that acts to condition, modify, or otherwise change the air or surrounding environment. Furthermore, not all of the component materials of the volatile composition need be volatile. Suitable volatile compositions may be used in any amount or in any form, including liquids, solids, gels, or emulsions. Materials suitable for use herein may include non-volatile compounds, such as carrier substances (e.g., water, solvents, etc.). It should also be understood that when a volatile composition is described herein as being "dispensed," "volatilized," or "emitted," this refers to the volatilization of the volatile components of the volatile composition, and that the non-volatile components of the volatile composition do not need to be vaporized.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a solid deodorant 2 for a dispenser of a volatile composition according to the present invention. The solid deodorant 2 is configured to contain a solid phase of a volatile composition and includes a plurality of evaporation surfaces from which the solid phase of the volatile composition can evaporate. The volatile composition may be selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorants, germicides, insect repellents, malodor reducers, and mixtures thereof. The volatile composition may be present in a concentration of 3% to 85% by weight of the solid deodorant, preferably 15% to 75% by weight, and even more preferably 20% to 60% by weight of the solid deodorant.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, the solid deodorant 2 comprises a central evaporative surface 4 and a peripheral evaporative surface 5 surrounding the central evaporative surface 4, which defines the thickness of the solid deodorant 2. The peripheral evaporative surface 5 further comprises at least one edge 6 that defines a portion of the periphery of the solid deodorant 2. The solid deodorant 2 may further comprise a second central evaporative surface (not shown in FIG. 1) opposite the central evaporative surface 4. The solid deodorant 2 comprises at least one region characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40% to obscure a visual indicator in a first configuration of the volatile composition dispenser. The at least one region may comprise the central evaporative surface 4. The visual indicator may be on the exterior of the volatile composition dispenser as shown in FIG. 2. Data demonstrating the reduced visual perceptibility of the solid deodorant 2 of the present invention according to the present invention is described below in examples made using a texture painted on the solid deodorant to provide a haze measurement of at least 40%. In particular, the central evaporation surface 4 includes an undulating surface profile 41. The technical effect of texturing is to provide an undulating surface profile on the central evaporation surface 4. By having an undulating surface, light rays strike and reflect in different directions towards the user's eye, which causes light distortion and makes the visual indicator visually undetectable to the human eye. It will be understood that the undulating surface profile can be configured in many ways to provide a haze measurement of at least 40%. FIG. 12 is a front view of different variations of the texture of a solid deodorant 120 according to the present invention, the solid deodorant 120 having a circular shape. The solid deodorant 120 can include an undulating surface profile characterized by different designs 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128 configured to provide a haze measurement of at least 40%. FIG. 13 is a front view of different variations of the texture of a solid deodorant 130 according to the present invention. The solid deodorant 130 has an oval pill shape similar to the solid deodorant 2 of FIG.The solid deodorant 130 may include an contoured surface profile characterized by distinct designs 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138 configured to provide a haze measurement of at least 40%.

[0030] Figure 2 is a front view of a volatile composition dispenser 1 according to the present invention. The volatile composition dispenser 1 comprises a housing 3 for containing the solid deodorant 2 of Figure 1. A visual indicator 8, which does not form part of the volatile composition dispenser 1, is disposed behind and obscured by at least one region of the solid deodorant 2. In particular, the visual indicator 8 may be part of a viewing window from an interior environment where the volatile composition dispenser 1 may be used to deliver a volatile composition to the interior environment. It will be understood that the visual indicator 8 may be a decorative finish of an interior surface, such as wallpaper, used in the interior environment. Alternatively, the visual indicator 8 may be disposed within the volatile composition dispenser, as described below with reference to Figure 3.

[0031] 3 is a front view of an alternative design of a volatile composition dispenser 10 in accordance with the present invention. The volatile composition dispenser 10 includes a solid deodorant 12 containing a volatile composition, at least one central evaporative surface 14, and a peripheral evaporative surface 15. Specifically, the at least one central evaporative surface includes at least one region characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40% for obscuring a visual indicator in a first configuration of the volatile composition dispenser.

[0032] The volatile composition dispenser 10 further comprises a housing 13 for containing the solid deodorant 12. The housing 13 can comprise a housing opening 17 configured to allow at least one of the central evaporative surface 14 and / or the peripheral evaporative surface 15 to be in fluid communication with the interior space.

[0033] The solid deodorant 12 may be capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size due to evaporation of the volatile composition into the air of the interior space when the solid deodorant 12 is exposed to the ambient environment. The shrinkage of the solid deodorant in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface 15 may be greater than 1% to less than 40%. A visual indicator 18 (shown in FIG. 4) is located proximate to the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid deodorant. The visual indicator 18 is stationary and its appearance and / or position does not change during the product life of the dispenser. Surprisingly, it has been found that a visual product life indicator may be incorporated into the design of a volatile composition dispenser by a dispenser having a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visible and a second configuration in which the solid deodorant has shrunk from the initial size to a reduced size and the visual indicator is visible to provide a visual cue of the use status of the dispenser.

