Formulation with improved spray properties

Abstract

This specification discloses formulations having solvent systems usable in aerosols, compressed gases, or trigger spray systems. The formulations can achieve low VOC content, optimal fall characteristics, and improved spray characteristics. Both aqueous and anhydrous formulations are provided, and they may contain fragrances. In one example, the formulation comprises a solvent system including ethanol, acetone, and esters selected from dimethyl carbonate and methyl acetate, and optionally water.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to formulations comprising solvent mixtures that have low VOC content, optimal drop characteristics, and improved spray characteristics.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol and trigger formulations containing air treatment agents and insecticides may be aqueous formulations that deliver fragrances and active ingredients to the air and surrounding environment. However, such compositions may have a high volatile organic compound (VOC) content, and in some cases, it may be desirable to partially or fully reduce the VOC content of the aerosol, compressed gas, or trigger composition. In some cases, by replacing some of the volatile solvents in a particular composition with water, a formulation with a high water content and a low VOC content is provided. However, these aqueous formulations may have a large particle size, increasing the amount of product or formulation that drops, and slowing the evaporation rate during spraying. This is generally not desirable for volatile compositions.

[0003] Therefore, there is a constant desire for compositions or formulations such as water-based or aqueous formulations that have a low VOC content, improved or reduced drop amount, a fast evaporation rate, and other optimal spray characteristics.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] This specification discloses formulations comprising solvent systems that can be used in aerosol, compressed gas, or trigger spray systems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present invention provides a formulation comprising about 10% to about 40% by weight of a solvent system, a fragrance, and water. The solvent system comprises ethanol, acetone, and esters selected from dimethyl carbonate and methyl acetate. Here, all weight percentages are weight percentages relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0006] In some embodiments, the ester comprises methyl acetate. In some embodiments, the ester comprises dimethyl carbonate. In some embodiments, the formulation contains about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of ethanol, about 5% to about 20% by weight of acetone, and about 5% to about 20% by weight of ester, based on the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the solvent system contains ethanol in a lower weight percentage than acetone or ester. In some embodiments, the solvent system has a ratio of at least 4:1 of the total amount of non-ethanol solvent to ethanol. In some embodiments, the fragrance comprises about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the formulation contains about 60% to about 99% by weight of water, based on the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the formulation further comprises a propellant selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, inert gas, air, nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the formulation further includes a cosolvent, a fragrance active substance, a surfactant, a pH adjuster, a buffer, or any combination thereof.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention provides a formulation comprising about 80% to about 99.5% by weight of a solvent system and a fragrance. The solvent system comprises ethanol, acetone, and esters selected from dimethyl carbonate and methyl acetate, where all wt%s are wt% relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0008] In some embodiments, the ester comprises methyl acetate. In some embodiments, the ester comprises dimethyl carbonate. In some embodiments, in the solvent system, the ratio of the total amount of non-ethanol solvent to the total amount of ethanol is at least 4:1. In some embodiments, in the solvent system, ethanol is present in a lower weight % than the total amount of non-ethanol solvent. In some embodiments, ethanol is present in about 5% to about 20% by weight, acetone in about 5% to about 20% by weight, and ester in about 70% to about 95% by weight. In some embodiments, in the solvent system, the ratio of the total amount of non-ethanol solvent to ethanol is at least 8:1. In some embodiments, the fragrance is present in about 0.01% to about 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the formulation further comprises a propellant, a co-solvent, a fragrance active substance, a surfactant, a pH adjuster, a buffer, or any combination thereof.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention provides a formulation comprising a solvent system comprising about 1% to about 15% by weight of ethanol, about 5% to about 15% by weight of acetone, and about 5% to about 95% by weight of an ester selected from dimethyl carbonate and methyl acetate, where all weight percentages are weight percentages relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0010] In some embodiments, the solvent system contains ethanol in a lower weight percentage than the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent. In some embodiments, the ester is contained in an amount of about 5% to about 20% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation, and the ratio of the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent to ethanol in the solvent system is at least 4:1. In some embodiments, the ester is contained in an amount of about 70% to about 95% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation, and the ratio of the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent to ethanol in the solvent system is at least 8:1. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This graph shows a comparison of the drop rates from various spray formulations. [Figure 2] This graph shows the evaporation time of various spray formulations. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will be described illustratively with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings are schematic and not drawn to actual scale. In the drawings, identical or substantially identical components shown are usually represented by a single number. For clarity, not all components are referenced in all drawings, and not all components of each embodiment of the present invention are shown if they are not necessary for those skilled in the art to understand the invention.

