Fragrance-containing granules for animal waste disposal materials

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a flavor-containing granule comprising, based on the weight of the granule, (a) greater than 35 wt. % of a flavoring substance, (b) 1 wt. % to 30 wt. % of an inorganic density-enhancing additive, and (c) 1 wt. % to 50 wt. % of a carbohydrate carrier, wherein the granule has a skeletal density of 1.00 g / mL to 1.40 g / mL and a bulk density of 0.20 g / mL to 1.40 g / mL.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to perfume-containing granules with improved performance and / or perfume benefits, methods for their manufacture, and their use in consumer products, particularly animal litter. More specifically, the perfume-containing granules are configured to provide odor control benefits caused by absorbed waste products (e.g., urine and / or feces) in animal litter. [Background technology]

[0002] Most commercially available animal waste management materials, particularly those for companion animals (e.g., cat waste management materials), include technologies that provide the release of fragrances or odor-masking scents to reduce and / or mask the odors associated with absorbed waste (e.g., urine and / or feces). One such current technology is a spray-dried powder containing a neat fragrance, which is then dry-mixed with the waste management particles. Typically, the spray-dried fragrance-containing powder is formed by emulsifying a fragrance oil in water and spray-drying to evaporate the water, resulting in the spray-dried fragrance-containing powder. The resulting spray-dried fragrance-containing powder has an approximate average particle size of about 10 μm to about 100 μm, while the waste management particles have an approximate average particle size of about 0.4 mm to about 2.3 mm. There are several drawbacks to incorporating current spray-dried fragrance-containing powders into waste management particles.

[0003] First, the spray-dried fragrance-containing powder and waste management material particles lack uniform distribution due to large differences in particle size. This is problematic because the uneven distribution of fragrance material means that there are differences in the intensity of malodor reduction between each injected sample, resulting in an inconsistent user experience. Second, smaller spray-dried fragrance-containing powders generate high concentrations of dust during production, increasing the risk of dust explosions from airborne particles and presenting challenges for waste management material handling equipment. Another challenge with smaller spray-dried fragrance-containing powders is that they tend to separate from larger waste management materials during use (e.g., when pouring or scooping), generating high concentrations of dust. As a result, this creates undesirable clutter in consumers' homes. Third, spray-dried fragrance-containing powders lack sufficient density and have been observed to easily adhere to animal fur and paws or detach from the litter box due to animal activity in or near the litter box (i.e., "tracking"). Finally, existing approaches do not teach how to improve perfume profiles, and more specifically, how to selectively increase and / or extend the intensity of the more desirable attributes (i.e., top notes) that result from highly volatile perfume materials that work best to minimize waste malodor.

[0004] For example, WO 03 / 043728 A1 (Firmenich) discloses fragrance granules having a fire-retardant agent dispersed or absorbed in a polymeric carrier material. However, the fire-retardant agent disclosed therein must be used in large quantities relative to the amount of granules, making this solution cost-effective and not adequately addressing other problems identified herein. WO 2019 / 170528 A1 (Firmenich) discloses the use of talc as a fire-retardant agent to prevent the risk of explosion of granules during their preparation and / or handling. According to paragraphs [0119, 0129] of WO '528 A1, talc powder is dry-mixed with the granules to cover their surface in a dust cloud and reduce the risk of explosion. This approach has several drawbacks. First, talc simply coated on the granules can easily shed over time, leaving undesirable residues in the animal waste treatment material. Second, simply coating the granules with a layer of talc powder does not help adjust the granule size to match that of the animal waste disposal material. Third, talc powder is potentially hazardous to human health (e.g., asbestos in the talc powder) and is obtained through environmentally unfriendly methods (i.e., mining in protected natural habitats).

[0005] Therefore, these existing solutions still have limitations and do not adequately teach how to overcome the above-mentioned problems.Therefore, there is still a need in the art for the development of new perfume-containing granules that can address one or more of the above-mentioned problems and are suitable for use in various consumer products, especially animal waste disposal materials.In addition, these perfume-containing granules need to be sustainable and / or more renewably sourced.It is also desirable that perfume-containing granules are useful for improving perfume profile, especially the intensity of perfumes derived from highly volatile perfume materials (i.e., top notes). Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The granules of the present disclosure are based, inter alia, on the discovery of new perfume-containing granules having a particular combination of parameters that enable them to deliver certain benefits when incorporated into consumer products, particularly animal waste management materials, including, by way of non-limiting example, malodor control benefits with minimal (i.e., low) or virtually no dusting and / or tracking, and / or improved perfume profiles, particularly the characteristic intensity derived from highly volatile perfume materials (i.e., top notes).

[0007] Thus, in a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a flavor-containing granule comprising, by weight of the granule, (a) greater than 35% flavoring material, (b) 1% to 30% inorganic density-enhancing additive, and (c) 1% to 50% carbohydrate carrier, wherein the granule has a skeletal density of 1.00 g / mL to 1.40 g / mL and a bulk density of 0.20 g / mL to 1.40 g / mL. Preferably, the granule has a bulk density of about 0.30 g / mL to about 0.60 g / mL.

[0008] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a consumer product comprising a perfume containing granules of the present disclosure, wherein the consumer product is selected from the group consisting of powdered laundry detergent, powdered automatic dishwasher detergent, animal waste treatment material, bath salts, room deodorizer, room dehumidifier, powdered fabric bleach, powdered soap, and powdered cleaner. Preferably, the consumer product is an animal waste treatment material, more preferably a cat waste treatment material, and further comprises particulate matter. More preferably, the animal waste treatment material has one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of enhanced odor control, lower tracking, and lower dusting compared to animal waste treatment materials comprising spray-dried perfume-containing powders.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for producing an animal waste management material, the method comprising: (i) providing a particulate material comprising an absorbent material and, optionally, at least one performance-enhancing active selected from the group consisting of an antimicrobial agent, an odor absorber, an odor inhibitor, a binder that promotes clumping, a health-indicating material, a non-stick release agent, a lightweight mineral, a mirror material, and combinations thereof; and (ii) mixing the particulate material with the granules of the present disclosure, wherein the particulate material has an average particle size in the range of 400 μm to 4 mm.

[0010] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of flavoring an animal waste management material, comprising mixing (i) about 0.02% to about 5% by weight of granules of the present disclosure, based on the total weight of the animal waste management material, and (ii) about 99.98% to about 95% by weight of particulate matter, based on the total weight of the animal waste management material. Preferably, the animal waste management material exhibits one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of enhanced odor control, lower tracking, and lower dusting, compared to animal waste management materials comprising spray-dried flavoring powders.

[0011] An advantage of the present disclosure is the provision of novel fragrance-containing granules that can provide one or more performance and / or sensory benefits. In particular, the granules of the present disclosure have a larger particle size (2-3 mm) than conventional spray-dried particles (approximately 50 microns). The larger size of the fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure has several benefits. First, the larger particle size of the fragrance-containing granules means that they are more similar in size to the animal waste management material particles (0.2-2.3 mm) with which they are mixed. This uniformity in size allows for a more uniform distribution of fragrance materials, thereby providing a more consistent user experience with each injected sample of animal waste management material. Second, larger size fragrance-containing granules are easier to handle, generate less dust (i.e., small particles less than 250 μm in diameter) during manufacturing, and / or reduce the risk of explosion. Third, the larger size reduces the surface area-to-volume ratio for fragrance materials to diffuse during storage, resulting in improved fragrance retention over time, particularly for fragrances derived from top notes (see below).

[0012] It is a further advantage of the present disclosure to provide perfume-containing particles that prolong and deliver the perceived intensity of the perfume profile, particularly the characteristics attributable to volatile perfume materials having vapor pressures greater than 0.1 Torr (0.0133 kPa) (i.e., "top notes").

[0013] Unless otherwise stated, all parts, percentages and ratios referred to in this specification and claims are by weight.

[0014] The values ​​and dimensions disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical value recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such value is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a value disclosed as "50%" is intended to mean "about 50%."

[0015] Embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying figures to aid in understanding the concepts presented herein. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 shows the perfume intensity of top notes from perfumed granules of the present disclosure and comparative spray-dried perfumed powders.

[0017] [Figure 2] 1 shows a process scheme for the manufacture of an embodiment of a flavored granule of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. Other features and advantages of any one or more of the embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description and claims.

[0019] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having," "contains," "containing," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements and may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, unless expressly stated otherwise, "or" means an inclusive or, not an exclusive or. For example, the condition "A or B" is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist), A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), and A and B are both true (or exist).

[0020] Additionally, the use of "a" or "an" is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be interpreted to include one or at least one, and the singular also includes the plural unless it is clear that it has a different meaning.

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. Furthermore, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0022] When an amount, concentration, or other value or parameter is given as either a range, a preferred range, or a list of upper and / or lower preferred values, this should be understood to specifically disclose any range formed by any pairing of any upper or preferred value of the range with any lower or preferred value of the range, regardless of whether the ranges are separately disclosed. When a range of numerical values ​​is recited herein, unless otherwise specified, the range is intended to include the endpoints, and all integers and fractions within the range. For example, if a range of "1 to 10" is recited, this recited range should be interpreted to encompass the ranges "1 to 8," "3 to 10," "2 to 7," "1.5 to 6," "3.4 to 7.8," "1 to 2 and 7 to 10," "2 to 4 and 6 to 9," "1 to 3.6 and 7.2 to 8.9," "1 to 5 and 10," "2 and 8 to 10," "1.5 to 4 and 8," and similar ranges.

