System toilet sand and method for producing the same

Abstract

To provide a toilet sand that enables a cat to readily excrete in a system toilet and can suppress clogging of a plurality of holes in a drain board part of the system toilet with the toilet sand, and to provide a method for manufacturing the same.SOLUTION: Toilet sand for a system toilet includes a plurality of granular materials and is used for a system toilet. Each of the granular materials has a grain size of 6.0 mm or less. In the plurality of granular materials, the ratio of the granular materials in which a smaller of the grain size and the grain length is less than 3.2 mm is 6% or less.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to litter for a system toilet and a method for producing the same. [Background technology]

[0002] System toilets are known as toilets for animals such as cats and dogs. System toilet litter (hereinafter simply referred to as "litter") is used in these system toilets. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system animal toilet and animal litter. The animal litter contains a plurality of granular materials. Each of the granular materials includes a core composed of an inorganic porous material and a binder that integrally fixes the inorganic porous material, and a water-blocking coating layer formed on the surface of the core and composed of a water-blocking material that is water-absorbent and viscous when water is absorbed. The system animal litter box includes an upper container with a plurality of holes in its bottom and in which animal litter is placed, and a lower container in which a liquid-absorbing member is placed. The bottom of the upper container, which has a plurality of holes (through-holes), has a portion shaped like a slat, and the slat-shaped portion will be referred to as the slat portion hereinafter. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-100310 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Cats are known to be creatures that originally lived in the desert. Through the inventor's research, it has been discovered for the first time that cats can naturally defecate on sand or on sand-like materials with small grains, a remnant of their history of living on sand, but that if the grains are large, they will not defecate on the sand-like material, possibly because they perceive it as stones or rocks rather than sand and feel uncomfortable.

[0005] Therefore, if the grain size of the litter in a system toilet is large, cats may not enter the system toilet, or may not defecate even if they do enter. This can cause problems such as harm to the cat's health or the cat defecates in unexpected places, resulting in additional cleaning burdens for the owner.

[0006] On the other hand, in over 95% of the system toilets currently on the market, the opening width of each of the multiple holes in the slatted area is 2.3 to 2.7 mm. Therefore, if the size of the litter particles is small, the litter may get stuck in the holes and clog, or may fall through the holes. If the litter becomes clogged, problems such as urine accumulating in the slatted area or old litter stuck in the slatted area becoming difficult to remove when cleaning the system toilet can occur. Furthermore, if the litter falls through the holes, it may not be able to perform its intended function.

[0007] In this way, if the particles in the litter box are too large, there is a risk that the cat will not defecate in the system litter box, and if the particles in the litter box are too small, there is a risk that the litter box will clog the multiple holes in the slats of the system litter box.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide litter that allows cats to easily defecate in a system litter box and that prevents the litter from clogging the multiple holes in the slats of the system litter box, and a method for manufacturing the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One aspect of the present invention is system toilet sand for use in a system toilet, which contains a plurality of granular objects, each of which has a particle size of 6.0 mm or less, and the proportion of granular objects among the plurality of granular objects whose smaller particle size or particle length is less than 3.2 mm is 6% or less.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention is a system toilet kit including a system toilet, the above-mentioned system toilet litter, and an excrement disposal sheet.

[0011] Yet another aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing system toilet sand for use in a system toilet, which contains a plurality of first granular objects, the method comprising: a forming step of forming a plurality of second granular objects; and an obtaining step of removing second granular objects of a predetermined size from the plurality of second granular objects to obtain the plurality of first granular objects, wherein each of the plurality of first granular objects has a particle size of 6.0 mm or less, and the proportion of granular objects among the plurality of first granular objects whose smaller of particle size or particle length is less than 3.2 mm is 6% or less. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide litter that allows cats to easily defecate in a system litter box and that prevents the litter from clogging the multiple holes in the slatted part of the system litter box, and a method for manufacturing the same. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a system toilet using litter according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of the upper container of the system toilet of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a partial plan view showing the configuration of the bottom surface of the upper container of FIG. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of granular litter according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present embodiment relates to the following aspects. [Aspect 1] System toilet sand for use in a system toilet, containing a plurality of granular objects, each of which has a particle size of 6.0 mm or less, and the proportion of granular objects among the plurality of granular objects whose smaller particle size or particle length is less than 3.2 mm is 6% or less.

[0015] According to the inventor's investigation, cats can naturally excrete on sand or sand-like materials with small grains, so it can be said that they are accustomed to excreting on sand or sand-like materials with small grains (hereinafter also referred to as "high habituation"). However, cats do not like to excrete on sand-like materials with large grains, so it can be said that they are not accustomed to excreting on sand-like materials with large grains (hereinafter also referred to as "low habituation"). Therefore, in the present system litter, the particle size of each of the multiple granules is adjusted to 6.0 mm or less, making it a size that cats are more likely to get used to. This makes it easier for cats to defecate in a system litter box using this system litter. At the same time, in the present system litter, the proportion of small granules, either of which has a particle size or particle length of less than 3.2 mm, is reduced to 6% or less (by number). Therefore, the size of each of the multiple granules is generally larger than the size of each of the multiple holes (through holes) in the slatted portion of the system litter box (e.g., opening width: 2.3 to 2.7 mm). This makes it less likely for the system litter box to get stuck in the multiple holes in the slatted portion of the system litter box. This allows cats to defecate properly in the system litter box, and prevents the system litter from clogging the multiple holes in the slatted portion of the system litter box.

[0016] [Aspect 2] Litter for the system toilet according to aspect 1, wherein the proportion of granules having a granule length of 3.5 to 10 mm is 85% or more of the plurality of granules. In this system litter, the size of the multiple granules is generally (85% or more by number) 10 mm or less. In other words, the multiple granules contain almost no large granules and are sized to be easily accustomed to by cats. This makes it easier for cats to excrete in a system litter box using this system litter. At the same time, the size of the multiple granules is generally (85% or more) 3.5 mm or more. In other words, the multiple granules contain almost no small granules and are larger than the multiple holes in the slats of the system litter box. This makes it less likely for the system litter to get stuck in the multiple holes in the slats of a system litter box using this system litter.