[0013] This disclosure provides formulations comprising solvents that provide formulations with low VOC content, optimal fall characteristics, and improved spray characteristics. As described herein, the properties of the solvents disclosed herein affect the spray characteristics. Also, in the specific context of fragrance spraying systems, fall is a spray characteristic resulting from aerosol spraying, which can be bothersome as it generates residue along various surfaces within the spray area. More specifically, undesirable residue resulting from increased fall is generally an undesirable effect and can cause moisture that consumers or users of the formulation do not want. Furthermore, many prior art spraying systems or formulations have inconsistent spray distribution throughout the product's lifecycle and fail to provide adequate fragrance dispersion within a confined room or area.

[0014] As used herein, the terms “weight percentage,” “wt.%,” “wt. %,” “percentage by weight,” “weight %,” and their variations represent the concentration of a substance as the value obtained by dividing the weight of the substance by the total weight of the composition or formulation and multiplying by 100. It should be understood that as used herein, “percent,” “%,” etc., may be synonymous with “weight percentage,” “wt.%,” etc.

[0015] In this specification, the term “fragrance” includes all fragrances or aromatic compounds, or mixtures thereof. Here, “fragrance” means compounds currently used in the fragrance or aromatic industry, i.e., compounds used as active ingredients in perfumes or aromatherapy candles to impart a pleasurable effect to the surrounding environment. In other words, “fragrance” is a compound or mixture that imparts or alters a pleasant or comforting scent to the surrounding environment. Furthermore, this definition also includes compounds that do not necessarily have a scent but can modulate the scent of a fragrance composition, thereby altering the user’s perception of the scent of such a composition. Generally, these fragrance compounds belong to a variety of chemical classifications, including alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, esters, ethers, acetates, nitriles, terpenes, hydrocarbons, nitrogen, or sulfur heterocyclic compounds, and essential oils, and fragrance compounds may be of natural or synthetic origin.

[0016] This disclosure identifies parameters of solvent systems and formulations that have been shown to reduce and improve fall from aerosol or compressed gas injection systems or trigger systems. In addition to fall characteristics, spray characteristics considered when evaluating these formulations include evaporation rate, particle size, spray velocity, spray angle, reach, spray cone diameter, fall rate, fall pattern, and particle velocity.

[0017] In this specification, “fallout” may generally refer to residue generated along various surfaces within a spray zone by an aerosol, compressed gas, or trigger spray system. Furthermore, unwanted residue resulting from increased fallout is generally undesirable and can cause unwanted moisture for consumers. Fallout can also be characterized as moisture from the spray plume in the air and / or residue that accumulates on surfaces after use of the spray system. This disclosure identifies key spray properties and formulation parameters (including solvent systems) that have been found to reduce and / or improve fallout from aerosol, compressed gas, or trigger spray systems. These formulation parameters and solvent systems also improve other spray properties, such as the evaporation rate of the formulation.

[0018] For each formulation, the fall rate was measured. The fall rate test measures the amount of aerosol or spray liquid that falls to the ground after being sprayed into the air. To perform this test, the substrate consisted of 10 sheets of 6-inch x 9-inch kraft paper. Each sheet was numbered 1 through 10, weighed individually, and then placed on the ground in a 36-inch x 90-inch arrangement to define the spray surface. Before testing each product, the initial weight (Wi) was determined by measuring the product's weight. Next, the product was sprayed from a specific height of 5 feet in the direction of the substrate for 5 seconds. After the aerosol or spray settled, the weight of the liquid on each sheet, i.e., the fall weight (Ws), was recorded, and the weight of the product was measured again to determine the final weight (Wf). Using the difference between the initial weight (Wi) and the final weight (Wf), and the total weight of the liquid on the substrate (Ws), the fall rate was determined using Equation 1 below. After the fall rate was determined, the substrate could be replaced, and the test for each product could be repeated many more times at the same height.