[0023] The present disclosure illustratively described herein can suitably be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations not specifically disclosed herein. Although compositions and methods are described herein in terms "comprising" various components or steps, unless otherwise specified, the compositions and methods can also "consist essentially of" or "consist of" the various components or steps.

[0024] Before addressing the details of the embodiments below, some terms will be defined or clarified.

[0025] As used herein, the term "wt %" means percentage by weight.

[0026] As used herein, the term "animal litter" refers to a solid composition comprising particulate matter. Preferably, the particulate matter comprises an absorbent material. In some embodiments, the particulate matter has an average particle size ranging from 400 μm to 4 mm. The average particle size of the present disclosure is measured by sieve analysis according to standardized ASTM specification (ASTM D6913-04e1).

[0027] The term "absorbent material" as used herein as a component of particulate matter for animal waste management materials refers to a liquid-absorbing material. The absorbent material can be made from a material selected from the group consisting of clay (e.g., bentonite), wood (e.g., pine wood, cedar wood), wood by-products (e.g., sawdust), grains and ground grains (e.g., corn), agricultural products and by-products (e.g., corn cobs, dried distillers grains), silica gel, wheat, grass seeds, crushed walnut shells, paper pellets, cellulose, and mixtures thereof. Other examples of suitable absorbent materials are disclosed in WO 2013 / 180896 A1, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0028] As used herein, the term "average granule weight" means the average granule weight calculated by taking the total weight (in mg) of 3000 granules and then dividing it by 3000 to get the approximate weight of each granule in mg.

[0029] As used herein, the term "average mean diameter" refers to the average mean diameter determined by measuring the diameter distribution of granules using image analysis software (e.g., ImageJ Image Analysis Software, Version 1.53o (January 2022), available from NIH; MIPAR Image Analysis Software, Version 3.4, available from MIPAR Image Analysis (Columbus, Ohio); or Pax-It Image Management System, Version 1.3, available from Pax-It!™). A digital photograph of the granules is taken using photographic size standards. The image analysis software then measures the diameter of (e.g., several hundred) granules. The average mean diameter is then calculated along with the standard deviation.

[0030] The terms "obtainable" and "obtained" can be used interchangeably in the present disclosure and do not imply, for example, that a product must be obtained by the series of steps following the term "obtained", although such a limited understanding is always included in these terms as a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] As used herein, the term "bio-based" refers to atoms or molecules obtained from biomass, e.g., from materials containing organic carbon of renewable origin. Sources of such carbon can be derived from agricultural, plant, animal, fungal, microbial, marine, or forestry materials.

[0032] The term "biodegradable" as used herein with respect to a material such as a microcapsule shell and / or fragrance means that the material is capable of and / or undergoes physical, chemical, thermal, microbial and / or biological degradation without posing any actual or perceived health and / or environmental problems. Ideally, the microcapsule shell and / or fragrance is considered "biodegradable" if the microcapsule shell and / or fragrance passes one or more of the following tests: respirometric biodegradation methods in aqueous media available from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) testing, including, but not limited to, OECD 301F or 310 (Ready Biodegradation), OECD 302 (Intrinsic Biodegradation), ISO 17556 (Solid Irritation Test), ISO 14851 (Freshwater Irritation Test), ISO 18830 (Marine Sediment Irritation Test), OECD 307 (Soil Irritation Test), OECD 308 (Sediment Irritation Test), and OECD 309 (Water Irritation Test). Preferably, the microcapsule shell and / or fragrance is readily biodegradable as determined using the respiratory biodegradation method in aqueous media, OECD 301F or OECD 310 test. More preferably, the microcapsule shell and / or fragrance is biodegradable if the shell and / or fragrance has a biodegradation rate of at least 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 98%, based on the weight of the shell and / or fragrance, within 60 days according to the OECD 301F or OECD 310 test, or most preferably at least 60% biodegradability within 60 days according to the OECD 301F test.

[0033] As used herein, the term "bulk density" refers to the mass of the perfume-containing granules divided by the total volume they occupy. The total volume includes the granule volume, the intergranular void volume, and the intragranular void volume. Bulk density differs from skeletal density in that it includes both the intragranular void volume and the intergranular void volume. Bulk density is determined by the method described in Bulk Density Test (Test Method 2).

[0034] As used herein, the term "consumer" refers to both the user of the composition and observers near or around the user.

[0035] The terms "fragrance," "fragrance ingredient," "fragrance substance," and "fragrance material" are used interchangeably and refer to a composition of fragrance compounds for the purpose of delivering a specific and / or pleasant fragrance profile to promote consumer enjoyment or acceptance of a consumer product and / or fragrance composition. "Fragrance substance" refers to a fragrance raw material ("PRM") or mixture of fragrance raw materials ("PRMs") used to impart an overall pleasant odor or fragrance profile to a composition. "Fragrance substance" can encompass any suitable fragrance raw material for perfumery use, including materials such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, esters, ethers, acetates, nitriles, terpene hydrocarbons, nitrogen or sulfite heterocyclic compounds, and essential oils. However, natural plant and animal oils and exudates, which contain complex mixtures of various chemical components, are also known for use as "fragrance substances." Individual perfume raw materials, including known natural oils, can be found by consulting magazines familiar to those skilled in the art, such as "Perfume and Flavorist" or "Journal of Essential Oil Research," or can be found in reference books such as S. Arctander, "Perfume and Flavor Chemicals," 1969, Montclair, New Jersey, USA, recently reprinted in 1994 by Allured Publishing Corporation, Illinois. Furthermore, some perfume raw materials are offered by fragrance houses (Firmenich, International Flavors & Fragrances, Givaudan, Symrise) in the form of mixtures with their own special accords.

[0036] As used herein, the term "perfume profile" refers to a description of how a perfume is perceived by the human nose at any given moment. A perfume profile can change over time. It is the result of the combination of a perfume's base, heart, and top notes, if present. Base notes provide animalic, woody, sweet, amber, or musky characteristics and are characterized by being less volatile. Heart notes are associated with desirable characteristics such as floral (e.g., jasmine, rose), fruity, marine, aromatic, or spicy characteristics. "Top or head notes" provide citrus, green, light, or fresh characteristics and tend to evaporate quickly due to their high volatility. A perfume profile is composed of two characteristics: "intensity" and "character." "Intensity" relates to the perceived strength, while "character" refers to the olfactory impression or quality of a perfume, i.e., fresh, clean, etc.

[0037] As used herein, the term "granule" refers to a particle containing a core (typically a small core particle) and an active agent (typically a fragrance). The term "granule" can also refer to fibers, flakes, spheres, powders, platelets, and other shapes and forms.

[0038] As used herein, the term "maximum explosion pressure" (MEP) refers to the difference between the pressure at the time of ignition (atmospheric pressure) and the pressure at the peak of the explosion. Both the MEP and the explosion severity values ​​(Kst values) are measured in a 20 L apparatus or a 1 m 3 apparatus at different concentrations according to the test conditions specified in ISO 6184 / 1 (1995) and ASTM Standard E1226 (1991). 3 All measurements are performed by Dekra US, Atlanta, Georgia.

[0039] As used herein, the term "minimum ignition energy" (MIE) refers to the ignition sensitivity of a dust / air mixture in the presence of an electric spark, typically expressed in mJ. MIE is determined by the method described in Test Method 4 (MIE Test) of this disclosure.

[0040] As used herein, the terms "Particle Size Dispersity Index" (PSDI) and "Polydispersity Index" are used interchangeably and refer to the distribution of size populations within a mixture of perfume-containing granules and particulate matter. In the present disclosure, the Particle Size Dispersity Index (PSDI) is calculated by dividing the standard deviation by the average diameter of the perfume-containing granules and particulate matter.

[0041] As used herein, the term "substantially free" with respect to a substance means that the indicated substance is present in an amount of 0% to about 1% by weight, preferably 0% to about 0.5% by weight, and more preferably 0% to 0.2% by weight. The term "essentially free" means that the indicated substance is present in an amount of 0% to about 0.1% by weight, preferably 0% to about 0.01% by weight, and more preferably is not present at analytically detectable levels.

[0042] As used herein, the term "skeletal density" is the ratio of the mass of solid material contained within a granule to the sum of the volumes of the solid material and the closed (or blind) pores within the granule. Skeletal density in this disclosure is determined by the method described in Skeletal Density Test (Test Method 1).

[0043] As used herein, the term "vapor pressure" refers to the partial pressure of a given chemical species in air at a defined temperature (e.g., 25°C) and standard atmospheric pressure (760 mmHg). It defines the desire of a chemical species to be in the gas phase rather than in a liquid or solid state. The higher the vapor pressure, the greater the proportion of the material that will be found in a closed headspace at equilibrium. It is also related to the evaporation rate of a fragrance material, defined in an open environment as the material leaves the system. Vapor pressure is determined in accordance with Test Method 1 (Determination of Vapor Pressure) of WO 2016 / 200761 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0044] As used herein, the term "highly volatile perfume material" refers to a perfume material that has a vapor pressure of greater than 0.1 Torr (0.0133 kPa) at 25°C (i.e., top note).

[0045] As used herein with respect to a material (e.g., granules), "water activity (a w The term "vapor pressure of water in a substance at a given temperature divided by the partial vapor pressure of pure water at the same temperature."

[0046] As used herein, the terms "g," "mg," and "μg" refer to "gram," "milligram," and "microgram," respectively. The terms "L" and "mL" refer to "liter" and "milliliter," respectively. The terms "mm" and "μm" refer to "millimeter" and "micrometer," respectively.