[0017] [Aspect 3] The apparent specific gravity of the plurality of granules is 1.00 to 1.50 g / cm 3 3. The system litter according to claim 1, wherein the litter box is a litter box containing 1 to 200 ml of the litter box. In this system toilet litter, the apparent specific gravity of the multiple granules is 1.00 to 1.50 g / cm 3 This apparent specific gravity is close to that of sand, making it highly familiar to cats. As a result, it is possible to make it easier for cats to excrete in a system litter box using this system litter. Furthermore, because of its high apparent specific gravity, the system litter is less likely to scatter outside the system litter box. Therefore, it is possible to make cats excrete properly in the system litter box, and the area around the system litter box can be kept hygienic.

[0018] [Aspect 4] Litter for the system litter box according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the proportion of granules having a mass per granule of 0.065 g or more among the plurality of granules is 55% or more. In this system litter, the proportion of granules with a mass of 0.065 g or more per granule is increased to 55% or more (measured by number), bringing the mass of the granules closer to the mass of the sand, making it more familiar to cats. This makes it easier for cats to defecate in a system litter box using this system litter. Furthermore, because the mass per granule is large, this system litter box litter is less likely to scatter outside the system litter box. This allows cats to defecate properly in the system litter box, while also maintaining hygienic conditions around the system litter box.

[0019] [Aspect 5] Litter for a system litter box according to any one of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the void ratio between the granules in the plurality of granules is 45% by volume or less. In this system litter, the void ratio between the multiple granules is reduced to 45% or less by volume. By reducing the gaps, the system litter does not sink as easily when a cat steps on it, providing a texture similar to that of regular sand, making it more familiar to cats. This makes it easier for cats to defecate in system litter boxes using this system litter. Furthermore, by reducing the gaps, the multiple granules are less likely to move around each other, preventing the granules from moving around and filling the gaps, which would prevent urine from passing through the gaps and moving downward. This prevents waste from accumulating between the granules, resulting in a strong urine or feces odor.

[0020] [Aspect 6] Aspect 6. Litter for a system litter box according to any one of Aspects 1 to 5, wherein the angle of repose of the plurality of granules is 50 degrees or less. In this system litter, the angle of repose of the multiple granules is set to 50 degrees or less, which reduces the sinking of the system litter when a cat steps on it, making it feel more like regular sand and more familiar to cats. This makes it easier for cats to defecate in a system litter box using this system litter. Furthermore, the small angle of repose makes it easier for the granules to cover the entire feces, preventing the dispersion of fecal odor.

[0021] [Aspect 7] Aspect 7. The system litter according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of granules comprises an odor-absorbing material. In this system litter box, the multiple granules contain odor-absorbing materials, which suppress the spread of urine and feces odors, and even after long-term use, the litter remains close to its original state, free of excrement and odor, maintaining a state that cats can easily adapt to. This makes it easier for cats to excrete in system litter boxes using this system litter box.

[0022] [Aspect 8] 8. The system litter of claim 7, wherein the odor-absorbing material comprises an inorganic porous material. In this system litter box, the odor-absorbing material contains an inorganic porous material, which makes the composition of the granules similar to that of sand, making it more familiar to cats. This makes it easier for cats to defecate in a system litter box using this system litter box.

[0023] [Aspect 9] Aspect 9. The system litter according to any one of Aspects 1 to 8, wherein the water absorption capacity of the plurality of granules is less than 160%. In this system litter, the absorbency of the multiple granules is set to less than 160%, which prevents the granules from absorbing urine and swelling, preventing them from deviating from their original state, maintaining a state that cats find highly accustomed to. This makes it easier for cats to defecate in a system litter box using this system litter. Furthermore, by setting the absorbency low, even when this system litter box is used for a long period of time, the granules are prevented from retaining urine, which can cause the urine to produce bad odors and harmful substances due to the influence of microorganisms.

[0024] [Aspect 10] The system litter according to any one of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the disintegration rate of each of the plurality of granules is less than 0.5 mL. In this system toilet litter, the disintegration rate of each of the multiple granules is less than 0.5 mL, making it difficult for the granules to disintegrate after absorbing urine, and preventing the granules from disintegrating and getting stuck in the multiple holes in the slatted portion of the system toilet litter.

[0025] [Aspect 11] A system toilet kit comprising a system toilet, the system toilet litter according to any one of aspects 1 to 10, and an excrement disposal sheet. In the system toilet obtained by assembling this system toilet kit, the system toilet sand described in any one of aspects 1 to 10 above is laid down, and therefore the above-mentioned functional effects that can be exerted by the system toilet sand can be exerted.

[0026] [Aspect 12] A method for manufacturing toilet sand for use in a system toilet, which contains a plurality of first granular objects, the method comprising: a forming step of forming a plurality of second granular objects; and an obtaining step of removing second granular objects of a predetermined size from the plurality of second granular objects to obtain the plurality of first granular objects, wherein each of the plurality of first granular objects has a particle size of 6.0 mm or less, and the proportion of the plurality of first granular objects whose smaller particle size or particle length is less than 3.2 mm is 6% or less. The system toilet sand produced by the method for producing system toilet sand used in the system toilet of the present invention can achieve the same effects as the system toilet sand described in aspect 1 above.

[0027] Hereinafter, litter for a system toilet (hereinafter also simply referred to as "litter") according to an embodiment of the present invention and a method for producing the same will be described.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a system toilet 1 using litter box litter according to an embodiment. The system toilet 1 includes an upper container 4 having a plurality of holes in its bottom surface on which litter box litter 10 is placed, and a lower container 6 disposed below the upper container 4 and on which an excrement disposal sheet 20 is placed. The bottom surface of the upper container 4 has a porous or mesh-like structure with a plurality of holes (through-holes). This structure allows liquid excrement (e.g., urine) to pass through (drain water), i.e., functions as a grate. Therefore, hereinafter, the bottom surface is also referred to as the grate portion. The configuration of the bottom surface, i.e., the grate portion, will be described later. In this embodiment, the system toilet 1 further includes a cover 2 disposed above the upper container 4 to limit animal entrances and exits and prevent excrement and litter box litter 10 from scattering.

