Volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition

Abstract

To provide a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition with excellent sustained fragrance and antimicrobial effect. [Solution] The following components (a) to (d): (a) A fragrance having a boiling point of 140°C or higher and 280°C or lower, and containing at least one hydroxyl group or aldehyde group in its molecule: 1% by mass or more (b) Nonionic surfactants (c) water (d) Water-soluble solvent A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition containing the following, wherein the total content of components (b) and (c) is 35-80% by mass, and the mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.07-2.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition and a method for controlling microorganisms. [Background technology]

[0002] In bathrooms and toilets, which are water-related facilities in homes, water splashes from faucets and showers can leave water droplets on the surface of the fixtures after use, leading to mold growth. Therefore, a method has been proposed to prevent the growth of mold and other microorganisms by volatilizing essential oils and their aromatic components, which have antifungal and antibacterial activity, into the air.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 reports a method of volatilizing and diffusing active ingredients into the air by placing a liquid composition, in which active ingredients such as fragrances are solubilized in water using a surfactant and an aqueous solvent, in a stationary volatilization device. Patent Document 2 also reports a method of inhibiting mold growth by volatilizing an antifungal fragrance composition containing fragrance components that exhibit antifungal activity in vapor form, such as aliphatic or aromatic aldehydes having 5 to 16 carbon atoms, in a gel or liquid form, in a breathable container, and releasing the antifungal fragrance components into the room. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-79318 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2002-179509 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] While Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose technologies that are excellent in preventing mold and other microorganisms, it was thought that there was room for further improvement in terms of the persistence of the fragrance and the persistence of the microorganism-preventive effect of the fragrance. Accordingly, the present invention relates to providing a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition that exhibits excellent persistence of fragrance derived from the fragrance and antimicrobial effect. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present inventors have discovered that by including a specific amount or more of fragrance, a nonionic surfactant, water, and a water-soluble solvent, and by using a specific ratio of nonionic surfactant to water, a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition with excellent fragrance persistence and sustained antimicrobial effect from the fragrance can be obtained.

[0007] In other words, the present invention relates to the following 1) to 3). 1) The following components (a) to (d): (a) A fragrance having a boiling point of 140°C or higher and 280°C or lower, and containing at least one hydroxyl group or aldehyde group in its molecule: 1% by mass or more (b) Nonionic surfactants (c) water (d) Water-soluble solvent A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition containing the following, wherein the total content of components (b) and (c) is 35-80% by mass, and the mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.07-2. 2) A method for controlling microorganisms, comprising volatilizing the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition into a space where microbial contamination is suspected. 3) A volatile antimicrobial article comprising volatilizing the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition using a permeable membrane formed from at least one selected from low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and ethylene ethyl acrylate. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The present invention provides a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition that is excellent in terms of fragrance persistence and the persistence of the antimicrobial effect of the fragrance, and a method for controlling microorganisms using the same. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Shows the results of the antifungal effect evaluation test. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0010] The reason why the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention and the method for controlling microorganisms using the same are excellent in the persistence of aroma and the persistence of the antimicrobial effect by the fragrance is not necessarily clear, but is presumed as follows. In order to improve the persistence of aroma and the persistence of the antimicrobial effect by the fragrance, it is effective to mix the fragrance with another solvent to reduce the partial pressure of the fragrance. From the viewpoint of mole fraction, it is presumed that water having a small molecular weight can efficiently reduce the partial pressure of the fragrance. Further, for reducing the partial pressure, it is necessary that the fragrance and water are sufficiently mixed, and the nonionic surfactant and the water-soluble solvent have a function of promoting the mixing of the fragrance and water. As a result, it is presumed that the desired aroma and antimicrobial effect can be sustained. Hereinafter, "improving the persistence of the antimicrobial effect" is abbreviated as the viewpoint of "antimicrobial effect".

[0011] [Volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition] Component (a) used in the present invention is a fragrance having a boiling point of 140°C or higher and 280°C or lower, and having at least one of a hydroxy group or an aldehyde group in the molecule. However, those falling under component (d) are excluded from component (a). The boiling point refers to the boiling point at normal pressure (760 mmHg). From the viewpoints of volatility and antimicrobial effect, component (a) is a fragrance preferably having a boiling point of 140°C or higher and 250°C or lower, more preferably 140°C or higher and 240°C or lower, and having at least one of a hydroxy group or an aldehyde group in the molecule.

[0012] Component (a) may be a natural or synthetic fragrance, and examples include fragrances listed in "Perfume and Flavor Chemicals" Montclair, NJ (USA) (1969) edited by Steffen Arctander, "Synthetic Fragrances - Chemistry and Product Knowledge" edited by the Synthetic Fragrance Editorial Committee (Chemical Daily Co., Ltd., December 20, 2016, enlarged and revised edition), and "Basic Knowledge of Fragrances and Perfumery" Sangyo Tosho (first edition 1995) edited by Motoki Nakajima. Component (a) may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Component (a) is preferably 4 to 10 carbon atoms, more preferably 6 to 10, and even more preferably 6 to 8 carbon atoms, from the viewpoint of volatility and antimicrobial effect. If component (a) contains an aldehyde group, the carbon number should include the aldehyde group.