[0047] It is understood that the test methods disclosed in the Test Methods section of this application must be used to determine the values ​​of each of the parameters of Applicant's invention described and claimed herein.

[0048] Flavor-containing granules The inventors have surprisingly discovered new perfume-containing granules having a particular combination of parameters that enable them to provide certain benefits, including, by way of non-limiting example, similar particle size to particulate matter in animal waste management materials for more uniform mixing, enhanced odor control benefits, minimal (i.e., low) or substantially no dusting and / or no tracking, and / or improved perfume profile, particularly the characteristic intensity (i.e., top note) derived from highly volatile perfume materials.

[0049] Specifically, in one aspect, the present disclosure provides a flavor-containing granule comprising, by weight of the granule, (a) greater than about 35% flavoring material, (b) about 1% to about 30% inorganic density-enhancing additive, and (c) about 1% to about 50% carbohydrate carrier, wherein the granule has a skeletal density of about 1.00 g / mL to about 1.40 g / mL and a bulk density of about 0.20 g / mL to about 1.40 g / mL. In some embodiments, the granule comprises at least 40 wt%, or at least 45 wt%, or at least 50 wt%, of the flavoring material, based on the weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the granule comprises about 5 wt% to about 30 wt%, or about 15 wt% to about 30 wt%, or about 17 wt% to about 28 wt% of the inorganic density-enhancing additive, based on the weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the granules have a bulk density of about 0.30 g / mL to about 0.60 g / mL. In some embodiments, the granules have a bulk density of about 0.30 g / mL to about 0.40 g / mL.

[0050] Typically, animal waste management materials have a bulk density of about 1.20 g / mL to about 1.30 g / mL. The inventors have discovered that to minimize or eliminate separation of the granules when mixed with animal waste management materials, the bulk density of the granules should be greater than about 0.20 g / mL, preferably greater than about 0.25 g / mL, more preferably greater than about 0.30 g / mL, or even more preferably greater than about 0.35 g / mL. In some embodiments, the bulk density of the granules is 1.20 g / mL or less, or 1.10 g / mL or less, or 1.0 g / mL or less, or 0.9 g / mL or less, or 0.8 g / mL or less, or 0.7 g / mL or less, or 0.6 g / mL or less, or 0.5 g / mL or less.

[0051] In some embodiments, the flavor-containing granules may be formed into spheres, hemispheres, etc. The granules may have any shape selected from the group consisting of spheres, hemispheres, compressed hemispheres, disks, circles, lenticular shapes, rectangles, and combinations thereof, preferably hemispheres or compressed hemispheres. As used herein, "lenticular shape" refers to the shape of a lentil, and "compressed hemisphere" refers to a shape corresponding to an at least partially or substantially flattened hemisphere such that the curvature of the surface is, on average, less than the curvature of a hemisphere having the same radius. Compressed hemispherical particles can have an aspect ratio (i.e., the ratio of the diameter of the base to the height of the base perpendicular to the base) of about 2.0 to about 5, alternatively about 2.1 to about 4.5, alternatively about 2.2 to about 4. "Rectangular-shaped" granules refer to particles having a maximum dimension and a secondary dimension perpendicular to the maximum dimension, wherein the ratio of the maximum dimension to the secondary dimension is greater than about 1.2, preferably greater than about 1.5, and more preferably greater than about 2. Additionally, the granules of the present disclosure may be broken and deformed during the drying step of the manufacturing process, resulting in granules having irregularly shaped hemispheres or compressed hemispheres.

[0052] In some embodiments, the fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure may have different shapes, sizes, and / or skeletal densities. In some embodiments, the fragrance-containing granules are added as an ingredient in a consumer product. For example, the granules may be added to an animal waste management material. Given that the fragrance-containing granules have a different shape and / or size than the particulate matter in the animal waste management material, they are likely to separate from the particulate matter during transportation and storage. Such separation can result in significant variations in the amount of fragrance-containing granules in the particulate animal waste management material composition. It has been discovered that such hemispherical or compressed hemispherical shapes can significantly reduce the separation of fragrance-containing granules in an animal waste management material composition by, for example, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, or at least about 80% compared to fragrance-containing granules having other shapes.

[0053] fragrance In some embodiments, animal waste management materials include the fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the fragrance-containing granules are used to manufacture animal waste management materials. When fragrance-containing granules are used in animal waste management applications, the granules can contain up to 35% fragrance material by weight, based on the weight of the granule, and still provide the desired odor control benefits. This is because the animal waste management materials are frequently skimmed so that waste is regularly removed. Therefore, animal waste management materials do not require a high payload of fragrance material to be able to adequately control odors. Furthermore, given that animal waste management materials are relatively inexpensive products, a high payload of fragrance would not be cost-effective. Thus, when the fragrance-containing granules are used in animal waste management materials (e.g., as an ingredient in or in a process for making animal waste management materials), the granules may contain 50% or less, or 45% or less, or 40% or less, or 35% or less, or 30% or less, or 25% or less, or 20% or less by weight of fragrance material based on the weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the granules contain at least 0.1%, or at least 1%, or at least 5%, or at least 10%, or at least 15% by weight of fragrance material based on the weight of the granule.

[0054] In some embodiments, the granules of the present disclosure have a characteristic that results from an extended perfume profile and / or a stronger perceived intensity, particularly a highly volatile perfume substance (i.e., top note) having a vapor pressure of greater than 0.1 Torr (0.0133 kPa) at 25°C, as compared to a comparative spray-dried perfume-containing powder by the olfactory test (Test Method 3) described herein. The term "comparative spray-dried perfume-containing powder," as used herein, refers to a spray-dried powder prepared with the same formulation (i.e., the same ingredients and amounts, except for water) used to prepare the perfume-containing granules compared to the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the highly volatile perfume substance is selected from the group consisting of butyl acetate, eth-2-meth buty, isoamyl acetate, manzanate, prenyl acetate, orange oil, acet C-6, isoamyl buty, allyl caproate, and combinations thereof.

[0055] Preferably, the perceived intensity of the fragrance profile of the fragrance-containing granules at 1 minute (min), 2 minutes (mins), 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 6 minutes, 7 minutes, 8 minutes, 9 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 25 minutes, 30 minutes, 35 minutes, 40 minutes, 45 minutes, 50 minutes, 55 minutes, or 60 minutes or more after adding water to the granules is stronger than that of the comparative spray-dried fragrance-containing powder, as determined by olfactory testing (Test Method 3). For example, a sample of the comparative spray-dried fragrance-containing powder exhibits a lower fragrance intensity of top notes, such as fruit and citrus, (approximately 3.2) 5 minutes after adding water to the powder, according to olfactory testing (Test Method 3) (see Figure 1). In comparison, a sample of the fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure exhibits a higher fragrance intensity of top notes (approximately 3.7) 5 minutes after adding water to the granules (see Figure 1). This means that the perfumed granules of the present disclosure are able to retain more of the top note than the comparative spray-dried perfumed powder.

[0056] The better top note retention is believed to be due, at least in part, to the lower processing temperature used to make the perfume-containing granules. As used herein, the term "processing temperature" refers to the air temperature within the drying chamber used as part of the manufacturing process. With reference to FIG. 2, the measurement of "processing temperature" refers to the measurement of the air temperature within the drying component (10) of the drying chamber. In the process used to make the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure, the estimated peak processing temperature measured in the drying component (10) is 115°C ± 10°C. It should be noted that measuring temperature in an infrared dryer is challenging because infrared energy absorbance varies depending on the type of material. These temperature readings were taken in a manner that prevented the probe from being directly "line-of-sight" to the infrared emitter. A bare thermocouple wire (type K) was placed approximately 1 cm above the conveyor belt. In this way, the temperature readings were the best practical measurement of the air temperature near the perfume-containing granule surface. Additionally, the above 115°C ± 10°C reading was obtained without perfume-containing granules on the conveyor belt, so there was no evaporative cooling effect. During active drying (i.e., water evaporation), the air temperature above the belt was significantly lower, in the range of 80°C ± 5°C.

[0057] In contrast, the processing temperatures used in spray drying processes are significantly higher. For example, the typical air temperature at the spray dryer inlet is about 190-210°C. Therefore, it is believed that the lower processing temperatures of the process for making the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure allow for better retention of top notes. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is also believed that the lower surface area, lower temperature, and larger particle size with a lower level of water in the emulsion mean that less energy is required to remove water from the emulsion to form dry granules. This in turn means that less fragrance oil, especially the more volatile top notes, are inadvertently removed during the heating / water removal process of making the granules.

[0058] The highly volatile fragrance material (i.e., top note) can be selected from the group consisting of banana-type notes, fruity-type notes, green-type notes, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the fragrance material comprises from about 1% to about 50%, or from about 5% to about 40%, or from about 10% to about 30% by weight of highly volatile fragrance material, based on the total weight of the fragrance material. In some embodiments, the fragrance material comprises at least 1%, or at least 2%, or at least 5%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20% by weight of highly volatile fragrance material, based on the total weight of the fragrance material. In some embodiments, the fragrance material comprises no more than 60%, or no more than 55%, or no more than 50%, or no more than 45%, or no more than 40%, or no more than 35%, or no more than 30%, or no more than 25% by weight of highly volatile fragrance material, based on the total weight of the fragrance material. Preferred, non-limiting examples of highly volatile perfume materials are provided in Table 1a, including combinations thereof.