[0029] The system toilet 1 is configured so that liquid excrement (e.g., urine) excreted by an animal (e.g., a cat) passes through the litter box 10 without being absorbed much, and is instead absorbed and retained by the excrement disposal sheet 20 located below the litter box 10. As a result, immediately after an animal excretes, the excrement and its odor are absorbed by the excrement disposal sheet 20, suppressing the odor, and the litter box 10 can suppress the odor from spreading. Furthermore, because the litter box 10 does not absorb the excrement and form clumps, the system toilet 1 can reduce the frequency of replacing the litter box 10 compared to litter box made of conventional absorbent granules. Furthermore, even if the animal scratches the sand after excreting, excrement is less likely to stick to the animal's feet. Furthermore, in the system toilet 1, the bottom surface of the upper container 4 on which the litter 10 is laid is positioned away from the excrement disposal sheet 20, so even if an animal stands on the litter 10 after defecation, the excrement disposal sheet 20 is not subjected to the load of the animal's weight, and there is an advantage that the excrement absorbed by the excrement disposal sheet 20 is less likely to flow back.

[0030] The system toilet 1, litter 10, and excrement disposal sheet 20 can also be bundled together to form a system toilet kit. In the system toilet 1 obtained by assembling this system toilet kit, litter 10 is laid out, and the effects that can be exerted by the litter 10, which will be described later, can be achieved.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of the upper container 4 of the system toilet 1 of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a partial plan view showing the configuration of the bottom portion 40 (grate portion) of the upper container 4 of FIG. 2. The bottom portion 40 includes a base 42 and a plurality of holes 41 provided in the base 42. In this embodiment, the base 42 has the shape of a substantially rectangular thin plate in a plan view. In a plan view, the holes 41 have the shape of a rectangle (long side (length) b × short side (width) a; the short side is a semicircular arc) that is long in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the length b is 10 to 30 mm, the width a is 2.3 to 2.7 mm, and the intervals c1 and c2 are 1 to 3 mm. In a plan view, the plurality of holes 41 are arranged in the base 42 in a lattice pattern at intervals c1 in the horizontal direction and intervals c2 in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the bottom portion 40 is a grate portion formed in the shape of a grate having the plurality of holes 41. However, the shape of the base 42 in a plan view is not limited to this example and may be other shapes (for example, circular, elliptical, polygonal). Furthermore, the shape of the hole 41 in a plan view is not limited to this example and may be other shapes (for example, circular, elliptical, diamond). Furthermore, the arrangement of the multiple hole portions 41 in a plan view is not limited to this example and may be other arrangements (for example, staggered arrangement).

[0032] FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the configuration of granular materials 10a of the litter 10 according to this embodiment. The litter 10 contains multiple granular materials 10a. In this embodiment, the granular materials 10a have a cylindrical shape (particle diameter at the base D × particle length L). However, the granular materials 10a may be deformed on the sides or bottom due to impacts during manufacturing or transportation, such as breakage at the broken line 10x shown in dashed lines, and thus may not strictly be considered cylindrical. In such cases, the shape of the granular materials 10a is considered to be a cylindrical shape that can contain the granular materials 10a with a minimum volume. However, the shape of the granular materials 10a is not limited to this example and may be other shapes (e.g., spheres, ellipsoids, polyhedrons). Even in such cases, the following description of the granular materials 10a may be applied by considering the shape of the granular materials 10a as a cylindrical shape that can contain the granular materials 10a with a minimum volume.

[0033] Each of the plurality of granular materials 10a has a particle diameter D of 6.0 mm or less. The proportion (number) of granular materials 10a having a smaller particle diameter D or particle length L of less than 3.2 mm is 6% or less.

[0034] According to the inventor's research, cats can naturally defecate on sand or small-grained sand, so they are accustomed to defecation on sand or small-grained sand (hereinafter also referred to as "high habituation"). However, cats do not like to defecate on large-grained sand, so they are not accustomed to defecation on large-grained sand (hereinafter also referred to as "low habituation"). Therefore, in the system litter box 10, the particle size of each of the multiple granules 10a is set to 6.0 mm or less, making it a size that is accustomed to by cats. This makes it easier for cats to defecate in the system litter box 1 using the litter box 10. It is believed that cats determine habituation based on the feel of their paws and the smell.

[0035] Meanwhile, the inventors' investigations have revealed that when the width of the holes in the slatted portion is 2.3 to 2.7 mm, setting the smaller of either the particle size or particle length to 3.2 mm or more (at least approximately 115% of the hole width) can prevent granular materials from getting stuck in the holes or falling out of the holes. Therefore, in the litter box 10, the proportion of granular materials 10a whose smaller of the particle size D or particle length L is less than 3.2 mm is reduced to 6% (by number) or less. In other words, the size of most of the granular materials 10a is larger than the size of each of the holes 41 in the bottom surface 40 (slatted portion) of the system toilet 1. This makes it difficult for the granular materials 10a of the litter box 10 to get stuck in the holes 41 in the slatted portion (bottom surface 40) in the system toilet 1 that uses the litter box 10. In this way, the litter box 10 allows cats to properly excrete in the litter box system 1, and also prevents the litter box 10 from clogging the holes 41 in the slatted portion (bottom portion 40) of the litter box system 1.

[0036] From the viewpoint of obtaining the above-mentioned effect, the proportion (number) of granules 10a in which the smaller of the particle diameter D or particle length L is less than 3.2 mm among the plurality of granules 10a is preferably 3% or less, and more preferably 1% or less.

[0037] The proportion (number) of granules 10a in which either the particle diameter D or the particle length L, whichever is larger, is less than 3.5 mm may preferably be 6% or less, and more preferably 3% or less. As such, the smaller the proportion of granules in which either the particle diameter D or the particle length L, whichever is larger, is less than 3.5 mm, the larger the size of each of the majority of the granules 10a can be made than the size (width a: 2.3 to 2.7 mm) of the holes 41 in the bottom surface portion 40. This therefore makes it possible to prevent the litter 10 from clogging the holes 41.

[0038] Furthermore, the proportion (number) of granules 10a in which the larger of particle diameter D or particle length L is less than 3.2 mm may be 6% or less (preferably 3% or less). In this way, the smaller the proportion of granules in which the larger of particle diameter D or particle length L is less than 3.2 mm, the larger the size of each of the majority of the granules 10a can be made larger than the size of the holes 41 in the bottom surface portion 40, and the more likely it is that the litter 10 will clog the holes 41.

