Antibacterial composition

Abstract

To provide sanitizing and disinfectant compositions having low alcohol concentrations while still providing rapid antimicrobial activity.SOLUTION: An antimicrobial composition comprises: C1-8 alcohols with the total content greater than 15 wt.% and less than 25 wt.%; a surfactant comprising alkyl polyglucoside; an enhancer comprising sodium benzoate; and a buffer comprising citric acid or a salt thereof. The total concentration of the enhancer and the buffer is 1 to 3 wt.% in total based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. The pH of the antimicrobial composition is less than 5. The antimicrobial composition achieves a microbial log reduction greater than 4.0 log CFU / ml at a contact time of 1 minute according to ASTM E2783. Each wt.% is based upon the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Antimicrobial compositions, sterilants, disinfectants, and disinfectants are commercially important products that are widely used in personal, healthcare and industrial settings, as well as in retail, food, and consumer environments.

[0002] Sanitizing or disinfecting compositions are becoming more and more popular because they provide antimicrobial effects on skin.Similarly, there is an increasing demand for sanitizing or disinfecting compositions for hard surfaces such as countertops, walls, floors, etc.These sanitizing or disinfecting compositions are often formulated as alcohol-based, and generally contain more than 50% by weight of alcohol and / or additional active agents such as quaternary ammonium compounds.

[0003] It has been generally accepted that germicidal and disinfectant compositions require high alcohol concentrations to have rapid antimicrobial activity. Typically, germicidal and disinfectant compositions with less than 40.0% alcohol by weight are considered ineffective in killing bacteria quickly, such as exposure periods of 10 minutes or less. Alcohol-based disinfectants, such as those containing ethanol, typically have the added benefit of evaporating quickly from skin and other surfaces. However, skin treated with high levels of alcohol may exhibit skin dryness and / or irritation.

[0004] Therefore, disinfectant and sanitizer compositions have been developed that have low alcohol concentrations, while still providing rapid antimicrobial activity. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprise from about 10.0 to about 40.0 wt. % of one or more C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8The present invention is directed to an antimicrobial composition comprising an alcohol and two or more of a surfactant, an enhancer, and / or a buffer, wherein the pH of the antimicrobial composition is about 6.0 or less. In various exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is adapted to inhibit the growth of microorganisms greater than 4.0 log CFU / mL at a 1 minute contact time according to ASTM E2783. Logarithm In some exemplary embodiments, C 1-8 The alcohol is one or more of methanol, ethanol, propanol, and mixtures thereof.

[0006] In some exemplary embodiments, the composition comprises about 12.0 to about 30.0 wt. % C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 Contains alcohol.

[0007] In various exemplary embodiments, the buffer comprises an organic acid and its salt and is present in an amount of about 0.2 to about 10.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

[0008] In some exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is one or more of an aromatic-containing salt compound, an unsaturated organic acid or a salt of an unsaturated organic acid compound, an aromatic organic acid, an aromatic sulfuric acid, a saturated organic diol, an organic aldehyde, and / or an aromatic alcohol. In various exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is selected from the group consisting of sorbic acid, a sorbate compound, benzoic acid, a benzoate-based compound, sulfur dioxide, a sulfite compound, natamycin, a nitrate salt, a nitrate compound, salicylic acid, phenoxyethanol, thymol, cinnamaldehyde, methylparaben, propylparaben, sodium xylene sulfonate, 1,2 octanediol, 1,2 decanediol, and salts thereof. In some instances, the enhancer is present in an amount of about 0.01 to about 5.0% by weight based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

[0009] In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. In some instances, the surfactant is a nonionic surfactant, such as an ethoxylated alcohol, an alkyl polyglucoside, a polyalkoxylated dimethicone, or a combination thereof.

[0010] According to further exemplary embodiments, from about 10.0 to about 40.0 wt. % of one or more C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 An antimicrobial composition is provided that includes an alcohol and two or more of a surfactant, a buffer, and an enhancer. The pH of the antimicrobial composition is about 6.0 or less. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition provides 15% or less positive carriers within a contact time of 5 minutes or less according to AOAC 961.02.

[0011] In some exemplary embodiments, the composition comprises about 12.0 to about 30.0 wt. % C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 Contains alcohol.

[0012] In various exemplary embodiments, the buffer comprises an organic acid and its salt and is present in an amount of about 0.2 to about 10.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

[0013] In some exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is one or more of an aromatic-containing salt compound, an unsaturated organic acid or a salt of an unsaturated organic acid compound, an aromatic organic acid, an aromatic sulfuric acid, a saturated organic diol, an organic aldehyde, and / or an aromatic alcohol. In various exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is selected from the group consisting of sorbic acid, a sorbate compound, benzoic acid, a benzoate-based compound, sulfur dioxide, a sulfite compound, natamycin, a nitrate salt, a nitrate compound, salicylic acid, phenoxyethanol, thymol, cinnamaldehyde, methylparaben, propylparaben, sodium xylene sulfonate, 1,2 octanediol, 1,2 decanediol, and salts thereof. In some instances, the enhancer is present in an amount of about 0.01 to about 5.0% by weight based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

[0014] In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. In some instances, the surfactant is a nonionic surfactant, such as an ethoxylated alcohol, an alkyl polyglucoside, a polyalkoxylated dimethicone, or a combination thereof.

[0015] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is used in a wipe.

[0016] In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 35.0 wt. % of one or more C 1-8 The invention is directed to an antimicrobial composition comprising an alcohol and about 0.50 to about 3.0 weight percent of two or more of an alkyl polyglucoside, a buffering agent, and an enhancer, wherein the pH of the antimicrobial composition is about 5.0 or less.

[0017] In some exemplary embodiments, the composition comprises about 10.0 to about 30.0 wt. % C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 Contains alcohol.

[0018] In various exemplary embodiments, the buffer comprises an organic acid and its salt and is present in an amount of about 0.2 to about 3.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

[0019] In some exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is one or more of an aromatic-containing salt compound, an unsaturated organic acid or a salt of an unsaturated organic acid compound, an aromatic organic acid, an aromatic sulfuric acid, a saturated organic diol, an organic aldehyde, and / or an aromatic alcohol. In various exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is selected from the group consisting of sorbic acid, a sorbate compound, benzoic acid, a benzoate-based compound, sulfur dioxide, a sulfite compound, natamycin, a nitrate salt, a nitrate compound, salicylic acid, phenoxyethanol, thymol, cinnamaldehyde, methylparaben, propylparaben, sodium xylene sulfonate, 1,2 octanediol, 1,2 decanediol, and salts thereof. In some instances, the enhancer is present in an amount of about 0.01 to about 5.0% by weight based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

[0020] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition has a pH of about 1.5 to about 4.0.