[0059] [Table 1a]

[0060] In some embodiments, the highly volatile perfume material has a logP value (partition coefficient) of >1.6, preferably from about 1.7 to about 5.0. Preferred, non-limiting examples of such highly volatile perfume materials are provided in Table 1b, including combinations thereof.

[0061] [Table 1b]

[0062] In some embodiments, the fragrance material comprises a neat fragrance. As used herein, the term "neat fragrance" refers to a fragrance ingredient that is free of exogenous materials and is not encapsulated and / or bound to other compounds that cause a delay in the release of the fragrance ingredient. In some embodiments, the fragrance material is a neat fragrance, and the granules have a weight ratio of component (a) (neat fragrance) to the sum of component (b) (inorganic density-enhancing additive) and (c) (carbohydrate carrier) of 10:90 to 60:40.

[0063] In some embodiments, the perfume material comprises an encapsulated perfume. As used herein, the term "encapsulated perfume" refers to a perfume ingredient encapsulated in a microcapsule (to stabilize the odor impression over an extended period of time). Microcapsules are used to deliver perfume to a target area in a time-delayed or controlled manner. For example, encapsulated perfumes can be used to deliver targeted perfume when the granules are activated by physical force from an animal. In some embodiments, the microcapsules have an average particle size of 1 to 100 microns, preferably 1 to 50 microns, or more preferably 1 to 20 microns. Microcapsules can be prepared from natural materials such as fungal chitosan (WO 2016 / 185171 A1), silk fibroin particles (US 2015 / 0164117 A1), and biomolecules used as emulsifiers in microcapsule preparation (WO 2016 / 193435 A1, WO 2017 / 102812 A1, US 2018 / 0078468 A1, WO 2018 / 019894 A1, WO 2018 / 019896 A1, and WO 2017 / 102812 A1). Microcapsules comprising multilayer coacervates between gelatin and gum arabic can be used in the present disclosure (U.S. Pat. No. 4,946,624; WO 2012 / 001604 A1; U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2015 / 0250689 A1; and WO 2018 / 002214 A1). Protein microcapsules are also useful within the scope of the present disclosure (U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2017 / 0189283 A1). In some embodiments, environmentally friendly microcapsules, in which the shell is at least 60% biodegradable within 60 days according to OECD 301F, are also within the scope of the present disclosure (WO 2021 / 122633 A1).

[0064] In some embodiments, the encapsulated perfume is encapsulated by a biodegradable microcapsule shell. Preferably, the biodegradable microcapsule shell has a biodegradation rate of at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 98% within 60 days according to OECD 301F or OECD 310, based on the weight of the microcapsule shell, preferably 60% within 60 days according to OECD 301F, based on the weight of the microcapsule shell. As used herein, the terms "wall" and "shell" are used interchangeably to refer to the structure formed by the microencapsulating polymer surrounding the microencapsulated active material (e.g., perfume) core.

[0065] In some embodiments, the fragrance material comprises a neat fragrance and an encapsulated fragrance, and the total amount of the neat fragrance and the encapsulated fragrance is at least 0.1 wt %, at least 1 wt %, at least 5 wt %, at least 10 wt %, at least 15 wt %, at least 20 wt %, at least 25 wt %, at least 30 wt %, at least 35 wt %, or at least 40 wt % based on the total weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the fragrance material comprises a neat fragrance and an encapsulated fragrance, and the total amount of the neat fragrance and the encapsulated fragrance is 20 wt % or less, 25 wt % or less, 30 wt % or less, 35 wt % or less, 40 wt % or less, 45 wt % or less, 50 wt % or less, 55 wt % or less, 60 wt % or less, 65 wt % or less, or 70 wt % or less based on the total weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of the neat fragrance to the encapsulated fragrance is 10:1 to 1:1. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of neat perfume to encapsulated perfume is from 8:1 to 2:1, or from 7:1 to 2:1, or from 6:1 to 3:1, or from 5:1 to 3:1. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of neat perfume to encapsulated perfume is at least 0.5:1, or at least 0.8:1, or at least 1:1, or at least 2:1, or at least 3:1. In some embodiments, the weight ratio of neat perfume to encapsulated perfume is 15:1 or less, or 12:1 or less, or 11:1 or less, or 10:1 or less, or 9:1 or less, or 8:1 or less, or 7:1 or less, or 6:1 or less, or 5:1 or less.

[0066] In some embodiments, the perfume material is essentially free of encapsulated perfume. In some embodiments, the perfume material comprises 5% or less, 3% or less, 1% or less, 0.5% or less, or 0.2% or less by weight of encapsulated perfume, based on the total weight of the perfume material. In some embodiments, the perfume material consists essentially of or consists of neat perfume.

[0067] Inorganic Density Enhancing Additives Inorganic density-enhancing additives are added to the granules to increase their bulk density and skeletal density. Preferably, the inorganic density-enhancing additive is selected from biodegradable and / or environmentally friendly materials. In some embodiments, the inorganic density-enhancing additive is selected from the group consisting of titanium dioxide, talc, silicon dioxide, calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, sodium silicate, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, magnesium silicate, magnesium aluminum silicate, clay (e.g., bentonite clay), trisodium phosphate, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the inorganic density-enhancing additive includes or is titanium dioxide and / or calcium silicate. In some embodiments, the inorganic density-enhancing additive includes or is silicon dioxide.

[0068] The granules of the present disclosure comprise from about 1% to about 30% by weight of the inorganic density-enhancing additive, based on the total weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the granules comprise from about 5% to about 30% by weight, or from about 5% to about 25% by weight, or from about 15% to about 30% by weight, or from about 15% to about 25% by weight, or from about 17% to about 28% by weight of the inorganic density-enhancing additive, based on the weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the granules comprise at least 1% by weight, or at least 2% by weight, or at least 3% by weight, or at least 4% by weight, or at least 5% by weight, or at least 6% by weight, or at least 7% by weight, or at least 8% by weight, or at least 9% by weight, or at least 10% by weight, or at least 12% by weight, or at least 15% by weight, or at least 17% by weight, or at least 20% by weight of the inorganic density-enhancing additive, based on the total weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the granules comprise 35% by weight or less, or 32% by weight or less, or 30% by weight or less, or 28% by weight or less, or 26% by weight or less, or 24% by weight or less, or 22% by weight or less, or 20% by weight or less of inorganic density-enhancing additives, based on the total weight of the granules.

[0069] Carbohydrate Carriers Granules of the present disclosure comprise 1% to 50% by weight of the carbohydrate carrier, based on the weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the carbohydrate carrier is water-soluble or water-dispersible. In some embodiments, the carbohydrate carrier has a melting point temperature of at least 70°C, at least 80°C, at least 90°C, or at least 100°C. In some embodiments, the carbohydrate carrier comprises gum arabic, starch, modified starch, polysaccharides, cellulose, pectin, or a mixture thereof. Preferably, the carbohydrate carrier comprises a starch selected from the group consisting of corn starch, potato starch, rice starch, tapioca starch, and mixtures thereof. The starch of the present disclosure can be obtained from seeds, roots, or tubers. The starch can be obtained by wet-milling, washing, sieving, and drying. Starch is primarily obtained from corn, wheat, and potato, and, to a lesser extent, from sources such as rice, sweet potato, sago, and mung bean. Starch can be unmodified or chemically modified (i.e., modified starch) to enable the starch to function under conditions frequently encountered during processing or storage, such as high heat, high shear, low pH, oxidation, freeze / thaw, and / or chilling. Such modifications include, but are not limited to, acid treatment, alkali treatment, bleaching, oxidation, enzyme treatment, acetylation, phosphorylation, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the starch comprises or is a modified starch. In some embodiments, the carbohydrate carrier comprises or is a modified starch. In some embodiments, the modified starch is selected from the group consisting of cationic starch, hydroxyethyl starch, carboxymethylated starch, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the modified starch comprises or is an octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA)-modified starch. In some embodiments, the modified starch comprises or is starch sodium octenyl succinate (E1450). Other types of modifications known to those of skill in the art are also considered within the scope of this disclosure.Suitable examples of modified starches include, but are not limited to, CAPSUL® (starch sodium octenyl succinate), CAPSUL® FP, Purity Gum® 2000 (starch sodium octenyl succinate), HI-CAP® IMF, HI-CAP® 100 (starch sodium octenyl succinate), Sta-Mist (Sta-Mist 515), and the like (available from Ingredion, Westchester, IL, USA). In some embodiments, the aqueous (modified) starch solution may include maltose, sucrose, maltodextrin, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the aqueous (modified) starch solution may include a cellulose ether.

[0070] In some embodiments, the carbohydrate carrier includes modified starch and unmodified starch. As used herein, the term "unmodified starch" means that the starch has not been chemically modified. In some embodiments, the carbohydrate carrier includes gum arabic. In some embodiments, the carbohydrate carrier is present in the granule in an amount of about 10% to about 50% by weight, preferably about 20% to about 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the flavoring material is adsorbed or absorbed onto the carbohydrate carrier.

[0071] Other parameters In some embodiments, the flavor-containing granules of the present disclosure have the following characteristics: (i) a water activity (a) of less than 0.6 at 25°C w ), and / or (ii) an average granule weight of about 1 mg to about 10 mg, or about 3 mg to about 7 mg, and / or (iii) characterized by an average median diameter ranging from about 1 mm to about 20 mm, or from about 1 mm to about 15 mm, or from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, or from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, or from about 2 mm to about 3 mm.