[0013] Specific examples of component (a) include the following: trans-2-hexenal ((E)-2-hexen-1-al (boiling point 146°C)), trans-3-hexenol (boiling point 155°C), cis-3-hexenol (boiling point 156°C), hexyl alcohol (boiling point 156°C), trans-2-hexenol (boiling point 159°C), trimethylhexanal (3,5,5-trimethylhexanal, boiling point 167°C), dimethylol (registered trademark, 2,4-dimethyl-2-heptanol, boiling point 170°C), heptyl alcohol (boiling point 175°C), benzaldehyde (boiling point 178°C), melonal (2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal, boiling point 188°C), trimethylhexanol (3,5,5-trimethylhexanol, boiling point 193°C), dihydromyrcenoyl Alcohol (boiling point 194°C), linalool (boiling point 199°C), dimethylbenzylcarbinol (2-methyl-1-phenylpropane-2-ol, boiling point 215°C), phenethyl alcohol (boiling point 219°C), syringaldehyde (2-(4-(methylphenyl)acetaldehyde) (boiling point 221°C)), phenylpropylaldehyde (boiling point 222°C), citronellol (boiling point 225°C), citral (boiling point 228°C), geraniol (boiling point 230°C), thymol (boiling point 233.5°C), isopropylmethylphenol (boiling point 246°C), mugol (3,7-dimethyl-4,6-octadien-3-ol, boiling point 237°C), methoxycitronellal (boiling point 238°C), cinnamic alcohol (boiling point 250°C). Ingredient (a) can be used as a fragrance in its original form, or as an essential oil.

[0014] In this specification, the boiling point value of component (a) is the value at 760 mmHg from the Good Scents Company website http: / / www.thegoodscentscompany.com / . If not specified, it can be found at https: / / www.chemsrc.com / en / , http: / / www.chemspider.com / , and in "Synthetic Fragrances - Chemistry and Product Knowledge" edited by the Synthetic Fragrance Editorial Committee (Chemical Daily Co., Ltd., December 20, 2016, enlarged and revised edition).

[0015] In particular, component (a) is preferably at least one selected from (E)-2-hexen-1-R, phenethyl alcohol, citronellol, citral, geraniol, thymol, and isopropylmethylphenol, and more preferably at least one selected from (E)-2-hexen-1-R, citronellol, citral, and geraniol.

[0016] The content of component (a) in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention is 1% by mass or more, preferably 1.5% by mass or more, more preferably 2% by mass or more, and even more preferably 3% by mass or more, from the viewpoint of enhancing fragrance persistence and antimicrobial effect. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of formulation stability and comfortable fragrance intensity, it is preferably 20% by mass or less, more preferably 10% by mass or less, and even more preferably 5% by mass or less. Note that "formulation stability" means enhancing formulation stability, and "comfortable fragrance intensity" means that the fragrance is not too strong and has a moderate intensity that is pleasantly perceived. The content of component (a) in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition is 1% by mass or more, preferably 1 to 20% by mass, more preferably 1.5 to 20% by mass, even more preferably 2 to 10% by mass, and even more preferably 3 to 5% by mass.

[0017] Furthermore, when at least one of the components (a) selected from (E)-2-hexen-1-ar, phenethyl alcohol, citronellol, citral, geraniol, thymol, and isopropylmethylphenol, which are particularly excellent in antimicrobial effects, is used, the total content of these in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition is 1% by mass or more, preferably 1.5% by mass or more, and from the viewpoint of a comfortable fragrance intensity, preferably 6% by mass or less, more preferably 4.5% by mass or less, and even more preferably 3.5% by mass or less. When at least one selected from (E)-2-hexen-1-al, phenethyl alcohol, citronellol, citral, geraniol, thymol, and isopropylmethylphenol is used, the total content in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition is preferably 1 to 6% by mass, more preferably 1.5 to 4.5% by mass, and even more preferably 1.5 to 3.5% by mass.

[0018] The component (b) used in this invention is a nonionic surfactant. Examples of component (b) include polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyalkylene alkylphenyl ethers, polyoxyalkylene alkenyl ethers, polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene sorbitol fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene castor oil, polyglycerin fatty acid esters, glycerin fatty acid esters, sorbitan fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, alkyl glycosides, etc. Component (b) can be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0019] From the viewpoint of formulation stability, component (b) is preferably a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether represented by the following general formula (1).

