Transparent or translucent liquid fabric softener composition

Abstract

The present invention provides a transparent softener composition containing silicone that provides a smooth feel while suppressing yellowing and deterioration of the composition. [Solution] Components (A) to (C) below: (A) Polyether-modified silicone 0.5-10% by mass (B) Polyethyleneimine 0.05-5% by mass (C) Organic acid 0.01~10% by mass A transparent or translucent liquid softener composition containing [the specified ingredient].

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a liquid fabric softener composition. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, development of fabric softener compositions with transparent or translucent appearances has been undertaken from an aesthetic standpoint. As a prior art, liquid fabric softener compositions using a combination of silicone and a cationic water-soluble polymer are known (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-18922 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] In response to the conventional composition using a combination of silicone and a cationic water-soluble polymer, in an effort to impart a higher level of tactile feel, it was discovered that using polyethyleneimine among water-soluble polymers enhances the adsorption of silicone to fibers, thereby imparting the high smoothness characteristic of silicone. On the other hand, it was found that when polyethyleneimine is incorporated into a transparent softener composition containing silicone, the composition undergoes extreme yellowing over time. Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a transparent softener composition containing silicone that provides a smooth feel while suppressing yellowing and deterioration of the composition. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In response to this challenge, after thorough investigation, it was discovered that a combination of polyether-modified silicone, polyethyleneimine, and organic acid can suppress yellowing and degradation of the composition while providing a smooth texture. The present invention relates to, for example, the following [1] to [5]. [1] The following components (A) to (C): (A) Polyether-modified silicone: 0.5 to 10% by mass (B) Polyethyleneimine: 0.05 to 5% by mass (C) Organic acid: 0.01 to 10% by mass A transparent or translucent liquid softener composition containing the same. [2] The liquid softener composition according to [1] above, wherein the mass ratio (B) / (A) of component (B) to component (A) is 0.03 to 5, and / or the mass ratio (C) / (B) of component (C) to component (B) is 0.05 to 5. [3] The liquid softener composition according to [1] or [2] above, further containing (D) a solvent and (E) a nonionic surfactant. [4] The liquid softener composition according to [3] above, wherein the mass ratio (A)+(B) / (D) of the total amount of components (A) and (B) to component (D) is 0.5 to 5. [5] The liquid softener composition according to [3] or [4] above, wherein the mass ratio (A)+(B) / (E) of the total amount of components (A) and (B) to component (E) is 0.5 to 2. [Advantages of the Invention]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a softener composition that imparts a smooth touch while suppressing yellowing deterioration of the composition. [Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0007] As used herein, “transparent” with respect to the appearance of the composition means that when measured using a UV-2500PC type measuring instrument manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation, with a quartz cell having an optical path length of 10 mm used as the measurement cell and ion-exchanged water placed in the control cell for measurement, the light transmittance at a wavelength of 660 nm is 90% or more. In this specification, with respect to the appearance of a composition, "translucent" means that when measured using a UV-2500PC type measuring instrument manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation, with a quartz cell having an optical path length of 10 mm used as the measurement cell and ion-exchanged water placed in the reference cell for measurement, the light transmittance at a wavelength of 660 nm is 50% or more and less than 90%.

[0008] [Component (A)] In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, by blending component (A), a good texture can be imparted to the fibers. Component (A) is a polyether-modified silicone. Examples of component (A) include copolymers of alkylsiloxane and polyoxyalkylene. The number of carbon atoms of the alkyl group constituting the alkylsiloxane is preferably 1 to 3. The number of carbon atoms of the alkylene group constituting the polyoxyalkylene is preferably 2 to 5. Preferred polyether-modified silicones include copolymers of dimethylsiloxane and polyoxyalkylene (such as polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene, or random or block copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide). Specific examples include compounds represented by the following general formula (I).

[0009] [Chemical formula] [In the formula, M, N, a, and b are average degrees of polymerization, respectively, and R is hydrogen or an alkyl group.] In general formula (I), M is 10 to 10000, preferably 50 to 1000, more preferably 100 to 300. N is 1 to 1000, preferably 5 to 300, more preferably 5 to 100. Furthermore, it is preferable that M > N. a is 2 to 100, preferably 5 to 50, more preferably 5 to 20. b is 0 to 50, preferably 0 to 10. R is preferably hydrogen or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, more preferably hydrogen. Polyether-modified silicones of general formula (I) can generally be produced by an addition reaction between an organohydrogenpolysiloxane having Si-H groups and a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether having a carbon-carbon double bond at its terminus, such as polyoxyalkylene allyl ether.

[0010] A preferred polyether-modified silicone is a linear polysiloxane-polyoxyalkylene block copolymer represented by the following general formula (II). [ka] [In the formula, A, B, h, and i are the average degrees of polymerization, R is an alkylene group, and R' is hydrogen or an alkyl group.] In general formula (II), A is 5 to 10000, B is 2 to 10000, h is 2 to 100, and i is 0 to 50. R is preferably an alkylene group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms. R' is preferably hydrogen or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. The weight-average molecular weight of the copolymer of general formula (II) is preferably 15,000 to 100,000,000. The copolymer of general formula (II) can be produced by reacting a polyoxyalkylene compound having a reactive end group with a dihydrocarbylsiloxane having an end group that reacts with the reactive end group of the compound.

[0011] Specific examples of polyether-modified silicones include CF1188N, BY22-029, SH3772M, SH3775M, SH3748, SH3749, SF8410, SH8700, BY22-008, SF8421, SILWET L-7001, SILWET L-7002, SILWET L-7602, SILWET L-7604, SILWET FZ-2104, SILWET FZ-2120, SILWET FZ-2161, SILWET FZ-2162, SILWET FZ-2164, SILWET FZ-2171, SILWET FZ-2222, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-01, and ABN SILWET T Examples include FZ-F1-009-02, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-03, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-05, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-09, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-11, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-13, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-54, ABN SILWET FZ-2222, as well as X-20-8010N, KF352A, KF6008, KF615A, KF6016, KF6017 from Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., and TSF4450, TSF4452 from Momentive Performance Materials Japan LLC.