[0019]

number

[0020] The evaporation time of the formulations disclosed herein is also measured. In some embodiments, the evaporation time can be measured by spraying the formulation onto a mirror using a pump-type sprayer. The output of the fine mist sprayer is measured at 0.12 grams per run. The finger pump is placed in a sample bottle, primed three times, and then sprayed once onto a 12-inch x 12-inch glass mirror at a 45-degree angle from a distance of 12 inches. The time measured when approximately 90% of the spray has evaporated is called the evaporation time. To find a statistical difference, this test may be repeated three times. Also, to maintain consistency, the same pump-type sprayer is used for all tests. In subsequent formulation tests, the pump-type sprayer is removed from the bottle, wiped clean, and the pump-type sprayer is continuously pumped until no more product comes out. Then, the pump-type sprayer is placed in the next sample bottle, primed three times, and the test is repeated. In addition, the glass mirror is washed with water and dried with Kimwipes between each test.

[0021] The solvent systems in the formulations described herein may include one or more VOC-exempt solvents. VOC-exempt solvents include organic compounds that are exempt from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) volatile organic compound (VOC) regulations, such as acetone (CAS No.: 67-64-1), dimethyl carbonate (CAS No.: 616-38-6), methyl acetate (CAS No.: 79-20-9), t-butyl acetate (CAS No.: 540-88-5), propylene carbonate (CAS No.: 108-32-7), and parachlorobenzotrifluoride (Oxsol 100, CAS No.: 98-56-6). The VOC-free solvents in the formulations described herein may include LVP (low vapor pressure)-VOC solvents, which are in the category of solvents with a vapor pressure of less than 0.1 millimeters of mercury (at 20°C), or, if the vapor pressure is unknown, may include VOC solvents composed of more than 12 carbon atoms or with a melting point above 20°C. Suitable LVP-VOC solvents for the present invention include, but are not limited to, Isopar M (CAS number: 64742-47-8), DPMA (CAS number: 88917-22-0), and Augeo (CAS number: 100-79-8).

[0022] In some embodiments, the solvent system is miscible with water. In some such embodiments, the solvent system can include a VOC solvent having an evaporation rate greater than 0.3 relative to n-butyl acetate, such as an alcohol. Suitable alcohols include, but are not limited to, ethanol and isopropyl alcohol. In some embodiments, the VOC solvent component includes ethanol. However, in these embodiments, it is typically beneficial to reduce the amount of alcohol used in the solvent system in order to reduce the VOC content. Thus, in such embodiments, other solvents are used at a higher concentration than the VOC solvent component (e.g., ethanol).

[0023] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a formulation comprising a solvent system including a ternary solvent mixture. The ternary solvent mixture can include a VOC-exempt solvent that is not an LVP-VOC solvent, a second VOC-exempt solvent, and a third solvent that is a VOC solvent. In some embodiments, the ternary solvent mixture includes an alcohol such as ethanol, an ester such as dimethyl carbonate or methyl acetate, and a ketone such as acetone. As a specific example, the solvent system includes ethanol, acetone, and methyl acetate. As another specific example, the solvent system includes ethanol, acetone, and dimethyl carbonate.

[0024] In some embodiments, the solvent system does not include a third solvent and only two solvents are used. In some embodiments, both solvents are VOC-exempt solvents. In some embodiments, the solvent system includes a VOC-exempt solvent that is not an LVP-VOC solvent and a second VOC-exempt solvent. In some embodiments, only one of the two solvents in the solvent system is a VOC-exempt solvent. As a specific example, the solvent system includes ethanol and dimethyl carbonate. As another specific example, the solvent system includes acetone and dimethyl carbonate. As another specific example, the solvent system includes any one or more of ethanol, acetone, and dimethyl carbonate.

[0025] As described below, it has been found that formulations in which a plurality of solvents are mixed rather than a single solvent exhibit better dropping characteristics and spraying characteristics. In particular, the mixing of the solvents of the present disclosure results in a low dropping rate and a high evaporation rate. Therefore, for the formulations of the present disclosure, the proportion of the aerosol, compressed gas, or trigger spray that remains floating in the air rather than falling to the ground or remaining on the surface as a liquid is high. As a result, consumers can spray a smaller amount of the product to obtain the desired strength of the active ingredient in the formulation such as a fragrance. Therefore, the product life is also extended.