[0020] [C1] R 1 -O(AO) n H (1)

[0021] (In the formula, R 1 A represents an alkyl group with 8 to 18 carbon atoms; A represents an alkylene group with 2 to 3 carbon atoms; and n is a number between 4 and 20 indicating the average number of moles added; the n A's may be the same or different.

[0022] In general formula (1), R 1 R represents an alkyl group having 8 to 18 carbon atoms. The alkyl group may be linear, branched, or cyclic, but linear is preferred. 1 From the viewpoint of formulation stability, it is preferably an alkyl group having 8 to 16 carbon atoms, more preferably 8 to 14 carbon atoms.1 Specific examples include the octyl group, 2-ethylhexyl group, nonyl group, decyl group, isodecyl group, undecyl group, dodecyl group, tridecyl group, isotridecyl group, and tetradecyl group.

[0023] In general formula (1), A represents an alkylene group having 2 to 3 carbon atoms. The alkylene group may be linear or branched, and the n A's may be the same or different. Examples of A include an ethylene group, a propylene group (propane-1,2-diyl group), a trimethylene group, etc., with ethylene and propylene groups being preferred.

[0024] n is a number between 4 and 20 that represents the average number of moles added, preferably 6 or more, more preferably 8 or more, even more preferably 10 or more, and also preferably 18 or less, more preferably 16 or less.

[0025] The polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether represented by the above general formula (1) is preferably at least one selected from polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ether, and polyoxypropylene alkyl ether, more preferably at least one selected from polyoxyethylene alkyl ether and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ether, and even more preferably two or more selected from polyoxyethylene alkyl ether and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ether.

[0026] Component (b) is preferably at least one selected from polyoxyethylene (6) lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene (16) lauryl ether, and polyoxyethylene (5) polyoxypropylene (1.5) polyoxyethylene (5) lauryl-myristyl ether, and more preferably at least one selected from polyoxyethylene (16) lauryl ether and polyoxyethylene (5) polyoxypropylene (1.5) polyoxyethylene (5) lauryl-myristyl ether (the numbers in parentheses indicate the average number of moles of alkylene oxide added). From a similar viewpoint, it is even more preferable to use polyoxyethylene (16) lauryl ether and polyoxyethylene (5) polyoxypropylene (1.5) polyoxyethylene (5) lauryl-myristyl ether in combination.

[0027] The HLB of component (b) is preferably 8 or higher, more preferably 10 or higher, and also preferably 18 or lower, more preferably 16 or lower, from the viewpoint of formulation stability. In this specification, HLB (Hydrophile-lipophile balance) represents the molecular weight of the hydrophilic group portion of the total molecular weight of a surfactant. HLB is determined by Griffin's formula. When component (b) consists of two or more nonionic surfactants, the HLB of the mixed surfactant is determined as follows: The HLB of the mixed surfactant is obtained by averaging the HLB values ​​of each nonionic surfactant based on their blending ratio. Mixed HLB=Σ(HLBx×Wx) / ΣWx HLBx indicates the HLB value of the nonionic surfactant X. Wx represents the mass (g) of the nonionic surfactant X having an HLBx value. In this application, polyoxypropylene groups are not included in the definition of hydrophilic groups.

[0028] The content of component (b) in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention is preferably 4% by mass or more, more preferably 10% by mass or more, even more preferably 12% by mass or more, and even more preferably 15% by mass or more, and also preferably 30% by mass or less, more preferably 28% by mass or less, and even more preferably 25% by mass or less, from the viewpoint of formulation stability. The content of component (b) is preferably 4 to 30% by mass, more preferably 10 to 28% by mass, even more preferably 12 to 25% by mass, and even more preferably 15 to 25% by mass.

[0029] The component (c) used in this invention is water. The water is not particularly limited, and tap water, purified water, deionized water, distilled water, etc., can be used.

[0030] The content of component (c) in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention is preferably 20% by mass or more, more preferably 25% by mass or more, and even more preferably 30% by mass or more, from the viewpoint of enhancing the persistence of the fragrance, and from the viewpoint of formulation stability, it is preferably 55% by mass or less, more preferably 50% by mass or less, and even more preferably 45% by mass or less. The content of component (c) is preferably 20 to 55% by mass, more preferably 30 to 50% by mass, and even more preferably 30 to 45% by mass.

[0031] In the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention, the total content of component (b) and component (c) is 35 to 80% by mass, but from the viewpoint of controlling the volatility of the fragrance and enhancing the persistence of the fragrance, it is preferably 40% by mass or more, more preferably 50% by mass or more, and from the viewpoint of a desirable comfortable fragrance intensity, it is preferably 70% by mass or less. The total content of component (b) and component (c) is 35 to 80% by mass, preferably 40 to 70% by mass, and more preferably 50 to 70% by mass.