[0034] 4 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser 10 of FIG. 1 in a second configuration, with the solid deodorant 12 shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size to reveal a visual indicator 18 to provide a visual cue of the use of the dispenser 1. The visual indicator 18 may be located anywhere within the housing, so long as it is on the inside surface of the housing 13 and proximate to the peripheral evaporative surface 15.

[0035] The visual indicator 18 may indicate a dispenser status selected from the group consisting of end of dispenser life, a quantitative status indicative of the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof. As shown in Figure 4, the visual indicator 18 may be in the form of letters defining the English word "END" indicating the end of the dispenser's life. Alternatively, the visual indicator 18 may be a set of letters or graphic symbols indicating the status of the dispenser.

[0036] As shown in Figures 1-4, a haze measurement of at least 40% may be applied to the solid deodorant by applying a surface finish to the entire area of ​​the central evaporative surface 4, 14. A technical effect of applying a surface finish to the entire area of ​​the central evaporative surface 4, 14 is to facilitate the manufacture of the solid deodorant and / or simplify the design of the housing 3, 13. However, it will be appreciated that the visual indicator 8, 18 may also be obscured by texturing only the central evaporative surface 4, 14 at least in areas adjacent the visual indicator 8, 18, and texturing other areas of the central evaporative surface 4, 14 as described below.

[0037] method To explain how the visual indicator of the solid deodorant and end-of-life sign according to the present invention functions to obscure the visual indicator, it is useful to understand how the visual indicator is obscured in a first configuration and how shrinkage of the solid deodorant can reveal the visual indicator in a second configuration. A method of obscuring a visual end-of-life sign of a volatile composition dispenser 20 for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C.

[0038] Specifically, the present invention relates to a method of obscuring a visual end-of-life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space, the method comprising: providing a volatile composition dispenser comprising a volatile composition and a solid deodorant having a peripheral evaporative surface, the solid deodorant being capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size when the solid deodorant is exposed to an environment within an interior space; applying a surface finish to at least one region of the solid deodorant, the at least one region being characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40%; providing a visual indicator located proximate a peripheral evaporative surface of the solid deodorant; exposing the solid deodorant to cause the volatile composition to vaporize to provide a benefit to the interior space; The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible, and a second configuration in which the solid deodorant shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to cause the visual indicator to become visually perceptible to indicate a use state of the dispenser.

[0039] FIG. 5A shows a volatile composition dispenser 20 in a first configuration. Referring to FIG. 5A, the volatile composition dispenser 20 comprises substantially the same components as the volatile composition dispenser 10 of FIG. 3, but differs in that the volatile composition dispenser 20 comprises a solid deodorant 22 having at least one region 21 characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40%. Specifically, the at least one region 21 is included in a central evaporative surface 24 of the solid deodorant 22. In other words, the central evaporative surface 24 has at least one textured region 21 and a non-textured region 23. The solid deodorant further comprises a peripheral evaporative surface 25 surrounding the central evaporative surface 24, specifically the at least one region 21.

[0040] Solid deodorant 22 has a length L, a width W, and a thickness D that define the three-dimensional self-supporting structure of solid deodorant 12. FIG. 1 is a front view of solid deodorant 2 containing a volatile composition according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side view of the solid deodorant of FIG. 1. Solid deodorant 2 has a length L, a width W, and a thickness D that define the three-dimensional self-supporting structure of solid deodorant 2. Solid deodorant 2 may be characterized by a thickness D of 0.5 mm to 15 mm, 1 mm to 10 mm, 2 mm to 9 mm, 3 mm to 8 mm, or different combinations of the upper and lower limits of the above, or any integer combination within the above ranges.

[0041] The solid deodorant 22 comprises a volatile composition. The volatile composition may be described as a fragrance comprising a mixture of fragrance compounds configured to evaporate from the central evaporative surface 24 and / or the peripheral evaporative surface 25. However, it will be understood that any volatile composition capable of evaporating from a solid phase (i.e., within the solid deodorant 12) to a gas phase may be used. The solid deodorant 22 may further comprise a second central evaporative surface 26 from which the volatile composition may evaporate when the central evaporative surface 26 is exposed to the ambient environment.

[0042] The volatile composition dispenser 20 further comprises a housing 13 for containing the solid deodorant 22. The volatile composition dispenser 20 is substantially vertically oriented. A visual indicator 28 is disposed within the housing 13 behind the central evaporative surface 24 and adjacent to the peripheral evaporative surface 25 of the solid deodorant 22.

[0043] The solid deodorant 22 may be disposed within the housing 13 such that a gap 17 exists between an inner surface of the housing and at least a portion of the peripheral evaporative surface 25 proximate the visual indicator 28. The gap 17 may be configured to facilitate airflow within the dispenser such that the peripheral evaporative surface 25 is in fluid communication with the air within the housing to allow the volatile composition to evaporate from the peripheral evaporative surface 25. Specifically, the gap 17 may be configured to permit contraction of the solid deodorant along a first dimension at a faster rate than contraction of the solid deodorant along a second dimension. The first dimension may be one of the length, width, and thickness of the solid deodorant, and the second dimension may be the other one of the length, width, and thickness of the solid deodorant. Specifically, the solid deodorant 22 may be disposed such that there is substantially no gap between the solid deodorant and the opposite side 26 of the peripheral evaporative surface 25.