[0012] (A) The components are known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. (A) Component A may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination. The content of component (A) is 0.5 to 10% by mass, preferably 1.0 to 6% by mass, and more preferably 1.5 to 5% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. When the amount of component (A) is within the range of 0.5 to 10% by mass, it can impart a smooth feel and softness to textile products.

[0013] [(B) Component] In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, by incorporating component (B), component (A) can be efficiently adsorbed onto the fibers. Furthermore, by adsorbing component (A) onto the fibers, smoothness and flexibility can be imparted. Component (B) is polyethyleneimine. Polyethyleneimine is a polymer obtained by polymerizing ethyleneimine, and usually forms a branched or network structure because some of the nitrogen atoms in the main chain become branching points, and contains one or more primary to tertiary amino groups in its structure. The amine groups in the main chain of polyethyleneimine can be primary, secondary, or tertiary. The polyethyleneimine main chain can take the form of a linear, branched, dendritic, or comb-like structure, and can have a weight-average molecular weight of 100-2,000 g / mol, 200-1,500 g / mol, 300-1,000 g / mol, 400-800 g / mol, or 500-700 g / mol. The amine groups in the main chain of polyethyleneimine are either primary, secondary, or tertiary, and may be a mixture containing one or more primary, secondary, and tertiary amine groups. The combination of primary, secondary, and tertiary amine substituents can be in any ratio, for example, about 1:1:1 to about 2:2:1, and branching occurs every 3 to 3.5 nitrogen atoms along the main chain or branched chain segments. Alternatively, the amine groups in the main chain may be primarily one of the primary, secondary, or tertiary amine substituents. Examples of polyethyleneimine or its main chain include compounds having structures represented by the following general formulas (b1) to (b3). In formulas (b1) and (b2), the wavy lines indicate the bond positions with adjacent groups.

[0014] [ka] [ka] [ka]

[0015] The weight-average molecular weight of component (B) is preferably 100 to 5,000,000, more preferably 4,000 to 5,000,000, and even more preferably 500,000 to 3,000,000. If the weight-average molecular weight of component (B) is within the above range, it can efficiently adsorb component (A) onto the fibers through interaction with component (A). In this specification, the weight-average molecular weight refers to the value obtained by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) using polyethylene glycol as the standard substance. The term "polyethyleneimine" in component (B) also includes modified polyethylene. That is, component (B) may be modified polyethyleneimine. Component (B) may be used alone or in combination of two or more as appropriate. Modified polyethyleneimine refers to a material obtained by the reaction of some or all of the primary or secondary amino groups in polyethyleneimine with another compound, or by the reaction of ethyleneimine with another polymer. Examples of modified polyethyleneimine include amide derivatives of polyethyleneimine, alkyl polyethyleneimine, quaternary polyethyleneimine, and polyethyleneimine with hydroxyl groups substituted at the ends. In addition, modified polyethyleneimine described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 60-221088, Japanese Patent Publication No. 59-198190, Japanese Patent Publication No. 62-271791, Japanese Patent Publication No. 58-120879, Japanese Patent Publication No. 60-135585, Japanese Patent Publication No. 60-78906, U.S. Patent No. 3,642,572, U.S. Patent No. 4,144,123, U.S. Patent No. 4,371,674, etc., can be used as modified polyethyleneimine.

[0016] Commercially available polyethyleneimines can be used. Examples of commercially available polyethyleneimines include BASF's product names "Lupasol FG," "Lupasol G 20," "Lupasol G 35," "Lupasol G 100," "Lupasol HF," "Lupasol PS," "Lupasol SK," "Lupasol SKA," "Lupasol PN 50," and "Lupasol PN60," and Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.'s product names "Epomin SP-003," "Epomin SP-006," "Epomin SP-012," "Epomin SP-018," "Epomin SP-200," and "Epomin HM-2000." Of these, "Lupasol SK," "Lupasol SKA," "Lupasol PN 50," and "Lupasol PN 60" are commercially available modified polyethyleneimines. As for component (B), from the viewpoint of adsorption of component (A) to fibers and the resulting imparting of smoothness, products manufactured by BASF, such as "Lupasol G 100", "Lupasol HF", "Lupasol PS", and "Lupasol SK", are preferred, more preferably "Lupasol PS" and "Lupasol SK", and even more preferably "Lupasol SK".

[0017] The content of component (B) is 0.05 to 5% by mass, preferably 0.1 to 3% by mass, and more preferably 0.5 to 2.0% by mass, based on the total mass of the softener composition. If the content of component (B) is within the range of 0.05 to 5% by mass, the adsorption of component (A) to fibers can be enhanced, and the fibers can be given smoothness. Furthermore, if the content of component (B) is within the range of 0.05 to 5% by mass, good flexibility can be given to the fibers, and yellowing of the composition can also be suppressed when used in combination with component (C). In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, the mass ratio (B) / (A) of component (B) to component (A) is preferably 0.03 to 5, more preferably 0.5 to 5, and even more preferably 1 to 5, from the viewpoint of adsorption of component (A) to fibers and imparting smoothness to fibers.

[0018] [(C) component] In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, by incorporating component (C), it is possible to suppress the yellowing of the composition over time. Component (C) is an organic acid. In this specification, an organic acid refers to an organic compound that exhibits acidity when dissolved in water, and for example, contains at least one of a carboxyl group, a sulfate group, a sulfo group, and a phosphate group. Of these, organic acids having at least one carboxyl group are preferred, and examples include lactic acid, citric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, glycolic acid, succinic acid, and benzoic acid. Among these, organic acids having 2 to 6 carbon atoms are preferred, and citric acid, malic acid, and glycolic acid are particularly preferred. The content of component (C) is 0.05 to 10% by mass, preferably 0.1 to 5% by mass, more preferably 0.2 to 5% by mass, and even more preferably 0.5 to 3% by mass, based on the total mass of the softener composition. When the content of component (C) is 0.05% by mass or more, yellowing of the composition can be effectively suppressed. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of the liquid properties and effects of the composition, the content of component (C) is 10% by mass or less. In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, the mass ratio (C) / (B) of component (C) to component (B) is preferably 0.05 to 5, more preferably 0.15 to 5, and even more preferably 1 to 5, from the viewpoint of suppressing yellowing of the composition.