[0032] In the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention, the mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.07 to 2, but from the viewpoint of controlling the volatility of the fragrance, enhancing the persistence of the fragrance, and from the viewpoint of formulation stability, it is preferably 0.09 or higher, more preferably 0.2 or higher, even more preferably 0.4 or higher, and also preferably 1.5 or lower, more preferably 1.0 or lower, and even more preferably 0.8 or lower. The mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.07 to 2, preferably 0.09 to 1.5, more preferably 0.2 to 1.0, even more preferably 0.4 to 1.0, and even more preferably 0.4 to 0.8.

[0033] In the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention, the mass ratio of component (a) to the total content of component (b) and component (c) [(a) / {(b)+(c)}] is preferably 0.016 or higher, more preferably 0.02 or higher, and even more preferably 0.03 or higher, from the viewpoint of controlling the volatility of the fragrance and enhancing the persistence of the fragrance, and from the viewpoint of formulation stability, it is preferably 0.4 or lower, more preferably 0.2 or lower, and even more preferably 0.1 or lower. The mass ratio of component (a) to the total content of component (b) and component (c) [(a) / {(b)+(c)}] is preferably 0.016 to 0.4, more preferably 0.02 to 0.2, and even more preferably 0.03 to 0.1.

[0034] Component (d) used in the present invention is a water-soluble solvent (except for component (c)). In this specification, "water-soluble" of component (d) means that 5 g or more of the substance dissolves in 100 g of water at 20°C, and no insoluble matter or precipitate is observed visually. Examples of component (d) include monohydric alcohols, polyols such as glycols, and glycol ethers. Component (d) can be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0035] From the viewpoints of blending stability, controlling the volatility of perfume, and enhancing the sustainability of aroma, component (d) is preferably at least one compound represented by the following general formula (2) or (3).

[0036] [Chemical Formula 2] R 2 -OR 3 -OH (2)

[0037] (wherein, R 2 represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; R 3 represents a branched alkylene group having 3 to 8 carbon atoms which may have a substituent.)

[0038] [Chemical Formula 3] R 4 -O(AO) m H (3)

[0039] (wherein, R 4 represents an alkyl group having 4 to 8 carbon atoms; A represents an alkylene group having 2 to 3 carbon atoms; m is a number of 1 to 3 representing the average number of added moles.)

[0040] In general formula (2), R 2 represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms. The alkyl group may be linear, branched or cyclic, with linear being preferred. From the viewpoint of solubility in water, R 2 is preferably a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. Specific examples of R 2 include methyl group, ethyl group, n-propyl group, isopropyl group, n-butyl group, isobutyl group, sec-butyl group, tert-butyl group, 1-methylbutyl group, 2-methylbutyl group, 3-methylbutyl group, pentyl group, hexyl group, heptyl group, octyl group, nonyl group, decyl group, and the like.

[0041] In general formula (2), R 3This represents a branched alkylene group having 3 to 8 carbon atoms, which may have substituents. Examples of branched alkylene groups having 3 to 8 carbon atoms include 1,1-dimethylpropylene, 1,1-dimethylbutylene, 1,1-dimethylpentylene, 1,1-dimethylhexylene, 1,2-dimethylpropylene, 1,2,3-trimethylpropylene, 1,1,3-trimethylpropylene, 2-methylpropylene, 2,2-dimethylpropylene, 2-ethylpropylene, 2-n-propylpropylene, 2-isopropylpropylene, 2-n-butylpropylene, 2-sec-butylpropylene, 2-tert-butylpropylene, 3-methylpentylene, 3-ethylpentylene, 3-n-propylpentylene, 3-isopropylpentylene, 3-n-butylpentylene, 3-sec-butylpentylene, and 3-tert-butylpentylene. Examples of substituents include hydroxyl groups, nitro groups, aldehyde groups, carbonyl groups, carboxyl groups, amino groups, and imino groups.

[0042] In general formula (3), A represents an alkylene group having 2 to 3 carbon atoms. The alkylene group may be linear or branched. Examples of A include an ethylene group, a propylene group (propane-1,2-diyl group), a trimethylene group, etc., with ethylene and propylene groups being preferred.

[0043] m is a number between 1 and 3 that represents the average number of moles added, and is preferably 2.

[0044] Component (d) is preferably at least one selected from 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-ethoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-propoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-butoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, diethylene glycol monohexyl ether, dipropylene glycol monobutyl ether, and triethylene glycol monobutyl ether, and more preferably at least one selected from 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether.

[0045] The content of component (d) in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention is preferably 15% by mass or more, more preferably 20% by mass or more, and even more preferably 30% by mass or more, from the viewpoint of controlling the volatility of the fragrance and enhancing the persistence of the fragrance, and from the viewpoint of formulation stability, it is preferably 64% by mass or less, more preferably 55% by mass or less, even more preferably 50% by mass or less, and even more preferably 45% by mass or less. The content of component (d) is preferably 15 to 64% by mass, more preferably 15 to 55% by mass, and even more preferably 15 to 45% by mass.