[0021] Yet further exemplary embodiments of the present invention are directed to antimicrobial compositions comprising about 0.05 to about 5.0 wt % of at least one surfactant, about 0.05 to about 5.0 wt % of at least one buffering agent, and about 0.01 to about 3.0 wt % of at least one enhancer, wherein the pH of the antimicrobial composition is about 5.0 or less.

[0022] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 40.0 wt. % of one or more C 1-8 It further contains alcohol.

[0023] Yet further exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprise from about 10.0 to about 40.0 wt. % of one or more C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 The wipes include an antimicrobial composition that includes an alcohol and two or more of a surfactant, a buffer, and an enhancer. The pH of the antimicrobial composition is about 6.0 or less, and the antimicrobial composition provides 15% or less positive carriers within a contact time of 5 minutes or less according to AOAC 961.02, as modified for towelettes. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates the effectiveness of the individual components against Staphylococcus aureus compared to a complete antibacterial composition formulated according to the concepts of the present invention.

[0025] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates the effectiveness of the individual components against S. aureus at a contact time of 30 seconds.

[0026] [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 illustrates the effectiveness of various compositions against Staphylococcus aureus at a contact time of 90 seconds. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application pertains. Although other methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of exemplary embodiments, exemplary suitable methods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. Furthermore, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative and are not intended to limit the general inventive concept.

[0028] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments only and should not be construed as limiting the application as a whole. Unless otherwise specified, "a," "an," "the," and "at least one" are used interchangeably. Furthermore, as used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include their plural forms unless contradicted by such context.

[0029] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, chemical and molecular properties, reaction conditions, and used hereinafter in the specification and claims shall be understood to be modified in all instances by the term "about." The term "about" means within ±10% of the value, or in some cases within ±5% of the value, and in some cases within ±1% of the value.

[0030] The general inventive concept relates to an antimicrobial composition that includes a synergistic combination of an alcohol and at least two or more of a surfactant, an enhancer, and a buffering agent, and that exhibits rapid, broad spectrum activity against microorganisms even at low levels of alcohol (e.g., 40% or less by weight of the antimicrobial composition).

[0031] The physical form of the antimicrobial composition is not particularly limited, but in one or more embodiments, the composition may be presented as a liquid, gel, aerosol, or foam, including both aerosol foams and non-aerosol foams, that is, for example, absorbed onto the wipe, poured, pumped, sprayed, or otherwise dispensed. In one or more embodiments, the antimicrobial composition may be presented on a wipe, i.e., a tissue or cloth that is wiped onto a surface.

[0032] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial compositions may be used on a wide variety of surfaces or substrates, including hard surfaces, soft surfaces, living surfaces (such as skin), non-living (inanimate) surfaces, soil, porous, and non-porous surfaces. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial compositions are used to sterilize or otherwise disinfect inanimate objects, such as gauges, medical equipment, furniture, handrails, fabrics, etc.

[0033] Some exemplary embodiments of the subject antimicrobial compositions are intended for application to the skin and meet the requirements of the Food and Drug Administration's Hand Hygiene Standards Performance Requirements when tested according to ASTM E2755, ASTM E1174, ASTM E2783, European Standards EN1500 and EN1499.

[0034] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition meets the disinfection and sterilization requirements set forth by the EPA. In one or more embodiments, the antimicrobial composition meets the EPA requirements for broad spectrum sterilization. In one or more embodiments, the antimicrobial composition meets the requirements for hospital grade sterilization. In one or more embodiments, the antimicrobial composition meets the EPA requirements as a disinfectant (non-food contact) according to ASTM E1153. In one or more embodiments, the antimicrobial composition meets the EPA requirements as a disinfectant (food contact) according to AOAC 960.09. In one or more embodiments, the antimicrobial composition meets the EPA requirements as a germicide according to AOAC 961.02.

[0035] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition includes an alcohol or a combination of alcohols. By alcohol is meant any organic compound having a hydroxyl functional group attached to a saturated carbon atom. Alcohols have antimicrobial properties and the ability to kill many forms of bacteria, fungi and viruses. In some embodiments, alcohols are C 1-8 Alcohols are alcohols, i.e., alcohols containing 1-8 carbon atoms. Such alcohols may be referred to as lower alkanols. Examples of lower alkanols include, but are not limited to, methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, and isomers and mixtures thereof. The alcohol may be either pure or denatured. In one or more exemplary embodiments, the alcohol comprises ethanol, propanol, or butanol, or isomers or mixtures thereof. In one or more exemplary embodiments, the alcohol comprises isopropanol. In other exemplary embodiments, the alcohol comprises ethanol. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises a mixture of alcohols. In one or more embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises a mixture of ethanol and isopropanol. In one or more embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises a mixture of isopropanol and n-propanol.

[0036] C 1-8Although alcohols are described herein, it is expected that longer alcohols (alcohols having more than 8 carbon atoms), or alcohols with a variety of other functional groups, are similarly suitable. For example, in addition to the hydroxyl functionality, the alcohols may further include ester, carboxylic acid, ether, amide, amine, alkyl halide, phenyl, and other carbonyl-containing functional groups.

[0037] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises at least about 1.0 wt. % C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises at least about 2.0% by weight of C based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 3.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 5.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 7.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 10.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 12.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 15.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 20.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 25.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 30.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or at least about 35.0% by weight of C 1-8 Contains alcohol.

[0038] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 50.0% by weight of C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 45.0% by weight of C based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 Alcohol, or less than about 40.0% by weight C 1-8 Alcohol, or less than about 35.0% by weight C 1-8 Alcohol, or less than about 30.0% by weight C1-8 Alcohol, or less than about 25.0% by weight C 1-8 Alcohol, or less than about 20.0% by weight C 1-8 Alcohol, or less than about 15.0% by weight C 1-8 Contains alcohol.

[0039] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises about 3.0 to about 40.0 wt. % C, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition, including any narrower numerical range that falls within the broader range. 1-8 Alcohol, or about 5.0 to 40.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or about 7.0 to about 37.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or about 9.0 to about 35.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or about 10.0 to about 32.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or about 12.0 to about 30.0% by weight of C 1-8 Alcohol, or about 15.0 to about 25.0% by weight of C 1-8 In one exemplary embodiment, the antimicrobial composition comprises about 15.0 to about 25.0 wt. % C based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. 1-8 Contains alcohol. In some cases, more or less alcohol may be required, especially depending on the amount and / or other components used in the disinfecting or sanitizing composition. However, it has been surprisingly found that increasing the amount of alcohol in the composition to near 40% by weight does not improve antibacterial efficacy, and in some cases, actually reduces efficacy.

[0040] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition further comprises at least one surfactant. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is one or more of a nonionic, cationic, anionic, amphoteric, and zwitterionic surfactant. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises a mixture of different surfactants. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises a mixture of different types of surfactants (e.g., one or more anionic surfactants and one or more nonionic surfactants). In other exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises a mixture of the same type of surfactants (e.g., a mixture of different nonionic surfactants). In another exemplary embodiment, the antimicrobial composition comprises a mixture of an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and an amphoteric surfactant.