[0044] 5B is a side cross-sectional schematic view of FIG. 5A illustrating how the visual indicator 28 may be obscured in a first configuration of the volatile composition dispenser 20. Specifically, in the first configuration before the solid deodorant 22 is exposed to air, the visual indicator 28 is obscured by the solid deodorant 12, for example, behind at least one region 21 of the central evaporative surface 24 of the solid deodorant 12. The at least one region 21 may include a texture, such as a matte finish, a three-dimensional surface texture, or a combination of a matte finish and a three-dimensional surface texture. The three-dimensional surface texture may be defined by a plurality of peaks 181 and valleys 182 on the at least one region 21 of the central evaporative surface 24.

[0045] The technical effect of texturing is to provide an undulating surface on at least one region 21 of the central evaporation surface 24. By having an undulating surface, light rays hit and reflect in different directions towards the user's eye, thereby causing light distortion and making the visual indicator visually undetectable to the human eye.

[0046] As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the solid deodorant 22 has an initial length L1, an initial width W1, and an initial thickness T1, and the dispenser 20 is in a first configuration in which the visual indicator 28 is not visible.

[0047] 5C, when the solid deodorant 22 is exposed to the ambient environment, the solid deodorant 22 exhibits shrinkage in a direction away from the peripheral evaporative surface 25, characterized by a reduced length L2. The shrinkage is determined based on calculating the difference between L1 and L2 of the solid deodorant 22, where L1 is defined by the length from the peripheral evaporative surface 25 to the opposite side 26 of the peripheral evaporative surface 25.

[0048] A technical advantage of a solid deodorant having a shrinkage percentage greater than 1% and less than 40% is that the remainder of the solid deodorant 22 has sufficient structure for the solid deodorant 12 to be a self-supporting structure that does not require a container to support the solid deodorant on a placement surface. Additionally, it also provides sufficient surface area for ease of removal for a user to remove from the placement surface. The placement surface may be an interior surface, fixture, furniture, or other location where the product is placed within an interior space.

[0049] The solid deodorant 22 may be made from an elastomeric polymeric material that may have a mixture of evaporable and non-evaporable components, so long as the amount of evaporable and non-evaporable components is configured to provide a self-supporting structure and provide a shrinkage of greater than 1% to less than 40%. The evaporable components may include a volatile composition and water. The non-evaporable components may include components suitable for forming a solid deodorant, including, but not limited to, gelling materials, elastomers, polyurethanes, and the like.

[0050] Table 1 shows examples of aqueous gel compositions according to the present invention.

[0051] [Table 1]

[0052] The solid deodorant may be non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% water by weight, and more preferably substantially free of water. The solid deodorant may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of an ethyl cellulose polymer, a chemically crosslinked polyol, or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

[0053] Table 2 shows examples of non-aqueous gel compositions containing ethyl cellulose polymers that can have shrinkage between 1% and 40%.

[0054] [Table 2]

[0055] The solid deodoriser may be a chemically crosslinked polyol, wherein the polyol or a derivative thereof is selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol is selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof, and is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent.

[0056] The solid deodorant may also be molded from a moldable material, such as any one of the non-aqueous gel compositions described below.

[0057] Non-aqueous gel composition: Gel compositions are formed using crosslinkers that form covalent bonds that are mechanically and thermally stable, and therefore less susceptible to disruption once formed. In contrast, physical crosslinks rely on microstructural changes to achieve stability, such as crystalline or highly entangled regions.

[0058] Physical gels can also retain high concentrations of hydrophobic materials, such as fragrances, but such physical gels are more delicate to handle, as they are more easily destroyed during manipulation. In addition, such physical gels typically exhibit a greater decrease in volume as the hydrophobic material evaporates, and typically decrease in length by a level of 50% to 90% as the hydrophobic material evaporates, as compared to the crosslinked gels of the present invention. In contrast, the crosslinked gels of the present invention exhibit less shrinkage, typically of the order of 1% to 40%, preferably 3% to 30%, more preferably 4% to 20%, as the hydrophobic material is released at the end of a period of 1 to 75 days, preferably 1 to 60 days, more preferably 1 to 45 days.

[0059] The gel may be a chemically crosslinked polyol or its derivative. Suitable polyols or its derivatives may be selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols, and mixtures thereof. Polyols, polyester polyols, and polyglycerols contain multiple hydroxyl groups and are suitable for forming gels with compact networks. In addition, the resulting gel has a higher affinity for less hydrophobic materials.

[0060] Suitable polyols or derivatives thereof may have a molecular weight of 60 Da to 10000 Da, preferably 150 Da to 3000 Da, more preferably 500 Da to 2000 Da, even more preferably 600 Da to 1300 Da. Longer polyols and derivatives thereof provide greater flexibility of the gel.