[0046] The content of at least one compound represented by general formula (2) or (3) in the water-soluble solvent contained in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention is preferably 50% by mass or more, more preferably 60% by mass or more, even more preferably 70% by mass or more, even more preferably 80% by mass or more, even more preferably 90% by mass or more, and may be 100% by mass, from the viewpoint of controlling the volatility of the fragrance and enhancing the persistence of the fragrance.

[0047] The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention may further contain, if necessary, other components in addition to the above-mentioned components, such as various solvents, oils, surfactants other than component (b), chelating agents, pH adjusters, antioxidants, preservatives, thickeners, gelling agents, bactericidal / antibacterial agents, deodorants, fragrances other than component (a), dyes, ultraviolet absorbers, etc., which are commonly used in fragrance compositions, as long as they do not impair the effects of the present invention.

[0048] The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention contains the above components (a) to (d), and its form at room temperature (20°C ± 15°C) may be liquid, gel, etc., but it is preferably liquid.

[0049] The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention exerts its microbial control effect by volatilizing the fragrance composition into the air and acting on microorganisms in the gas phase. In this specification, control of microorganisms includes antibacterial action against bacteria, antifungal action against fungi, and antiviral action against viruses. Antibacterial and antifungal are terms that include all concepts, including sterilization and disinfection which kill microorganisms, and bacteriostatic and bacteriostatic actions which suppress the occurrence, growth, and proliferation of microorganisms.

[0050] In this specification, microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and the like. The present invention is suitable for controlling bacteria and fungi. Examples of bacteria include Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas species (e.g., Pseudomonas aeruginosa), Escherichia coli, Alcaligenes species, Klebsiella species, and Proteus species. Other examples of Gram-positive bacteria include Staphylococcus species such as B. subtilis, S. aureus, and S. pyogenes, as well as Methylobacterium species.

[0051] Fungi include those classified as filamentous fungi (molds) and yeasts, such as the genera Cladosporium, Exophiala, Aspergillus, Candida, Rhodotorula, Penicillium, Alternaria, Phoma, and Aureobasidium.

[0052] The spaces in which the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention is volatilized include indoor spaces where microbial contamination is a concern, such as living spaces like dining kitchens, bedrooms, children's rooms, bathrooms, toilets, washrooms, and changing rooms; facilities such as shops, restaurants, inns, hospitals, workshops, and factories; vehicles such as automobiles, trains, and aircraft; and semi-enclosed spaces (lockers, storage rooms, shoe racks, closets, cupboards, etc.). In particular, it is preferable to use it in water-related facilities such as bathrooms and toilets. By installing the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention in a space and volatilizing the fragrance and other components that have antimicrobial effects, it becomes possible to control microorganisms present in any location within the space. For example, it becomes possible to control microorganisms present in the gas phase of the space, microorganisms present on hard surfaces that form the space (walls, floors, ceilings, etc.), and microorganisms present on items within the space (desks, chairs, sofas, bathtubs, washbasins, containers, toilets, handwashing areas, etc.).

[0053] The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention may be a heat-volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition obtained by heating the fragrance composition to cause volatilization, or a non-heat-volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition obtained by natural volatilization without heating. As shown in the examples described later, the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention retains its fragrance from the initial stage for a long period of time and exhibits excellent persistence of the antimicrobial effect of the fragrance, therefore, natural volatilization without heating is preferable. Natural volatilization without heating is also excellent in terms of energy saving and safety. The temperature for natural volatilization can be, for example, 25°C.

[0054] In order to volatilize the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention, conventionally known methods can be applied, such as impregnating the fragrance composition into a carrier such as filter paper, nonwoven fabric, or an inorganic or organic porous material and volatilizing it; using a permeable membrane (fragrance-permeable film) formed from low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene ethyl acrylate, etc.; or using a fan, heater, ultrasonic waves, etc.

[0055] The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention can be manufactured by conventional methods, and any method may be used as appropriate. For example, it can be manufactured by mixing components (a) to (d), and other components as needed, such that the total content and mass ratio of component (b) and component (c) [(b) / (c)] are within the above range. The mixing order of components (a) to (d) and other components is not particularly limited and they can be added in any order.

[0056] [Methods for controlling microorganisms] The present invention provides a method for controlling microorganisms, which includes volatilizing the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention into a space where microbial contamination is suspected. "Volatilizing the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition into a space where microbial contamination is suspected" is not limited to volatilizing the fragrance composition itself, but also includes volatilizing fragrances other than component (a) or other components having antimicrobial effects into the space. Alternatively, the method may involve placing the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition in a volatilizable state within a space where microbial contamination is suspected. The preferred embodiments of the fragrance composition, the target space, the microorganisms, and the method of volatilization are as described above. In the method for controlling microorganisms of the present invention, the amount of the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention used can be appropriately determined according to the application space. For example, from the viewpoint of antimicrobial effect, it is preferable to use it so that the concentration of component (a) in the gas phase exceeds 50 ng / L relative to the volatile target. Furthermore, in the method for controlling microorganisms of the present invention, it is preferable from the viewpoint of antimicrobial effect to allow the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention to volatilize for 30 days.