[0041] The amount of surfactant is not particularly limited, so long as it is at least an efficacy-enhancing amount. The minimum amount of surfactant that corresponds to an efficacy-enhancing amount can be determined by comparing the log kill of the target microorganism achieved by a composition containing a selected amount of alcohol with a composition containing the same amount of alcohol and a given amount of surfactant. The amount of surfactant that does not show a difference in log kill is an efficacy-enhancing amount.

[0042] In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount of about 0.05 to about 15.0 wt %, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount of about 0.1 to about 10.0 wt %, or about 0.2 to about 5.0 wt %, or about 0.3 to about 2.5 wt %, or about 0.4 to about 2.0 wt %, or about 0.5 to about 1.5 wt %, or about 0.6 to about 0.8 wt %, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition, including all narrower numerical ranges falling within the broader ranges.

[0043] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises a cleaning effective amount of a non-ionic surfactant or a mixture of non-ionic surfactants.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the nonionic surfactant comprises a hydrophobic region, such as a long chain alkyl group or an alkylated aryl group, and a hydrophilic group comprising an ethoxy and / or other hydrophilic moiety. In one or more embodiments, the composition further comprises one or more nonionic foam boosting co-surfactants having a hydrophobic region with an alkyl group containing 6 to 18 carbon atoms and an average of 1 to about 20 ethoxy and / or propoxy moieties. Examples of nonionic cleansing surfactants include, but are not limited to, alkylamine oxides, alkyletheramine oxides, alkylalcohol alkoxylates, arylalcohol alkoxylates, substituted alcohol alkoxylates, block nonionic copolymers, heterononionic copolymers, alkanolamides, or polyethoxylated glycerol esters, and mixtures thereof.

[0045] In some exemplary embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant is an alkyl polyglucoside. In some exemplary embodiments, the alkyl polyglucoside is derived from glucose and fatty alcohols in which the alkyl group contains 8 to 18 carbon atoms, glycerol fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycerol fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene block copolymers with terminal hydroxyl groups, and combinations thereof. In some exemplary embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant is caprylyl / capryl glucoside.

[0046] Further exemplary nonionic surfactants include fatty alcohols, such as cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetostearyl alcohol, and oleyl alcohol; polyoxamers; ethoxylated fatty alcohols, such as PEG-80 sorbitan laurate; polyoxyethylene glycol alkyl ethers, such as octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether and pentaethylene glycol monododecyl ether; polyoxypropylene glycol alkyl ethers; glucoside alkyl ethers; polyoxyethylene glycol octylphenol ethers, polyoxyethylene glycol ... Examples of suitable polyoxyethylene glycol alkylphenol ethers include diethylene glycol alkylphenol ethers, such as nanoxynol-9; glycerol alkyl esters, such as glyceryl laurate; polyoxyethylene glycol sorbitan alkyl esters, such as polysorbates; sorbitan alkyl esters; cocamide MEA; cocamide DEA; amine oxides, such as dodecyl dimethylamine oxide; block copolymers of polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol, such as poloxamers; polyethoxylated tallow amine; polyethylene glycol ethers, such as trideceth-9; and mixtures thereof.

[0047] Non-limiting examples of suitable nonionic surfactants are also found in McCutcheon's Detergents and Emulsifiers, 1993 Annuals, pages 1-246 and 266-273, published by McCutcheon Division, MC Publishing Co., Glen Rock, NJ; the CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary, Fourth Ed., Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association, Washington, DC (1991) (hereinafter, CTFA Dictionary), pages 1-651; and the CTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Handbook, First Ed., Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association, Washington, DC (1988) (hereinafter, CTFA Handbook), pages 86-94, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the nonionic surfactant is an alkyl polyglucoside, e.g., a polyalkoxylated dimethicone such as PEG-12 dimethicone, trideceth-9, or a combination thereof.

[0049] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises a cationic surfactant or a mixture of cationic surfactants. A surfactant is classified as cationic when the charge on the hydrotrope part of the molecule is positive. Also included in this group are surfactants whose hydrotrope is uncharged but then cationic (e.g., alkylamines), unless the pH is lowered to approach neutral or lower.

[0050] In some exemplary embodiments, the cationic surfactant contains at least one long carbon chain hydrophobic group and at least one positively charged nitrogen. The long carbon chain group may be directly attached to the nitrogen atom by simple substitution, or more preferably indirectly attached by a bridging functional group, so-called interrupted alkylamine and amidoamine. Such functional groups can make the molecule more hydrophilic and / or more water-dispersible, and can be more easily water-solubilized and / or water-soluble by the co-surfactant mixture. To increase water solubility, additional primary, secondary, or tertiary amino groups can be introduced, or the amino nitrogen can be quaternized with low molecular weight alkyl groups. Furthermore, the nitrogen can be part of a branched or linear portion of a heterocyclic ring with various degrees of unsaturation, or with various degrees of saturated or unsaturated. Furthermore, the cationic surfactant can include complex bonds with multiple cationic nitrogen atoms. In one or more embodiments, the cationic surfactant is selected from alkyl amines and their salts, alkyl imidazolines, ethoxylated amine quaternaries such as alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium salts, alkyl benzene salts, heterocyclic ammonium salts, tetraalkyl ammonium salts, and the like, quaternized polysaccharides, alkyl polysaccharides, alkoxylated amines, alkoxylated ether amines, phospholipids, phospholipid derivatives, and mixtures thereof.

[0051] Surfactant compounds classified as amine oxides, amphoterics, and zwitterions are themselves generally cationic in near-neutral to acidic pH solutions and can overlap in surfactant classifications. Polyoxyethylated cationic surfactants can behave like cationic surfactants in acidic solutions.

[0052] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises an anionic surfactant, or a mixture of anionic surfactants. Exemplary anionic surfactants include sulfates, such as sodium alkyl sulfate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate, sodium laurate, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) (also known as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)), and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), sodium lauryl sarcosinate, potassium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, ammonium xylene sulfonate, magnesium laureth sulfate, and sodium myreth sulfate; sulfonates, such as sodium nonanoyloxybenzene sulfonate; carboxylates; sulfate esters; alkanolamide sulfates; alkylphenols; and mixtures thereof. In other exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises an amphoteric surfactant. Amphoteric surfactants, sometimes referred to as amphoteric electrolytic surfactants, can contain both basic and acidic hydrophilic groups as well as organic hydrophobic groups. These ionic elements can be any of the anionic or cationic groups described herein for other types of surfactants. Basic nitrogen and acidic carboxylate groups are typical functional groups used as basic and acidic hydrophilic groups. In some surfactants, sulfonic acids, sulfates, phosphonates or phosphates provide the negative charge.