[0072] In some embodiments, the flavor-containing granules have all three of the above characteristics.w Fragrance-containing granules having a saturation temperature, average granule weight, and average median diameter may offer significant improvements over existing fragrance particles. Fragrance-containing granules with these characteristics are dry, free-flowing, high-fragrance-loaded powders / granules that provide protection from air and evaporation. This results in on-demand release of fragrance when needed. For example, when an animal urinates, the granules partially dissolve, releasing the fragrance. This results in fresher, longer-lasting performance in a convenient and safe manner that avoids unintentional ignition of fragrance vapors during handling in the factory and reduces dust and tracking when poured by the consumer.

[0073] Another aspect of the present disclosure is the desire to transition to the use of granules and / or their ingredients (e.g., fragrance materials, microcapsules, etc.) derived from "Green Chemistry" principles. Green Chemistry focuses on designing products and processes that minimize environmental impact, particularly by using renewable feedstocks, reused and / or upcycled carbon resources that can be replenished to replace portions depleted by use and / or consumption, either through natural regeneration or other recurring processes over a finite time period (such as within a human lifetime). In other words, the raw materials or feedstocks used to manufacture the granules and / or their ingredients should be renewable, reused, and / or upcycled carbon resources rather than depleted whenever technically and economically feasible. As used herein, "BRC" (biorenewable carbon) refers to carbon that is part of the Earth's natural environment and non-fossil carbon. BRC is a naturally occurring, renewable, reused, and / or upcycled carbon resource that can be replenished to replace the portion depleted by use and consumption either through natural regeneration or other recurring processes within a finite time period (such as within a human lifetime). BRC excludes carbon derived from virgin crude oil. In some embodiments, the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure have a biorenewable carbon (BRC) content of at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% by weight of the granule.

[0074] Biorenewable carbon (BRC) content can be determined using methods such as those described in ASTM D6866-16 and ISO 16620. ASTM D6866-16 and ISO 16620-2 provide three different methods for determining the biorenewable content of solid, liquid, or gaseous compositions. For example, the granules and / or consumer products of the present disclosure can be dried and tested as solids. As defined by ASTM D6866-16 and ISO 16620-1, biobased carbon content is the amount of biobased carbon in the granule or consumer product as a percentage of the total organic carbon by weight (mass). In particular, Method B of ASTM D6866-16 uses accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) to determine the biorenewable carbon content of a composition. 14 C / 12 C and 13 C / 12 The carbon from fossils is measured based on its age. 14 Because it is much longer than the 5,730-year half-life of C, 14 Therefore, the composition is essentially free of C. 14 The presence and level of C provides a direct measure of the amount of carbon derived from sources other than fossil fuels, i.e., the level of biobased carbon in the composition. If the biobased carbon content of all raw materials in the mixture is known, it is also possible to calculate the biobased carbon content of the mixture according to ISO 16620-1.

[0075] In some embodiments, the granules of the present disclosure exhibit an increased MIE value, preferably a substantially increased MIE value, and / or a reduced Kst value (compared to spray-dried flavor-containing powders) so that they can be safely processed, handled, stored, and / or used. Kst is the dust deflagration index and is used to quantify the severity of a dust explosion. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) classifies dusts into four dust hazard classes based on Kst values, as shown in Table 2 below. Preferably, the granules of the present disclosure have a Kst of dust hazard class St-1 (low explosion risk) or St-0 (no explosion risk), preferably St-0. It should be noted that Kst is a statement of explosion severity and does not indicate the ignition sensitivity of the dust or the likelihood of a dust explosion during manipulation of the granules.

[0076] [Table 2]

[0077] Instead, MIE indicates the likelihood of ignition of a dust cloud by an electrical discharge (e.g., static electricity or other such ignition source) and is measured in millijoules (mJ) or joules (J). The MIE of a dust is defined as the lowest amount of electrical energy (stored in a capacitor) that, when discharged across a spark gap, is sufficient to add the most readily ignitable dust / air mixture in a series of tests at atmospheric pressure, ambient temperature, and the lowest possible turbulence. In some embodiments, the granules of the present disclosure have an MIE value, measured according to ASTM E2019, of at least 1,000 mJ, at least 5,000 mJ, at least 7,500 mJ, or at least 10,000 mJ, more preferably greater than 10,000 mJ.

[0078] In some embodiments, the granules may further comprise a fire-resistant agent to minimize explosion risk. Suitable examples of fire-resistant agents are disclosed in WO 2003 / 043728 A1 and WO 2019 / 170528 A1, the disclosures of both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other suitable fire-resistant agents include sodium carbonate, zeolite, sodium sulfate, and mixtures thereof. Given that fire-resistant agents are a complementary solution to minimize explosion risk, it may be necessary to use less fire-resistant agent in the granules of the present disclosure than those disclosed in WO '728 A1 and WO '528 A1.

[0079] Process for preparing granules The present inventors have discovered a process for preparing fragrance-containing granules that can provide all of the benefits described herein. Essentially, the solution involves printing granules using primarily bio-based materials in combination with fragrance oils to create an oil-in-water emulsion that is deposited as "dots" or "droplets" on a belt. The droplets are then dried to remove all or substantially all of the water, forming the fragrance-containing granules. In some embodiments, the granules of the present disclosure are formed from droplets that can be obtained (or are obtained) from a deposition process that includes: (i) depositing an emulsion having a viscosity of 1,000 m·Pas to 20,000 m·Pas at 25°C; and (ii) optionally drying the deposited emulsion at a temperature of 75°C to 130°C, preferably 80°C to 125°C. In some embodiments, the emulsion has a viscosity of 2,000 m·Pas to 10,000 m·Pas at 25°C. In some embodiments, the emulsion is deposited onto a belt (e.g., a conveyor belt). Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is important to form the granules from a high-viscosity emulsion because too much water in the emulsion results in a low-viscosity emulsion that cannot be deposited as discrete "dots" or "droplets" on the belt. However, too little water in the emulsion results in a high-viscosity emulsion that is difficult to pump and deposit onto the belt. The inventors have found a sweet spot for the viscosity range so that the emulsion is formulated with as little water as possible but is still functional for the printing process.

[0080] In some embodiments, the flavor-containing granules of the present disclosure can be prepared according to the following method. There are alternatives to this method, so there is no limitation regarding the method for obtaining the granules. Thus, according to one embodiment, the flavor-containing granules are obtained by a process as shown in Figure 2. Referring to Figure 2, this process comprises the following steps:

[0081] (i) preparing an aqueous phase having a high solids content (e.g., 68-70% by weight) and a high viscosity (5,000-10,000 cP at 25°C) by dissolving and / or dispersing a carbohydrate carrier in water;

[0082] (ii) preparing an oil phase (neat and / or encapsulated) containing a perfume material and mixing the oil phase with the water phase of step (i) to obtain an oil-in-water emulsion (feed slurry in Figure 2);

[0083] (iii) mixing the emulsion of step (ii) with a high shear disperser (IKA T50 Ultra-Turrax) to subject it to high shear mixing (e.g., 13,500 RPM) to reduce the oil droplet size to <5 microns;

[0084] (iv) dispensing 3 mm diameter droplets or dots of the emulsion feed of step (iii) onto a conveyor belt (using the depositor of Figure 2) at a belt speed of 10 meters per minute;

[0085] (v) drying the droplets or dots by applying heat to the droplets or dots as they move along the conveyor belt to obtain the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure. Other drying methods such as fluidized bed or even drying at room temperature may be suitable.

[0086] In some embodiments, the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure comprise a plurality of intragranular voids (i.e., intragranular voids) formed from heating the granules to evaporate water from the granules. Preferably, the granules comprise less than 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, 3%, or 1% water, based on the weight of the granule. In some embodiments, the granules are essentially free of water. As used herein, the term "void" refers to the empty space within a granule of porous or hollow morphology that is preferably not filled with other impurities and remains continuous after the granule is formed. As the name suggests, voids are filled with air and not other gases. The granules of the present disclosure have voids that can have asymmetric or irregular shapes with curved contours, or spherical or irregular spherical shapes (e.g., ellipsoidal, crescent, etc.). No observable difference in key performance criteria (e.g., dissolution rate) is expected between spherical voids and non-spherical voids. In some embodiments, the voids comprise a combination of spherical and non-spherical voids.

[0087] The voids may have a variety of dimensions, e.g., as measured longitudinally, ranging anywhere from about 1 micron to about 3000 microns, by way of non-limiting example. While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that smaller voids (e.g., less than about 1000, 500, 400, 300, 200, or 100 microns, or any dimension therebetween) can merge with other voids to form larger voids during the drying process. The resulting larger voids (e.g., ≥ 100 microns, ≥ 200 microns, ≥ 300 microns, ≥ 400 microns, ≥ 500 microns, ≥ 600 microns, ≥ 700 microns, ≥ 800 microns, ≥ 900 microns, or ≥ 1000 microns) are more desirable than smaller voids for facilitating dissolution rates. Alternatively, the voids of the present disclosure may include any combination of smaller and larger voids, so long as they result in granules with the desired dissolution rate. In some embodiments, the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure comprise a plurality of intragranular voids having a longitudinal dimension of at least 1 micron, at least 10 microns, at least 50 microns, at least 100 microns, at least 200 microns, at least 300 microns, at least 400 microns, or at least 500 microns. In some embodiments, the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure comprise a plurality of intragranular voids having a longitudinal dimension of no more than 3000 microns, no more than 2500 microns, no more than 2000 microns, or no more than 1500 microns.