[0039] The method for measuring (calculating) the number distribution of particle lengths of the granular materials in the litter is as follows: In this embodiment, the granular materials are cylindrical with roughly the same diameter, so the number distribution of particle diameters was not measured. <Grain length number distribution> (1) The particle size (diameter) of each of the granular materials to be evaluated is measured using a vernier caliper, and the average value per 100 granular materials is taken as the average particle size of the granular materials. (2) Place multiple granular objects to be evaluated on the scanner so that the granular objects do not come into contact with each other. Since the granular objects are cylindrical, place them sideways. (3) Capture scanned images of multiple particles. (4) The software binarizes the scanned image, treats each continuous area as a single granule, and calculates the area of ​​each granule when it is lying on its side. (5) Using the software, calculate the particle length for each particle, taking the average particle size calculated in (1) above as the particle size. Note that the particle length is the length at the center of the particle size. (6) Based on the particle length of each of the obtained granules, the particle length is classified into classes, for example, in increments of 0.5 mm (e.g., 0-0.5 mm, 0.5-1.0 mm, ...). However, there are no particular restrictions on the scanner, and examples include a general printer. There are no particular restrictions on the software, and examples include the free software "ImageJ."

[0040] The method for measuring clogging of the holes in the slats of the granular litter is as follows. <Clogging> (1) A cylindrical container with an inner diameter of 100 mm and a height of 30 mm is placed on a thin plate member having a slatted portion in which 2.7 mm x 8 mm rectangular holes (through holes) are arranged in a grid pattern at 2 mm intervals, so that it does not protrude from the slatted portion of the thin plate member when viewed in a plane. (2) Several granular materials (particle length 6 mm or less) to be evaluated are laid on a thin plate member in a cylindrical container to a thickness of 2 cm. (3) The thin plate member on which the granular material and cylindrical container are placed is placed in a sieve shaker and shaken under the conditions of a shaking width of 1.8 mm, a shaking speed of 60 Hz, and a shaking time of 1 minute. The sieve shaker used is the AS-200 manufactured by Retsch. (4) After shaking, remove the thin plate member from the sieve shaker and tilt it approximately 90 degrees on the pad to check the number, particle size, and particle length of the granules that remain stuck in the holes of the thin plate member. If the number of granules that remain stuck in the holes is 5 or more, the granules under evaluation are judged to be easily stuck in the holes (easily clogged), and if the number is less than 5, the granules under evaluation are judged to be difficult to get stuck in the holes (difficult to clog).

[0041] The method for measuring a cat's habituation to litter granules is as follows. <Cat habituation> (1) Two identical system toilets, A and B, are prepared. System toilet A is laid with litter A of the present invention, and system toilet B is laid with litter B for comparison. (2) On the first and second days of the four measurement days, system toilet A was placed in a relatively closer position in the excretion room, and system toilet B was placed in a farther position. On the third and fourth days, the positions were reversed, that is, system toilet B was placed in a relatively closer position in the excretion room, and system toilet A was placed in a farther position. (3) In the measurement, the excretion behavior of two cats is filmed, and the footage is used to determine which system litter box the two cats used. If the cats used a specific litter box in more than 60% of their multiple excretions, it is determined that the litter box is highly familiar to them.

[0042] Of the plurality of granules 10a, the proportion (number) of granules 10a having a granule length L of 3.5 to 10 mm is preferably 85% or more, more preferably 90% or more, and even more preferably 95% or more.

[0043] Thus, the grain length L of most (85% or more) of the granular materials 10a is 10 mm or less. That is, the granular materials 10a contain almost no granular materials that are too large, making them sized to be easily accustomed to by cats. This makes it easier for cats to excrete in a system litter box 1 using the litter box litter 10. At the same time, the grain length L of most (85% or more) of the granular materials 10a is 3.5 mm or more. That is, the granular materials 10a contain almost no granular materials that are too small, making them larger than the holes 41 in the slatted portion of the system litter box 1. This makes it more difficult for the litter box litter 1 to get stuck in the holes 41 in the slatted portion of the system litter box 1, thereby reducing clogging.

[0044] From a similar viewpoint, the proportion (number) of granular materials 10a having a grain length L of 3.5 to 7.5 mm is preferably 75% or more, the proportion (number) of granular materials 10a having a grain length L of 3.5 to 6.5 mm is preferably 50% or more, and the proportion (number) of granular materials 10a having a grain length L of 6.5 mm or less is preferably 50% or more.

[0045] Of the plurality of granules 10a, the proportion (number) of granules 10a having a particle diameter D of 3.2 to 5.0 mm is preferably 85% or more, more preferably 90% or more, and even more preferably 95% or more.

[0046] Thus, the particle size D of most (85% or more) of the granular materials 10a is 5.0 mm or less. That is, the granular materials 10a contain almost no granular materials that are too large, making them a size that is easily accustomed to by cats. This makes it easier for cats to excrete in a system litter box 1 using the litter box litter 10. At the same time, the particle size D of most (85% or more) of the granular materials 10a is 3.2 mm or more. That is, the granular materials 10a contain almost no granular materials that are too small, making them larger than the holes 41 in the slatted portion of the system litter box 1. This makes it more difficult for the litter box litter 1 to get stuck in the holes 41 in the slatted portion of the system litter box 1, thereby reducing clogging.

[0047] The apparent specific gravity of the plurality of granular materials 10a is preferably 1.00 to 1.50 g / cm 3 and more preferably 1.00 to 1.30 g / cm 3 , more preferably 1.10 to 1.30 g / cm 3 is.

[0048] In this way, the apparent specific gravity of the plurality of granular materials 10a (toilet sand 10) is 1.00 to 1.50 g / cm 3This has an apparent specific gravity close to that of litter that cats are familiar with. This makes it easier for cats to excrete in the system litter box 1 using the litter box litter 10. At the same time, the high apparent specific gravity makes it less likely for the litter box litter 10 to scatter outside the system litter box 1. This allows cats to excrete properly in the system litter box 1, and also helps keep the area around the system litter box 1 hygienic.