[0026] The total amount of the solvent system may be included at about 10% by weight to about 99.5% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 95% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 90% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 80% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 70% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 60% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 50% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 15% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 20% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 20% by weight to about 30% by weight, about 30% by weight to about 99.5% by weight, about 40% by weight to about 99.5% by weight, about 50% by weight to about 99.5% by weight, from about 60% by weight to about 99.5% by weight, from about 70% by weight to about 99.5% by weight, or from about 80% by weight to about 99.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the solvent system is included at about 27% by weight based on the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the solvent system is included at about 99% by weight based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0027] The VOC solvent may be included at about 0.5% by weight to about 20% by weight, about 0.5% by weight to about 15% by weight, about 0.5% by weight to about 10% by weight, about 0.5% by weight to about 5% by weight, about 1% by weight to about 20% by weight, about 1% by weight to about 15% by weight, about 1% by weight to about 10% by weight, about 1% by weight to about 8% by weight, about 2% by weight to about 6% by weight, about 3% by weight to about 5% by weight, about 5% by weight to about 20% by weight, or about 5% by weight to about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the VOC solvent includes ethanol. In some embodiments, ethanol is included at about 4% by weight based on the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, ethanol is included at about 10% by weight based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0028] VOC-exempt solvents are present in approximately 1% to 99% by weight, 1% to 95% by weight, 1% to 90% by weight, 1% to 80% by weight, 1% to 70% by weight, 1% to 60% by weight, 1% to 50% by weight, 1% to 40% by weight, 1% to 30% by weight, 1% to 25% by weight, 1% to 20% by weight, 1% to 15% by weight, 5% to 99% by weight, 5% to 95% by weight, 5% to 90% by weight, and 5% to 80% by weight, relative to the total weight of the formulation. It may be included in amounts of approximately 5% to approximately 70% by weight, approximately 5% to approximately 60% by weight, approximately 5% to approximately 50% by weight, approximately 5% to approximately 40% by weight, approximately 5% to approximately 30% by weight, approximately 5% to approximately 25% by weight, approximately 5% to approximately 20% by weight, approximately 5% to approximately 15% by weight, approximately 50% to approximately 99% by weight, approximately 60% to approximately 99% by weight, approximately 70% to approximately 99% by weight, approximately 70% to approximately 95% by weight, approximately 75% to approximately 99% by weight, approximately 75% to approximately 95% by weight, approximately 75% to approximately 90% by weight, or approximately 80% to approximately 90% by weight. In some embodiments, the VOC-free solvent includes acetone. In some such embodiments, acetone is included in amounts of approximately 10% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the VOC-free solvent includes an ester such as dimethyl carbonate. In some such embodiments, dimethyl carbonate is present in about 13% by weight of the total weight of the formulation. In another embodiment, dimethyl carbonate is present in about 79% by weight of the total weight of the formulation. In yet another embodiment, dimethyl carbonate is present in about 89% by weight of the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the VOC-free solvent includes an ester such as methyl acetate. In some such embodiments, methyl acetate is present in about 13% by weight of the total weight of the formulation.

[0029] In some embodiments, the VOC solvent component is used in a lower weight % compared to the VOC-free solvent component. For example, in some embodiments, in the solvent system, ethanol is present in a lower weight % than acetone, dimethyl carbonate, or methyl acetate. In some embodiments, in the solvent system, ethanol is present in a lower weight % than the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent.

[0030] In some embodiments, the ratio of VOC-free solvent components to VOC solvent components is at least 2:1, at least 3:1, at least 4:1, at least 5:1, at least 6:1, at least 7:1, at least 8:1, at least 9:1, or at least 10:1. This ratio is calculated using the weight percentage of each solvent in the formulation. In some embodiments, the VOC solvent component includes an alcohol such as ethanol. In some embodiments, in the solvent system, the ratio of the total amount of non-ethanol solvent to ethanol is at least 2:1, at least 3:1, at least 4:1, at least 5:1, at least 6:1, at least 7:1, at least 8:1, at least 9:1, or at least 10:1.

[0031] In some embodiments, the mixing of solvents in the solvent systems disclosed herein achieves synergistic effects such as faster evaporation and / or less fall compared to the separated components of the solvent system or combinations of alternative solvents.

[0032] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein include water. The water component may also be a solvent carrier, such as deionized water, reverse osmosis water, distilled water, or tap water.

[0033] Water may be present in amounts of about 10% to about 99% by weight, about 20% to about 99% by weight, about 30% to about 99% by weight, about 40% to about 99% by weight, about 50% to about 99% by weight, about 60% to about 99% by weight, about 60% to about 90% by weight, about 70% to about 90% by weight, or about 60% to about 80% by weight, relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, water is present in amounts of about 60% to about 70% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0034] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein do not contain water.