[0088] In some embodiments, the total volume of voids within the perfume-containing granules (i.e., intragranular voids) is at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, or at least 30%, based on the volume of the granule. In some embodiments, the total volume of voids within the granules is 70% or less, 65% or less, 60% or less, 55% or less, or 50% or less, based on the volume of the granule. In some embodiments, the total volume of voids within the granules is in the range of 15% to 70%, 20% to 60%, or 35% to 55%, based on the volume of the granule. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that granules with voids may be more easily wetted when incorporated into animal waste management materials, and therefore may be able to release perfume during animal use.

[0089] It is important to note that in any process used to create the voids that trap air in the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure, no air or other gases are intentionally added to the precursor material. Furthermore, as noted above, the voids found in the perfume-containing granules are formed from water evaporation during the heating process, and not as a result of any crushing during the cooling process of the precursor material from which the granules are made. The combination of these different factors results in the granules of the present disclosure having voids with significantly different properties compared to any currently known scented particles.

[0090] consumer products In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a consumer product comprising the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure. The consumer product is selected from the group consisting of powdered laundry detergent, powdered automatic dishwasher detergent, animal waste treatment, bath salts, room deodorizer, room dehumidifier, powdered fabric bleach, powdered soap, and powdered cleaner. In some embodiments, the consumer product is an animal waste treatment. Preferably, the animal waste treatment has one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of enhanced malodor control, lower tracking, and lower dusting compared to animal waste treatments comprising spray-dried perfume-containing powders. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the retention of more top notes in the granules (compared to conventional spray-dried perfume-containing powders) means that these top notes can enter the air in greater volume and counteract malodorous substances (also highly volatile substances). The spray-dried powder is a fine-particle size powder that can adhere to an animal's paws and then be "tracked" from the animal litter box to surrounding surfaces. This phenomenon also has the effect of scenting the paws of undesirable animals, reminding pet owners that an animal has just visited the litter tray. As mentioned above, spray-dried powders have a very small particle size, which means that they can create dust for consumers when poured from boxes or bags into the litter box, as well as when added and mixed at the factory. The dust is not only unsightly, but also settles on the exterior surfaces of the litter box, and prolonged inhalation exposure can cause health problems for animals and humans who are regularly exposed.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment, the animal waste management material is a livestock waste management material (e.g., cat waste management material, rabbit waste management material, gerbil waste management material, and dog waste management material, particularly cat waste management material). According to this embodiment, the consumer product is an animal waste management material comprising a majority of the particulate matter of the present disclosure and a minor portion of the fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure. Preferably, the animal waste management material comprises the fragrance-containing particles present in an amount ranging from about 0.01% to about 5.0% by weight, more preferably 0.04% to 0.20% by weight, based on the total weight of the animal waste management material, and the particulate matter present in an amount ranging from about 95% to about 99.99% by weight, more preferably 99.8% to 99.96% by weight, based on the total weight of the animal waste management material. In some embodiments, the particulate matter has a bulk density of about 0.35 g / mL to about 1.40 g / mL. In some embodiments, the cat waste management material comprises particulate matter and fragrance-containing granules, and the ratio of the bulk density of the particulate matter to the bulk density of the fragrance-containing granules is 4:1 or less. Clay-based cat waste management materials have a bulk density of about 1.0 to about 1.5, so ideally, the granules of the present disclosure have a similar density, but should not be less than one-quarter the density of the cat waste management material to prevent segregation in the product.

[0092] In some embodiments, the animal waste management material of the present disclosure further comprises at least one performance-enhancing active agent that improves the function and / or properties of the animal waste management material. Preferably, the performance-enhancing active agent is selected from the group consisting of antimicrobial agents, odor absorbers, odor inhibitors, binders that promote agglomeration, health-indicating materials, non-stick release agents, lightweight minerals, mirror materials, and combinations thereof. The active agent can be added in any useful amount depending on its activity and use. Typically, the performance-enhancing active agent may be present in the animal waste management material in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, preferably from about 0.05% to about 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the animal waste management material.

[0093] In some embodiments, the animal waste management material comprises fragrance-containing granules and particulate matter, and the fragrance-containing granules and particulate matter have a particle size dispersity index (PSDI) of less than 0.2 (standard deviation / mean value). This means that the fragrance-containing granules and particulate matter are substantially or completely homogeneously mixed. The PSDI can be measured by dispersing a sample of the granules and particulate matter in distilled water and then measuring it with a Malvern Nano-S. Further details of this method are provided in<https: / / www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov / pmc / articles / PMC5035303 / > , the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. It is yet a further advantage that the perfume-containing granules and particulate materials of the present disclosure exhibit a polydispersity index of ≦0.2 (standard deviation / mean value). This means that the granules and particulate materials of the present disclosure have a substantially monodispersed particle size distribution. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that by having a more monodispersed particle size distribution as well as the ability to adjust particle size, the granules and particulate materials provide a more uniform distribution in the animal waste management material. As a result, during use, the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure exhibit a more uniform distribution within each area of ​​the animal waste management material.

[0094] It should be noted that the animal waste treatment materials of the present disclosure are useful for a variety of purposes other than just animal waste treatment. For example, the animal waste treatment materials can be used for water treatment, wastewater treatment, liquid spill control, etc. Other non-animal treatment uses are also contemplated for the fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure. The fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure can be used in any situation where it is desired to impart fragrance to consumer products, such as, but not limited to, powdered laundry detergents, powdered automatic dishwashing detergents, bath salts, room deodorizers, room dehumidifiers, powdered fabric bleaches, powdered soaps, and powdered cleaners.

[0095] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for producing an animal waste management material. The method includes (i) providing a particulate material comprising an absorbent material and, optionally, at least one performance-enhancing active selected from the group consisting of antimicrobial agents, odor absorbers, odor inhibitors, agglomeration-promoting binders, health-indicating materials, non-stick release agents, lightweight minerals, mirror materials, and combinations thereof; and (ii) mixing the particulate material with a fragrance-containing granule of the present disclosure, wherein the particulate material has an average particle size ranging from 400 μm to 4 mm. Generally, the granules and particulate material can be combined using any suitable method known in the art, such as stirring, dry mixing, etc. The order of addition of the granules and particulate material can be any order suitable for producing an animal waste management material.

[0096] Generally, the animal waste management material is placed in an animal litter box or other suitable container and the animal is allowed to deposit its waste (e.g., urine or feces) into the animal waste management material. If desired, the animal waste management material can be contacted with the waste after it has been deposited, for example, on a lawn.

[0097] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an animal litter box comprising the animal waste management material of the present disclosure, and an apparatus suitable for containing the animal waste management material and for use by the animal when the animal excretes waste. Suitable apparatus are known in the art and commercially available, such as the animal litter boxes disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2009 / 0250014A1, 20090272327A1, 2009000560A1, 20070277740A1, and U.S. Patent No. 7,628,118.

[0098] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a kit suitable for containing animal litter boxes useful for waste management, particularly animal waste management. The kit includes, in separate containers within a single package or separate containers within a virtual package, as appropriate for the kit components, the animal waste management material of the present disclosure and (1) an implement suitable for containing the animal waste management material and suitable for use by an animal when excreting animal waste, such as an animal litter box, and (2) an implement suitable for handling animal waste deposited on the animal waste management material, such as a scoop for removing animal feces from the waste management material (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,523,973) or a tool suitable for handling the animal waste management material. (3) a different animal waste management material, e.g., a different animal waste management material suitable for creating a mixture of the animal waste management material of the present disclosure with such different animal waste management material; (4) instructions on how to use the animal waste management material of the present disclosure to manage waste, particularly animal waste; and (5) instructions on how to dispose of the animal waste management material of the present disclosure (e.g., how to dispose of the material in an environmentally friendly manner, particularly after its use).

[0099] When the kit includes a virtual package, the kit is limited to the instructions in a virtual environment combined with one or more physical kit components. The kit may contain the kit components in any of various combinations and / or mixtures. In one embodiment, the kit includes a package containing the animal waste management material of the present disclosure and a scoop suitable for removing animal waste from the animal waste management material.

[0100] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a package comprising a material suitable for containing the animal waste management material of the present disclosure and a label affixed to the package comprising a word, image, design, acronym, slogan, phrase, or other device, or combination thereof, indicating that the contents of the package contain the animal waste management material of the present disclosure, e.g., contain information regarding the enhanced properties of the animal waste management material, including effective odor control or other physical, functional, or related properties.

[0101] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for imparting a fragrance to an animal waste management material, the method comprising: (i) mixing from about 0.02% to about 5% by weight of a plurality of fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure, based on the total weight of the animal waste management material; and (ii) from about 99.98% to about 95% by weight of particulate matter, based on the total weight of the animal waste management material. Preferably, the animal waste management material exhibits one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of enhanced odor control, reduced tracking, and reduced dusting, compared to animal waste management materials comprising spray-dried fragrance powders.

[0102] While many aspects and embodiments have been described above, they are illustrative only and not limiting. After reading this specification, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other aspects and embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. All publications cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

[0103] Test Method In order that the invention described and claimed herein may be more fully understood, the following test methods described should be used.