[0019] [Optional ingredients] The liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention may contain additives, etc., commonly used in fabric softener compositions, as needed, to the extent that they do not interfere with the effects of the present invention.

[0020] [Nonionic surfactant] In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, a nonionic surfactant may be incorporated as component (D). Component (D) can contribute to the stable solubilization of components (A) and (B). (D) As component, any nonionic surfactant known in the field of liquid fabric softeners can be used without particular limitation. Examples of the (D) component include compounds represented by the following general formula (IV). R 1 -T-[(R 2 O) p -H] q (IV) In formula (IV), R 1 is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 10 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably 12 to 18 carbon atoms. R 2 is an alkylene group having 2 or 3 carbon atoms, preferably an ethylene group. p is the average number of added moles and is 2 to 75, preferably 5 to 60. Within the above numerical range, the transparent appearance of the liquid softener composition can be maintained even at low temperatures. T is -O-, -N-, -NH-, -N(C2H4OH)-, -CON-, -CONH-, or -CON(C2H4OH)-. When T is -O-, -NH-, -N(C2H4OH)-, -CONH-, or -CON(C2H4OH)-, q is 1. When T is -N- or -CON-, q is 2.

[0021] Specific examples of the compound of general formula (IV) include compounds represented by the following general formula (V) or (VI). R 1 -O-(C2H4O) r -H (V) In formula (V), R 1 is as defined in formula (IV). r is the average number of added moles and is 2 to 75, preferably 5 to 60. R 1 -O-(C2H4O) s (C3H6O) t -H (VI) In formula (VI), R 1 is as defined in formula (IV). s is the average number of added moles and is 2 to 40, preferably 5 to 30, more preferably 5 to 20, and most preferably 5 to 15. t is the average number of moles added, which is 1 to 20, preferably 1 to 10. The addition of (C2H4O) and (C3H6O) can be random or block-based.

[0022] (D) Component is a known substance and is readily available on the market or can be prepared. (D) Component may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination. (D) Preferred examples of component include EO and PO adducts of nonyl alcohol (average number of moles added: EO: 9 moles, PO: 1 mole), EO adduct of primary isononyl alcohol (average number of moles added of EO: 40 moles), EO adduct of primary isodecyl alcohol (average number of moles added of EO: 20 moles), EO adduct of lauryl alcohol (average number of moles added of EO: 20 moles), EO adduct of primary isohexadecyl alcohol (average number of moles added of EO: 60 moles), EO adduct of primary isotridecyl alcohol (average number of moles added of EO: 7 moles, 40 moles, or 60 moles), EO adduct of tridecyl alcohol (average number of moles added of EO: 50 moles), and EO adduct of lauric acid (average number of moles added of EO: 20 moles). Commercially available products include the Emarex series from Nippon Emulsion, the Emarumin series from Sanyo Chemical Industries, the TDA series from Lion Specialty Chemicals, the Softanol series from Nippon Shokubai, and the Lutensol series from BASF. The amount of component (D) is not particularly limited as long as the purpose of formulation is achieved, but is preferably 0.1 to 5.0% by mass, preferably 1.0 to 5.0% by mass, and more preferably 3.0 to 5.0% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. Within the above content range, a better formulation effect can be obtained while suppressing the foaming and defoaming properties of the liquid fabric softener composition. In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, the mass ratio (A)+(B) / (D) of the total amount of components (A) and (B) to component (D) is preferably 0.5 to 5, and more preferably 1.0 to 1.5, from the viewpoint of solubilizing components (A) and (B).

[0023] [solvent] In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, a solvent may be incorporated as component (E). Component (E) can contribute to the stable solubilization of components (A) and (B). (E) As component, any solvent known in the field of liquid softeners can be used without particular limitation, but a water-miscible organic solvent is preferred. A water-miscible organic solvent is an organic solvent that dissolves in 25g or more of water at 25°C. Examples of water-miscible organic solvents include alcohols such as ethanol, glycerin, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-butanol, and 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol (Solfit, trade name); glycols such as propylene glycol (PG), butylene glycol, and hexylene glycol; polyglycols such as diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol with a molecular weight of approximately 200 to 1000, and dipropylene glycol; and alkyl ethers such as diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (butyl carbitol), and diethylene glycol dimethyl ether. Among these, ethanol, glycerin, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol with a molecular weight of approximately 200 to 1000, and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (butyl carbitol) are preferred from the viewpoint of low odor, ease of availability, and fluidity, and ethanol, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (butyl carbitol) are more preferred.

[0024] Examples of water-miscible organic solvents include (E1) and (E2) below. (E1): One or more water-soluble solvents selected from the group consisting of lower (1-5 carbon) alcohols, glycol ether solvents, and polyhydric alcohols (excluding (E2) described below). Examples of (E1) include ethanol, isopropanol, glycerin, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, butyl carbitol, polyoxyethylene phenyl ether, etc. Preferred (E1) includes ethanol, ethylene glycol, butyl carbitol, and water-soluble solvents represented by the following general formula (E1). R 3 -O-(C3H6O) z -(C2H4O) y -H (E1) [In the formula, R 3 is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms (preferably 2 to 6), y is the average number of moles added, 2 to 50 (preferably 2 to 30), and z is the average number of moles added, 0 to 50 (preferably 0 to 20). More preferred (E1) options include ethanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (butyl carbitol) [C4H9O(C2H4O)2H], and diethylene glycol monopropylene glycol monobutyl ether [C4H9O(C3H6O)(C2H4O)2H].