[0057] [Volatile antimicrobial products] The volatile antimicrobial article of the present invention is an antimicrobial article in which the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention is volatilized using a permeable membrane formed of at least one selected from low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and ethylene ethyl acrylate. The preferred embodiments of the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition, the space in which the fragrance composition is volatilized, and the target microorganisms are as described above. A conventionally known permeable membrane can be used. Examples of the shapes of the volatile antimicrobial article of the present invention include stationary type, hanging type, adhesive type, etc. The content of the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition per volatile antimicrobial article is preferably 5g to 20g, from the viewpoint of antimicrobial effect and duration of use.

[0058] With regard to the embodiments described above, the present invention further discloses the following aspects.

[0059] <1> The following components (a) to (d): (a) A fragrance having a boiling point of 140°C or higher and 280°C or lower, and containing at least one hydroxyl group or aldehyde group in its molecule: 1% by mass or more (b) Nonionic surfactants (c) water (d) Water-soluble solvent A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition containing the following, wherein the total content of components (b) and (c) is 35-80% by mass, and the mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.07-2.

[0060] <2> The boiling point of component (a) is between 140°C and 240°C. <1> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described above. <3> The number of carbon atoms in component (a) is 6 to 10. <1> or <2> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described above. <4> Component (a) is at least one selected from (E)-2-hexen-1-al, citronellol, citral, and geraniol. <1> ~ <3> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <5> The content of component (a) is 1 to 5% by mass. <1> ~ <4> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <6> When component (a) is selected from at least one of (E)-2-hexen-1-al, phenethyl alcohol, citronellol, citral, geraniol, thymol, and isopropylmethylphenol, the total content in the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition is 1.5 to 4.5% by mass. <1> ~ <4> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <7> Component (b) is at least one selected from polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers represented by the following general formula (1). <1> ~ <6> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above.

[0061] [C4] R 1 -O(AO) n H (1)

[0062] (In the formula, R 1 A represents an alkyl group with 8 to 18 carbon atoms; A represents an alkylene group with 2 to 3 carbon atoms; and n is a number between 4 and 20 indicating the average number of moles added; the n A's may be the same or different. <8> In general formula (1), R 1 These are alkyl groups with 8 to 14 carbon atoms. <7> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described above. <9> In general formula (1), n ​​is a number between 8 and 16. <7> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described above. <10> Component (b) comprises two or more selected from polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ethers. <1> ~ <6> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <11> The content of component (b) is 10-28% by mass. <1> ~ <10> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <12> The content of component (c) is 20-55% by mass. <1> ~ <11> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <13> The total content of component (b) and component (c) is 40-70% by mass. <1> ~ <12> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <14> The mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is between 0.2 and 1.0. <1> ~ <13> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <15> The mass ratio of component (a) to the total content of component (b) and component (c) [(a) / {(b)+(c)}] is between 0.03 and 0.1. <1> ~ <14> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <16> Component (d) is at least one compound selected from those represented by the following general formulas (2) and (3). <1> ~ <15> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above.

[0063] [5] R 2 -OR 3 -OH (2)

[0064] (In the formula, R 2 R represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; 3 This represents a branched alkylene group having 3 to 8 carbon atoms, which may have substituents.

[0065] [6] R 4 -O(AO) m H (3)

