Compositions, Home Care Formulations, Methods and Uses

Abstract

The present invention provides a composition comprising a reaction product of a) itaconic anhydride and b) an amino compound containing at least one free amino group selected from hydrolyzed proteins, the composition comprising an itaconic acid-modified amino compound which is the reaction product of a) and b). In another embodiment, the amino compound is selected from the group consisting of amino acids, peptides and hydrolyzed proteins. The present invention further provides a home care formulation, a fabric conditioner or softener comprising the composition of the present invention, a method of treating fibers, and the use of the composition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a composition, a home care formulation comprising a composition such as a fabric conditioner or softener, a method of treating fibers with the composition, and the use of the composition for benefiting fibers.

Background Art

[0002] Fabric conditioners or softeners have been used for many years as home care formulations, particularly for improving the properties of fabrics such as laundry.

[0003] Non-limiting examples of fabric conditioners are disclosed in European Patent No. 2029712, which discloses an aqueous rinse cycle concentrated fabric softener formulation that can be diluted with water before use to provide physically stable softener compositions in both concentrated and diluted forms.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It is desirable to remove components derived from fossil fuels from such products and improve the environmental profile.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to address at least one of the disadvantages associated with the prior art.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention is based, in part, on the surprising recognition that reaction products of itaconic anhydride with amino acid-containing compounds, particularly hydrolyzed proteins, can produce compositions useful for the treatment of fibers such as fabric fibers in processes such as the laundry process. The fibers can form part or all of a woven or non-woven fabric or clothing. In particular, the compositions of the present invention can be used as fabric conditioners or fabric benefit agents in home care formulations such as fabric softeners. The compositions of the present invention can be used in methods for treating fibers and / or fabrics such as laundry methods or processes. The benefits provided by the compositions of the present invention can be selected from fabric conditioning, ease of ironing, color protection, print protection, odor neutralization, fragrance enhancement, fabric strength retention, and shape retention.

[0007] Accordingly, viewed from a first aspect, the present invention provides a) itaconic anhydride and b) an amino compound containing at least one free amino group selected from the group consisting of amino acids, peptides, and hydrolyzed proteins wherein the composition comprises an itaconic-modified amino compound which is the reaction product of a) and b), and the amount of itaconic anhydride used in the reaction is calculated to react with 1 mol% to 100 mol% of the free amino groups of the amino compound, preferably calculated by the formol titration described herein.

[0008] Viewed from a second aspect, the present invention provides a) itaconic anhydride and b) an amino compound containing at least one free amino group selected from hydrolyzed proteins wherein the composition comprises an itaconic-modified amino compound which is the reaction product of a) and b).

[0009] The composition of the present invention can be advantageous by not containing reactants obtained from petrochemical sources. Itaconic anhydride can be obtained from renewable sources. Itaconic anhydride can be obtained from citric acid. Itaconic anhydride can be obtained from biological sources, preferably microbiological sources. The amino compound can be obtained from renewable sources, preferably renewable protein sources.

[0010] Viewed from a third aspect, the present invention provides a home care formulation comprising the composition of the first or second aspect. Preferably, the home care formulation is a fabric conditioner or softener.

[0011] Viewed from a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method for treating fibers, preferably a method for treating fabric fibers, in particular a fabric conditioning method comprising the step of applying a composition according to the first or second aspect to the fibers and / or fabric. This method may be part of a washing method or process.

[0012] Viewed from a fifth aspect, the present invention provides the use of a composition according to the first or second aspect of the present invention for treating fibers and / or fabric in order to provide a benefit to the fibers and / or fabric. The benefits can be selected from fabric conditioning, ease of ironing, color protection, print protection, odor neutralization, fragrance enhancement, fabric strength retention and shape retention. This use may be part of a washing method or process.

[0013] All the features described herein may be combined in any combination with any of the above aspects.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] It will be understood that the upper or lower amounts or ranges used herein may be combined independently.

[0015] Many of the chemical substances that can be used to produce the compositions of the present invention are obtained from natural sources. Such chemical substances typically contain a mixture of chemical species due to their natural origin. Due to the presence of such mixtures, the various parameters defined herein can be average values and can be non-integer numbers.

[0016] When describing the number of carbon atoms in a substituent (e.g., "C1-C6"), it will be understood that the number refers to the total number of carbon atoms present in the substituent, including those present in branched groups. Further, for example, when describing the number of carbon atoms in a fatty acid, this refers to the total number of carbon atoms including the carbon atoms of the carboxylic acid and the carbon atoms present in the branched group.

[0017] As used herein, the term "residue" is the portion of the reactant molecule that remains in the reaction product compound after the reaction has occurred.

[0018] As used herein, the term "hydrolyzed protein" means a protein that has been hydrolyzed. Hydrolyzed proteins can include protein fragments, polypeptides, peptides, amino acids, and / or peptones. Hydrolyzed proteins can be produced by acid hydrolysis, alkaline hydrolysis, and / or enzymatic hydrolysis of proteins, preferably proteins of natural origin or proteins from renewable sources. Enzymatic hydrolysis is preferred. Without being bound by theory, the advantage of enzymatic hydrolysis compared to acid or alkaline hydrolysis is that enzymatic hydrolysis is more selective at the sites on the protein being hydrolyzed, and thus, improved amino compounds for use in the production of the compositions of the present invention result when compared to acid or alkaline hydrolysis. Generally, acid hydrolysis produces the smallest fragments in terms of weight average molecular weight, alkaline hydrolysis produces the largest fragments, and enzymatic hydrolysis can produce fragments of intermediate size between acid hydrolysis and alkaline hydrolysis. The size of the hydrolyzed protein fragments is proportional to the number of amino acid residues in the fragment because the fragment is derived from the long-chain amino acid chains that make up the non-hydrolyzed protein. Acid hydrolysis can be disadvantageous because it requires high temperature and / or high pressure. Alkaline hydrolysis can be disadvantageous because it requires the use of irritating or dangerous chemicals.

[0019] The amino compounds used in the production of the compositions of the present invention may be chemically unmodified hydrolyzed proteins. The term "chemically unmodified hydrolyzed protein" means a protein that has not undergone further chemical modification (or reaction) other than hydrolysis.