[0053] Amphoteric surfactants are generally described as derivatives of aliphatic secondary and tertiary amines, where the aliphatic radicals may be linear or branched, and where one of the aliphatic substituents contains 8-18 carbon atoms and one contains an anionic water-soluble group, such as, for example, carboxy, sulfone, sulfato, phosphato, or phosphono. Amphoteric surfactants include acyl / dialkylethylenediamine derivatives (e.g., 2-alkylhydroxyethylimidazoline derivatives) and their salts, as well as N-alkylamino acids and their salts. Specific examples include 2-alkylhydroxyethylimidazoline, cocoamphopropionic acid, cocoamphocarboxypropionate, cocoamphoglycinate, cocoamphocarboxyglycinate, cocoamphopropyl-sulfonate, and cocoamphocarboxypropionic acid.

[0054] Amphoteric surfactants include those derived from coconut products such as coconut oil or coconut fatty acids, including alkyl amphodicarboxylic acids. Specific examples of amphoteric surfactants include disodium cocoa amphodipropionate available from Rhodia Inc., Cranbury, NJ under the trade name Miranol™ FBS, and another coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant with the chemical name disodium cocoa amphodiacetate, also available from Rhodia Inc., Cranbury, NJ under the trade name Miranol C2M-SF Conc.

[0055] A general list of amphoteric classes and species of these surfactants is described in U.S. Patent No. 3,929,678, which is incorporated herein by reference.In some exemplary embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant is an amine oxide.Non-limiting examples of suitable amine oxide compounds include 1-dodecanamine, N,N-dimethyl-, N-oxide; 1-tetradecaneamine, N,N-dimethyl-, N-oxide-; amine, C10-16-alkyldimethyl, N-oxide; amine, C12-18-alkyldimethyl, N-oxide; decanamine, N,N-dimethyl-, N-oxide; hexadecanamine, N,N-dimethyl-, N-oxide; octadecaneamine, N,N-dimethyl-, N-oxide; amine oxide, cocoalkyldimethyl; amine, C12-18- ... These include 10-18-alkyl dimethyl, N-oxide; amine, C12-16-alkyl dimethyl, N-oxide; ethanol, 2,2'-iminobis-, N-coco alkyl derivative, N-oxide; ethanol, 2,2'-(dodecyloxyimino)bis-; ethanol, 2,2'-(octadecyloxyimino)bis-; ethanol, 2,2'-iminobis-, N-tallow alkyl derivative, N-oxide; ethanol, 2,2'-[(9Z)-9-octadecenyloxyimino]bis-ethanol N-oxide. In some exemplary embodiments, the amine oxide is lauramine oxide.

[0056] In some exemplary embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant is a zwitterionic surfactant. Typically, zwitterionic surfactants contain a positively charged quaternary ammonium, or in some cases, a sulfonium or phosphonium ion, a negatively charged carboxyl group, and an alkyl group. Zwitterionic surfactants generally contain cationic and anionic groups that can ionize to approximately equal degrees in the isoelectric region of the molecule, generating strong "inner salt" attractions between the positive-negative charge centers. Non-limiting examples of such zwitterionic synthetic surfactants include derivatives of aliphatic quaternary ammonium, phosphonium, and sulfonium compounds, where the aliphatic radicals can be linear or branched, and where one of the aliphatic substituents contains 8 to 18 carbon atoms, and one contains an anionic water-soluble group, such as, for example, carboxy, sulfonate, sulfate, phosphate, or phosphonate. In some exemplary embodiments, the zwitterionic surfactant is a betaine surfactant, a sultaine surfactant, or a combination thereof. In some exemplary embodiments, the zwitterionic surfactant is a betaine surfactant. In some exemplary embodiments, the zwitterionic surfactant is cocamidopropyl betaine.

[0057] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition includes a buffering agent (pH-adjusting agent), such as an acid, to help achieve the pH ranges disclosed herein. In some exemplary embodiments, the acid is an organic acid. In other exemplary embodiments, the buffering agent is a mixture of an organic acid and an inorganic (mineral) acid. In some exemplary embodiments, the buffering agent may include a basic (or alkaline) buffering agent that raises the pH to a more basic level. A basic buffering agent may include a weak base and one of its salts, such as a mixture of ammonia and ammonium chloride.

[0058] In some exemplary embodiments, the organic acid has one or more carboxylic acid groups. In other exemplary embodiments, the organic acid contains one or more thiol, enol, phenolic, sulfonic groups, or combinations thereof. In some exemplary embodiments, the organic acid is one or more of citric acid, lactic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, caproic acid, oxalic acid, maleic acid, benzoic acid, malic acid, valeric acid, carboxylic acid, uric acid, and the like, and salts thereof. The organic acid can be substituted or unsubstituted.

[0059] Other non-limiting examples of suitable organic acids include adipic acid, benzene 1,3,5 tricarboxylic acid, chlorosuccinic acid, choline chloride, cis-aconitic acid, citramalic acid, cyclobutane 1,1,3,3 tetracarboxylic acid, cyclohexane 1,2,4,5 tetracarboxylic acid, cyclopentane 1,2,3,4 tetracarboxylic acid, diglycolic acid, fumaric acid, glutamic acid, glutaric acid, glyoxylic acid, isocitric acid, ketomalonic acid, malonic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, oxalic acid, oxalic acid, phytic acid, p-toluenesulfonyl ester, tetracarboxylic acid ... Examples of such acids include phenylsulfonic acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, tartaric acid, tartronic acid, tetrahydrofuran 2,3,4,5 tetracarboxylic acid, tricarballylic acid, versenic acid, 3-hydroxyglutaric acid, 2-hydroxypropane 1,3 dicarboxylic acid, glyceric acid, furan 2,5 dicarboxylic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyfuran-2,5 dicarboxylic acid, 3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2,5-dicarboxylic acid, 2-oxo-glutaric acid, dl-glyceric acid, 2,5 furandicarboxylic acid, and salts thereof.

[0060] In some exemplary embodiments, the buffer comprises an inorganic acid. In some exemplary embodiments, the inorganic acid is one or more of a phosphorus-based compound, a sulfur-based compound, or a nitrogen-based compound. Non-limiting examples of suitable inorganic acids include hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, boric acid, hydrofluoric acid, hydrobromic acid, perchloric acid, bromous acid, iodous acid, and hydroiodic acid. In some embodiments, the acid comprises sulfuric acid. In some exemplary embodiments, the buffer has a pH (under standard conditions, 1 mmol / L) of less than about 4.0, or less than about 3.5, or less than about 3.0, or less than about 2.9, or less than about 2.8.

[0061] In some exemplary embodiments, the total amount of buffering agent is present in an amount of about 0.1 to about 15.0 wt.% based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the total amount of buffering agent is present in an amount of about 0.2 to about 10.0 wt.%, or about 0.3 to about 5.0 wt.%, or about 0.31 to about 3.0 wt.%, or about 0.4 to about 2.5 wt.%, or about 0.5 to about 2.0 wt.%, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition, including any narrower numerical ranges falling within the broader ranges.