[0035] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein include a fragrance. Suitable fragrances may be natural or synthetic fragrances based on a single component or a mixture of multiple components. Fragrances are commercially available from various fragrance manufacturers, including Takasago International Corporation, Quest, Firmenich, Givaudan, and Symrise.

[0036] The fragrance may be present in amounts ranging from about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, about 0.01% to about 8% by weight, about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, about 0.5% to about 5% by weight, about 0.5% to about 3% by weight, about 0.5% to about 2% by weight, or about 0.5% to about 1.5% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the fragrance is present in amounts of about 1% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0037] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein include a fragrance active substance. In some embodiments, the fragrance active substance includes triethylene glycol.

[0038] The fragrance active substance may be present in amounts of about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, about 0.01% to about 8% by weight, about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, about 0.5% to about 5% by weight, about 0.5% to about 5% by weight, about 0.5% to about 3% by weight, about 0.5% to about 2% by weight, or about 0.5% to about 1.5% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the fragrance active substance is present in amounts of about 1% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0039] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein include a propellant. The propellant may be, but is not limited to, any suitable conventionally known compressed gas such as nitrogen, an inert gas, air, nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, or a mixture thereof. In some embodiments, the propellant includes nitrogen gas.

[0040] The propellant may be present in amounts of about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, about 0.01% to about 8% by weight, about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, about 0.5% to about 5% by weight, about 0.5% to about 5% by weight, about 0.5% to about 3% by weight, about 0.5% to about 2% by weight, or about 0.5% to about 1.5% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the propellant is present in amounts of about 0.68% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0041] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein may include a co-solvent in addition to the solvent system described above. Suitable co-solvents include, but are not limited to, glycols and glycol ethers. In some embodiments, the co-solvent includes propylene glycol.

[0042] The co-solvent may be present in amounts of about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, about 0.05% to about 8% by weight, about 0.1% to about 8% by weight, about 0.1% to about 5% by weight, about 0.1% to about 4% by weight, about 0.1% to about 2% by weight, about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, or about 0.4% to about 0.6% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the co-solvent is present in amounts of about 0.46% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0043] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein may contain surfactants. Surfactants may be nonionic, cationic, anionic, amphoteric, zwitterionic, or mixtures thereof. The surfactants may generally be selected considering the spray vessel used. For example, a composition stored in a steel or steel alloy-based container and sprayed from there may contain nonionic and / or amphoteric surfactants (lower corrosive), while an aluminum or plastic container may contain those and / or other surfactants. The surfactant component may consist of one or more surfactants.

[0044] Suitable nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, polyalkoxylated hydrogenated castor oils, such as TAGAT CH60 (60 ethylene oxide (EO) units) and TAGAT CH40 (40 EO units), hydrogenated and ethoxylated castor oil mixtures, such as EUMULGIN HPS (40 EO units), secondary alcohol ethoxylates, such as TERGITOL brand surfactants, such as TERGITOL 15-S-12 and TERGITOL 15-S-7, ethoxylated linear alcohols, such as sorbitan monooleates, polyethylene sorbitan monooleates, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurates, alkyl polyglycosides, polyethylene oxide / polypropylene oxides, alkylphenol ethoxylated carboxylated alcohols, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the surfactant includes hydrogenated castor oil 60 ethoxylate, C15 PEG-7 ethoxylated alcohol, or a combination thereof.

[0045] The surfactant may be included in amounts of approximately 0.01% to 10% by weight, approximately 0.05% to 8% by weight, approximately 0.1% to 8% by weight, approximately 0.1% to 5% by weight, approximately 0.1% to 4% by weight, approximately 0.1% to 2% by weight, approximately 0.1% to 1% by weight, or approximately 0.5% to 1% by weight, relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0046] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein may include buffering agents. Suitable buffering agents include, but are not limited to, bicarbonates (e.g., sodium bicarbonate), phosphates, ammonium hydroxide, THAM-tris(hydroxymethyl)aminoethane, and 2-amino-2-methylpropanediol. It should be noted that some pH buffering agents, such as phosphates, carbonates, ammonium hydroxide, THAM-tris(hydroxymethyl)aminoethane, and 2-amino-2-methylpropanediol, can provide multi-purpose functions as corrosion inhibitors, pH adjusters, and buffers. In such cases, one or more components may be used in combination to satisfy these functions, and their amounts may be adjusted as appropriate within the scope of the invention. In some embodiments, the buffering agent includes sodium phosphate.