[0020] The amino compounds used in the production of the compositions of the present invention may be partially hydrolyzed proteins. The term "partially hydrolyzed protein" means a protein that has not been completely hydrolyzed, i.e., not hydrolyzed to the extent that only individual amino acids remain in the amino compound.

[0021] As used herein, the term "home care formulation" means a consumer product used by consumers in the home and / or in a facility for the cleaning, care, or conditioning of its contents, such as the home or fabrics. Home care formulations include, but are not limited to, detergents including laundry detergents and dishwashing detergents; conditioners including fabric conditioners; cleaning formulations including hard surface cleaners; polishes and floor finishes.

[0022] The composition of the present invention The composition of the present invention comprises a) itaconic anhydride and b) an amino compound containing at least one free amino group selected from hydrolyzed proteins and comprises a reaction product thereof. The composition comprises an itaconic modified amino compound which is the reaction product of a) and b).

[0023] Viewed from another aspect, the composition of the present invention a) itaconic anhydride and b) an amino compound containing at least one free amino group selected from the group consisting of amino acids, peptides and hydrolyzed proteins and comprises a reaction product thereof. The composition comprises an itaconic modified amino compound which is the reaction product of a) and b), and the amount of itaconic anhydride used in the reaction is calculated to react with 1 mol% to 100 mol% of the free amino groups of the amino compound. Preferably, the amount of itaconic anhydride required is calculated by the formal titration described herein.

[0024] Preferably, the composition further comprises water. The composition may comprise at least 10% by weight of water, preferably at least 20% by weight of water, more preferably at least 30% by weight of water, particularly at least 40% by weight of water, desirably at least 50% by weight of water, particularly at least 60% by weight of water, based on the total weight of the composition. The composition may comprise up to 90% by weight of water, preferably up to 80% by weight of water, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0025] The composition may further contain itaconic acid. Itaconic acid can be formed by a minor side reaction of itaconic anhydride with water. This side reaction may slightly reduce the amount of itaconic anhydride that actually reacts with the free amino groups of the amino compound when compared to the theoretical amount calculated by the formal titration described herein. Therefore, it may be preferable to minimize the side reaction of itaconic anhydride with water by selecting appropriate reaction conditions. Preferably, the amount of itaconic anhydride added to react with the amino compound is the theoretical amount calculated to react with a specific molar % of the amino groups in the amino compound. Preferably, the theoretical amount is calculated by formal titration.

[0026] Itaconic anhydride can be obtained from renewable sources. Preferably, itaconic anhydride is not obtained from petrochemical sources. Itaconic anhydride can be obtained from citric acid. Itaconic anhydride can be obtained from biological sources, preferably microbiological sources. Preferably, itaconic anhydride is substantially pure itaconic anhydride, for example at least 85 wt% itaconic anhydride, preferably at least 90 wt% itaconic anhydride, more preferably at least 95 wt% itaconic anhydride.

[0027] Preferably, the amino compound is obtained from renewable sources. Preferably, the amino compound is not obtained from animal protein sources. This is advantageous as animal sources may not be desirable for consumers. Preferably, the composition does not contain animal-derived components. Preferably, the composition does not contain petrochemical-derived components. Preferably, the carbon-containing portion of the composition is at least 80% bio-based, more preferably at least 90%, particularly at least 95%, desirably at least 99%, particularly 100% bio-based, according to ASTM D6866, based on the total weight of the carbon-containing portion of the composition. Preferably, the composition is suitable for vegan consumers.

[0028] Preferably, the amino compound comprises a hydrolyzed protein, more preferably consists essentially of a hydrolyzed protein, and even more preferably is a hydrolyzed protein. The hydrolyzed protein can be produced by acid, alkali or enzymatic hydrolysis. Enzymatic hydrolysis is preferred. One or more enzymes may be used. The enzyme is preferably not of animal origin. Preferably, the enzyme is of microbial origin. The enzyme may comprise a carbohydrase and / or a protease. Preferably, the enzyme comprises a protease. The hydrolysis can be carried out to the extent necessary to achieve the desired weight average molecular weight of the hydrolyzed protein. The degree of hydrolysis can be varied by changing the temperature, the acid / alkali / enzyme used, and the elapsed time. The resulting hydrolyzed protein may be filtered and / or treated to remove undesirable substances. For example, when acid hydrolysis is used, the hydrolyzed protein can be treated to remove the chloride ions present.

[0029] The hydrolyzed protein can be obtained from natural sources. The hydrolyzed protein can be obtained from renewable sources. Preferably, the hydrolyzed protein is a hydrolyzed vegetable protein. The vegetable protein can be selected from potato, wheat, cottonseed, pea, chickpea and soybean, preferably selected from potato, wheat, pea and chickpea, and even more preferably selected from potato and chickpea. Preferably, the amino compound is a hydrolyzed potato or chickpea protein. The composition may not contain a hydrolyzed wheat protein or a protein obtained from a wheat source. This can be advantageous since wheat protein may not be preferred for certain consumers.

[0030] Preferably, the amino compound includes oligomers of amino acids, which are also known as oligopeptides. These oligomers can be hydrolyzed protein fragments. The amino compound can include oligomers of amino acids with an average size of 2 to 20 amino acids (also known as residues), preferably 2 to 15 amino acids, more preferably 2 to 10 amino acids. Preferably, the average size is the weight average size. The amino acids in the oligomer can be the same amino acid or different amino acids. The amino acids in the oligomer preferably include at least one glutamic acid residue or histidine residue, more preferably at least one glutamic acid residue. The amino compound may not be individual amino acids. Preferably, the amino compound does not consist of individual amino acids. Alternatively, the amino compound can include glutamic acid or histidine, preferably glutamic acid, as individual amino acids.

[0031] The weight average molecular weight (Mw) of the amino compound can be at least 200 Daltons (Da), preferably at least 300 Da, more preferably at least 400 Da. The weight average molecular weight of the amino compound can be at most 50,000 Da, preferably at most 20,000 Da, more preferably at most 10,000 Da, even more preferably at most 5,000 Da. The weight average molecular weight of the amino compound can be at most 2,500 Da, preferably at most 2,000 Da, more preferably at most 1,500 Da. The molecular weight may be measured by size exclusion chromatography, preferably by size exclusion HPLC (SE-HPLC) as described in the following test method. Preferably, the amino compound has a weight average molecular weight in the range of 200 Da to 5,000 Da, preferably 200 Da to 3,000 Da, preferably 200 to 1,500 Da.