[0062] Certain acids have been found to enhance the antimicrobial effectiveness of a composition beyond the traditional effect of simply adjusting the pH of the composition, in some exemplary embodiments, acidifying the antimicrobial composition enhances the effectiveness of the composition such that the effectiveness is comparable or greater than that of compositions containing higher amounts of alcohol.

[0063] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition further comprises an enhancer. As used herein, the term enhancer refers to a component that contributes to the overall effectiveness of the composition but does not have rapid antimicrobial activity itself (e.g., exposure time less than 10 minutes). In some exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is one or more of an aromatic-containing salt compound, an unsaturated organic acid or a salt of an unsaturated organic acid compound, an aromatic organic acid, an aromatic sulfuric acid, a saturated organic diol, an organic aldehyde, and / or an aromatic alcohol. Non-limiting examples of suitable enhancers include sorbic acid, sorbate compounds, benzoic acid, benzoate-based compounds, sulfur dioxide, sulfite compounds, natamycin, nitrates, nitrate compounds, thymol, cinnamaldehyde, methylparaben, propylparaben, sodium xylene sulfonate, 1,2 octanediol, 1,2 decanediol, and salts thereof. Such salts include, for example, benzoates, sorbates, sulfates, sodium benzoate, sodium sorbate, potassium sorbate, calcium sorbate, etc. In some exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is listed by the EPA as a minimum risk inactive ingredient or component for use in Food-Contact Surface Sanitizing Solutions. In some exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is a benzoate, such as sodium benzoate.

[0064] In some exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is added to the antimicrobial composition in an amount of less than about 10.0 wt%, or less than about 5.0 wt%, or less than about 2.5 wt%, or less than about 1.5 wt%, or less than about 1.0 wt%, or less than about 0.75 wt%, or less than about 0.5 wt%, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the enhancer is added in an amount of about 0.01 to about 5.0 wt%, or about 0.05 to about 3.0 wt%, or about 0.1 to about 2.0 wt%, or about 0.2 to about 1.0 wt%, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition, including any narrower numerical ranges falling within the broader ranges.

[0065] In some exemplary embodiments, the pH of the antimicrobial composition is less than about 6.0, or less than about 5.5, or less than about 5.0, or less than about 4.5. In some exemplary embodiments, the pH of the antimicrobial composition is about 1.5 to about 6.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the pH of the antimicrobial composition is about 2.0 to about 5.5, or about 2.5 to about 5.0, or about 3.0 to about 4.5.

[0066] Advantageously, synergistic antimicrobial effects are observed even when the composition contains 40% or less by weight alcohol at an acidic pH. Typically, sanitizing and disinfecting compositions with less than 40.0% by weight alcohol are considered ineffective in killing bacteria quickly, such as within an exposure period of 10 minutes or less. However, it has been surprisingly found that while compositions containing 40.0% or less by weight alcohol typically exhibit poor antimicrobial efficacy, antimicrobial compositions described herein with up to 40% by weight alcohol at an acidic pH exhibit enhanced antimicrobial efficacy within a rapid time frame, such as within an exposure period of 10 minutes or less. In some exemplary embodiments, alcohol concentrations that exhibit little or no efficacy on their own, when synergistically combined with the components described herein, provide enhanced efficacy even when the alcohol concentration is about 40.0% or less by weight, or about 35.0% or less by weight, or about 30.0% or less by weight, or about 25.0% or less by weight, and provide further enhanced efficacy when the pH of the antimicrobial composition is less than about 6.0 or less than about 5.0.

[0067] Further, when the antimicrobial composition includes at least one of a buffering agent and an enhancer, collectively at a concentration of at least 0.50% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition, at an acidic pH of 6 or less, a further synergistic antimicrobial effect is observed. In some exemplary embodiments, the concentration of the buffering agent and / or enhancer, collectively, is at least 0.75% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In various exemplary embodiments, the concentration of the buffering agent and / or enhancer, collectively, is 0.50-4.0% by weight, or 1.0-3.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. A particularly advantageous antimicrobial effect is observed when the buffering agent is an organic acid, such as citric acid, and the enhancer is a salt of an aromatic acid, such as sodium benzoate, and the pH of the composition is less than 6.

[0068] The antimicrobial composition may include additional components that do not adversely affect the synergistic composition described above. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition may include one or more chelating agents. The chelating agent is not particularly limited and may include any central atom having two or more coordinate bonds between multidentate ligands. Both organic and inorganic chelating agents may be used in the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent includes one or more of ethylenediamine, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and its salts, ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid (EDDS), diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)glycine, salicylic acid, polyphosphoric acid, and ascorbic acid. In some exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent is EDTA. In some exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent includes one or more amino acid-based chelating agents, such as methylgycine diacetic acid.

[0069] In some exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent is added to the antimicrobial composition in an amount of up to about 10.0% by weight, or up to about 5.0% by weight, or up to about 2.5% by weight, or up to about 1.5% by weight, or up to about 1.0% by weight, or up to about 0.75% by weight, or up to about 0.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent is included in an amount of at least about 0.001% by weight, or at least about 0.01% by weight, or at least about 0.05% by weight, or at least about 0.1% by weight, or at least about 0.5% by weight, or at least about 0.7% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent is added at about 0.001% to about 2.0% by weight, or about 0.005% to about 1.5% by weight, or about 0.05% to about 1.0% by weight, or about 0.1% to about 0.8% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

[0070] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is substantially free or completely free of fatty acids and any salts or derivatives thereof. By "essentially free," it is meant that the antimicrobial composition contains 5.0% or less by weight, preferably 1.0% or less by weight, and more preferably 0.5% or less by weight of a particular compound.

[0071] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition further comprises a fragrance. Any fragrance may be used in the antimicrobial composition, including, but not limited to, any fragrance classification on the standard fragrance chart, such as floral, oriental, woody, and fresh. Exemplary fragrances include cinnamon, clove, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, thyme, lemon, citrus, coconut, apricot, plum, watermelon, ginger, cranberry, and combinations thereof. In some exemplary embodiments, the fragrance is composed of EPA's minimum risk inactive ingredients or ingredients for use in Food-Contact Surface Sanitizing Solutions.

[0072] In some embodiments, the fragrance is included in the antimicrobial composition in an amount of about 0.005% to about 5.0% by weight, in other embodiments about 0.01% to about 3.0% by weight, in other embodiments about 0.05% to about 1.0% by weight, or about 0.1% to about 0.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. The fragrance may be made from any perfume, essential oil, aroma compound, volatile retention agent, terpene, solvent, and the like. In exemplary embodiments, the essential oils may include, for example, one or more of limonene, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Linalool, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Abies Siberia Oil, Mint Leaf Extract, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Fruit Oil, Pepper Nigrum (Pepper), and Manila Elemi Gum Non-Volatiles.