[0061] Suitable polyols and their derivatives do not contain terminal hydroxyl groups. Secondary alcohols are particularly suitable. Primary alcohols with terminal hydroxyl groups typically result in more linear chains and more compact networks. A combination of primary and secondary alcohols is preferred because it results in a more desirable correlation length.

[0062] When secondary alcohols are used, gels with more optimal pore size are obtained. Lightly branched polyols such as poly(diethylene glycol adipate) and its derivatives result in softer gels. Preferred polyols and their derivatives have at least two hydroxyl groups per molecule, more preferably at least three hydroxyl groups per molecule.

[0063] Polyols are compounds that contain multiple hydroxyl groups. Diol polyols with two hydroxyl functionalities result after crosslinking in linear polymers or more open networks with large pore sizes. In contrast, hydroxyl functional monomers with more than two functionalities form more compact gels with smaller pore sizes. Suitable polyols include ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, pentaerythritol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, 4,6-di-tert-butylbenzene-1,2,3-triol, propanetriol (glycerol), 1,2,5-hexanetriol, 1,2,4-cyclohexanetriol, 2,5-dimethylhexane-1,2,6-triol, 3-hydroxymethylpentane-1,2,5-triol, 1,3,6-hexanetriol, 1,1,5,5-pentanetretraol, 1,2,5,6-hexanetretraol, 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexanehexol (sorbitol), and mixtures thereof. The polyester polyol is a hydroxyl-containing ester. Suitable polyester polyols can be selected from the group consisting of aliphatic polyester polyols, aromatic polyester polyols, organic oil-based polyester polyols, and mixtures thereof. Organic oil-based polyester polyols are preferred. Preferred organic oils are vegetable oils, as they typically contain high levels of unsaturation (C=C bonds) and naturally contain hydroxyl groups. Suitable polyester polyols include hexanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-,1,1',1''-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester; pentanoic acid, 5-amino-4-hydroxy-,1,1',1''-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester; polycaprolactone triol; castor oil, hydroxy sunflower oil (HSO), and mixtures thereof.

[0064] Castor oil is particularly suitable. Castor oil (ricinus oil) is a pale yellow and viscous liquid extracted from the beans of the castor plant (ricinus communis). Castor oil is composed mainly of triglycerides of fatty acids containing 87-90% ricinoleic acid (cis-12-hydroxyoctadec-9-enoic acid) and can be obtained in high purity grades. Castor oil and its derivatives have been used as polyols for polyurethanes and adhesives. Castor oil can be partially hydrogenated. Castor oil offers branching lengths and hydroxyl group positions that have been found to be particularly suitable for providing chemically crosslinked gels with pore sizes that result in slow release of hydrophobic materials, especially when the hydrophobic material is a fragrance. In addition, chemically crosslinked gels derived from castor oil show less syneresis of hydrophobic materials from the gel.

[0065] Polyglycerols are hydroxy-containing ethers. Polyglycerols are typically obtained by polymerization of alkylene oxides, such as epoxides. Suitable alkylene oxides include ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, butylene oxide, and mixtures thereof, using chain initiators such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, neopentyl glycol, pentaerythritol, hexanetriol, sorbitol, glycerol, and mixtures thereof. Suitable polyglycerols can be selected from the group consisting of α,α-diglycerol, α,β-diglycerol, hyperbranched polyglycerol, dendritic polyglycerol, and mixtures thereof. Hyperbranched polyglycerols are aliphatic polyethers with multiple hydroxyl end groups obtained from the asymmetric polyaddition of glycidol to glycerol, resulting in a spherical branch-on-branch structure that provides special internal flexibility. Dendritic polyglycerols are hyperbranched polyglycerols with a well-defined, symmetrical and spherical three-dimensional structure around a core. Apart from improving gel elasticity, the dendritic structure with a sterically shielded core together with the exceptionally high functional groups of hyperbranched polyglycerols produces flexible gels with relatively small pore sizes, which increases the longevity of the final composition by slowing down the diffusion rate as a result of physical encapsulation of hydrophobic materials as well as improved H-bonding and van der Waals interactions. Such polyglycerols can be purchased from Nanopartica GmbH (Germany) and Sigma-Aldrich. Suitable polyglycerols include polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, poly(diethylene glycol), poly(dipropylene glycol), poly(1,4-butanediol), poly(neopentyl glycol), poly(1,6-hexanediol), and mixtures thereof. The polyglycerol preferably has 2 to 50 repeat units, preferably 4 to 30 repeat units.

[0066] Any suitable crosslinking agent may be used, but crosslinking agents selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocynates, and mixtures thereof are preferred. The crosslinking agent may be linear, branched, or cyclic isocyanates, and mixtures thereof. Cyclic isocyanates and mixtures thereof are preferred. Suitable cyclic isocyanates include heterocyclic isocyanates such as 1,3,5-tris(5-isocyanatopentyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione.