[0032] Preferably, the composition of the present invention substantially does not contain a quaternary ammonium compound. The use of the term "substantially does not contain" means that the composition contains, based on the total weight of the composition, preferably less than 10% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight, still more preferably less than 2% by weight, and most preferably less than 1% by weight. Preferably, the composition does not contain a quaternary ammonium compound.

[0033] Preferably, the composition of the present invention substantially does not contain a silicone compound. The composition may be solid or powder. The use of the term "substantially does not contain" means that the composition contains, based on the total weight of the composition, preferably less than 10% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight, still more preferably less than 2% by weight, and most preferably less than 1% by weight. Preferably, the composition does not contain a silicone compound. Preferably, the composition does not contain an organosilane, an organosilicon or a silicone compound.

[0034] The composition may further contain one or more preservatives. The composition may contain, based on the total weight of the composition, at least 0.1% by weight, preferably at least 0.2% by weight, more preferably at least 0.4% by weight, and particularly at least 0.6% by weight of preservatives. The composition may contain, based on the total weight of the composition, a maximum of 10% by weight, preferably a maximum of 5% by weight, more preferably a maximum of 3% by weight, and particularly a maximum of 2% by weight of preservatives. The preservatives may include phenoxyethanol, benzoate or sorbate, more preferably the preservatives are selected from benzoate and sorbate, and more preferably the preservatives include sodium benzoate and / or potassium sorbate. Alternatively, the composition may not contain a preservative.

[0035] The composition may be liquid at room temperature (25°C). The composition may be a solution or dispersion of an itaconic acid-modified amino compound in a solvent, preferably a solution, and preferably the solvent contains water.

[0036] Alternatively, the composition may not contain water, or may contain residual water after being dried to a solid or powder form. Spray drying may be used to dry the composition. The composition may be a solid or a powder.

[0037] Ratio of reactants The reactants for the composition of the present invention are a) Itaconic anhydride and b) an amino compound containing at least one free amino group selected from the group consisting of amino acids, peptides, and hydrolyzed proteins and contain.

[0038] The composition contains an itaconic acid-modified amino compound which is the reaction product of a) and b), and the amount of itaconic anhydride used is calculated to react with 1 mol% to 100 mol% of the free amino groups of the amino compound.

[0039] Surprisingly, the ratio of the reactants can affect the properties of the composition of the present invention. Preferably, at least 2 mol%, more preferably at least 5 mol%, more preferably at least 10 mol%, more preferably at least 15 mol%, more preferably at least 20 mol% of the free amino groups in the amino compound react with the itaconic anhydride in the itaconic acid-modified amino compound. Preferably, at most 99 mol%, more preferably at most 98 mol%, more preferably at most 95 mol%, more preferably at most 90 mol%, more preferably at most 80 mol%, more preferably at most 70 mol%, more preferably at most 60 mol%, more preferably at most 50 mol%, more preferably at most 40 mol% of the free amino groups in the amino compound react with the itaconic anhydride in the itaconic acid-modified amino compound. Preferably, the amount of itaconic anhydride used is calculated to react with 5 mol% to 70 mol% of the free amino groups in the amino compound. More preferably, the amount of itaconic anhydride used is calculated to react with 20 mol% to 50 mol% of the free amino groups in the amino compound. Preferably, the calculation is by the formal titration described herein.

[0040] Home care formulation Preferably, the compositions of the present invention are suitable for use in home care formulations. From a second aspect, the present invention provides a home care formulation comprising the composition of the present invention. The home care formulation can be selected from fabric detergents (in the form of liquids, powders, concentrates, unit doses or tablets), fabric conditioners or softeners (in the form of liquids, powders, concentrates, unit doses or tablets), fabric washing additives (e.g., solid or liquid washing aids), fabric fragrance enhancers (in the form of liquids, gels, tablets, powders or granules), refresh sprays, fabric sprays, solid detergent bars, air care products, cleaning products, fabric cleaners, stain removers, hard surface cleaners, hand dishwashing detergents, machine dishwashing detergents, abrasives and floor finishes. Preferably, the home care formulation is selected from fabric conditioners or softeners, fabric detergents, fabric washing additives, fabric fragrance enhancers, refresh sprays, air care products and cleaning products. Preferably, the home care formulation is a fabric conditioner or softener.

[0041] The home care formulation, preferably a fabric conditioner or softener, can comprise the composition according to the invention and at least one additional home care component. The home care component can be selected from detergents, surfactants, ironing aids, drying additives, builders, chelating agents, dye transfer inhibitors, dispersants, enzymes, enzyme stabilizers, catalytic materials, bleaching agents, bleach activators, hydrogen peroxide, hydrogen peroxide sources, preformed peracids, polymeric dispersants, soil release / redeposition inhibitors, brighteners, softness inhibitors, dyes, fabric softening compounds, carriers, structuring agents, hydrotropes, processing aids, solvents and / or pigments, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the home care component is selected from the group consisting of surfactants, builders, chelating agents and fabric softening compounds. The home care formulation may comprise the composition according to the invention and at least one surfactant. The at least one surfactant can be selected from anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, nonionic surfactants and zwitterionic surfactants, preferably anionic surfactants and cationic surfactants.

[0042] The home care formulation may contain from 0.01% to 10% by weight of itaconic acid-modified amino compound, based on the total weight of the formulation. Preferably, the home care formulation contains at least 0.02% by weight, more preferably at least 0.05% by weight, more preferably at least 0.1% by weight, more preferably at least 0.2% by weight of itaconic acid-modified amino compound, based on the total weight of the formulation. Preferably, the home care formulation contains at most 20% by weight, more preferably at most 15% by weight, more preferably at most 10% by weight, more preferably at most 5% by weight of itaconic acid-modified amino compound, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0043] Fabric conditioner or softener formulation Preferably, the home care formulation containing the composition of the present invention is a fabric conditioner or a fabric softener. The fabric conditioner or softener contains an active material or agent for conditioning or softening the fabric. These compounds may be known as fabric softening compounds or may be any material known to soften the fabric. Preferably, the fabric conditioner or softener further contains a fabric softening compound.