[0047] The buffer may be present in amounts of about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, about 0.01% to about 4% by weight, about 0.01% to about 3% by weight, about 0.01% to about 1% by weight, or about 0.05% to about 1% by weight, relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the buffer is present in amounts of about 0.20% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0048] In some embodiments, the formulations disclosed herein may include a pH adjuster. Suitable pH adjusters include, but are not limited to, carbonates such as sodium carbonate, silicates such as sodium metasilicate pentahydrate, phosphates such as disodium phosphate and dipotassium phosphate, hydroxides such as sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, THAM (tris-(hydroxymethyl)aminoethane), and 2-amino-2-methylpropanediol. Some of these compounds have a dual function as both a pH adjuster and a corrosion inhibitor. In some embodiments, the pH adjuster includes sodium carbonate.

[0049] The pH adjuster may be included in amounts of approximately 0.01% to 5% by weight, approximately 0.01% to 4% by weight, approximately 0.01% to 3% by weight, approximately 0.01% to 1% by weight, approximately 0.05% to 1% by weight, approximately 0.05% to 0.5% by weight, or approximately 0.05% to 0.2% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the pH adjuster may be included in amounts of approximately 0.18% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation.

[0050] Any embodiment described herein can be modified to include any of the structures, configurations, or methods disclosed in relation to different embodiments.

[0051] In some embodiments, numerical values ​​describing specific embodiments of the present invention and those described in the claims, such as the amount, weight percentage, drop rate, and evaporation rate of components, should be understood to be modified in some cases by the term "approximately." Therefore, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters described in the specification and appended claims are approximations and may vary depending on the desired characteristics to be obtained by the particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be interpreted using the usual rounding method, taking into account the reported number of significant figures. Although the numerical ranges and parameters representing the broad scope of some embodiments of the present invention are approximations, the numerical values ​​described in specific examples are reported as accurately as possible. The numerical values ​​shown in some embodiments of the present invention may include certain errors that inevitably arise from the standard deviation observed in each test measurement.

[0052] In some embodiments, the terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and similar references used in the context describing a particular embodiment of this disclosure (in particular, in some of the following claims) may be interpreted as including both singular and plural forms. The descriptions of value ranges herein are merely intended as a concise way of referring individually to the individual values ​​contained within that range. Unless otherwise stated herein, each value is deemed to be described individually herein. All methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise stated herein or unless it is clearly inconsistent with the context. Any examples or exemplary terms (e.g., “etc.”) provided herein with respect to a particular embodiment are intended solely to clarify the invention and not to limit the scope of the invention in any other claim. No term herein should be interpreted as indicating an unclaimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0053] The grouping of alternative elements or embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting. Each group member may be referenced and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements disclosed herein. For convenience and / or patentability reasons, one or more members of a group may be included in or removed from a group. If such additions or deletions are made, this specification shall be deemed to include modified groups to satisfy the description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims. [Examples]

[0054] <Example 1> Figure 1 is a graph showing a comparison of the drop rates when various spray formulations are dropped from a height of 5 feet. The data in Figure 1 is further shown in Table 2 below, which shows the experimental results of drop rate (%) tests conducted using a compressed gas system with the solvent system of the Disclosure, as well as several equivalent spray systems and control systems. The formulations used in the tests are shown in Table 1 below. The control formulations were tested together with the mixtures of the Disclosure, referring to Table 1 below. Two equivalent formulations, equivalent formulation 1 and equivalent formulation 2, were also tested. Both mixed formulation 1 and mixed formulation 2 contain the solvent system of the Disclosure. The values ​​shown below each formulation represent the weight % (wt.%) of the components.

[0055] [Table 1]

[0056] The formulations in Table 1 can also be prepared without using nitrogen gas, such as when used as a trigger spray solution.