[0067] Suitable crosslinking agents include 1,4-butane diisocyanate (BDI), 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), L-lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI), 4,4'-methylenebis(cyclohexyl isocyanate) (H12MDI), glycolide-ethylene glycol-glycolide isocyanate (Bezwada, LLC), 4,4'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), 2,4'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), 2,2'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), 2,4-toluene diisocyanate (2,4-TDI). , 2,6-toluene diisocyanate (2,6-TDI), poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate) (PDI), 1,3-bis(2-isocyanatopropan-2-yl)benzene, poly(pentamethylene diisocyanate), and mixtures thereof, preferably 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), L-lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI), poly(pentamethylene diisocyanate), poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate) (PDI), 1,3,5-tris(5-isocyanatopentyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione, and mixtures thereof. Such crosslinkers are available from Sigma-Aldrich and Covestro under the trade name Desmodur® eco N7300.

[0068] The crosslinker may have a viscosity of less than 2,500 mPa·s at 25° C. and an isocyanate equivalent of 15% to 40%, preferably 18% to 30%. Such crosslinkers are more easily blended with polyols. As a result, a more homogeneous gel can be obtained.

[0069] The gel is preferably essentially free or free of unreacted isocyanates and / or isothiocyanates.

[0070] The gel may further comprise a hydroxyl-containing polymer, a hydroxyl-containing oligomer, or a mixture thereof. The hydroxyl-containing polymer and / or oligomer can be used to change the elasticity of the gel composition and therefore the perfume release longevity (a higher elastic modulus G' will slow the release of the perfume).

[0071] Suitable hydroxyl-containing polymers may be selected from the group consisting of poloxamer, gelatin, carrageenan, chitin, chitosan, and mixtures thereof.

[0072] Poloxamers are non-ionic triblock copolymers composed of a central hydrophobic chain of polyoxypropylene (poly(propylene oxide)) flanked by two hydrophilic chains of polyoxyethylene (poly(ethylene oxide)). Suitable poloxamers have a weight average molecular weight of 1500 g / mol to 15000 g / mol and a weight percentage of poly(ethylene oxide) of 10% to 80%, preferably 50% to 80%. Suitable poloxamers are commercially available from BASF under the trade name Pluronic®.

[0073] Gelatins are usually translucent, colorless, and typically obtained from collagen from various animal body parts. They are commonly used as gelling agents in the food, pharmaceutical industry, vitamin capsules, photography, and cosmetic manufacturing. Suitable gelatins may have a bloom of 90 to 300. Bloom is a test for measuring the strength of gels or gelatins, and is measured according to the method outlined in US Patent No. 1,540,979 by Bloom. The test measures the weight in grams required to press a 4 mm gel at a temperature of 25°C with a plunger having a diameter of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) against its surface without breaking it. The result is expressed in bloom (grade) units. This is usually between 30 and 300 blooms. To perform the bloom test on gelatin, a 6.67% by weight gelatin solution is kept at 10°C for 17 to 18 hours before testing.

[0074] Carrageenans are, for example, sulfated polysaccharides derived from red algae commonly known as Irish moss. They are typically composed mainly of α-D-galactopyranose-4-sulfate units and 3,6-anhydro-α-D-galactopyranose units. At least three forms, designated "iota", "kappa" and "lambda" carrageenans, respectively, are known, which differ in the ratio of the two galactopyranose units and thus in their sulfate ester content.

[0075] Kappa carrageenan is the major component in aqueous extracts from Chondrus crispus and Gigartina stellata. It has a lower sulfate content than iota and lambda carrageenans.

[0076] Chitosan is typically obtained by deacetylation under alkaline conditions of chitin, the second most abundant biopolymer in nature after cellulose. Chitin can be found as an important component of the exoskeleton of animals, especially crustaceans, mollusks, and insects, and is also the major polymer in the cell walls of certain fungi. Chitin and chitosan are linear polysaccharides consisting of randomly distributed β-(1-4) linked D-glucosamine (deacetylated units) and N-acetyl-glucosamine (acetylated units). Chitosan has two types of reactive groups that can be grafted: free amine groups on the deacetylated units, and hydroxyl groups on the C3 and C6 carbons on the acetylated or deacetylated units.

[0077] The chitosan of the present invention may have a molecular weight of 10,000 g / mol to 4,000,000 g / mol, preferably 70,000 g / mol to 1,600,000 g / mol. Suitable chitosans may have a degree of deacetylation of at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 75%.

[0078] The gel composition may be transparent or translucent. The gel composition may have any suitable shape, such as a star, a circle, or a pyramid. The gel composition may be colored by adding a dye. The gel composition of the present invention may be molded into a desired shape or even 3D printed.

[0079] The gel composition may be of any suitable shape or size, as both shape and size define the evaporation surface area of ​​the gel composition. It is known that the shape and size of the gel composition can affect the release and lifespan of hydrophobic materials. For example, a thin sheet will result in faster release and shorter lifespan compared to a sphere of the same mass of gel composition. A suitable gel composition has a surface area of ​​150 cm 2 Less than 3.0 to 100 cm, preferably 3.0 to 100 cm 2 , more preferably 6.0 to 60 cm 2 may have an evaporation surface area of

[0080] The evaporation surface area can be measured by creating a 3D model of the gel composition using CAD software and calculating the surface area using CAD software. Any suitable CAD software can be used, such as AutoCAD® 2013.