[0044] The fabric conditioner or softener may contain from 0.01% to 10% by weight of itaconic acid-modified amino compound, based on the total weight of the formulation. Preferably, the fabric conditioner or softener contains at least 0.02% by weight, more preferably at least 0.05% by weight, more preferably at least 0.1% by weight, more preferably at least 0.2% by weight of itaconic acid-modified amino compound, based on the total weight of the formulation. Preferably, the fabric conditioner or softener contains at most 20% by weight, more preferably at most 15% by weight, more preferably at most 10% by weight, more preferably at most 5% by weight of itaconic acid-modified amino compound, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0045] Preferably, the fabric conditioner or softener formulation comprises the composition according to the invention and a fabric softening compound. Preferably, the fabric softening compound is selected from quaternary ammonium compounds, polysaccharides, clays, amines, fatty esters, dispersible polyolefins, polymer latexes, and mixtures thereof, more preferably selected from quaternary ammonium compounds, polysaccharides, amines, and fatty esters. Preferably, the fabric conditioner or softener formulation comprises a quaternary ammonium compound.

[0046] Alternatively, the fabric conditioner or softener formulation may be substantially free of quaternary ammonium compounds. The use of the term "substantially free" means that the formulation contains, based on the total weight of the formulation, preferably less than 10% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight, still more preferably less than 2% by weight, and most preferably less than 1% by weight of quaternary ammonium compounds. The fabric conditioner or softener formulation may be free of quaternary ammonium compounds.

[0047] The fabric softening compound may preferably be cationic or nonionic. Preferably, the fabric softening compound of the present invention is cationic. Suitable cationic fabric softening compounds are described below. The fabric conditioner or softener formulation for use according to the present invention may be diluted or concentrated. Based on the total weight of the formulation, the diluted formulation typically contains up to about 6% by weight, generally about 1 - 5% by weight of the fabric softening compound, while the concentrated formulation may contain up to about 50% by weight, preferably from about 5 to about 50% by weight, more preferably 6 - 25% by weight of the fabric softening compound. Overall, the fabric conditioner or softener may contain 1 - 50% by weight, preferably 2 - 25% by weight, more preferably 2 - 20% by weight of the softening compound, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0048] Cationic fabric softening compound The cationic fabric softening compound for use in a fabric conditioner or fabric softener formulation of the present invention is typically a quaternary ammonium compound ("QAC"). Preferred QACs are linked to a nitrogen head group which may independently be an alkyl or alkenyl group by two C 12 ~ 28 groups, preferably linked to the nitrogen head group by at least one ester linkage, more preferably by two ester linkages. The average chain length of the alkyl and / or alkenyl group is preferably at least C 14 and more preferably at least C 16 . It is particularly preferred that at least half of the groups have a chain length of C 18 . Generally, the alkyl and / or alkenyl groups are predominantly linear.

[0049] A first group of QACs suitable for use in the present invention is represented by formula (I):

Chemical formula

[0050] Particularly preferred agents are diesters of triethanolammonium methyl sulfate, also known as "TEA ester quat". Examples of commercially available products include Prapagen TQL (manufactured by Clariant), Tetranyl AHT-1 (manufactured by Kao) (both are di-[hydrogenated tallow esters] of triethanolammonium methyl sulfate), AT-1 (di-[tallow esters] of triethanolammonium methyl sulfate), L5 / 90 (di-[palm esters] of triethanolammonium methyl sulfate) (all manufactured by Kao), and Rewoquat WE15 (C 10 ~C 20 and C 16 ~C 18 diesters of triethanolammonium methyl sulfate having fatty acyl residues derived from unsaturated fatty acids) (manufactured by Witco Corporation), etc.

[0051] A second group of QACs suitable for use in the present invention is represented by formula (II): [Chemical formula] (wherein each R 1 group is independently selected from a C 1~4 alkyl group, a hydroxyalkyl group or a C 2~4 alkenyl group; and each R 2 group is independently selected from a C 8~28 alkyl group or an alkenyl group; and n, T and X- are as defined above). Preferred materials of this second group include 1,2-bis[tallow oil oxy]-3-trimethylammonium propane chloride, 1,2-bis[hydrogenated tallow oil oxy]-3-trimethylammonium propane chloride, 1,2-bis[oleoyl oxy]-3-trimethylammonium propane chloride, and 1,2-bis[stearoyl oxy]-3-trimethylammonium propane chloride. Such materials are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,137,180. Preferably, these materials also include the corresponding amount of monoester.

[0052] A third group of QACs suitable for use in the present invention is represented by formula (III): (R 1 )2-N + -[(CH2) n -T-R 2 2X - (III) (wherein each R 1 group is independently selected from a C 1~4 alkyl group or a C 2~4 alkenyl group; and each R 2 group is independently selected from a C 8~28 alkyl group or an alkenyl group; and n, T, and X - are as defined above). Preferred materials for this third group include bis(2-tallow oil oxyethyl)dimethylammonium chloride and cured variants thereof.

[0053] A fourth group of QACs suitable for use in the present invention is represented by formula (IV): (R 1 )2-N + -(R 2 )2X - (IV) (wherein each R 1 group is independently selected from a C 1~4 alkyl group or a C 2~4 alkenyl group; and each R 2 group is independently selected from a C 8~28 alkyl group or an alkenyl group; and X - is as defined above). Preferred materials for this fourth group include di(cured tallow)dimethylammonium chloride.

[0054] Cationic softening compounds are usually present in fabric conditioners or softeners at levels of 2% to 75% by weight of the total formulation. To obtain a higher softening effect, this level may be 8% or more, and in particular to obtain a very high performance, this level may be 11% or more. The level of the cationic softening compound is most preferably 10 to 30% by weight of the total formulation, for example 12.5 to 28% by weight.

[0055] References in this specification to the level of cationic softening compounds are references to the total level of cationic softening compounds, including all cationic components of the composite raw materials that may enter together into the aqueous lamellar phase. Diester softeners also include any associated monoester or triester components that may be present.