[0025] (E2): A compound represented by the following general formula (E2). [ka] [In the formula, R 1 ~R 3 R is independently a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms. 4 [This is a hydrogen atom or an acetyl group.] In formula (E2), R 1 ~R 3 It is preferable that all of them are hydrogen atoms, or that one is an alkyl group and the other two are hydrogen atoms. That is, R 1 ~R 3 It is preferable that two or more of them are hydrogen atoms. 1 ~R 3If two or more of them are hydrogen atoms, a high blending effect can be obtained. 1 ~R 3 If any of the elements is an alkyl group, its carbon number is preferably 1 to 2, and more preferably 1. A high blending effect can be obtained within the aforementioned carbon number range. 4 A hydrogen atom is preferred. The (E2) component is R of the general formula (E2). 4 Those in which R is a hydrogen atom, for example, 3-methoxybutanol, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-3-ethylbutanol, 3-methoxy-3-propylbutanol, 3-methoxy-2-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-2-ethylbutanol, 3-methoxy-2-propylbutanol, 3-methoxy-1-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-1-ethylbutanol, 3-methoxy-1-propylbutanol, etc.; and R of general formula (E2) 4 Examples of acetates in which the group is an acetyl group include 3-methoxybutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-3-ethylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-3-propylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-2-methylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-2-ethylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-2-propylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-1-methylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-1-ethylbutyl acetate, and 3-methoxy-1-propylbutyl acetate. Among these, 3-methoxybutanol, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-2-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-1-methylbutanol, and 3-methoxy-3-methylbutyl acetate are preferred, with 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol being more preferred.

[0026] (E) Component is a known substance and is readily available on the market or can be prepared. (E) Component may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination. For example, multiple types of (E1) or multiple types of (E2) may be used, or (E1) and (E2) may be used in combination. Using (E1) and (E2) in combination is preferable because it can achieve a better formulation objective. The amount of component (E) is not particularly limited as long as the purpose of formulation is achieved, but is preferably 3 to 15% by mass, more preferably 5 to 10.0% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. Within the above content range, a better formulation effect can be obtained for the liquid fabric softener composition. In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, the mass ratio (A)+(B) / (E) of the total amount of components (A) and (B) to component (E) is preferably 0.5 to 2, and more preferably 0.5 to 1.2, from the viewpoint of solubilizing components (A) and (B).

[0027] <Fragrance composition> Fragrance compositions may be incorporated to scent the liquid fabric softener composition itself, and / or to scent textile products after treatment with the composition. As for fragrances, any substance known in the field of liquid fabric softeners can be used without particular restriction. Fragrances may be used in a single type or in combination of multiple types. Examples of fragrances include aldehydes, phenols, alcohols, ethers, esters, hydrocarbons, ketones, lactones, musks, fragrances with terpene skeletons, nitriles, natural fragrances, and animal-derived fragrances. Specific examples of each fragrance are as follows. Examples of aldehydes include undecylenaldehyde, laurylaldehyde, aldehyde C-12MNA, miracaldehyde, α-amyl cinnamicaldehyde, cyclamenaldehyde, citral, citronellal, ethyl vanillin, heliotropin, anisaldehyde, α-hexyl cinnamicaldehyde, octanal, ligstral, lilial, liral, tripral, vanillin, and helional. Examples of phenols include eugenol and isoeugenol. Examples of alcohols include citronellol, dihydromyrcenol, dihydrolinalool, geraniol, linalool, nerol, sandalol, santarex, terpineol, tetrahydrolinalool, menthol, borneol, 1-decanal, bacdanol, and phenylethyl alcohol. Examples of ethers include Sedlumber, Grisalva, methyl eugenol, and methyl isoeugenol. Examples of esters include cis-3-hexenyl acetate, cis-3-hexenyl propionate, cis-3-hexenyl salicylate, p-cresyl acetate, pt-butylcyclohexyl acetate, amyl acetate, methyl dihydrojasmonate, amyl salicylate, benzyl salicylate, benzyl benzoate, benzyl acetate, cedyl acetate, citronellyl acetate, and decahydro-β-naphthyl acetate. Examples include acetate, dimethylbenzylcarbinyl acetate, erica propionate, ethyl acetate, erica acetate, geranyl acetate, geranyl formate, hedione, linalyl acetate, β-phenylethyl acetate, hexyl salicylate, styraryl acetate, terpinyl acetate, vetiveryl acetate, OT-butylcyclohexyl acetate, manzanate, and allyl heptanoate. Examples of hydrocarbons include limonene (especially d-limonene), α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, camphene, and terpinolene. Examples of ketones include α-ionone, β-ionone, methyl-β-naphthylketone, α-damascone, β-damascone, δ-damascone, damascenone, cis-jasmone, methylionone, allylionone, cashmeran, dihydrojasmone, isoesuper, beltfix, isolonediforanone, coavon, carvone, rosephenone, raspberry ketone, dynascone, and maltol. Examples of lactones include γ-decalactone, γ-undecalactone, γ-nonalactone, γ-dodecalactone, coumarin, and ambroxan. Examples of musk compounds include cyclopentadecanolide, ethylene brassirate, galaxolide, musk ketone, tonalide, tonalide, and nitromusks. Examples of fragrances containing a terpene skeleton include geraniol, nerol, linalool, citral, citronellol, menthol, mint, citronellal, myrcene, α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, terpinellol, carvone, ionone (e.g., β-ionone), camphene, and borneol. Examples of nitriles include paeonyl and geranylnitrile. Examples of natural fragrances include essential oils such as orange oil, lemon oil, lime oil, petitgrain oil, yuzu oil, neroli oil, bergamot oil, lavender oil, lavandin oil, abies oil, anise oil, bay oil, rose oil, ylang-ylang oil, citronella oil, geranium oil, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, eucalyptus oil, lemongrass oil, patchouli oil, jasmine oil, rose oil, cedar oil, vetiver oil, galbanum oil, oakmoss oil, pine oil, camphor oil, sandalwood oil, fragrant camphor oil, turpentine oil, clove oil, clove leaf oil, cassia oil, nutmeg oil, cananga oil, and thyme oil. Examples of animal-derived fragrances include musk, spirit cat incense, sea lion incense, and ambergris.

[0028] The fragrance composition preferably contains aldehydes, ketones, or hydrocarbons, and more preferably the following fragrances. [Aldehydes] One or more substances selected from the group consisting of undecylenaldehyde, laurylaldehyde, aldehyde C-12MNA, miracaldehyde, α-amyl cinnamicaldehyde, cyclamenaldehyde, citral, citronellal, heliotropin, anisaldehyde, α-hexyl cinnamicaldehyde, octanal, ligstral, lilial, liral, tripral, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, and helional. [Ketones] One or more substances selected from the group consisting of α-ionone, β-ionone, methyl-β-naphthylketone, α-damascone, β-damascone, δ-damascone, cis-jasmone, methylionone (methyl ionone), allylionone (allyl ionone), cashmeran, dihydrojasmone, isoesuper, beltfix, isolonediphoranone, coavon, rosephenone, raspberry ketone, dynascone, and maltol. [Hydroxides] One or more substances selected from the group consisting of limonene, α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, and terpinolene.