[0049] The method for calculating the apparent specific gravity of granular toilet sand is as follows. <Apparent specific gravity> (1) Using a vernier caliper, measure the particle size (diameter) of 100 granules one by one, and use the average value per 100 granules as the particle size. (2) Using a vernier caliper, measure the longest length of each of the 100 granules in the direction perpendicular to the particle size (diameter). (3) Using a mass measuring device, measure the mass of 100 granular objects one by one. (4) Based on the measured particle size, particle length, and mass of the granular material, calculate the apparent specific gravity using the following formula. Apparent specific gravity = (mass of granules) / [π·{(particle size of granules) / 2)} 2 ·(Grain length of granules)] The average apparent specific gravity of the 100 particles thus calculated is taken as the final apparent specific gravity.

[0050] Of the plurality of granules 10a, the proportion (number) of granules having a mass per granule of 0.065 g or more is preferably 55% or more, more preferably 60% or more, and even more preferably 70% or more.

[0051] Thus, the mass per grain of most (55% or more) of the granules 10a is 0.065 g or more, which is close to the mass of litter that cats are familiar with. This makes it easier for cats to excrete in the system litter box 1 using the litter box litter 10. Furthermore, because the mass per grain is relatively large, the litter box litter 10 is less likely to scatter outside the system litter box 1. This allows cats to excrete properly in the system litter box 1, and the area around the system litter box 1 can be kept hygienic.

[0052] From the same viewpoint, the proportion (number) of granules having a mass of 0.060 to 0.10 g per particle among the plurality of granules 10a is preferably 60% or more, more preferably 65% ​​or more, and even more preferably 70% or more. In particular, since the mass per particle of most of the granules 10a is 0.10 g or less, it is not too large and is close to the mass of sand, which is familiar to cats, making it easier for cats to excrete.

[0053] From the same viewpoint, the average mass of each of the granules 10a is preferably 0.08 to 0.095 g, and more preferably 0.085 to 0.095 g, which is close to the mass of litter that cats are familiar with, and is heavy enough to prevent scattering outside the system litter box 1.

[0054] The method for measuring the number distribution of the mass of granular materials is as follows. <Mass distribution> (1) Using a vernier caliper, measure the particle size (diameter) of 100 granules one by one, and use the average value per 100 granules as the particle size. (2) Using a vernier caliper, measure the longest length of each of the granular materials in the direction perpendicular to the particle size (diameter). (3) The volume of each of the multiple granular materials is calculated from the measured particle size and particle length, and the mass of each of the multiple granular materials is calculated by multiplying this by the apparent specific gravity calculated in the above <apparent specific gravity>. (4) Based on the calculated masses of the multiple granular materials, the masses of the granular materials are classified into classes, for example, in increments of 0.005 g (e.g., 0-0.005 g, 0.005-0.010 g, ...).

[0055] The gap ratio between the granules 10a in the plurality of granules 10a is preferably 45% by volume or less. In this way, by reducing the gap ratio between the granules 10a to 45% by volume or less in the litter 10, the cat's sinking when stepping on the litter 10 is reduced, making the litter 10 feel more like sand and more familiar to the cat. This makes it easier for the cat to excrete in the system litter 1 using the litter 10. Furthermore, by reducing the gaps, the plurality of granules 10a are less likely to move relative to one another, preventing the granules from moving relative to one another and filling the gaps, thereby preventing urine from passing through the gaps and moving downward. This prevents excrement from accumulating between the granules, resulting in a strong urine or feces odor.

[0056] The method for measuring the void ratio is as follows. <Gap rate> (1) Pour the wet granules into a measuring cylinder (Arrow 200 ml measuring cylinder (product number 6-231-07)) up to the 110 cc mark. (2) Fill the measuring cylinder with water up to the 100cc mark. (3) Pour the granular material and water in the measuring cylinder into a colander and measure the amount of water that falls through the colander. This volume is the void ratio (volume %).

[0057] The angle of repose of the plurality of granular materials 10a is preferably 50 degrees or less. In this way, since the angle of repose of the plurality of granular materials 10a in the litter 10 is small, at 50 degrees or less, the cat does not sink into the litter 10 when it steps on it, which makes the litter 10 feel similar to sand, and the cat becomes more familiar with it. This makes it easier for the cat to excrete in the system litter 1 using the litter 10. Furthermore, by reducing the angle of repose, the granular materials 10a can easily cover the entire feces, thereby suppressing the dispersion of fecal odor. From the same perspective, the angle of repose of the plurality of granular materials 10a is more preferably 40 to 48 degrees, and even more preferably 42 to 47 degrees. Setting the lower limit to 40 degrees or more prevents the cat from sinking too little when it steps on the litter 10.

[0058] The method for measuring the angle of repose is as follows. <Angle of repose> (1) Prepare 100g of granules. (2) The granules are dropped onto the bottom (flat surface) of a stainless steel pad from a height of 4 cm to form a pile of granules. (3) Measure the angle between the slope and the base of the granular material and use this as the angle of repose.

[0059] The water absorption capacity of the plurality of granules 10a is preferably less than 160%, more preferably less than 130%, and even more preferably less than 125%. Thus, by setting the water absorption capacity of the granules 10a in the litter box 10 to less than 160%, the granules 10a are prevented from absorbing urine and swelling, preventing them from deviating from their original state as litter, thereby maintaining a state that is highly familiar to cats. This makes it easier for cats to excrete in the system litter box 1 using the litter box 10. Furthermore, by setting the water absorption capacity low, even when the litter box 10 is used for a long period of time, the granules 10a can retain urine, preventing the urine from producing bad odors or harmful substances due to the influence of microorganisms, etc.

[0060] The method for measuring the water absorption capacity is as follows. <Water absorption rate> (1) Place 100g (weight before absorbing water) of multiple granules in a container. (2) Pour water into the container so that the granules are fully submerged and leave it for 10 minutes. (3) After transferring the granules to a colander and draining the water, scatter them evenly on the pet sheet, wipe the surface, and leave it for 5 minutes. (4) After leaving it to stand, measure the weight (weight after water absorption). (5) Calculate the water absorption capacity (%) using the following formula. Water absorption rate (%) = (weight after water absorption) / (weight before water absorption) × 100

[0061] The disintegration capacity of each of the granular materials 10a is preferably less than 0.5 mL, more preferably less than 0.3 mL, and even more preferably less than 0.1 mL. In this way, by reducing the disintegration capacity of each of the granular materials 10a in the litter 10 to less than 0.5 mL, the granular materials 10a are less likely to disintegrate after absorbing urine. This prevents the granular materials 10a from disintegrating and becoming stuck in the holes 41 in the slatted portion of the litter box 1.