[0056] Cationic crosslinked polymer Fabric conditioner or softener formulations may include a cationic crosslinked polymer. The cationic crosslinked polymer can be derived from the polymerization of 5 to 100 mol% of a cationic vinyl addition monomer, 0 to 95 mol% of acrylamide, and 50 to 1000 ppm of a difunctional vinyl addition monomer crosslinking agent. Preferred polymers are crosslinked copolymers of acrylamide and methacrylate crosslinked with a difunctional vinyl addition monomer such as methylene bisacrylamide. Particularly preferred polymers are copolymers of about 20% acrylamide and about 80% methyl chloride of MADAM (MADAM is dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) crosslinked with 450 to 600 ppm of methylene bisacrylamide. Such materials are commercially available from SNF Floerger under the trade names Flosoft 200 and Flosoft 222.

[0057] Auxiliary cationic polymer The fabric conditioner or softener formulation may further contain an additional cationic polymer to assist in viscosity control. Such polymers are generally used in an amount less than that of the above-mentioned cationic crosslinked polymer, for example, at a weight ratio of auxiliary polymer:cationic crosslinked polymer of 1:2 to 1:5. Suitable auxiliary polymers include non-acrylamide-based polymers, such as Rheovis CDE commercially available from Ciba Speciality Chemicals.

[0058] Electrolyte Trace amounts of electrolytes, such as NaCl, may be present in the raw materials used to form the fabric conditioner or softener formulation. However, additional electrolytes may be added. The added electrolyte may be present in an amount effective to provide a viscosity in the range of 300 to 1000 mPa·s at 25°C. The exact concentration depends on the choice of electrolyte and is generally in the range of 0.001 to 0.2% by weight, preferably 0.001 to 0.1% by weight, more preferably 0.001 to 0.05% by weight of the formulation. A preferred electrolyte is CaCl2, but other electrolytes such as MgCl2, NaCl may also be used.

[0059] Fatty co-surfactant A preferred additional component in the fabric conditioner or softener formulation is a fatty co-surfactant. Such agents typically have a C8 - C 22 hydrocarbyl chain as part of their molecular structure. Suitable fatty co-surfactants include C8 - C 22 fatty alcohols and C8 - C 22 fatty acids; among these, C8 - C 22 fatty alcohols are most preferred. The fatty co-surfactant, for reasons of product stability and effectiveness, has a single C 12 ~ 28It is particularly valuable in compositions containing a QAC having a base, for example a monoester related to a TEA ester quat., or a softening agent of formula II. Preferred fatty acid coactives include hydrogenated tallow fatty acids (available from Uniqema as the Pristerene series).

[0060] Preferred fatty alcohol coactives include hydrogenated tallow alcohol (available from Cognis as Stenol and Hydrenol, from Albright and Wilson as Laurex CS) and behenyl alcohol, C 22 fatty alcohol (available from Henkel as Lanette 22). These coactives can be used in amounts of from 0.1% to 10% by weight, particularly from 0.5% to 5% by weight, especially from 0.75% to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0061] Other coactives such as fatty esters, fatty N-oxides can be used together with the cationic softening compound. When utilized, they are typically present in amounts of from 0.1 to 20%, particularly from 0.5 to 10%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0062] Fatty esters that can be utilized include fatty monoesters such as glycerol monostearate, fatty sugar esters such as those disclosed in WO 01 / 46361 pamphlet, etc.

[0063] Fragrance Preferably, the fabric conditioner or softener further comprises a fragrance. The fragrance is preferably present in an amount of from 0.01 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.05 to 5% by weight, most preferably from 0.5 to 4.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0064] Other optional ingredients The fabric conditioner or softener formulation of the present invention may contain one or more other components. Such components include preservatives (e.g., bactericides), pH buffers, perfume carriers, opacifiers, pearlescent agents, fluorescent agents, colorants, hydrotropes, defoamers, anti-redeposition agents, soil release agents, polyelectrolytes, enzymes, optical brighteners, anti-shrinkage agents, anti-wrinkle agents, anti-stain agents, antioxidants, sunscreens, rust inhibitors, drape imparting agents, antistatic agents, detergents, ironing aids, and drying additives. Preferably, the fabric conditioner or softener further comprises a compound selected from detergents, ironing aids, and drying additives.

[0065] Particularly preferred optional components are opacifiers or pearlescent agents. Such components can serve to further enhance the creamy appearance of the composition of the present invention. Suitable materials can be selected from the Aquasol 0P30X series (Rohm and Haas), the PuriColour White series (Ciba), and the LameSoft TM series (Cognis). Such materials are typically used at levels of 0.01 to 1% by weight of the total composition.

[0066] Water-based The home care formulation of the present invention is typically water-based. The water-based base typically contains 80% by weight or more of water; sometimes this value can be 90% or more. The water in the water-based base generally constitutes 40% by weight or more of the total formulation; preferably this value is 60% or more, more preferably 70% or more.

[0067] Use of the fabric conditioner or softener The fabric conditioner or softener formulation of the present invention can be used in the rinsing cycle of the washing process, preferably the household washing process. The fabric conditioner formulation is preferably used in the rinsing cycle of the household fabric washing process, where it can be added to the washing machine, for example, through a dispenser drawer or, in the case of a top-loading washing machine, directly into the drum. The composition can also be used in the household hand-washing process.

[0068] The fabric conditioner or softener composition may be in the form of a liquid, spray, solid or powder. The fabric conditioner or softener composition may be for use as the main fabric conditioner or softener composition in a washing cycle or as an auxiliary composition to supplement the main composition.

[0069] Method for treating fibers and / or fabrics Viewed from another aspect, the present invention provides a method for treating fibers, comprising the step of applying the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8 to the fibers. The fibers may be part of a fabric. The fibers may be part of a clothing item or garment. The method for treating the fibers may be carried out during a washing cycle. By this method, benefits can be imparted to the fibers or fabric. These benefits can be selected from fabric conditioning, ease of ironing, color protection, print protection, fragrance enhancement, odor neutralization, maintaining fabric strength and shape, fabric softening, accelerating drying, accelerating ironing, improving hygroscopicity / wettability, reducing static electricity, preventing soil deposition, protecting whiteness, stain resistance, reducing irritation, reducing friction, reducing fiber shedding or microplastic release, improving drape, improving haptics, and improving well-being.