[0029] When a fragrance composition contains aldehydes, ketones, and hydrocarbons as fragrance components, from the viewpoint of fragrance release, the total content of these fragrance components is preferably 10% by mass or more, more preferably 20% by mass or more, based on the total mass of the fragrance composition.

[0030] In one embodiment of the present invention, the fragrance composition preferably contains a terpene alcohol fragrance, and more preferably a terpene alcohol fragrance with an HLB value of 3 to 8, from the viewpoint of excellent fragrance release (quick perception of fragrance). The HLB value (also called the required HLB value) is a physical property that serves as an indicator of hydrophilicity and lipophilicity. A low HLB value indicates lipophilicity, while a high HLB value indicates hydrophilicity. The HLB value is a measured value calculated according to the phase inversion titration method (also called the EIP method). In the phase inversion titration method, water is continuously added to a W / O type emulsion consisting of oil / emulsifier / water, and the HLB value is calculated from the amount of water added when the phase inversion occurs to an O / W type emulsion. Specific examples of terpene alcohol fragrances are shown below. [Terpene alcohols] One or more selected from the group consisting of Cis-3 hexenol, myrtenol, hydroxycitronellol, dimethylcyclomol, phytol, isophytol, linalool, dihydrolinalool, tetrahydrolinalool, geraniol, nerol, citronellol, dihydrolinalool, tetrahydrolinalool, farnesol, nerolidol, rodinol, myrsenol, dihydromyrcenol, tetrahydromyrcenol, dimethyloctanol, and osimenol. [Terpene alcohols with HLB values ​​of 3-8] One or more selected from the group consisting of linalool, dihydrolinalool, tetrahydrolinalool, geraniol, nerol, citronellol, dihydrolinalool, tetrahydrolinalool, farnesol, nerolidol, myrsenol, dihydromyrcenoyl, tetrahydromyrcenoyl, dimethyloctanol, and osimenol.

[0031] The content of "terpene alcohols with an HLB value of 3 to 8" in the fragrance composition is, for example, 5 to 35% by mass, preferably 5 to 20% by mass, and more preferably 7 to 20% by mass, based on the total mass of the fragrance composition. When the content of "terpene alcohols with an HLB value of 3 to 8" is 5% by mass or more, the fragrance function of the fragrance composition is fully exhibited, and the fragrance of the liquid fabric softener composition itself can be released more quickly. On the other hand, if a large amount of "terpene alcohols with an HLB value of 3 to 8" is incorporated into the fragrance composition, the cloud point of component (D) (nonionic surfactant) may decrease, which may lead to (1) clouding of the liquid fabric softener composition at high temperatures, or (2) separation of component (F) in the liquid fabric softener composition due to a decrease in the fragrance solubilizing ability of component (D). Therefore, it is preferable that the content of "terpene alcohols with an HLB value of 3 to 8" be 35% by mass or less.

[0032] The fragrance composition may contain fragrance solvents commonly used in liquid fabric softeners. Examples of fragrance solvents include acetin (triacetin), MMB acetate (3-methoxy-3-methylbutyl acetate), sucrose diacetate hexisobutyrate, ethylene glycol dibutyrate, hexylene glycol, dibutyl sebacate, Deltil Extra (isopropyl myristate), methyl carbitol (diethylene glycol monomethyl ether), carbitol (diethylene glycol monoethyl ether), TEG (triethylene glycol), benzyl benzoate (BB), propylene glycol, diethyl phthalate, tripropylene glycol, avorin (dimethyl phthalate), Deltil Prime (isopropyl palmitate), dipropylene glycol (DPG), Examples include farnesene, dioctyl adipate, tributylin (glyceryl tributanoate), hydrolyte-5 (1,2-pentanediol), propylene glycol diacetate, cetyl acetate (hexadecyl acetate), ethyl abietate, avalin (methyl abietate), Citroflex A-2 (acetyl triethyl citrate), Citroflex A-4 (tributyl acetyl citrate), Citroflex No. 2 (triethyl citrate), Citroflex No. 4 (tributyl citrate), Durafix (methyl dihydroabietate), MITD (isotridecyl myristate), polylimonene (limonene polymer), and 1,3-butylene glycol. The content of the fragrance solvent is, for example, 0.1 to 30% by mass, preferably 1 to 20% by mass, relative to the total mass of the fragrance composition.

[0033] The content of the fragrance composition is not particularly limited as long as the formulation objective is achieved, but is preferably 0.5 to 5% by mass, more preferably 0.8 to 3.0% by mass, and even more preferably 0.8 to 2.0% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition. The formulation objective can be achieved within the above content range.

[0034] <Antioxidant> As antioxidants, any substance known in the field of liquid fabric softeners can be used without particular restriction. Examples of antioxidants include 2,6-di-t-dibutyl-4-hydroxytoluene (BHT), t-butyl-p-hydroxyanisole (BHA), p-methoxyphenol, β-naphthol, phenyl-α-naphthylamine, tetramethyldiaminodiphenylmethane, γ-oryzanol, vitamin E (α-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, δ-tocopherol), 2,2'-ethylidenebis(4,6-di-t-butylphenol), tris(tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol)·1 / 3 citrate, bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, quercetin, and 4,4'-bis(α,α-dimethylbenzyl)diphenylamine. Preferably, it is 2,6-di-t-dibutyl-4-hydroxytoluene. A single type of antioxidant may be used, or multiple types may be used in combination. The content of the antioxidant is not particularly limited as long as the purpose of formulation is achieved, but is preferably 0.001 to 1% by mass, more preferably 0.01 to 0.1% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0035] <Water> The liquid fabric softener composition is preferably an aqueous composition containing water. For the water used, tap water, purified water, deionized water, distilled water, or ion-exchanged water can be used. Of these, ion-exchanged water is preferable. The water content is not particularly limited, but is preferably 50 to 95% by mass, and more preferably 70 to 90% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0036] <(B) Water-soluble cationic polymers other than component> The liquid softener composition of the present invention may further contain a water-soluble cationic polymer in addition to (B). The water-soluble cationic polymer has cationic properties when dissolved in water. "Water-soluble" means that the solution obtained by adding 1 g of the test substance to 100 g of water at 25°C is colorless and transparent. The water-soluble cationic polymer preferably has a degree of cationization of 0.1% or more (e.g., 0.1 to 35%), and more preferably 2.5% or more (e.g., 2.5 to 15%), as described later. When the degree of cationization is within the above range, the adsorption of component (A) to textile products can be further enhanced, and the cost increase due to excessive formulation can be prevented.