[0057] For each formulation, the fall rate was measured. The fall rate test measures the amount of aerosol or spray liquid that falls to the ground after the formulation is sprayed into the air. To perform this test, the substrate consisted of 10 sheets of 6-inch x 9-inch kraft paper. Each sheet was numbered from 1 to 10, weighed individually, and then placed on the ground in a 36-inch x 90-inch arrangement to define the spray surface. Before testing each product, the weight of the product was measured to determine the initial weight (Wi). Next, the product was sprayed from a specific height of 5 feet in the direction of the substrate for 5 seconds. After the aerosol or spray settled, the weight of the liquid on each sheet, i.e., the fall weight (Ws), was recorded, and the weight of the product was measured again to determine the final weight (Wf). Using the difference between the initial weight (Wi) and the final weight (Wf), and the total weight of the liquid on the substrate (Ws), the fall rate was determined by Equation 1 below. After the fall rate was determined, the substrate could be replaced and the test for each product could be repeated many more times at the same height.

[0058]

number

[0059] [Table 2]

[0060] As shown in Figure 1 and Table 2, the solvent systems of the Disclosure contained in Mixture 1 and Mixture 2 exhibited the lowest drop rates compared to other formulations. In some cases, the drop rates of the formulations of the Disclosure were approximately half that of comparable formulations. Therefore, using the formulations of the Disclosure results in a higher proportion of aerosol, compressed gas, or trigger spray remaining suspended in the air rather than falling to the ground. As a result, consumers can achieve the desired fragrance intensity with less product spray, and the product's lifespan is extended. In some embodiments, the drop rates of the formulations of the Disclosure at 5 feet (approximately 1.5 meters) are approximately 9% to 20%, approximately 9% to 15%, or approximately 9% to 14.5%. Alternatively, the drop rates of the formulations of the Disclosure at 5 feet (approximately 1.5 meters) may be approximately 9% or approximately 14.5%.

[0061] <Example 2> Figure 2 is a graph comparing the evaporation times of various spray formulations. In this example, each spray formulation was sprayed onto a mirror using a pump-type sprayer, and the evaporation time was measured. Specifically, solvent mixtures were prepared in 4-ounce brown glass bottles using a finger-pump sprayer. The output of the fine mist sprayer was measured at 0.12 grams per spray. The finger pump was placed in the sample bottle, primed three times, and then sprayed once onto a 12-inch x 12-inch glass mirror at a distance of 12 inches and a 45-degree angle. The time until approximately 90% of the spray evaporated is called the evaporation time. The test was repeated three times to determine statistical differences. Also, to maintain consistency, the same single pump-type sprayer was used for all tests. In subsequent formulation tests, the pump-type sprayer had to be removed from the bottle, wiped clean, and continuously pumped until no more product came out. Then, the pump-type sprayer was placed in the next sample bottle, primed three times, and the test was repeated. Furthermore, the glass mirrors were washed with water and dried with Kimwipes between each test.

[0062] The data in Figure 2 is further shown in Table 5 below, which presents experimental results regarding the evaporation rates of several formulations. The formulations used in the tests are shown in Tables 3 and 4 below. Referring to Tables 3 and 4, a control formulation, six equivalent formulations, and five mixed formulations using the solvent system of this disclosure were tested. The values ​​shown below each formulation represent the weight % (wt.%) of the component.

[0063] [Table 3]

[0064] [Table 4]

[0065] [Table 5]

[0066] As shown in Figure 2 and Table 5, the solvent system of this disclosure exhibited the fastest evaporation rate compared to other formulations tested. In some embodiments, the evaporation rate of the formulations of this disclosure was approximately half or significantly lower than that of comparable formulations. Thus, the formulations of this disclosure increase the proportion of the active ingredient in the aerosol, compressed gas, or trigger system that remains suspended in the air rather than remaining on the surface. As a result, consumers can spray smaller amounts of product to obtain the desired intensity of the active ingredient, such as a fragrance. These improvements in evaporation rate also extend the product's lifespan.

[0067] <Example 3> The evaporation rates of the solvents and several components of the formulations were also tested individually and compared with the solvent systems of the present disclosure. In particular, the evaporation rates of propylene carbonate, methyl acetate, dimethyl carbonate, acetone, TB acetate, ethanol, and water were tested and compared with the solvent systems of the present disclosure comprising ethanol, acetone, dimethyl carbonate, and water. The evaporation rates were measured using the same methods described herein in relation to Example 2. The test results are shown in Table 6.