[0104] Test Method 1: Skeletal Density Test (i.e., Porosity Test) The porosity test is used to measure the relative volume of porosity contained within the internal structure of a granule (i.e., intragranular porosity). The principles of Applicant's porosity test follow the published international standard ISO 15901-01: Evaluation of pore size distribution and porosity of materials by mercury porosimetry and gas adsorption - Part 1: Principles of mercury porosimetry. Porosity is divided into two categories: intergranular (voids between granules) and intragranular voids (pores within granules). The method is used to measure intragranular porosity. Details of the method adapted for this disclosure are as follows:

[0105] Approximately 2 cm2 with granules of 300 μm to 600 μm size by sieve classification 3A volume of granule sample is loaded into a hardness tester assembly with an appropriate bulb and stem assembly to ensure greater than 25% and less than 75% stem volume utilization over the pressure range specified in Part 3. The sample assembly is then evacuated to remove gas from the pores.

[0106] Dry nitrogen is introduced into the evacuated measuring cell in a controlled manner, and the pressure is increased (stepwise, continuously, or by stepwise pressurization) with the required precision for the specific pore size range of interest, covering up to at least 0.2 MPa, corresponding to a pore size of 6 μm, according to the appropriate equilibrium conditions for the mercury entering the pores. The pressure and the corresponding volume of mercury that has entered can be recorded graphically or via computer. Once the maximum required pressure is reached, the pressure is reduced to ambient and the sample holder is transferred to the high-pressure unit.

[0107] In the high-pressure unit, the pressure is increased through the intrusion of mercury (as the working fluid) by applying pressure stepwise according to the appropriate equilibrium conditions for mercury entering the pores, with the precision required for the specific pore size range of interest, covering at least up to 400 MPa, which corresponds to a pore diameter of 3 nm. As a result, mercury is forced into the pore system, and the decrease in the length of the mercury column is measured as a function of pressure. The pressure and corresponding volume of the intruded mercury can be recorded via computer.

[0108] The applied pressure is inversely proportional to the apparent width of the pore entrance. For cylindrical pores, the Washburn equation describes the relationship between pressure and diameter: d p =-4γcosθ / P, where d p is the pore diameter, γ is the surface tension of mercury [Nm -1 ], θ is the contact angle, and P is the penetration pressure. Commonly used values ​​for the surface tension and contact angle of mercury are 480 mN.m -1 and 140°. The Washburn equation is used to convert the pressure reading to pore size. The pore volume distribution is obtained by plotting the intrusion volume related to the sample mass on the vertical axis as a function of the pore diameter on the horizontal axis.

[0109] The cumulative pore volume distribution includes both interstitial and intragranular pores. Within the scope of this disclosure, the intragranular pore size threshold has been determined using differential distribution analysis. 30 μm is the cutoff pore size, with pores larger than 30 μm considered intergranular and pores smaller than 30 μm considered intragranular. Intragranular porosity is calculated by dividing the intragranular pore volume by the sum of the intragranular pore volume and the solid volume of the granule sample. The solid volume of the sample is the sample volume minus the total pore volume.

[0110] Test method 2: Bulk density test The bulk density of a given portion of material (e.g., granules, particulate matter, etc.) is the mass of the given portion of material divided by its total volume. The bulk density of a material can be measured using the following steps: (i) placing an empty 100 mL graduated cylinder (readable to 1 mL) on a balance; (ii) taring the empty graduated cylinder on it; (iii) introducing the material into the graduated cylinder without compacting it and bringing the material to the 100 mL line; (iv) weighing the graduated cylinder (with the material therein) to obtain the mass of the material in the cylinder; (v) fixing the graduated cylinder (with the material) on a mechanical tapper to perform 1000 taps with the aim of reducing the volume the material occupies in the cylinder; (vi) recording the volume of the material in the graduated cylinder after tapping; and (vii) dividing the mass of the material by the volume of the material (after tapping) to obtain the bulk density of the material.

[0111] Test method 3: Olfactory test This test evaluates the olfactory performance of the fragrance-containing granules of the present disclosure compared to a comparative spray-dried fragrance-containing powder, with respect to the perception of fragrance profile, particularly the perception of fragrance intensity derived from the top note. In the testing facility, 1 g of the fragrance-containing granules and 1 g of the comparative spray-dried fragrance-containing powder are introduced into each container. 100 mL of room temperature (25°C) water is added to the container to dissolve the granules and powder, respectively. The granule and powder samples are dissolved in water under stirring for 2 minutes. The containers containing the aqueous sample solutions are sealed with lids and presented to evaluators. Evaluators are selected from individuals trained to evaluate fragrances according to the following scale or individuals with experience in fragrance evaluation in the industry. Typically, approximately 6 to 10 panelists are used for the evaluation. Panelists are asked to rate the perceived fragrance intensity of the top note on a scale of 0 to 5, with 0 being the weakest and 5 being the strongest.

[0112] Test method 4: MIE test The purpose of the MIE test is to determine the minimum energy of an electric spark that will result in the ignition of a dust cloud conducted in a modified Hartmann vertical tube. This is a clear plastic vertical tube that is open at the top and has a volume of approximately 1.3 L. The test is conducted in accordance with the ASTM E2019 standard test method. All measurements are performed by Dekra US, Atlanta, Georgia. [Example]

[0113] The following non-limiting examples are provided to further illustrate the present invention and should not be construed as limitations thereof, as many variations of the present invention are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

[0114] Example 1 - Preparation of flavored granules The composition of the flavor-containing granules is shown in Table 3 below. A specified amount of water was added to a suitable container and heated to approximately 60°C. With continuous mixing, sodium sulfate was added and mixed until completely dissolved. Capsul® modified starch (starch sodium octenyl succinate, available from Ingredion) was added slowly to minimize agglomerations, and mixing continued until completely dissolved. The resulting solution was cooled to approximately 30°C. The viscosity of the solution was checked with a Brookfield viscometer at 60 RPM using spindle #7. The viscosity value was as high as 30,000 cPs.

[0115] To a separate container, a predetermined amount of neat fragrance oil was added. While an IKA Turrax® T-50 homogenizer (available from IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG, Staufen, Germany) was immersed in the starch and sodium sulfate solution, the neat fragrance oil was slowly added to the solution until the neat fragrance container was empty. Continuous high shear was applied at 13,500 RPM for a minimum of 5 minutes. The viscosity of the resulting oil-in-water emulsion was confirmed with a Brookfield viscometer using spindle #7 at 60 RPM. The viscosity value was a high 30,000 cPs. The size distribution of the oil droplets in the emulsion was also confirmed. A target mean of <10 microns and a target mode of <3 microns were achieved.

[0116] While the emulsion was continuously mixed, the aqueous microcapsule slurry containing the encapsulated perfume was slowly added in a predetermined amount to the emulsion. Again, the viscosity of the resulting emulsion was checked with a Brookfield viscometer at 60 rpm using spindle #4. The viscosity value was as high as 10,000 cPs.

[0117] Finally, while mixing, rice starch was added to the emulsion in a specified amount to create the emulsion stock (i.e., feed slurry) used in the printing process as shown in Figure 2. The viscosity of the resulting emulsion was again checked at 60 rpm using spindle #4. The viscosity value was as high as 15,000 cPs.

[0118] As shown in Figure 2, the emulsion raw material (i.e., feed slurry) produced above was deposited as droplets or dots with a diameter of 3 mm onto a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt moved at a belt speed of 5 meters per minute. The dots were dried in a drying chamber with infrared light to produce perfume-containing granules.

[0119] [Table 3]

[0120] Example 2 - Preparation of a comparative spray-dried flavored powder A comparative spray-dried perfume-containing powder was prepared according to Table 3 of Example 1, except that an additional 4650 grams of water was used to reduce the viscosity of the emulsion to <500 cPs. The emulsion was then spray-dried to produce the spray-dried perfume-containing powder.

[0121] Example 3 - MIE of Flavored Granules vs. MIE of Comparative Spray-Dried Flavored Powder Sample A is a flavored granule prepared according to Example 1, and Sample B is a comparative spray-dried flavored powder prepared according to Example 2. The MIE for Samples A and B is determined according to Test Method 4 (MIE Test). The results of the evaluation are summarized in Table 4 below.

[0122] [Table 4]

[0123] The results show that Sample B has a very low MIE, indicating that it is very sensitive to ignition from any power source. In contrast, Sample A, the fragrance-containing granule of the present disclosure, has a very high MIE, which means that it is extremely insensitive to ignition and therefore has a low risk of explosion during production and handling.

[0124] Example 4 - Preparation of high density flavored granules For certain applications where high bulk density and high skeletal density are desirable (eg, animal waste disposal materials), inorganic density-enhancing additives can be added to the granular composition.

[0125] The composition of the flavored granules is shown in Table 5 below. A specified amount of water was added to a suitable container and heated to approximately 60°C. With continuous mixing, Citrem N12 (citric acid ester of monoglyceride) was added and mixed until it was completely dissolved. Sodium sulfate was then added and mixed until it was completely dissolved. Capsul® modified starch and gum arabic were slowly added to minimize agglomerations, and mixing continued until they were completely dissolved. The resulting solution was cooled to approximately 30°C. The viscosity of the solution was confirmed with a Brookfield viscometer at 60 RPM using spindle #7. The viscosity value was approximately 100 cPs.

[0126] In a separate container, the specified amounts of neat fragrance oil and Methocel K99 (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) were added. A homogenizer, IKA Turrax® T-50 (available from IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG, Staufen, Germany), was immersed in the solution (containing Capsul® modified starch, gum arabic, Citrem N12, and sodium sulfate), and the neat fragrance oil / Methocel K99 mixture was slowly added to the solution until the container (containing the neat fragrance oil / Methocel K99 mixture) was empty. Continuous high shear was applied at 13,500 RPM for a minimum of 5 minutes. The viscosity of the resulting oil-in-water emulsion was confirmed with a Brookfield viscometer using spindle #7 at 60 RPM. The viscosity value was approximately 1,000 cPs. The size distribution of the oil droplets in the emulsion was also confirmed. A target mean of <3 microns and a target mode of <3 microns were achieved.