[0066] (In the formula, R 4 (where represents an alkyl group with 4 to 8 carbon atoms; A represents an alkylene group with 2 to 3 carbon atoms; and m is a number from 1 to 3 indicating the average number of moles added.) <17> Component (d) is at least one selected from 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether. <1> ~ <16> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <18> The content of component (d) is 15-45% by mass. <1> ~ <17> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <19> The content of the compound represented by general formula (2) or (3) in the water-soluble solvent (d) is 50% by mass or more. <1> ~ <18> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <20> It is liquid at 20°C. <1> ~ <19> A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition as described in any of the above. <21> The following components (a) to (d): (a) 1 to 5% by mass of a fragrance having a boiling point of 140°C or higher and 250°C or lower, and containing at least one hydroxyl group or aldehyde group in its molecule. (b) 15-25% by mass of a nonionic surfactant containing polyoxyethylene alkyl ether and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ether (c) Water 30-45% by mass (d) 20-50% by mass of a water-soluble solvent, at least one selected from 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether. A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition containing the following, wherein the total content of component (b) and component (c) is 40-70% by mass, and the mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.2-1.0. <22> The microorganism to be controlled is at least one species selected from the group consisting of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. <1> ~ <21> A method for controlling microorganisms using a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition described in any of the above. <23> The microorganisms to be controlled are fungi selected from the genera Cladosporium, Exophiala, Aspergillus, Candida, Rhodotorula, Penicillium, Alternaria, Phoma, and Aureobasidium. <1> ~ <21> A method for controlling microorganisms using a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition described in any of the above. <24> The spaces where microbial contamination is a concern are bathrooms, toilets, or washrooms. <1> ~ <21> A method for controlling microorganisms using a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition described in any of the above. <25> Allow the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition to naturally volatilize for 30 days or more without heating. <22> ~ <24> A method for controlling microorganisms as described in any of the following. <26> The volatilization process is carried out so that the concentration of component (a) in the gas phase of the space to be volatilized exceeds 50 ng / L. <22> ~ <25> A method for controlling microorganisms as described in any of the following. <27> <1> ~ <21> A volatile antimicrobial article comprising a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition described in any of the above, which is volatilized using a permeable membrane formed from at least one selected from low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and ethylene ethyl acrylate. <28> The shape of the item can be selected from freestanding, hanging, or adhesive type. <27> The volatile antimicrobial articles described below. [Examples]

[0067] The components used in the examples and comparative examples are shown below. (1) Component (a) (E)-2-hexene-1-R: Boiling point 146℃ Citral: Boiling point 228°C Geraniol: Boiling point 230°C Phenethyl alcohol: Boiling point 219°C • Citronellol: Boiling point 225°C Isopropylmethylphenol: Boiling point 246℃ Thymol: Boiling point 233.5℃

[0068] (2) Component (b) • Polyoxyethylene (6) lauryl ether: Manufactured by Kao Corporation, average number of moles of oxyethylene groups added: 6, HLB 12.1 • Polyoxyethylene (16) lauryl ether: Manufactured by Kao Corporation, average number of moles of oxyethylene groups added: 16, HLB: 15.8 • Polyoxyethylene(5) polyoxypropylene(1.5) polyoxyethylene(5) lauryl myristyl ether: Manufactured by Kao Corporation, average number of moles of oxyethylene groups added: 10, average number of moles of oxypropylene groups added: 1.5, HLB: 13.4

[0069] (3) Component (d) • 3-Methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol: Solfit Fine Grade, manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd. • Diethylene glycol monobutyl ether: Butyl diglycol: Manufactured by Nippon Emulsifier Co., Ltd.

[0070] Examples 1-19 and Comparative Examples 1-6 Components (a) to (d) shown in Tables 1 and 2 were stirred and mixed in a lidded glass bottle (manufactured by Ishida Container Co., Ltd., No. 6 standard bottle, capacity 55 mL) containing a stirring bar to prepare a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition with the composition shown in Tables 1 and 2, totaling 40 g.

[0071] The following formulation stability evaluations and odor persistence evaluations were performed on the volatile antimicrobial fragrance compositions of the examples and comparative examples, and the results are shown in Tables 1 and 2.

[0072] [Evaluation of formulation stability] During the preparation of the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition, stirring was stopped when uniform dissolution or uniform dispersion was observed, and the mixture was allowed to stand for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the appearance of the liquid was checked, and those showing separation or turbidity were classified as having poor formulation stability (×), while those showing uniform dissolution were classified as having good formulation stability (○).

[0073] [Odor persistence evaluation] After visual inspection of the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition, the glass bottle cap was opened, and the evaluator's odor was detected. This result was defined as the initial intensity. The bottle was then left undisturbed with the cap open for 30 days (room temperature, open system). After 30 days, the evaluator's odor was detected again, and this result was defined as the persistence (after 30 days). The odor evaluation scale is as follows: 5: I smell a strong odor. 4: I can smell it strongly. 3: Easily detect odors 2: I can smell a faint odor. 1: I can barely smell it. In this invention, an odor is considered to have "persistence" if the "odor evaluation scale" remains at 3 or higher even after 30 days.

[0074] [Table 1]

[0075] [Table 2]

[0076] The following antifungal effect evaluations were conducted on the volatile antimicrobial fragrance compositions of Example 1 and Comparative Example 4, as an example of microbial control, and the results are shown in Table 3 and Figure 1.