[0070] As used herein, fabric conditioning may refer to conditioning or softening the fabric. Ease of ironing may refer to the ease of ironing the fabric or garment. Color protection may refer to protecting or preserving the color of the fabric or garment during a washing cycle. Print protection may refer to protecting or preserving the print on the fabric or garment during a washing cycle. Fragrance enhancement may refer to improving the performance of the fragrance in the composition used to treat the fibers. Odor neutralization may refer to neutralizing the bad odor trapped in the fibers. Maintaining fabric strength and shape may refer to maintaining or preserving the strength or shape of the fabric or garment.

[0071] Use of a composition for treating fibers and / or fabrics Viewed from another aspect, the present invention provides for the use of a composition according to the present invention for treating a fabric to provide a benefit to the fabric, preferably a benefit selected from fabric conditioning, ease of ironing, color protection, print protection, fragrance enhancement, odor neutralization, fabric strength retention and shape retention.

[0072] The composition of the present invention can be used in pet care formulations. The pet care formulation can be a pet shampoo or conditioning formulation or a pet malodor treatment agent.

Examples

[0073] The present invention is illustrated by the following non-limiting examples. All parts and percentages are given by weight unless otherwise specified. It is understood that all the tests and physical properties described were determined at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature (i.e., about 23 °C) unless otherwise specified herein or in the referenced test methods and procedures.

[0074] Test Methods In this specification, the following test methods were used:

[0075] (i) Viscosity was measured at room temperature (25 °C) using a Brookfield Ametek DV-1 viscometer with an appropriate spindle (T-C bar). Samples were tested at 10 rpm (0.17 Hz) for 1 minute immediately after sample preparation and after 24 hours, and the results were shown in cP (mPa·s).

[0076] (ii) The formol titration method is a titration method for determining the degree of substitution of amino groups as described by Cobbett, W.G., Gibbs, J.A. and Leach, A.A. (1964). J. Appl. Chem. (London), 14, 296 - 302.

[0077] (iii) The pH was measured at room temperature (25 °C) using a Fisher Scientific Accumet AE150 pH Meter. Depending on the initial pH measurement value, the pH of the formulation was adjusted to the range of 4.0 - 5.0 using a 10 wt% aqueous sodium hydroxide solution (when the pH was low) or a 10 wt% aqueous citric acid solution (when the pH was high). The pH was measured immediately after formulation preparation and after 24 hours.

[0078] (iv) The active substance content (wt%) in the sample was calculated from the measurements of the total non-volatile content and the ash content. The total non-volatile content was measured by oven-drying a sample of known weight at 105 °C for 17 - 19 hours to remove the existing moisture and other volatile components. After cooling in a desiccator, the residual weight was used to calculate the total non-volatile content (wt%) of the sample. For the ash content, a sample of known weight was carefully heated in the presence of air to a temperature of 575 - 600 °C using a stepwise temperature increase and held at that temperature for 16 - 18 hours (or longer if necessary). After cooling in a desiccator, the residual weight was used to calculate the ash content (wt%) of the sample. Next, the active substance content (wt%) in the sample was calculated by subtracting the weight% of the ash content from the weight% of the total non-volatile content.

[0079] (v) The weight-average molecular weight was measured by size exclusion high performance liquid chromatography (SE-HPLC). The HPLC apparatus and settings used are shown in Table 1.

[0080]

Table 1

[0081] (vi) The easy ironing test was carried out using a tensile testing machine (Lloyd LRX) equipped with an ironing board attachment and a 10 N load cell attached to a hot iron in a controlled environmental chamber (relative humidity 50%, temperature 22 °C), by performing the pull to limit method (250 mm at 800 mm / min). First, a 100% cotton sheet (50 cm × 60 cm) was prepared for testing by washing it at 60 °C in a washing machine (Miele W1) on the cotton cycle using a non-biological powder detergent (70 ml) and a cotton ballast (2 kg), and drying it for 1 hour at high heat in a tumble dryer (Indesit ID75). Next, the cotton sample was treated by washing it at 40 °C in the cotton cycle of the washing machine using a non-biological powder detergent (70 ml), a fabric conditioner (25 ml), and a cotton ballast (2 kg), and air-dried for at least 12 hours in an environmentally controlled room. Thereafter, the cotton sample was placed on an ironing board equipped with a hot iron connected to the tensile testing machine. Thereafter, the tensile testing machine pulled the iron over the entire sample and recorded the amount of work (joules) up to the limit. This was repeated three times and the average amount of work up to the limit was recorded. And the average rate of change was calculated and compared with the control.

[0082] (vii) The shape retention test was performed using a tensile testing machine (Lloyd LRX) equipped with a 500 N load cell attached to a large sample clamp, and executing a relaxation method (holding 15 N at 800 mm / min for 1 minute before relaxation). The clothing to be tested was processed by using a non-biological powder detergent (70 ml), a fabric conditioner (25 ml), and a cotton ballast (2 kg), washing at 40 °C in a washing machine (Miele W1), and then drying at high heat for 1 hour in a tumble dryer (Indesit ID75). This washing and drying cycle was repeated 9 more times. The test piece was clamped to the tensile testing machine, and before stretching the sample according to the relaxation method, the fabric was cut into strips (16 cm × 3 cm), and a sample of the clothing was prepared by marking the test zone (length 10 cm, 5 cm to the left and right from the center). After the test, the test zone was re-measured, and the difference in the length and width of the test zone was calculated. This measurement was repeated with 3 samples, and the average percentage of the difference from the control was calculated.

[0083] (viii) The color protection test was carried out using an X-rite color i5 spectrophotometer, with D65 light excluding UV and a 25 mm aperture. The clothing to be tested was processed by using a non-biological powder detergent (70 ml), a fabric conditioner (25 ml), and a cotton ballast (2 kg), washing at 40 °C in a washing machine (Miele W1), and then drying at high heat for 1 hour in a tumble dryer (Indesit ID75). This washing and drying cycle was repeated 9 more times. Color measurements were taken from several parts of the clothing, and the average change in color lightness (DL) compared to the color of the unwashed clothing was determined. The improvement rate of color protection from the control was calculated.