[0073] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition includes one or more carriers. The carrier can be any suitable compound capable of effectively delivering and / or carrying the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the carrier is water or a base cleanser. Other carriers include saline, inorganic salt solutions, fatty acid esters, ethers, amides, acetates, silicones, triglycerides, and various hydrocarbons. In other exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition does not include a carrier and is delivered as a concentrate.

[0074] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises water as a carrier. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises at least about 1.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 10.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 20.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 30.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 35.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 40.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 50.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 60.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 70.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 80.0 wt.% of the carrier, or at least about 85.0 wt.% of the carrier, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises about 50.0 to about 85.0 wt.% of the carrier, or about 55.0 to about 80.0 wt.% of the carrier, or about 60.0 to about 75.0 wt.% of the carrier, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition, including any narrower numerical range falling within the broader range. More or less carrier may be required in certain cases, particularly depending on the other ingredients and / or their amounts used in the antimicrobial composition.

[0075] A wide range of non-limiting cosmetic and pharmaceutical ingredients commonly used in skin care industry may be suitable for use in the composition of the present invention.Examples of these ingredients include abrasives, anti-acne agents, anti-caking agents, antioxidants, binders, biological additives, fillers, chelating agents, chemical additives; colorants, cosmetic astringents, cosmetic biocides, denaturants, drug astringents, emulsifiers, external analgesics, film formers, foam surfactants, humectants, opacifiers, plasticizers, preservatives (sometimes called antibacterial agents), propellants, reducing agents, skin bleaching agents, skin conditioning agents (softeners, micelle-forming agents, and occlusive agents), skin protectants, solvents, surfactants, foam boosters, hydrotropes, solubilizers, suspending agents (non-surfactants), sunscreens, UV absorbers, anti-tack agents, and thickeners (aqueous and non-aqueous). Examples of other functional classes of materials useful herein that are well known to those of skill in the art include solubilizers, scavenger agents, keratolytic agents, topical actives, and the like.

[0076] Advantageously, supplemental antimicrobial agents are not necessary, although some of the supplemental antimicrobial agents may be strong irritants on surfaces. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition does not include any supplemental antimicrobial components. Any antimicrobial component other than the combination of alcohol, surfactant, enhancer, and buffer may be referred to as a supplemental antimicrobial agent. In one embodiment, the amount of supplemental antimicrobial agent is less than about 1.0% by weight, or less than about 0.5% by weight, or less than about 0.25% by weight, or less than about 0.1% by weight, or less than about 0.05% by weight, or less than about 0.01% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is devoid of supplemental antimicrobial agents.

[0077] Advantageously, certain ingredients designated as important to current food contact surface cleaners can be limited to the antimicrobial compositions of the present invention. Many of these compounds have adverse side effects that make them undesirable for use in sanitizers.

[0078] In some exemplary embodiments, the amount of hypochlorous acid and its precursor in the antibacterial composition is limited.In some exemplary embodiments, the amount of chlorous acid and its precursor in the antibacterial composition is less than about 0.5% by weight, or less than about 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the antibacterial composition.In some exemplary embodiments, the antibacterial composition lacks hypochlorous acid.

[0079] In some exemplary embodiments, the amount of peroxyacid, such as peracetic acid, in the antimicrobial composition may be limited. In some exemplary embodiments, the amount of peroxyacid in the antimicrobial composition is less than about 0.5% by weight, or less than about 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In another embodiment, the antimicrobial composition is devoid of peroxyacid.

[0080] In some exemplary embodiments, the amount of peroxide, such as hydrogen peroxide, is limited in the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the amount of peroxide in the antimicrobial composition is less than about 0.5% by weight, or less than about 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is devoid of peroxide.

[0081] In some exemplary embodiments, the amount of quaternary compounds in the antimicrobial composition is limited or eliminated entirely. 4+ A compound containing a positively charged polyatomic ion of the structure: where R is an alkyl or aryl group. The ammonium ion (NH 4+ ), and unlike primary, secondary, or tertiary ammonium cations, quaternary ammonium cations are permanently charged, regardless of the pH of their solution. Examples include benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, cetrimonium, cetrimide, dophanium chloride, tetraethylammonium bromide, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, and domiphen bromide. In some exemplary embodiments, the amount of quaternary compounds in the antimicrobial composition is less than about 0.5% by weight, or less than about 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is devoid of quaternary compounds.

[0082] It is believed that the microstructure of the composition affects the interaction between the composition and the surface of the microorganism, enhancing the bactericidal ability of the composition. The alcohol, enhancer, and buffering agent combine to affect the micellar structure created by the surfactant. The improved bactericidal effectiveness reaches a maximum in formulations with less than 40% by weight alcohol, suggesting the formation of micelles with maximum effectiveness for interacting with microorganisms in this region. For this reason, increasing the level of alcohol actually inhibits the bactericidal ability of the formulation.

[0083] Indeed, any components other than alcohol, surfactants, enhancers, and buffers are not required to achieve antimicrobial effectiveness of the present antimicrobial compositions when mixed at a pH below 6, and may optionally be limited to less than about 5.0% by weight, or less than about 2.0% by weight, or less than about 1.0% by weight, or less than about 0.5% by weight, or less than about 0.1% by weight, or less than about 0.01% by weight, or less than about 0.001% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is devoid of any components other than alcohol, surfactants, buffers, enhancers, chelating agents, and optionally water or other suitable carrier.

[0084] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises one or more C 1-8 In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 40.0% by weight alcohol, one or more surfactants, an enhancer, and a buffer, and has a pH of 6 or less. 1-8 The antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 40.0% by weight alcohol, one or more non-ionic surfactants, and at least 0.50% by weight combined buffer and enhancer. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 40.0% by weight ethanol, a non-ionic surfactant, sodium benzoate, and citric acid. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 40.0% by weight ethanol, caprylyl / capryl glucoside, and citric acid. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 40.0% by weight ethanol, caprylyl / capryl glucoside, an enhancer, citric acid, and an inorganic acid. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises less than about 30% by weight ethanol, 0.1-1.0% by weight caprylyl / capryl glucoside, 0.75-4.0% by weight combined citric acid and sodium benzoate, and 0.01-0.1% by weight sulfuric acid. In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition comprises one or more non-ionic surfactants, a combined concentration of a buffer and enhancer of at least 0.50% by weight, and optionally an alcohol.

[0085] In some exemplary embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is used in a pre-moistened wipe. Generally, the pre-moistened wipe comprises a composition and a substrate. In some exemplary embodiments, the substrate is selected to tightly hold the antimicrobial composition during preparation and storage, and to readily release the liquid during use.