[0077] [Mold prevention effectiveness evaluation] Cladsporium sp. PA-4, an environmental isolate of the Cladosporium genus, a filamentous fungus that prefers the living environment, was collected by dropping 4 mL of potato dextrose agar plate (39 g of Potato Dextrose Agar reagent from Becton Dickinson, dissolved in 1 L of purified water, autoclaved at 121°C for 20 minutes, cooled to 50°C, and then dispensing 11 g into a round petri dish (Azunol Petri Dish JP φ90 × 15 mm) and allowing it to cool to room temperature to solidify) onto the plate and gently rubbing it with a Conlarger rod (Nissui Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.). The collected bacterial suspension was then filtered using Miracross (CALBIOCHEM) to remove the hyphae, and the resulting liquid was centrifuged (10,000 rpm, 25°C, 5 min), with the supernatant removed. These steps were repeated twice to obtain a bacterial concentration of 1.0 × 10⁶. 6 The test spore solution was prepared to a concentration of CFU / mL. 100 μL of test spore solution was spread onto potato dextrose agar plates using a Conlarger rod to create mold-infested agar plates. These mold-infested agar plates were then sealed in a polypropylene airtight container (Tight Box No. 12, 1.3 L capacity, manufactured by Sanplatec Co., Ltd.) along with the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition (evaluation solution) of Example 1 or Comparative Example 4, which had been opened after 30 days of odor persistence evaluation. After incubation at 25°C for 4 days, the surface of the mold-infested agar plates was observed, and ○ was used to indicate no mold growth, while × was used to indicate mold growth.

[0078] As shown in Table 3 and Figure 1, no mold growth was observed in Example 1, while mold growth was observed in Comparative Example 4. Furthermore, the volatile antimicrobial fragrance compositions described in Examples 2 to 19 shown in Table 1 are considered to have the same effect.

[0079] [Table 3]

[0080] From Tables 1 to 3 and Figure 1, it can be seen that the volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition of the present invention retains its fragrance from the initial stage to a long period of time and exhibits excellent durability of antifungal effect.

Claims

1. The following components (a) to (d): (a) A fragrance having a boiling point of 140°C or higher and 280°C or lower, and containing at least one hydroxyl group or aldehyde group in its molecule: 1% by mass or more (b) Nonionic surfactants (c) water (d) Water-soluble solvents A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition containing the above, wherein the total content of components (b) and (c) is 35 to 80% by mass, and the mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.07 to 2.

2. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein component (a) is at least one selected from (E)-2-hexen-1-al, phenethyl alcohol, citronellol, citral, geraniol, thymol, and isopropylmethylphenol.

3. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein component (b) is at least one selected from polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers represented by the following general formula (1). [Chemical formula 1] R １ -O(AO) ｎ H (1) (In the formula, R １ (where A represents an alkyl group having 8 to 18 carbon atoms; A represents an alkylene group having 2 to 3 carbon atoms; and n is a number from 4 to 20 representing the average number of moles added, and the n A's may be the same or different.)

4. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein component (b) comprises two or more selected from polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ethers.

5. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein the content of component (a) is 1 to 5% by mass.

6. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein the content of component (b) is 10 to 28% by mass.

7. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein the content of component (c) is 20 to 55% by mass.

8. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein the mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.2 to 1.

0.

9. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein the mass ratio of component (a) to the total content of component (b) and component (c) [(a) / {(b)+(c)}] is 0.02 to 0.

2.

10. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein component (d) is at least one selected from compounds represented by the following general formulas (2) and (3). [Case 2] R ２ -OR ３ -OH (2) (In the formula, R ２ R represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; ３ (This represents a branched alkylene group having 3 to 8 carbon atoms, which may have substituents.) [Chemical 3] R ４ -O(AO) ｍ H (3) (In the formula, R ４ (where represents an alkyl group with 4 to 8 carbon atoms; A represents an alkylene group with 2 to 3 carbon atoms; and m is a number from 1 to 3 indicating the average number of moles added.)

11. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein the content of component (d) is 15 to 45% by mass.

12. The volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to claim 1, wherein the microorganism is a fungus.

13. A method for controlling microorganisms, comprising volatilizing a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to any one of claims 1 to 12 into a space where microbial contamination is a concern.

14. A method for controlling microorganisms according to claim 13, wherein the microbial agent is naturally volatilized without heating.

15. A volatile antimicrobial article comprising a volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition according to any one of claims 1 to 12, which is volatilized using a permeable membrane formed of at least one selected from low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and ethylene ethyl acrylate.

16. The following components (a) to (d): (a) A fragrance having a boiling point of 140°C or higher and 280°C or lower, and having at least one hydroxyl group or aldehyde group in its molecule, wherein at least one is selected from (E)-2-hexen-1-al, phenethyl alcohol, citronellol, citral, geraniol, thymol, and isopropylmethylphenol. (b) Nonionic surfactants (c) water (d) Water-soluble solvents A volatile antimicrobial fragrance composition containing the following, wherein the content of component (a) is 1 to 5% by mass, the content of component (b) is 10 to 28% by mass, the content of component (d) is 15 to 45% by mass, the total content of components (b) and (c) is 35 to 80% by mass, and the mass ratio of component (b) to component (c) [(b) / (c)] is 0.2 to 1.0.

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