[0081] The total surface area of ​​the first and second central evaporation surfaces 4, 6 is 100 mm 2 ~10000mm 2 , 1000mm 2 ~8000mm 2 , 1500mm 2 ~6000mm 2 , 2000mm 2 ~4000mm 2 , or a different combination of the above upper and lower limits, or any combination of integers within the above ranges. The solid deodorant may be in a form selected from the group consisting of a plate, a sheet, a film, and combinations thereof, and preferably the deodorant is a plate comprising a shape selected from the group consisting of a polygonal shape, a circular shape, a non-polygonal shape including curves, a non-polygonal shape having an open end, and combinations thereof.

[0082] The deodorant is 2cm 3 The suction may be characterized by a volume exceeding

[0083] The deodorant may further comprise a first central evaporative surface, a second central evaporative surface, and a peripheral evaporative surface between the first and second central evaporative surfaces, each of the first and second central evaporative surfaces being less than 2 cm 2 More than 3cm, preferably 2 ~150cm 2 It is characterized by the evaporation surface area of

[0084] Figure 6 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser 50 according to the present invention, comprising a housing 51 having a solid deodorant 52. In Figure 6, the solid deodorant 52 according to the present invention has an initial size and a visual indicator 58 in a first configuration in which the visual indicator 58 is not visually perceptible. The housing 51 may further include a suspension aperture for vertically supporting the volatile composition dispenser above an interior surface.

[0085] Figure 7 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser 50 of Figure 6 in a second configuration in which the visual indicator 58 is visually perceptible. Specifically, the housing 51 further comprises an inner surface 53, and the visual indicator 58 is disposed on the inner surface 53.

[0086] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of components within the volatile composition dispenser 50 of FIG. 6. The housing 51 may include a front cover 54 and a rear frame 56, which, when assembled, define a housing interior for receiving the solid deodorant 52. A component holder 60 may be disposed between the front cover 54 and the rear cover 56, and the component holder 60 is configured to hold the solid deodorant 52 in place within the housing. Each of the front cover 54 and the rear frame 56 is provided with a plurality of openings 403 (hereinafter "openings") for allowing the volatile composition within the solid deodorant 52 to evaporate into an interior space. The component holder 60 includes an anchor 62 for removably attaching the solid deodorant 52 to the component holder 60 and a central opening 64 configured to surround the solid deodorant 52. The solid deodorant 52 may include an aperture 64 sized and shaped to mate with the anchor 62. Specifically, the aperture 64 extends through an end 66 of the solid deodorant 52 .

[0087] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser 70 having a component holder 72 and a solid deodorant 74 containing a volatile composition according to the present invention. Specifically, the dispenser 70 has substantially the same features as the dispenser 50 of FIG. 8, but differs from the dispenser 50 in that it does not have a front cover 54 and a rear frame 56. The component holder 72 is substantially the same as the component holder 60 of FIG. 8, and includes anchors 76 for supporting the solid deodorant 74 in a suspended configuration above a surface of the interior space, and the solid deodorant 74 is removably attached to the anchors 76. The central evaporation surface 75 of the solid deodorant 74 faces forward, and a visual indicator (not shown) may be provided on the opposite side of the central evaporation surface 75. The solid deodorant 74 may further include a second central evaporation surface (not shown in FIG. 9) so that the volatile composition can evaporate from the central evaporation surface 75 and the second central evaporation surface.

[0088] 10 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a component holder 80 for a volatile composition dispenser in accordance with the present invention. The component holder 80 comprises a bottom surface 82 and a sidewall 83 extending from the bottom surface 82 to define an interior cavity for receiving a solid deodorant. An anchor 84 is disposed on the bottom surface 83 for removably attaching the solid deodorant to the component holder 80. The anchor 84 may comprise a protrusion extending from the bottom surface 83. The anchor 84 comprises an anchor top portion 85 and an anchor side portion 86 surrounding the anchor top portion 85.

[0089] Figure 11 is a front perspective view of the component holder 80 of Figure 10 having a solid deodorant 90 in accordance with the present invention. The solid deodorant 90 includes an anchor-receiving aperture 92 for removable attachment to the anchor 84. The anchor-receiving aperture 92 may include a first aperture portion 93 having a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the anchor 84. The anchor-receiving aperture 92 may further include a second aperture portion 94 extending from the first aperture portion 93 through the periphery of the solid deodorant 90.

[0090] The housing, front cover, back cover, and component holder may be made from plastic, paper, or any material that is chemically compatible with the solid deodorant.

[0091] The volatile composition dispensers described above may be configured in any orientation during use, such as a vertical orientation as shown in Figures 1 and 2. However, it will be understood that the volatile composition dispensers may also be configured in a horizontal orientation during use.