[0084] (ix) The print protection test was carried out using a panel of untrained people who were asked to rank a series of blind-coded printed T-shirts in order of print quality. The test garments were treated using a non-biological powder detergent (70 ml), fabric conditioner (25 ml) and cotton ballast (2 kg), washed in a washing machine (Miele W1) at 40 °C and then dried in a tumble dryer (Indesit ID75) at high heat for 1 hour. This wash-dry cycle was repeated a further 3 times. The panellists scored the prints from 1 to 3, with 1 being the highest quality print and 3 being the lowest quality print.

[0085] Example 1 The amino compounds used to produce the compositions of the present invention can be produced by any of the following methods A to E.

[0086] Method A Potato protein concentrate was added to a hydrochloric acid solution and mixed until well dispersed. The resulting dispersion was heated to reflux conditions. The dispersion was heated until the weight average molecular weight of the protein (measured by SE-HPLC as described in the test method) no longer decreased in the range of usually 200 - 500 Da. Once hydrolysis was complete, sodium hydroxide was added to raise the pH of the solution. The protein hydrolyzate was purified by filtration and activated carbon treatment. After purification, further sodium hydroxide was added to make the solution basic and concentrated to the desired active substance content (in the range of 20 - 30% by weight of active substance) by evaporation or ultrafiltration which has the advantage of salt removal. The resulting product is called amino compound A.

[0087] Method B Potato protein concentrate was added to a hydrochloric acid solution and mixed until well dispersed. The resulting dispersion was heated to reflux conditions. The dispersion was heated until the weight-average molecular weight of the protein no longer decreased in the range of usually 200 - 500 Da. Thereafter, the acidic protein hydrolyzate was recovered by filtration. Next, the solution was passed through an anion exchange resin to remove chloride ions and the pH of the solution was raised. The protein hydrolyzate was purified by activated carbon treatment. After purification, sodium hydroxide was further added to make the solution basic and concentrated to the desired active substance content (in the range of 20 - 30% by weight of the active substance). The resulting product is called amino compound B.

[0088] Method C Potato protein concentrate was added to water and mixed until well dispersed. After the resulting dispersion was heated to the desired temperature, the pH was adjusted using a sodium hydroxide solution. Using enzymes (carbohydrase and protease), hydrolysis of the potato protein was catalyzed by stirring in the desired temperature and pH range to achieve a typical weight-average molecular weight of about 400 - 700 Da. After hydrolysis, a hydrochloric acid solution was added to lower the pH of the hydrolysis mixture to acidic and heated to denature the enzymes. The protein hydrolyzate was purified by filtration and activated carbon treatment. Then, using sodium hydroxide, the resulting diluted hydrolyzed protein solution was adjusted to a basic pH and concentrated to the desired active substance content (in the range of 20 - 30% by weight of the active substance). The resulting product is called amino compound C.

[0089] Method D Potato protein concentrate was added to water and mixed until well dispersed. The resulting dispersion was heated to the desired temperature and then the pH was adjusted using a sodium hydroxide solution. Hydrolysis of the potato protein was catalyzed by using enzymes (carbohydrase and protease) and stirring within the desired temperature and pH ranges to achieve a typical weight average molecular weight of about 700 - 950 Da. After hydrolysis, a hydrochloric acid solution was added to lower the pH of the hydrolysis mixture to acidic and heated to denature the enzymes. The protein hydrolysate was purified by filtration and activated carbon treatment. Then, using sodium hydroxide, the resulting diluted hydrolyzed protein solution was adjusted to a basic pH and concentrated to the desired active substance content (in the range of 20 - 30% by weight of the active substance content). The resulting product is called amino compound D.

[0090] Method E Kidney bean protein concentrate was added to water and mixed until well dispersed. The resulting dispersion was heated to the desired temperature and then the pH was adjusted using a sodium hydroxide solution. Hydrolysis of the kidney bean protein was catalyzed by using enzymes (carbohydrase and protease) and stirring within the desired temperature and pH ranges to achieve a typical weight average molecular weight of about 800 - 1000 Da. After hydrolysis, a hydrochloric acid solution was added to lower the pH of the hydrolysis mixture to acidic and heated to denature the enzymes. The protein hydrolysate was purified by filtration and activated carbon treatment. Then, using sodium hydroxide, the resulting diluted hydrolyzed protein solution was adjusted to a basic pH and concentrated to the desired active substance content (in the range of 20 - 30% by weight of the active substance content). The resulting product is called amino compound E.

[0091] Example 2 According to the following method, amino compound D or amino compound E is reacted with itaconic anhydride in a suitable container to produce the composition of the present invention: 1. Charge the amino compound into the container. 2. Adjust the pH to 9.5 - 11.0 (preferably 10.0 - 10.5) with sodium hydroxide. A high pH is preferred to promote the reaction of itaconic anhydride with the amino compound rather than with water in order to avoid or reduce the formation of itaconic acid. 3. Add the calculated amount of itaconic anhydride (calculated by formol titration, a technique described in Cobbett, W.G., Gibbs, J.A. and Leach, A.A. (1964). J. Appl. Chem. (London), 14, 296 - 302). In this specific example, the amount of itaconic anhydride added is calculated by formol titration to react with 25 mol% of the free amino groups of the amino compound over 15 - 120 minutes (preferably 30 - 60 minutes). This calculation is based on the reaction proceeding to completion, but a portion of the itaconic anhydride may react with water to form itaconic acid, which may prevent the complete reaction between itaconic anhydride and the amino compound. An example of the calculated amount of itaconic anhydride required in grams is, for example, 200 (exemplary weight (g) of the amino compound) × 26.55 (exemplary result of formol titration) × 0.02 (molar concentration of NaOH used in formol titration) × 112 (molecular weight of itaconic anhydride) × 0.25 (mol% of free amino groups required for the reaction) / 1000 (unit conversion). 4. During the addition of itaconic anhydride and the start of the reaction, maintain the temperature at 15 - 45°C, preferably 20 - 35°C, and the pH at 9.5 - 11.0, preferably 10.0 - 10.5. 5. Maintain the reaction conditions for an additional 1 - 4 hours (preferably 1 - 2 hours). 6. Acidify to pH 3.5 - 5.5 (preferably 4.0 - 5.0) with a mineral acid such as hydrochloric acid. 7. Add a preservative and store. 8. Cool and adjust the pH to 3.5 - 5.5 (preferably 4.0 - 5.0). 9. Filter.