[0037] When a water-soluble cationic polymer is (i) a polymer of cationic monomers, (ii) a copolymer of cationic monomers and nonionic monomers, or (iii) a nonionic polymer in which a portion is modified or substituted with cationic groups (such as cationized cellulose), the degree of cationization is defined as the value calculated by the following formula (1). Degree of cationization (%) = X × Y × 100 Equation (1) [X: Atomic weight of cationized atoms (such as nitrogen) in the cationic group of the polymer] Y: Number of moles of cationic groups contained in 1g of polymer.

[0038] When a water-soluble cationic polymer is (i) a copolymer of a cationic monomer and an anionic monomer, or (ii) a copolymer of a cationic monomer, anionic monomer, and nonionic monomer, the degree of cationization is defined as the value calculated by the following formula (2). Degree of cationization (%) = X × (YZ) × 100 Equation (2) [X: Atomic weight of cationized atoms (such as nitrogen) in the cationic group of the polymer] Y: Number of moles of cationic groups contained in 1g of polymer Z: Number of moles of anionic groups contained in 1g of polymer (Examples of anionic groups of Z include carboxyl groups and sulfonic acid groups contained in monomer units within polymer chains (for example, carboxylic acid groups in acrylic acid). However, counterions of cationic groups are not included.)

[0039] As an example, the procedure for calculating the degree of cationization of MERQUAT280 (manufactured by Lubrizol Nippon Co., Ltd.), represented by the following formula (III), which is a copolymer of a cationic monomer and an anionic monomer (mass ratio of dimethyldiallylammonium chloride to acrylic acid = 80:20; in formula (III), m:n = 65:35).

[0040] [ka]

[0041] X: 14 (atomic weight of a nitrogen atom) Y: 4.95 × 10 -3( (Calculated from the weight of cationic groups per gram: 0.8g and the molecular weight of the cationic groups) Z:2.78×10 -3 (Calculated from the weight of the anionic group per gram: 0.2g and the molecular weight of the anionic group) From equation (2), the degree of cationization (%) = 14 × (4.95 × 10 -3 -2.78 × 10 -3 ) × 100 = 3.0.

[0042] According to the calculation method described above, the degree of cationization of polymers of nonionic monomers and polymers of anionic monomers is 0.

[0043] The weight-average molecular weight of the water-soluble cationic polymer, when measured by gel permation chromatography using polyethylene glycol as a standard substance, is preferably 1,000 to 5,000,000, more preferably 3,000 to 2,000,000, and even more preferably 5,000 to 500,000. Within the aforementioned weight-average molecular weight range, the adsorption of component (A) to textile products is enhanced, and the increase in viscosity of the liquid softener composition is suppressed, resulting in excellent usability.

[0044] As the water-soluble cationic polymer, any of the aforementioned water-soluble and cationic polymers can be used without particular limitation, but preferably, it is a water-soluble polymer having one or more cationic groups selected from amino groups, amine groups, and quaternary ammonium groups. For example, Polymers of dimethyldiallylammonium chloride (polydimethyldiallylammonium chloride), such as Noverite310 (manufactured by Lubrizol Japan), MERQUAT100 (manufactured by Lubrizol Japan), Adeka Cathioace PD-50 (Adeka Corporation), and Daido Chemical Industries, Ltd. Dimethyldiallylammonium chloride / acrylamide copolymer such as MERQUAT550 JL5 (manufactured by Lubrizol Japan Co., Ltd.), Dimethyldiallylammonium chloride / acrylic acid copolymers such as MERQUAT295 (manufactured by Lubrizol Japan) and MERQUAT280 (manufactured by Lubrizol Japan), Cationic cellulose such as Leoguard KGP (manufactured by Lion Corporation), Imidazolinium chloride / vinylpyrrolidone copolymer such as LUVIQUAT-FC905 (manufactured by BASF), Cationic polyvinyl alcohol such as POVAL CM318 (manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd.) Natural polymer derivatives containing amino groups such as chitosan, Examples include copolymers with vinyl monomers having hydrophilic groups to which diethylamino methacrylate ethylene oxide or the like has been added. As the water-soluble cationic polymer, one or more selected from the group consisting of polydimethyldiallylammonium chloride and polydimethyldiallylammonium chloride-acrylic acid copolymer are preferred. Particularly preferred water-soluble cationic polymers are those obtained by polymerizing dimethyldiallylammonium salts represented by the following general formula (IV). The structure of these polymers is usually represented by the following general formula (V) or (VI). Furthermore, a single polymer chain may contain both the structural unit of general formula (V) and the structural unit of general formula (VI).

[0045] [ka] (In the formula, X - This represents any negative ion, such as chloride ions or bromide ions.

[0046] [ka]

[0047] [ka] (In each formula, c and d represent the average degree of polymerization, preferably 6 to 30,000, more preferably 20 to 6,000, and even more preferably 30 to 3,000, respectively.)

[0048] Examples of water-soluble cationic polymers obtained by polymerizing dimethyldiallylammonium salt of general formula (IV) include Noverite 310 (manufactured by Lubrizol Nippon Co., Ltd.), MERQUAT 100 (manufactured by Lubrizol Nippon Co., Ltd.), Adeka Cathioace PD-50 (manufactured by Adeka Corporation), and Daidoll EC (manufactured by Daido Chemical Industries, Ltd.). Water-soluble cationic polymers are known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. A single type of water-soluble cationic polymer may be used, or multiple types may be used in combination. The content of the water-soluble cationic polymer is not particularly limited as long as the formulation objective is achieved, but it is preferably 0.01 to 5% by mass, more preferably 0.01 to 3% by mass, as an amount other than component (B) relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition. A better formulation effect can be obtained within the above content range.