[0092] The following examples are intended to more fully illustrate the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention, since many variations thereof are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. All parts, percentages and ratios herein are expressed as weight percent unless otherwise specified. EXAMPLES

[0093] Inventive samples of solid deodorants are made according to the procedures described below with the composition details set forth in the table below.

[0094] Preparation procedure: The polyol or its derivative is mixed with the volatile composition and optionally a hydroxyl-containing polymer is added. The crosslinker is then added at a temperature between 5°C and 35°C, preferably between 15°C and 30°C, and further mixed to obtain a homogeneous mixture. The mixture is poured into a mold of the desired shape and cured at a curing temperature, preferably between 20°C and 30°C. Such a temperature limits the evaporation of the volatile components of the hydrophobic material. Alternatively, the mixture may be kept below 5°C to avoid curing. Curing then starts only when the temperature is increased to the curing temperature.

[0095] The polyol or derivative thereof may be mixed with the crosslinker and, optionally, the hydroxyl-containing polymer, preferably at a temperature of 20° C. to 85° C., more preferably at 30° C. to 75° C., for 10 minutes to 10 hours, preferably 15 minutes to 2 hours. The mixture may be cooled and the hydrophobic material may be added, preferably at a temperature of 10° C. to 40° C., more preferably at 15° C. to 30° C., and further mixed, for example, for 15 to 120 minutes. The mixture is poured into a desired mold and cured, preferably at a temperature of 20° C. to 30° C.

[0096] Alternatively, all of the components of the gel composition may be blended at a low temperature, such as 5° C. or below, before the temperature is increased to the curing temperature.

[0097] Example I Solid deodorants according to the present invention are prepared according to the procedure described above, based on the composition details set forth in Table 3 below. The solid deodorants are evaluated for visual perceptibility of the visual indicator in a first configuration (results are shown in Table 4).

[0098] [Table 3]

[0099] Knowledgeable individuals will be consulted for visual checks as shown in Table 4.

[0100] [Table 4]

[0101] A PerkinElmer Lambda 950 UV / VIS / NIR spectrophotometer (with a 150 mm integrating sphere) instrument is used to measure the total transmittance, diffuse transmittance, and haze measurements for each of the comparative and inventive samples according to the ASTM 01003-13 test method for haze. A lower haze measurement corresponds to a clearer solid deodorant.

[0102] Specifically, the haze is determined by the following formula: Haze = Diffuse transmittance / (Total transmittance (specular transmittance and diffuse transmittance)) x 100%

[0103] Example II Data is provided demonstrating a dispenser of the volatile composition of the present invention having a visible indicator to provide a visual product life sign. Solid deodorants according to the present invention were prepared based on the composition details set forth in Table 5 below and evaluated for their respective shrinkage (results are shown in Table 5). Each of the samples of the present invention contained the following:

[0104] [Table 5]

[0105] result The shrinkage results of the inventive samples 1-6 in Table 5 are shown below in Table 6. Specifically, the shrinkage is determined based on the following formula (1):

[0106] Shrinkage rate = (initial length - contracted length) / initial length x 100% During the ceremony, Initial length = length or diameter of the solid deodorant before use Reduced Length = Length or diameter of the solid deodorant after a given period of use.

[0107] [Table 6]

[0108] All of the above inventive samples 1-6 have shrinkage between 6.3% and 12.5%, i.e., less than 40%. As a result, each of the samples at the end of life is a single integral piece with a size large enough to be easily removed, thereby reducing messiness. In contrast, conventional gels leave behind gelling polymers after the water and fragrance evaporate, and the remaining gelling polymers cause stickiness in the gel. Furthermore, the remaining gel also sticks to the container and is prone to tearing, resulting in a dirty residue.