[0068] [Table 6]

[0069] As shown in Table 6, the solvent system of this disclosure exhibited improved evaporation rates compared to other solvents. Furthermore, Table 6 demonstrates the synergistic effects of the solvent mixture. In particular, the solvent mixture of this disclosure evaporated faster than the individual components of the solvent mixture.

[0070] Although the present invention is disclosed in the context of specific embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or their uses, modifications, and equivalents.

[0071] While the present invention has been described above in relation to specific embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and departures from embodiments, examples, and uses are also encompassed within the claims appended herein. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated herein by reference as if each patent or publication were incorporated herein by reference individually.

[0072] Any embodiment described herein can be modified to include any of the structures or methods disclosed in connection with other embodiments. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to any particular aerosol container, compressed gas container, or trigger spray system. Rather, any formulation of any embodiment disclosed herein can be modified to function in any type of aerosol container or non-aerosol container.

[0073] This application relates to and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 522,338, filed on 21 June 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. [Industrial applicability]

[0074] Those skilled in the art will see that, based on the above description, numerous modifications can be made to the present invention. Therefore, this description should be interpreted as merely illustrative and is presented to enable those skilled in the art to practice and use the invention. Exclusive rights to all modifications included in the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

1. A solvent system comprising ethanol, acetone, and an ester selected from dimethyl carbonate and methyl acetate, in an amount of about 10% to about 40% by weight, Fragrances and, A formulation containing water. (Here, all weight percentages represent weight percentages relative to the total weight of the formulation.)

2. The formulation according to claim 1, wherein the ester comprises methyl acetate.

3. The formulation according to claim 1, wherein the ester comprises dimethyl carbonate.

4. The aforementioned ethanol is contained in an amount of approximately 0.5% to approximately 10% by weight. The aforementioned acetone is contained in an amount of approximately 5% to approximately 20% by weight. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ester is contained in an amount of about 5% to about 20% by weight.

5. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the solvent system contains ethanol in a lower weight percent than acetone or ester.

6. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ratio of the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent to the ethanol in the solvent system is at least 4:

1.

7. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the fragrance is contained in an amount of about 0.01% to about 5% by weight.

8. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the water is contained in an amount of about 60% to about 99% by weight.

9. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a propellant selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, an inert gas, air, nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, or a mixture thereof.

10. Furthermore, the formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a cosolvent, a fragrance active substance, a surfactant, a pH adjuster, a buffer, or any combination thereof.

11. A solvent system comprising ethanol, acetone, and esters selected from dimethyl carbonate and methyl acetate, in an amount of approximately 80% to approximately 99.5% by weight, A preparation containing fragrances. (Here, all weight percentages represent weight percentages relative to the total weight of the formulation.)

12. The formulation according to claim 11, wherein the ester comprises methyl acetate.

13. The formulation according to claim 11, wherein the ester comprises dimethyl carbonate.

14. The formulation according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the solvent system contains ethanol in a weight percentage lower than the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent.

15. The aforementioned ethanol is contained in an amount of approximately 5% to approximately 20% by weight. The aforementioned acetone is contained in an amount of approximately 5% to approximately 20% by weight. The formulation according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the ester is contained in an amount of about 70% to about 95% by weight.

16. The formulation according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the ratio of the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent to the ethanol in the solvent system is at least 8:

1.

17. The formulation according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the fragrance is contained in an amount of about 0.01% to about 5% by weight.

18. Furthermore, the formulation according to any one of claims 11 to 17, comprising a propellant, a cosolvent, a fragrance active substance, a surfactant, a pH adjuster, a buffer, or any combination thereof.

19. Approximately 1% to 15% by weight of ethanol, Approximately 5% to 15% by weight of acetone, A formulation comprising a solvent system containing an ester selected from dimethyl carbonate and methyl acetate in an amount of approximately 5% to 95% by weight. (Here, all weight percentages represent weight percentages relative to the total weight of the formulation.)

20. The formulation according to claim 19, wherein the solvent system contains ethanol in a weight percentage lower than the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent.

21. The aforementioned ester is contained in an amount of approximately 5% to approximately 20% by weight. The formulation according to claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the ratio of the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent to the ethanol in the solvent system is at least 4:

1.

22. The aforementioned ester is contained in an amount of approximately 70% to approximately 95% by weight. The formulation according to claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the ratio of the total amount of the non-ethanol solvent to the ethanol in the solvent system is at least 8:1.

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