[0062] The method for measuring the disintegrability is as follows. <Collapsibility> (1) Prepare granular litter with an initial mass of 100 g and place it in a container. However, the granular material used must not pass through a sieve with 2 mm openings. (2) Pour water into the container so that the granules are fully submerged and leave it for 5 minutes. (3) Spread the granules evenly on the pet sheet and leave it for 10 minutes. (4) After standing, the granular material was placed on a sieve with 2 mm openings and shaken in a sieve shaker under the following conditions: shaking width 3 mm, vibration speed 60 Hz, shaking time 5 minutes. The sieve shaker used was the AS-200 manufactured by Retsch. (5) The volume of particles of 2 mm or less that passed through the sieve was measured using a measuring cylinder.

[0063] The surface roughness of each of the granular materials 10a is relatively small, and the degree of unevenness is relatively close to the unevenness that occurs when sand is compressed. This makes the litter box 10 highly familiar to cats. As a result, the system litter box 1 using the litter box 10 makes it easier for cats to defecate.

[0064] The granular material 10a of the litter 10 of this embodiment preferably comprises a base material and a water blocking coating layer.

[0065] The substrate preferably contains an odor-absorbing material capable of absorbing odors from cat urine and feces, and further preferably contains a solidifying agent that holds the odor-absorbing material together.

[0066] In this way, the base material of the litter 10, and therefore the granules 10a, contain an odor-absorbing material, which suppresses the spread of odors from cat urine and feces. As a result, even after long-term use, the litter 10 can return to its original state, free of excrement and its odor, making it easy for cats to become accustomed to it. As a result, the system litter box 1 using the litter 10 makes it easier for cats to excrete.

[0067] The odor-adsorbing material preferably contains a porous material, and more preferably contains an inorganic porous material. Examples of inorganic porous materials include natural minerals (e.g., zeolite, sepiolite, attapulgite, diatomaceous earth, and diatomaceous shale), artificial zeolite, silica gel, or a combination of at least two of these. Since inorganic porous materials have the property of adsorbing odors such as ammonia, litter with excellent deodorizing performance can be obtained by forming granules mainly from inorganic porous material particles. In this way, by including an inorganic porous material in the odor-adsorbing material, the composition of the granules 10a can be made closer to the composition of sand, making it more familiar to cats. This makes it easier for cats to excrete in the system litter box 1 using the litter box litter 10.

[0068] From the viewpoint of increasing the strength of the granules 10a of the litter 10, it is preferable to use inorganic porous material particles having a small average particle size. The average particle size of the inorganic porous material particles is, for example, 300 μm or less. The content of the inorganic porous material in the base material of the granules 10a is preferably 50 to 95 mass%. If the content of the inorganic porous material in the base material is less than 50 mass%, the deodorizing effect of the granules 10a may be reduced, and if it is more than 95 mass%, the granules 10a may not have sufficient strength.

[0069] Examples of solidifying agents include inorganic and organic solidifying agents, with inorganic solidifying agents being preferred from the viewpoint of ensuring sufficient strength of the granules 10a. Examples of inorganic solidifying agents include cement and non-cement solidifying agents. Cement is a solidifying agent primarily composed of calcium silicate that hardens by reacting with water (hydration). Examples of cement include Portland cement and white cement. Non-cement solidifying agents are solidifying agents other than cement, i.e., solidifying agents that do not primarily contain calcium silicate. Examples of non-cement solidifying agents include dolomite, calcium oxide, calcium sulfate, magnesium oxide, etc. Among these, a mixture of cement and a hydraulic solidifying agent primarily composed of calcium sulfate and magnesium oxide is preferred as the inorganic solidifying agent. Using these mixtures as inorganic solidifying agents can increase the strength of the granules and suppress the increase in pH of the granules due to the use of cement. Suppressing the increase in pH of the granules can suppress the generation of ammonia from urine. The content of the solidifying agent in the base material of the granules 10a is preferably 5 to 30% by mass. If the total content of the solidifying agent is less than 5% by mass, the granules may not have sufficient strength, and if it is more than 30% by mass, the deodorizing effect of the granules may be reduced. When an inorganic solidifying agent is used, the content of the non-cement-based solidifying agent in the inorganic solidifying agent is preferably 20% by mass or more. If the content of the non-cement-based solidifying agent is less than 20% by mass, the pH of the granules may not be sufficiently low.

[0070] Furthermore, in addition to the inorganic porous material particles and inorganic solidifying agent, a pozzolanic substance may be added to the base material. Pozzolanic substances are a general term for fine powders primarily composed of silica, which react with calcium hydroxide to produce insoluble, stable calcium silicate hydrate. Examples of such pozzolanic substances include silica gel, diatomaceous earth, and diatomaceous shale. The addition of these pozzolanic substances can further lower the pH of the granules.

[0071] The water-blocking coating layer is formed on the surface of the substrate and is composed of a water-blocking agent that is water-absorbent and viscous when absorbing water. The formation of the water-blocking coating layer on the surface of the substrate of the granules 10a improves the liquid permeability of the granules 10. Specifically, the presence of the water-blocking coating layer on the surface of the substrate allows most of the liquid excreted by animals, such as when urinating, to pass between the granules 10a without being absorbed by the litter 10. However, any liquid remaining on the surface of the granules 10a is absorbed by the water-blocking agent and absorbed into the substrate over time. Furthermore, the water-blocking agent in the water-blocking coating layer formed on the surface of the substrate binds inorganic porous material particles together, preventing dust generation from the litter. Examples of water-blocking agents include ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), starch, persimmon tannin, pine resin, gelatin, and combinations of at least two of these. It is more preferable that the water-blocking agent contain ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer. The water-blocking coating layer preferably covers 70% or more of the substrate surface, and more preferably covers 90% or more of the substrate surface. When the water-blocking coating layer covers 90% or more of the substrate surface, the litter exhibits good liquid permeability. The thickness of the water-blocking coating layer is preferably 0.1 to 300 μm, and more preferably 1 to 100 μm. If the thickness of the water-blocking coating layer is less than 0.1 μm, the water-blocking coating layer is likely to peel off or dissolve and disappear during use of the litter, and if it is thicker than 300 μm, it becomes difficult for liquid adhering to the surface of the granular material to be absorbed into the substrate.