[0092] The resulting product is called itaconic acid - modified amino compound D or itaconic acid - modified amino compound E.

[0093] Example 3 From the amino compound of Example 1 and the itaconic acid-modified amino compound of Example 2, the fabric conditioner formulations shown in Table 2 below were prepared.

[0094] The fabric conditioner used was Sensitive Fabric Conditioner (available from Asda UK) containing the following components: · Water · Tallow hydroxyethylmonium methosulfate dihydrate · Isopropyl alcohol · Fragrance · Polyquaternium-37 · 2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol

[0095]

Table 2

[0096] Example 4 Formulations 1 to 5 in Table 2 of Example 3 were tested for the ease of ironing performance using the above easy ironing test method. The results are shown in Table 3.

[0097]

Table 3

[0098] Table 3 shows that when itaconic acid-modified amino compound D or E was added to the fabric conditioner, the ease of ironing performance was improved compared to the fabric conditioner control without additives (formulations 3 and 5). However, when unmodified amino compound D or E was used in the fabric conditioner (formulations 2 and 4), it was shown that the ease of ironing performance decreased.

[0099] Example 5 Formulations 1 to 5 in Table 2 of Example 3 were tested for the shape retention performance using the above shape retention test method. The results are shown in Table 4.

[0100]

Table 4

[0101] Table 4 shows that when itaconic acid-modified hydrolyzed potato protein (formulation 3) or itaconic acid-modified hydrolyzed soybean protein (formulation 5) is added to the fabric conditioner, the shape retention performance is improved compared to the fabric conditioner control without additives (formulation 1) or when only hydrolyzed protein is used (formulations 2 and 4).

[0102] Example 6 Formulations 1, 3, and 5 in Table 2 of Example 3 were tested for color protection performance using the above color protection test method. The results are shown in Table 5 for the clothing item being a blue cotton T-shirt and Table 6 for the clothing item being blue jeans.

[0103]

Table 5

[0104]

Table 6

[0105] Tables 5 and 6 show that when itaconic acid-modified hydrolyzed potato protein (formulation 3) or itaconic acid-modified hydrolyzed soybean protein (formulation 5) is added to the fabric conditioner, the color protection performance is improved compared to the fabric conditioner control without additives.

[0106] Example 7 Formulations 1, 3, and 5 in Table 2 of Example 3 were tested for print protection performance using the above print protection test method. The panelists scored the prints from 1 to 3, where 1 was the highest quality print and 3 was the lowest quality print. The results are shown in Table 7.

[0107]

Table 7

[0108] Table 7 shows the scores given by panelists when comparing the print quality when itaconic acid-modified hydrolyzed potato protein (formulation 3) or itaconic acid-modified hydrolyzed soybean protein (formulation 5) was added to the fabric conditioner, compared to a control with only the fabric conditioner (formulation 1). Of the 14 panelists, 6 selected formulation 3 as providing the highest quality print, and 8 selected formulation 5 as providing the highest quality print. All panelists selected the print washed with only the fabric conditioner (control) as the lowest quality print.

[0109] Example 8 Formulations of 99 wt% fabric conditioner and 1 wt% hydrolyzed potato or soybean protein with varying itaconic acid modification levels were tested for shape retention using the above shape retention method against a fabric conditioner control. The results are shown in Table 8. The formulations in Table 8 were produced according to the method of Example 2, but step 3 was modified to use the amount of itaconic anhydride necessary to provide the desired molar% of itaconic acid modification.

[0110]

Table 8

[0111] As can be seen from Table 8, for both hydrolyzed potato and soybean proteins, an itaconic acid modification level of 25 mol% seems to result in better shape retention results.

[0112] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the details of the above-described embodiments described as mere examples. Many modifications are possible.

Claims

1. a) Itaconic acid anhydride and b) An amino compound containing at least one free amino group, selected from hydrolyzed proteins A composition comprising the reaction product of, A composition comprising an itacone-modified amino compound which is a reaction product of a) and b).

2. a) Itaconic acid anhydride and b) an amino compound containing at least one free amino group selected from the group consisting of amino acids, peptides, and hydrolyzed proteins A composition comprising the reaction product of, The composition comprises an itacone-modified amino compound which is a reaction product of a) and b), and the amount of itaconic anhydride used in the reaction is calculated to react with 1 mol% to 100 mol% of the free amino groups of the amino compound.

3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising water.

4. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising itaconic acid.

5. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a preservative preferably selected from benzoates and sorbates.

6. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the amino compound is a hydrolyzable protein, preferably a hydrolyzable plant protein, preferably a hydrolyzable potato or chickpea protein.

7. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the amino compound is not a single amino acid.

8. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the amino compound preferably has a weight-average molecular weight in the range of 200 Da to 5000 Da, more preferably 200 Da to 3000 Da, and more preferably 200 to 1500 Da, as measured by size exclusion chromatography.

9. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, which does not contain organosilane, organosilicon, or silicone compounds.

10. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, which does not contain a quaternary ammonium compound.

11. A home care formulation comprising the composition according to claim 1 or 2.

12. A fabric conditioner or softener comprising the composition described in claim 1 or 2.

13. The fabric conditioner or fabric softener according to claim 12, further comprising a fabric softening compound.

14. The fabric conditioner or softener according to claim 12, further comprising a fragrance.

15. The fabric conditioner or softener according to claim 12, further comprising a compound selected from detergents, ironing aids, and drying additives.

16. The fabric conditioner or softener according to claim 12, further comprising a quaternary ammonium compound.

17. A fabric conditioner or softener according to claim 12, which does not contain a quaternary ammonium compound.

18. A method for treating fibers, preferably fabric fibers, comprising the step of applying the composition according to claim 1 or 2 to the fibers.

19. Use of the composition according to claim 1 or 2 for treating the fibers and / or fabrics to provide benefits to the fibers and / or fabrics, preferably to provide benefits selected from fabric conditioning, ease of ironing, color protection, print protection, fragrance enhancement, odor neutralization, fabric strength retention and shape retention.