[0086] In some exemplary embodiments, the pre-moistened wipes include a substrate comprising a woven or non-woven web of natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a mixture of natural and synthetic fibers. Suitable natural fibers include, but are not limited to, cellulosic fibers such as wood pulp fibers, cotton, and rayon. Suitable synthetic fibers include fibers commonly used in textiles, such as, but not limited to, polyester and polypropylene fibers.

[0087] A variety of forming methods can be used to form suitable fibrous webs. In some exemplary embodiments, the webs can be made by nonwoven dry-laying techniques, such as air-laying, or alternatively by wet-laying, such as on a paper machine. Other nonwoven manufacturing techniques can also be used, including, but not limited to, techniques such as melt-blown, spunbond, needle-punched, and hydroentangled (i.e., spunlace) processes.

[0088] Unexpectedly, surfactants, such as those disclosed herein, have a C of less than about 40.0 wt. % at low pH. 1-8When combined with alcohol, buffers and enhancers, the antibacterial activity is synergistically enhanced and exceeds the mere additive effect. In some exemplary embodiments, the antibacterial composition is effective in killing gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, fungi, parasites, non-enveloped viruses, and enveloped viruses. In some exemplary embodiments, the antibacterial composition has rapid antibacterial effectiveness against bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia marcescens, Mycobacterium bovis, Salmonella enterica, viruses, such as adenovirus, feline calicivirus, Hepatitis C, and rotavirus, fungi, such as Candida albicans, Trichophyton interdigitale, and Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus niger spores, Stachybotrys chartani. EXAMPLES

[0089] Examples 1-3 show various antimicrobial compositions applied to wipes that were tested according to the AOAC 961.02 method, modified for towelettes, to determine efficacy on hard, non-porous, inanimate environmental surfaces. Test cultures of Staphylococcus aureus were used to test the effectiveness of each germicide. Results are expressed as the percentage of carriers that showed elongation, e.g., percent positive carriers. Example 1

[0090] Eleven compositions were prepared and tested using the methods described above with a contact time of 90 seconds to determine their effectiveness as biocides. Carriers inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus were tested for each of the compositions in Table 1. Table 1 shows the results of the tests performed on the various compositions. [Table 1]

[0091] In Table 1 above, pairs of formulations were tested that were essentially identical except for the varying ethanol levels. Ethanol is typically active by itself at concentrations between 50-90% by weight. Typically, an increase in ethanol results in an increase in antibacterial efficacy. However, for compositions 1a / b, 3a / b, 4a / b, and 5a / b, the efficacy of the compositions was higher (lower percent positive carriers) at 20% ethanol when compared to 30% ethanol. For composition 2a / b, the efficacy level remained consistent even as the ethanol concentration increased. Compositions 3a, 5a, and 6 were the most effective formulations, containing 20%, 20%, and 25% ethanol, respectively. This data is surprising based on the accepted assumption that alcohol increases efficacy. Such an assumption does not appear to be necessarily true in this composition space. Example 2

[0092] Four compositions containing ethanol, pH adjuster, and water alone were adjusted to various pH levels and tested using the AOAC 961.02 method modified for towelettes to determine the antibacterial efficacy of ethanol alone. Carriers inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus were tested with each of the compositions in Table 2. The amount of positive carriers after a contact time of 120 seconds was calculated and is reflected in Table 2 below. [Table 2]

[0093] Table 2 shows that the composition with only 25% ethanol did not show any efficacy against S. aureus. See composition 7. Furthermore, at pH 5, an ethanol concentration of 40.00% by weight showed efficacy of about 96.67% positive carrier. Only at an ethanol concentration of 50.00% by weight, and at the same time at pH 3.29, does efficacy begin to drop below 50% positive carrier, which is still above the maximum value of 15% positive carrier described in this application. Example 3

[0094] A sample having 25.0% by weight ethanol, 0.62% by weight decyl glucoside, 0.5% by weight sodium benzoate, 0.75% by weight citric acid, and the balance water ("Sample A") was tested according to the method described above to determine its rapid antimicrobial effectiveness. The pH of the composition was 4.0. Table 3 details the results of the two-minute effectiveness test of Sample A. A sample having 20.0% by weight ethanol, 0.50% by weight decyl glucoside, 0.10% by weight sodium benzoate, 1.50% by weight citric acid, and the balance water ("Sample B") was tested according to the method described above to determine its antimicrobial effectiveness. The pH of the composition was 3.0. Table 3 details the results of the two-minute effectiveness test of Sample B. A sample having 20.0 wt% ethanol, 0.62 wt% nonionic surfactant, 1.50 wt% enhancer, 1.50 wt% organic acid, 0.20 wt% chelating agent, and the balance water ("Sample C") was tested according to the method described above to determine its antimicrobial effectiveness. The pH of Sample C was 4.00. Table 3 details the results of efficacy testing of Sample D over a 90 second period. A sample having 17.5 wt% ethanol, 0.62 wt% nonionic surfactant, 0.75 wt% enhancer, 0.6 wt% organic acid, 0.25 wt% chelating agent, and the balance water ("Sample D") was tested according to the method described above to determine its antimicrobial effectiveness. The pH of Sample D was 4.00. Table 3 details the results of efficacy testing of Sample D over a 90 second period. These results show rapid antimicrobial effectiveness in as little as 15 seconds. [Table 3] Example 4

[0095] The effectiveness of the individual components compared to the complete antimicrobial formulation was tested to demonstrate that the synergistic antimicrobial improvement of the composition is more than just an additive effect. Specifically, five samples were prepared and tested against Staphylococcus aureus at various contact times according to ASTM E2783, as outlined in Table 4 below. [Table 4]

[0096] As noted above in Table 4 and accompanying Figure 1, at individual concentrations of approximately 18.0-22.0 wt% ethanol, 0.65-0.8 wt% nonionic surfactant, 1.0-1.5 wt% buffer, and 0.1-0.4 wt% enhancer, none of the components demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy against S. aureus at a pH of about 4.0. (See Samples A, B, C, and D). In contrast, Sample E, which contained each component combined at the same concentration levels outlined in Samples A, B, C, and D, demonstrated a significant increase in antimicrobial efficacy. Specifically, Sample E demonstrated greater than 4.45 CFU / ml at 30 seconds. Logarithm A decrease was observed, indicating that the synergistic effect of the combination of ingredients used herein is not additive. Example 5

[0097] The effectiveness of the individual components was then tested at various concentration levels, showing that as concentrations increased, the individual components still did not have antibacterial effectiveness. Specifically, nine samples were prepared and tested against Staphylococcus aureus at a contact time of 30 seconds according to ASTM E2783, as outlined in Table 5 below. [Table 5]

[0098] As discussed above in Table 5 and accompanying Figure 2, the composition did not exhibit antimicrobial efficacy even when the individual concentrations of the nonionic surfactant (alkyl polyglucoside) and buffer (monosodium citrate) were increased to between 9.0 and 11.0% by weight of their individual concentrations. Thus, this further supports that it is the synergistic combination of ingredients that provides the unexpected increase in antimicrobial efficacy. Example 6