[0072] Next, a method for manufacturing the litter 10 according to the embodiment will be described. (1)Mixing process In this embodiment, the base material constituting the granules 10a is granulated from a mixture containing an inorganic porous material and a solidifying agent. To this end, the inorganic porous material and the solidifying agent are first mixed in a predetermined ratio, and then water is added, followed by stirring and mixing uniformly in a mixer or the like to prevent lumps from forming. (2) Granulation process The resulting mixture is then granulated into a substrate having a predetermined shape and size using various powder granulating devices such as a disk pelletizer, briquette machine, or tablet press. (3)Curing process The resulting substrate is then left to stand for a predetermined time to allow the hardening agent to harden. The predetermined time (curing time) varies depending on the temperature, but is preferably 72 hours or more in order to allow the cement to fully harden. (4) Drying process The sufficiently solidified substrate is then dried in a dryer. This drying is carried out using, for example, a rotary kiln dryer. Drying is preferably carried out so that the moisture content of the substrate is 10% or less. The moisture content is measured by re-drying the dried substrate at 110°C for 24 hours, and the difference in mass of the substrate before and after re-drying is taken as the moisture content of the substrate, which is then divided by the mass of the granules before re-drying. (5) Coating process Next, the dried substrate is coated with a water-stopping agent to form a water-stopping coating layer. The water-stopping agent is dissolved or dispersed in water in advance, and the solution or dispersion of the water-stopping agent is sprayed onto the substrate. When the dried substrate is at 80 to 100°C, the solution or dispersion of the water-stopping agent is sprayed onto the substrate, causing the sprayed water to evaporate and forming a water-stopping coating layer on the substrate surface. This produces a substrate covered with a water-stopping coating layer, i.e., second granules. (6) Sieving process From the second granules, large and small granules are removed by a sieving process using a sieve with a predetermined mesh size, and first granules of a predetermined size, namely granules 10a, are obtained. In this manner, the litter 10 is produced.

[0073] Here, the steps (1) mixing step to (5) coating step can be considered as forming steps for forming second granular materials (which have the same structure as the first granular materials but a different particle size (particle length) distribution), and the step (6) sieving step can be considered as an obtaining step for obtaining the first granular materials (granular materials 10a).

[0074] In another embodiment, the granules 10a of the litter 10 may contain ground plant-derived material, synthetic resin, and water-insoluble inorganic material.

[0075] Examples of ground plant-derived materials include ground materials derived from woody and herbaceous plants, such as wood flour (ground wood or bark), seed oil residue, ground grain husks, and ground herbs. From the viewpoint of improving the moldability and deodorizing properties of the granules, it is preferable to use 60% by mass or more of wood flour derived from coniferous trees such as the Cupressaceae, Pinaceae, or Cupressaceae families, and 40% by mass or less of wood flour derived from broad-leaved trees such as the Fagaceae, Ulmaceae, or Betulaceae families. The ground plant-derived material may be in the form of powder, granules, needles, plates, or aggregates thereof. From the viewpoint of moldability and handling, the ground plant-derived material is preferably in the form of powder. In this embodiment, the content of ground plant-derived material is preferably 70.0% by mass or more from the viewpoint of sustaining the deodorizing effect and expressing the fragrance unique to the plant-derived material.

[0076] As the synthetic resin, a thermoplastic resin is preferably used from the viewpoint of improving the shape retention of the granules. Examples of thermoplastic resins include polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate, polyamides, vinyl resins such as polyvinyl chloride and polystyrene, acrylic resins such as polyacrylic acid and polymethyl methacrylate, ethylene-propylene copolymers, polyvinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers (EVA), and polyvinyl alcohol. These synthetic resins may be used alone or in combination. From the viewpoint of improving mixability with the ground plant-derived material, it is preferable to use at least one of polypropylene and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers. From the viewpoint of improving the shape retention of the granules, the content of the synthetic resin is preferably 1.0% by mass or more.

[0077] Examples of water-insoluble inorganic substances include metal oxides and metal hydroxides, such as calcium carbonate, calcium oxide, calcium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, titanium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium oxide, and magnesium carbonate. These may be used alone or in combination. Among these, the water-insoluble inorganic substance preferably contains at least one of zinc oxide and titanium oxide. The inclusion of a water-insoluble inorganic substance can enhance the deodorizing effect of excrement. The water-insoluble inorganic substance may be in the form of granules, needles, plates, columns, blocks, or a combination thereof. It may also be crystalline or amorphous. From the viewpoint of ease of handling, the water-insoluble inorganic substance is preferably in the form of granules. The content of the water-insoluble inorganic substance is preferably 0.1% by mass or more.

[0078] Next, a method for producing the litter 10 according to another embodiment will be described. (1)Mixing process First, a mixture is prepared by thoroughly mixing a pulverized plant-derived material, a synthetic resin, and a water-insoluble inorganic material in a predetermined ratio. The synthetic resin may be mixed as a solid such as a powder or granules, or may be mixed in a pre-molten state. The mixing step can be carried out using a mixer such as a paddle mixer. (2) Molding process Next, the resulting mixture is used to form granules. For example, the resulting mixture is formed into granules having a predetermined size and shape using various extrusion molding machines such as a pelletizer or an extruder. This produces second granules. (3) Sieving process From the second granules, large and small granules are removed by a sieving process using a sieve with a predetermined mesh size, and first granules of a predetermined size, namely granules 10a, are obtained. In this manner, the litter 10 is produced.