[0049] <Cationic surfactant> The liquid softener composition of the present invention may further contain a cationic surfactant as a softening base material. The cationic surfactant is, for example, a cationic surfactant represented by the following formula.

[0050] [ka] (In the formula, Ra represents a hydrocarbon group with 6 to 24 carbon atoms. Rb and Rc each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or a hydroxyalkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms. X - (This represents an anion.)

[0051] The number of carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon group of Ra is preferably 8 to 18, and more preferably 10 to 16. Rb is preferably a methyl group, an ethyl group, or a hydroxyethyl group, and more preferably a methyl group. Rc is preferably a methyl group, an ethyl group, or a hydroxyethyl group, and more preferably a methyl group. X - Examples include methyl sulfate ions, ethyl sulfate ions, bromide ions, and chloride ions, with chloride ions being preferred.

[0052] Examples of cationic surfactants include octyltrimethylammonium chloride, decyltrimethylammonium chloride, dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride, tetradecyltrimethylammonium chloride, cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, and stearyltrimethylammonium chloride. Decyltrimethylammonium chloride, dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride, tetradecyltrimethylammonium chloride, and cetyltrimethylammonium chloride are preferred. Cetyltrimethylammonium chloride is even more preferred. Cationic surfactants may be used individually or in combination of multiple types.

[0053] The content of the cationic surfactant is not particularly limited as long as the formulation objective is achieved, but is, for example, 0.05% by mass or more and less than 2% by mass, preferably 0.2 to 1.8% by mass, more preferably 0.5 to 1.8% by mass, and particularly preferably 0.5 to 1.5% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition. A better formulation effect can be obtained within the above content range.

[0054] <Other optional ingredients> In addition to the aforementioned ingredients, the liquid fabric softener composition contains antioxidants and reducing agents to improve the stability of its fragrance and color, emulsifiers (such as polystyrene emulsion), opacifiers, shrinkage inhibitors, wrinkle inhibitors, shape-retaining agents, drape-retaining agents, ironing-enhancing agents, oxygen bleach inhibitors, whitening agents, fabric softening clay, antistatic agents, color transfer inhibitors (such as polyvinylpyrrolidone), polymer dispersants, stain removers, scum dispersants, fluorescent whitening agents (such as 4,4-bis(2-sulfostyryl)biphenyldisodium (BASF's Chinopearl CBS-X)), dye fixatives, fade inhibitors (such as 1,4-bis(3-aminopropyl)piperazine), stain removers, and fiber surface modifiers. The product can be appropriately formulated with additives (enzymes such as cellulase, amylase, protease, lipase, and keratinase), defoaming agents, and ingredients that impart the texture and functionality of silk, such as moisture absorption and release properties (silk protein powder, their surface modifiers, emulsified dispersions, specifically K-50, K-30, K-10, A-705, S-702, L-710, FP series (Idemitsu Petrochemical), Silkgen G Solubble S (Ichimaru Falcos)), as well as anti-fouling agents (nonionic polymer compounds consisting of alkylene terephthalate and / or alkylene isophthalate units and polyoxyalkylene units, for example, FR627 manufactured by Go-o Chemical Industry, SRC-1 manufactured by Clariant Japan, etc.).

[0055] [Method for manufacturing liquid fabric softener composition] Liquid fabric softener compositions can be manufactured by known methods, for example, by following the same process as for liquid fabric softener compositions mainly composed of silicone compounds. For example, a liquid fabric softener composition can be produced by mixing components (A), (D), and (E), then adding component (B), and further adding water and component (C) and stirring.

[0056] [How to use liquid fabric softener composition] The method for treating textile products using the liquid fabric softener composition is not particularly limited and can be used in the same way as conventional liquid fabric softeners. For example, the liquid fabric softener composition can be dissolved in the rinse water during the rinsing stage of washing, or the liquid fabric softener composition can be dissolved in water in a container such as a basin, and the textile products can then be immersed in the solution. One rinse may be sufficient. In either case, the solution should be diluted to an appropriate concentration before use, but the bath ratio (weight ratio of the treatment solution to the textile products) is preferably 3 to 100 times, and particularly preferably 5 to 50 times. The types of textile products that can be treated with the liquid fabric softener composition are not particularly limited and include, for example, clothing, curtains, sofas, carpets, towels, handkerchiefs, sheets, and pillowcases. The materials may also be natural fibers such as cotton, silk, and wool, or synthetic fibers such as polyester. [Examples]

[0057] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The amounts of each component in the examples and comparative examples are all shown in mass percent (on a pure content basis unless otherwise specified).

[0058] [(A) component] The following A-1 and A-2 were used. • A-1: ​​Product name "CF1188N", polyether-modified silicone, manufactured by Dow-Toray Ltd. • A-2: Product name "SH3775M", polyether-modified silicone, manufactured by Dow-Toray Ltd.

[0059] [(B) Component] The following B-1 and B-2 were used. B-3 was used as a comparative example. • B-1: Product name "Lupasol SK", manufactured by BASF. Weight average molecular weight 2,000,000 • B-2: Product name "Lupasol PS", manufactured by BASF. Weight average molecular weight 750,000 • B-3 (Comparative Example): Product name "Noverite310", polymer of dimethyldiallylammonium chloride, manufactured by Lubrizol Japan Co., Ltd.

[0060] [(C) component] The following C-1 and C-2 were used. • C-1: Citric acid (reagent) • C-2: Malic acid (reagent)

[0061] [(D) component] The following D-1 and D-2 were used. • D-1: Product name "TA-600", polyoxyethylene isotridecyl ether (EO60 mol), manufactured by Lion Chemical Co., Ltd. • D-2: Product name "LMAG", polyoxyethylene alkyl ether (EO7 mol), manufactured by Lion Chemical Co., Ltd.

[0062] [(E) component] The following E-1 and E-2 were used. • E-1: Product name "Butyl Diglycol (84)", Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether, Manufactured by Nippon Emulsifier Co., Ltd. • E-2: Product name "Solfit", 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd.