[0099] The efficacy of the antimicrobial compositions was tested against S. aureus 6538 at a contact time of 90 seconds based on the AOAC 961.02 method modified for towelettes. Three different groups of compositions were tested: Group A included a control sample containing only ethanol and a non-ionic surfactant, Group B included a composition of the present invention containing ethanol, a non-ionic surfactant, a buffer, and an enhancer, and Group C included a second composition of the present invention containing ethanol, a non-ionic surfactant, a buffer, an enhancer, and a chelating agent. For each composition group, the ethanol level was varied to demonstrate that ethanol was not the only factor responsible for the reduction of S. aureus. [Table 6]

[0100] As shown in Table 6 above and illustrated in Figure 3, the comparative Group A (ethanol + surfactant) did not achieve efficacy with less than 15% positive carriers, even when the ethanol level was above 40%. When the ethanol level was between 10-20%, there was growth of S. aureus in all carriers. In contrast, the Group B formulation (containing ethanol + surfactant + buffer + enhancer) showed efficacy starting at 10% ethanol and achieved less than 10% carriers at ethanol levels of 20% and above. The Group C formulation (containing ethanol + surfactant + buffer + enhancer) also showed high efficacy at low ethanol levels, with less than 15% percent positive carriers starting at an ethanol concentration of 15%. Thus, the efficacy of the formulation is improved by the addition of at least two of the surfactant, enhancer, and buffer. Example 7

[0101] The efficacy of antimicrobial compositions containing alcohol and two or more of a non-ionic surfactant, an enhancer, and a buffering agent was tested to determine their effect on hard, non-porous, inanimate environmental surfaces according to a modified AOAC 961.02 method. The formulations were sprayed onto glass slides inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus, which was neutralized after 20 seconds of exposure to the formulation. The reduction of Staphylococcus aureus was quantified and recorded.

[0102] As shown in Table 7 below, sample (a) contained each of ethanol, a non-ionic surfactant, a buffer, and an enhancer, had a low pH of 3.40, and produced a highly effective 5.31 log CFU. Logarithm Samples (b)-(d) show that one of the detergents, buffers, or enhancers can be removed while still maintaining efficacy. [Table 7] Example 8

[0103] The efficacy of antimicrobial compositions containing alcohol and two or more of a non-ionic surfactant, an enhancer, and a buffering agent was tested to determine their effect on hard, non-porous, inanimate environmental surfaces according to a modified AOAC 961.02 method. The formulations were sprayed onto glass slides inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus, which was neutralized after 20 seconds of exposure to the formulation. The reduction of Staphylococcus aureus was quantified and recorded.

[0104] Table 8 below shows that when ingredients of the same category are substituted within a formulation, efficacy is not lost. For example, in composition b, salicylic acid was substituted for sodium benzoate (composition a) as an enhancer. Each composition had at least 4 log CFU of LogarithmWith the reduction, full efficacy was maintained. A similar maintenance of efficacy was found in compositions c and b, in which sodium lauryl sulfate was substituted for caprylyl / capryl glucoside. Composition ef contains a variety of surfactants, all of which exhibit full efficacy when included in the compositions of the present invention. [Table 8]

[0105] While exemplary embodiments are described herein, it should be understood that many modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the general inventive concept. All such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the exemplary embodiments described herein, which is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. An antimicrobial composition comprising: C, the total of which is greater than 15% by weight and less than 25% by weight １－８ Alcohol, 0.5 to 2% by weight of a surfactant containing an alkyl polyglucoside; an enhancer comprising sodium benzoate; A buffer comprising citric acid or a salt thereof; the combined concentration of the buffer and the enhancer is 1-3% by weight based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition; the pH of the antimicrobial composition is less than 5; the antimicrobial composition achieves a microbial log reduction of greater than 4.0 log CFU / ml at a 1 minute contact time according to ASTM E2783; An antimicrobial composition, wherein each weight percentage is based on the total weight of said antimicrobial composition.

2. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1, which achieves a microbial log reduction of greater than 4.0 log CFU / ml at a contact time of 30 seconds according to ASTM E2783.

3. A total of 18 to 22 weight percent C based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition １－８ The antimicrobial composition of claim 1 comprising an alcohol.

4. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1 having a pH of 1.5 to 4.

5.

5. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1 which is peroxide-free.

6. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1, comprising 0.5 to 2% by weight of a buffering agent, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

7. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1 comprising 0.1 to 0.4 wt. % of the enhancer, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

8. A wipe comprising the antimicrobial composition of claim 1.

9. 1. An antimicrobial composition comprising: A total of more than 15% by weight and less than 25% by weight of C １－８ Alcohol, 0.5 to 2% by weight of a surfactant containing an alkyl polyglucoside; an enhancer comprising a salt of an aromatic acid; 0.5 to 2 wt. % of a buffering agent comprising an organic acid, an inorganic acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof; the combined concentration of said buffer and said enhancer is 1-3% by weight in total; the pH of the antimicrobial composition is less than 5; the antimicrobial composition achieves a microbial log reduction of greater than 4.0 log CFU / ml at a 1 minute contact time according to ASTM E2783; An antimicrobial composition, wherein each weight percentage is based on the total weight of said antimicrobial composition.

10. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 9, which achieves a microbial log reduction of greater than 4.0 log CFU / ml at a contact time of 30 seconds according to ASTM E2783.

11. A total of 18 to 22 weight percent C based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition １－８ 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 9 comprising an alcohol.

12. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 9 having a pH of 1.5 to 4.

5.

13. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 9 which is peroxide-free.

14. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 9, comprising 0.1 to 0.4 wt. % of the enhancer, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

15. A wipe comprising the antimicrobial composition of claim 9.

16. 1. An antimicrobial composition comprising: C, in total, greater than 15 wt.% and less than 25 wt.% based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition １－８ Alcohol, a nonionic surfactant comprising an alkyl polyglucoside; an enhancer comprising a salt of an aromatic acid; a buffering agent selected from the group consisting of organic acids, inorganic acids, salts thereof, or combinations thereof; Water, It consists of the pH of the antimicrobial composition is less than 5; An antimicrobial composition, wherein the antimicrobial composition achieves a microbial log reduction of greater than 4.0 log CFU / ml at a 1 minute contact time according to ASTM E2783.

17. 17. The antimicrobial composition of claim 16, wherein the combined concentration of the buffer and the enhancer is 1-3% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

18. 17. The antimicrobial composition of claim 16, wherein the buffering agent is present in an amount of 0.5 to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

19. 17. The antimicrobial composition of claim 16, wherein the enhancer is present in an amount of 0.1 to 0.4 wt %, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition.

20. 17. A wipe comprising the antimicrobial composition of claim 16.

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