[0109] An embodiment will now be described. A. A solid deodorant for obscuring a visual indicator associated with a sign of the product life of the solid deodorant prior to use, the solid deodorant being comprised of an elastomeric polymeric material and including a volatile composition, the solid deodorant including at least one region characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40%. B. The deodorant according to item A, having a haze measurement value of 45% to 100%, preferably 50% to 99%, and more preferably 65% ​​to 95%. C. The deodorant according to paragraphs A or B, wherein the deodorant is further characterized by a total transmittance of less than 80%, preferably between 30% and 79.9%. D. The deodorant of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one region comprises an undulating surface profile. E. The deodorant of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastomeric polymeric material is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, silicone, rubber and mixtures thereof. F. The deodorant of paragraph E, wherein the elastomeric polymer material comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of ethyl cellulose polymer, chemically crosslinked polyol or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof. G. The deodorant according to paragraph F, wherein the elastomeric polymer material comprises a chemically crosslinked polyol, the polyol or a derivative thereof being selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof. H. A deodorizer according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the deodorizer is in a form selected from the group consisting of a flat plate, a sheet, a film, and combinations thereof, preferably the deodorizer is a flat plate comprising a shape selected from the group consisting of a polygonal shape, a circular shape, a non-polygonal shape including curves, a non-polygonal shape having an open end, and combinations thereof. I. Deodorant, 2cm 37. A deodorant according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised by a volume exceeding J. The deodorant further comprises a first central evaporative surface, a second central evaporative surface, and a peripheral evaporative surface between the first central evaporative surface and the second central evaporative surface, each of the first and second central evaporative surfaces being less than 2 cm 2 More than 3cm, preferably 2 ~150cm 2 4. A deodorant according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by an evaporation surface area of K. A deodorant according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the volatile composition is selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorants, germicides, insect repellents, malodor reducers, and mixtures thereof, preferably the volatile composition is present in a concentration of from 3% to 85% by weight of the deodorant, more preferably from 15% to 75% by weight, and even more preferably from 20% to 60% by weight. L. The deodorant of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the deodorant is non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% water by weight of the deodorant, and more preferably is substantially free of water. M. A dispenser of a volatile composition, comprising: A solid deodorant according to any one of the preceding claims; a visual indicator; The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when at least a portion of the solid deodorant shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate a usage status of the dispenser. N. The dispenser of paragraph M, further comprising a housing configured to receive the deodorant and a gap between a peripheral evaporative surface of the deodorant and an inner surface of the housing, the gap configured to permit contraction of the solid deodorant along a first dimension at a faster rate compared to contraction of the solid deodorant along a second dimension. O. A dispenser according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the visual indicator indicates a condition of the dispenser selected from the group consisting of end of the dispenser's life, a quantitative condition indicative of the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof, preferably the visual indicator is a set of letters or graphic symbols indicative of the dispenser's status, more preferably the visual indicator is a single word or graphic symbol indicative of the end of the dispenser's life.

[0110] All documents cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patents or patent applications, and any patent applications or patents to which this application claims priority or benefit, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, unless expressly stated to the contrary. The citation of any document shall not be deemed to be prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, or to teach, suggest or disclose such invention, either alone or in combination with any other reference(s). Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0111] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. 1. A solid deodorant for obscuring a visual indicator associated with a sign of the product life of the solid deodorant prior to use, the solid deodorant being constructed from an elastomeric polymeric material and including a volatile composition, the solid deodorant including at least one region characterized by a haze measurement of at least 40%.

2. 2. The deodorant of claim 1, wherein the haze measurement is between 45% and 100%, preferably between 50% and 99%, more preferably between 65% and 95%.

3. 3. The deodorant of claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorant is further characterized by a total transmittance of less than 80%, preferably between 30% and 79.9%.

4. 4. The deodorant of claim 1, wherein the at least one region comprises an undulating surface profile.

5. 5. The deodorant of claim 1, wherein the elastomeric polymeric material is selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, silicones, rubbers and mixtures thereof.

6. 6. The deodorant of claim 5, wherein the elastomeric polymeric material comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of ethyl cellulose polymers, chemically crosslinked polyols or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

7. 7. The deodorant of claim 6, wherein said elastomeric polymeric material comprises a chemically crosslinked polyol, said polyol or derivative thereof being selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably said polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably said polyester polyol is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof.

8. 8. The deodorizer according to claim 1, wherein the deodorizer is in a form selected from the group consisting of a flat plate, a sheet, a film, and combinations thereof, and preferably the deodorizer is a flat plate comprising a shape selected from the group consisting of a polygonal shape, a circular shape, a non-polygonal shape including curves, a non-polygonal shape having an open end, and combinations thereof.

9. 9. A deodorant according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by a volume of more than 2 cm3.

10. 10. A deodoriser according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a first central evaporative surface, a second central evaporative surface and a peripheral evaporative surface between the first and second central evaporative surfaces, each of the first and second central evaporative surfaces being characterised by an evaporative surface area of ​​more than 2 cm2, preferably between 3 cm2 and 150 cm2.

11. 11. A deodorant according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the volatile composition is selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorants, disinfectants, insect repellents, malodour reducing agents and mixtures thereof, preferably the volatile composition is present at a concentration of from 3% to 85%, more preferably from 15% to 75%, even more preferably from 20% to 60% by weight of the deodorant.

12. 12. A deodorant according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the deodorant is non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% water by weight of the deodorant, and more preferably is substantially free of water.

13. 1. A volatile composition dispenser comprising: A solid deodorant according to any one of claims 1 to 12, a visual indicator; The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when at least a portion of the solid deodorant shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate a use status of the dispenser.

14. 14. The dispenser of claim 13, further comprising a housing configured to receive the deodorant and a gap between a peripheral evaporative surface of the deodorant and an inner surface of the housing, the gap configured to permit contraction of the solid deodorant along a first dimension at a faster rate than contraction of the solid deodorant along a second dimension.

15. 15. The dispenser of claim 13 or 14, wherein the visual indicator indicates a condition of the dispenser selected from the group consisting of end of life of the dispenser, a quantitative condition indicative of the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof, preferably the visual indicator is a set of letters or graphic symbols indicative of the condition of the dispenser, more preferably the visual indicator is a single word or graphic symbol indicative of the end of life of the dispenser.

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