[0127] Titanium dioxide was slowly added to the emulsion in a specified amount while the emulsion was continuously mixed. Finally, rice starch was added to the emulsion in a specified amount while mixing to create the emulsion stock (i.e., feed slurry) used in the printing process as shown in Figure 2. Again, the viscosity of the resulting emulsion was checked with a Brookfield viscometer at 60 rpm using spindle #4. The viscosity value was high at 5,600 cPs.

[0128] As shown in Figure 2, the emulsion raw material (i.e., feed slurry) produced above was deposited onto a conveyor belt as droplets or dots with a diameter of 3 mm. The conveyor belt moved at a belt speed of 5 meters per minute. The dots were dried in a drying chamber with infrared light to produce the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure.

[0129] [Table 5]

[0130] Example 5 - Preparation of flavored granules The composition of the flavored granules is shown in Table 6 below. A specified amount of water was added to a suitable container and heated to approximately 60°C. With continuous mixing, Citrem N12 (citric acid ester of monoglyceride) was added and mixed until it was completely dissolved. Sodium sulfate was then added and mixed until it was completely dissolved. Purity Gum® 2000 modified starch and gum arabic were slowly added to minimize agglomerations, and mixing was continued until they were completely dissolved. The resulting solution was cooled to approximately 30°C. The viscosity of the solution was confirmed with a Brookfield viscometer at 60 RPM using spindle #7. The viscosity value was approximately 100 cPs.

[0131] A specified amount of neat fragrance oil was added to a separate container. A homogenizer, IKA Turrax® T-50 (available from IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG, Staufen, Germany), was immersed in the solution (containing Purity Gum® 2000 modified starch, gum arabic, Citrem N12, and sodium sulfate), and the neat fragrance oil was slowly added to the solution until the container (containing the neat fragrance oil) was empty. Continuous high shear was applied at 13,500 RPM for a minimum of 5 minutes. The viscosity of the resulting oil-in-water emulsion was confirmed with a Brookfield viscometer using spindle #7 at 60 RPM. The viscosity value was a high 1,000 cPs. The size distribution of the oil droplets in the emulsion was also confirmed. The target mean of <3 microns and target mode of <3 microns were achieved.

[0132] While the emulsion was continuously mixed, potato starch and titanium dioxide were slowly added to the emulsion in the specified amounts. Finally, while mixing, rice starch was added to the emulsion in the specified amount to create the emulsion stock (i.e., feed slurry) used in the printing process as shown in Figure 2. Again, the viscosity of the resulting emulsion was checked with a Brookfield viscometer at 60 rpm using spindle #4. The viscosity value was as high as 5,000 cPs.

[0133] As shown in Figure 2, the emulsion raw material (i.e., feed slurry) produced above was deposited onto a conveyor belt as droplets or dots with a diameter of 3 mm. The conveyor belt moved at a belt speed of 5 meters per minute. The dots were dried in a drying chamber with infrared light to produce the perfume-containing granules of the present disclosure.

[0134] [Table 6]

[0135] It should be noted that not all of the acts described above in the general description or examples are required, that some of the specific acts may not be required, and that one or more additional acts may be performed in addition to those described. Furthermore, the order in which the acts are listed is not necessarily the order in which the acts are performed.

[0136] In the foregoing specification, the concepts have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. Accordingly, the specification is to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0137] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with respect to particular embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any features that may give rise to or make more pronounced any benefit, advantage, or solution should not be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features of any or all of the claims.

[0138] It should be understood that certain features that are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination.

Claims

1. A flavor-containing granule comprising, based on the weight of the granule: (a) more than 35% by weight of a fragrance material; (b) 1 wt. % to 30 wt. % of an inorganic density-enhancing additive; (c) 1% to 50% by weight of a carbohydrate carrier; A flavor-containing granule, wherein the granule has a skeletal density of 1.00 g / mL to 1.40 g / mL and a bulk density of 0.20 g / mL to 1.40 g / mL, preferably 0.30 g / mL to 0.60 g / mL.

2. The granules are (i) a water activity (a) of <0.6 at 25°C ｗ ), and / or (ii) an average granule weight of 1 mg to 10 mg, or 3 mg to 7 mg; and / or (iii) The granules of claim 1 having an average median diameter in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm, or 2 mm to 3 mm.

3. 3. A granule according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the granule comprises one or more intragranular voids formed by heating the granule to evaporate water from the granule, preferably the voids comprising a combination of spherical and non-spherical voids.

4. 4. A granule according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the inorganic density enhancing additive is selected from the group consisting of titanium dioxide, talc, silicon dioxide, calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, sodium silicate, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, magnesium silicate, magnesium aluminium silicate, clay (e.g. bentonite clay), trisodium phosphate, and combinations thereof, preferably the inorganic density enhancing additive is titanium dioxide and / or calcium silicate.

5. 5. The granule of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the granule has a bio-renewable carbon (BRC) content of at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% based on the weight of the granule.

6. 6. The granules according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the granules have, in accordance with the olfactory test described herein, a longer duration and / or a stronger perceived intensity of the perfume profile compared to a comparative spray-dried perfume-containing powder, characteristics attributable in particular to highly volatile perfume substances (i.e., top notes) having a vapor pressure of more than 0.1 Torr (0.0133 kPa) at 25°C, preferably the highly volatile perfume substances are selected from the group consisting of butyl acet, eth-2-meth buty, isoamyl acet, manzanate, prenyl acet, orange oil, acet C-6, isoamyl buty, allyl caproate, and combinations thereof.

7. 7. A granule according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the carbohydrate carrier comprises a starch, a modified starch, a polysaccharide, a cellulose, a pectin, or a mixture thereof, preferably the carbohydrate carrier comprises a starch selected from the group consisting of corn starch, potato starch, rice starch, tapioca starch, and mixtures thereof, preferably the carbohydrate carrier comprises a modified starch.

8. 8. Granules according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the granules are formed from droplets obtainable from a deposition process comprising: (i) depositing an emulsion having a viscosity of from 1,000 mPas to 20,000 mPas, preferably from 2,000 mPas to 10,000 mPas, at 25°C; and (ii) optionally drying the deposited emulsion at a temperature of from 75°C to 130°C, preferably from 80°C to 125°C.

9. A granule according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the flavouring material comprises a neat flavouring.

10. Granules according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the granules exhibit an increased Minimum Ignition Energy (MIE) value and / or a reduced Kst value, measured according to ASTM E2019, compared to a spray-dried flavoured powder, preferably the granules exhibit an MIE value (measured according to ASTM E2019) of ≥ 1,000 mJ, ≥ 5,000 mJ, ≥ 7,500 mJ or ≥ 10,000 mJ, more preferably > 10,000 mJ, and / or a Kst value of dust hazard class St-1 (low explosion risk) or St-0 (no explosion risk), preferably St-0.

11. 11. A consumer product comprising the granules of any one of claims 1 to 10, said consumer product being selected from the group consisting of powdered laundry detergent, powdered automatic dishwasher detergent, animal waste treatment, bath salts, room deodorizer, room dehumidifier, powdered fabric bleach, powdered soap, and powdered cleaner, preferably said consumer product is an animal waste treatment, more preferably said animal waste treatment has one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of enhanced malodor control, lower tracking and lower dusting compared to spray dried perfumed powders.

12. 12. The consumer product of claim 11, wherein the consumer product is an animal waste management material, preferably a cat waste management material, and further comprises particulate matter having a bulk density of 0.35 g / mL to 1.40 g / mL, preferably the cat waste management material having a ratio of the bulk density of the particulate matter to the bulk density of the perfume-containing particles of 4:1 or less.

13. 13. The consumer product of claim 11 or 12, wherein the perfume-containing granules and the particulate matter have a particle size dispersion index (PSDI) of <0.2 (standard deviation / mean value), preferably the granules and the particulate matter are homogeneously mixed, preferably the particulate matter comprises an absorbent material and has an average particle size in the range of 400 μm to 4.0 mm, and optionally at least one performance enhancing active selected from the group consisting of antimicrobial agents, odor absorbers, odor inhibitors, binders that promote agglomeration, health indication materials, non-stick release agents, lightweight minerals, mirror materials, and combinations thereof.

14. A method for producing an animal waste treatment material, comprising: (i) providing a particulate matter comprising an absorbent material and, optionally, at least one performance-enhancing active selected from the group consisting of antimicrobial agents, odor absorbers, odor inhibitors, binders that promote agglomeration, health-indicating materials, non-stick release agents, lightweighting minerals, mirror materials, and combinations thereof; (ii) mixing the granules according to any one of claims 1 to 10 with the particulate matter, The method wherein the particulate material has an average particle size in the range of 400 μm to 4 mm.

15. A method for adding a fragrance to an animal excrement disposal material, comprising: (i) 0.02% by weight to 5% by weight of the granules according to any one of claims 1 to 10, based on the total weight of the animal excrement treatment material; (ii) mixing 99.98% to 95% by weight of particulate matter with respect to the total weight of the animal waste treatment material; Preferably, the animal waste management material exhibits one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of enhanced odor control, lower tracking, and lower dusting compared to animal waste management materials comprising spray-dried flavoring powders.

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