[0063] [Method for preparing a liquid fabric softener composition] A liquid fabric softener composition was prepared by adding each component to a 200 ml glass beaker so that the total weight was 100 g. First, components (D) and (E) were added to a beaker, then component (A) was added and stirred with a stirrer until uniformly mixed. Component (B) was added to the resulting mixture, and while stirring further, 50g of water was added, then component (C) was added dropwise, and finally, water was added until the total weight reached 100g, and the mixture was stirred for another 5 minutes. The composition of each liquid fabric softener composition is shown in Tables 1 and 2 below. The content values ​​in Tables 1 and 2 represent the content (mass %) relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. The light transmittance of the samples was measured after the compositions were prepared and left to stand for one hour. Light transmittance was measured using a Shimadzu UV-2500PC measuring instrument, with a quartz cell having a path length of 10 mm. When deionized water was placed in the control cell, the light transmittance at a wavelength of 660 nm was evaluated. The light transmittance of all the liquid fabric softener compositions prepared in the examples and comparative examples was 50% or higher, and they were transparent or translucent in appearance.

[0064] [Evaluation of liquid fabric softener compositions] <Silicone adsorption capacity and surface smoothness of cotton knit fabric> 1. Preparation of evaluation cloth A commercially available cotton knit fabric (manufactured by Nisshinbo) was placed in a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S), and subjected to two 15-minute hot bath washes at 45°C with polyoxyethylene alkyl ether (C12 / 14, EO 15 mol) at a concentration of 267 ppm, followed by five 15-minute rinses with running water. The dried fabric was then used as the evaluation fabric.

[0065] 2. Fabric softener treatment during the rinsing cycle of washing. The evaluation fabric was cut into 10cm x 10cm pieces, and approximately 1kg of the fabric was washed for 10 minutes and spun dry for 6 minutes in a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S) with a bath ratio of 20:1 using the standard amount of Lion NANOX One Pro. Then, using a turgot meter (Daiei Kagaku Seiki Seisakusho), 0.33ml of each liquid fabric softener composition prepared according to the "Method for Preparing Liquid Fabric Softener Compositions" described above was added to 1000ml of deionized water, 50g of the washed evaluation fabric was added, and the fabric was softened for 3 minutes. The evaluation fabric was dewatered for 2 minutes using a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S), dried in a room at 20°C and 45% humidity for 20 hours, and then subjected to a surface smoothness test. During this time, the amount of silicone adsorption was measured by collecting the solution before and after the softening treatment and using ICP to measure Si. The ICP was performed using the following equipment, and the adsorption rate was calculated from the Si strength using the following formula, and evaluated according to the evaluation criteria below. The results are shown in the "Silicone Adsorption" section of Tables 1 and 2. ICP (Agilent 5110) manufactured by Agilent Technologies, Inc. Adsorption rate = (Si strength before treatment - Si strength after treatment) / Si strength before treatment × 100 (%) (Evaluation Criteria) 1 point: ~20% 2 points: ~40% 3 points: ~50% 4 points: ~60% 5 points: ~100%

[0066] Two experts conducted a sensory evaluation of the surface smoothness of the fabric after drying, using the following evaluation criteria. The average score of the two experts is shown in the "Smoothness" column in Tables 1 and 2, with a score of 3 or higher considered passing. (Evaluation Criteria) 1 point: Not good 2 points: Not very good 3 points: Fairly good 4 points: Quite good 5 points: Excellent

[0067] <Cotton towel softness> 1. Preparation of evaluation cloth A commercially available cotton towel (Senshu towel) was placed in a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S), and washed twice for 15 minutes at 45°C using commercially available "Top" detergent at the standard concentration, followed by five 15-minute rinses with running water. The dried towel was then used as the evaluation fabric.

[0068] 2. Fabric softener treatment Three pieces of evaluation cloth were placed in a bucket washing machine at a bath ratio of 20:1.4 ml of each liquid fabric softener composition prepared according to the "Method for Preparing Liquid Fabric Softener Compositions" described above, and 4.2 L of tap water were added for softening treatment. Afterwards, the cloths were spun dry for 2 minutes in a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S) and dried at room temperature. The softness of the towels after drying was then evaluated by two experts using the following criteria. The average scores of the two experts are shown in the "Softness" column in Tables 1 and 2, with a score of 3 or higher considered a passing grade. (Evaluation Criteria) 1 point: Not good 2 points: Not very good 3 points: Fairly good 4 points: Quite good 5 points: Excellent

[0069] <Yellowing Stability> Each liquid fabric softener composition prepared according to the "Method for Preparing Liquid Fabric Softener Compositions" described above was placed in a glass container, sealed tightly, and left for one week at room temperature of 25°C. The changes in appearance were observed, and a visual evaluation was performed based on the evaluation criteria below. The results are shown in the "Yellowing Stability" section of Tables 1 and 2. △, ○, and ◎ were considered acceptable. (Evaluation Criteria) ×: The sample has yellowed significantly compared to the sample before storage. △: Compared to the sample before storage, yellowing has progressed, but it is not at a problematic level. ○: Compared to the sample before storage, yellowing has progressed slightly. ◎: No change compared to the sample before storage.

[0070] [Table 1]

[0071] [Table 2]

Claims

1. The following ingredients (A) to (C): (A) Polyether-modified silicone 0.5 to 10% by mass (B) Polyethyleneimine 0.05 to 5% by mass (C) Organic acid 0.01-10% by mass A transparent or translucent liquid softener composition containing [the specified ingredient].

2. The mass ratio of component (B) to component (A), (B) / (A), is 0.03 to 5, and / or The mass ratio of component (C) to component (B), (C) / (B), is between 0.05 and 5. The liquid fabric softener composition according to claim 1.

3. The liquid softener composition according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising (D) a solvent and (E) a nonionic surfactant.

4. The liquid softener composition according to claim 3, wherein the mass ratio (A) + (B) / (D) of the total amount of component (A) and component (B) to component (D) is 0.5 to 5.

5. The liquid softener composition according to claim 3, wherein the mass ratio (A) + (B) / (E) of the total amount of component (A) and component (B) to component (E) is 0.5 to 2.

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