[0079] Here, the steps from the (1) mixing step to the (2) molding step can be considered as a forming step for forming second granular materials (which have the same structure as the first granular materials but a different particle size (particle length) distribution), and the (3) sieving step can be considered as an obtaining step for obtaining the first granular materials (granular materials 10a). [Example]

[0080] EXAMPLES The present invention will be explained in more detail below by way of examples and comparative examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0081] (A) Sample (A-1) Examples 1 and 3, Comparative Example 2 (1)Mixing process 75 parts by mass of zeolite, 20 parts by mass of cement, and 5 parts by mass of silica gel were mixed, and 40 parts by mass of water was further added, followed by stirring and mixing in a Loedige mixer. (2) Granulation process The stirred and mixed mixture was compressed and granulated using a disc pelleter (manufactured by Dalton Co., Ltd.). The disc outlet opening dimensions were 3.5 mm (Example 1) and 5.5 mm (Example 3, Comparative Example 2) in diameter, 35 mm in disc thickness, and 12 mm in effective length. The obtained substrate was cylindrical with a particle size of 3.5 mm (Example 1) and 5.5 mm (Example 3, Comparative Example 2) and a particle length of 25 mm. (3)Curing process The obtained substrate was left at room temperature of 20°C for 72 hours to allow the cement to harden. (4) Drying process The base material that had undergone the curing process was dried using a rotary kiln dryer until the final moisture content was 10% or less. During the drying process, some of the granules shrunk and some broke. As a result, the base material obtained after the drying process had a particle size of 3.5 mm (Example 1), 5.5 mm (Example 3, Comparative Example 2), and an average particle length of 9 mm. (5) Coating process EVA was used as the waterproofing agent. This waterproofing agent was dispersed in 10 times the mass of water, and the resulting dispersion was applied at 5% by mass relative to the mass of the substrate. The application was carried out by spraying the waterproofing agent dispersion onto the substrate while stirring and mixing it, while the substrate obtained after the drying process was still at a high temperature (100°C). (6) Sieving process The obtained granules were first sieved through a sieve with 10 mm x 10 mm openings to remove granules larger than a predetermined size, and then the opening size was gradually reduced to gradually remove granules smaller than the predetermined size, corresponding to each of Example 1, Example 3, and Comparative Example 2. Granules within the predetermined size range were thus obtained. Thus, litter for Example 1, Example 3, and Comparative Example 2 was obtained.

[0082] (A-2) Example 2, Comparative Example 1 (1)Mixing process 80 parts by mass of wood flour as a ground plant-derived material, 10 parts by mass of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer as a synthetic resin, and 1 part by mass of calcium carbonate as a water-insoluble inorganic material were stirred and mixed in a Lödige mixer. (2) Molding process The stirred and mixed mixture was formed into granules using a die with an extrusion opening hole diameter of 3.5 mm (Example 2) or 6.0 mm (Comparative Example 1) and a thickness of 40 mm, and a pelletizer (manufactured by Dalton Co., Ltd.) The obtained granules were cylindrical, with a particle diameter of 3.5 mm (Example 2) or 6.0 mm (Comparative Example 1), and an average particle length of 10 mm. (3) Sieving process The obtained granules were first sieved through a sieve with a mesh size of 10 mm x 10 mm to remove granules larger than a predetermined size, and then the mesh size was gradually reduced to gradually remove granules smaller than the predetermined size, corresponding to each of Example 2 and Comparative Example 1. Granules within the predetermined size range were thus obtained. In this way, litter for Example 2 and Comparative Example 1 was obtained.

[0083] (B) Evaluation The particle size, particle length, and mass of the granules, as well as their number distribution, cat habituation, apparent specific gravity, void ratio, angle of repose, water absorption capacity, and disintegration were evaluated for at least one of Examples 1 to 3 and at least one of Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The respective measurement methods (calculation methods) were as described above.

[0084] (C) Result (C-1) Number distribution of grain length In the granular materials of Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2, the particle sizes were roughly constant at 3.5 mm, 3.5 mm, 5.5 mm, 3.5 mm, and 5.5 mm, respectively, so only the particle length number distribution was evaluated (the particle size number distribution was not evaluated). As a result, the proportions (number %) of granules with a granule length of less than 3.2 mm were 0.57%, 5.16%, and 0.60%, respectively, which were below 6% in Examples 1 to 3. On the other hand, in Comparative Examples 1 and 2, they were 8.18% and 13.0%, respectively, which were above 6%. Furthermore, the proportions (number %) of granules with a granule length of 3.5 to 10 mm were 98.6%, 94.8%, and 87.4%, respectively, which were above 85% in Examples 1 to 3. On the other hand, in Comparative Examples 1 and 2, they were 79.3%, 75.1%, respectively, which were below 85%.

[0085] (C-2) Clogging When clogging was evaluated for the granular materials of Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2, it was found that in Examples 1, 2, and 3, there was only one particle (less than five particles), which indicated that the particles were unlikely to get stuck in the holes (prone to clogging), while in Comparative Examples 1 and 2, there were five particles (more than five particles), which indicated that the particles were likely to get stuck in the holes (prone to clogging).

[0086] (C-3) Cat habituation The cats' habituation to the litter was compared between Example 1 and Comparative Example 2. The two cats defecated a total of 32 times (17 times and 15 times) over four days, with a total of 26 defecations (81%) in the litter of Example 1 and a total of 6 defecations (19%) in the litter of Comparative Example 2. Therefore, it was found that the litter of Example 1 had high habituation (◯) and the litter of Comparative Example 2 had low habituation (×). Furthermore, the cats' habituation was compared between Example 3 and Comparative Example 1. The two cats defecated a total of 18 times (8 times and 10 times) over four days, with a total of 11 defecations (61%) in the litter of Example 3 and a total of 7 defecations (39%) in the litter of Comparative Example 1. Therefore, it was found that the litter of Example 3 had high habituation (◯) and the litter of Comparative Example 1 had low habituation (×). Furthermore, the cats' habituation was compared between Example 2 and Comparative Example 2. The two cats defecated a total of 26 times (19 times and 7 times) over four days, with a total of 19 defecations (73%) in the litter of Example 2 and a total of 7 defecations (27%) in the litter of Comparative Example 2. Therefore, it was found that the litter of Example 2 had high habituation (◯), while the litter of Comparative Example 1 had low habituation (×).

[0087] (C-4) Summary 1 The results so far are shown in Table 1. [Table 1]

[0088] (C-5) Apparent specific gravity The apparent specific gravity of the granules was determined for Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The results were 1.28 g / cm 3 ,1.06g / cm 3 ,1.28g / cm 3 ,0.95g / cm 3 ,1.26g / cm 3 and for at least Examples 1 to 3, 1.00 to 1.50 g / cm 3 It was.

[0089] (C-6) Mass per grain The proportion (number) of granules with a mass of 0.065 g or more per particle was determined for Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The results were 78.8%, 57.0%, 100%, 40.2%, and 97.9%, respectively, and at least for Examples 1 to 3, the proportion (number) of granules with a mass of 0.065 g or more per particle was 55% or more. The proportion (number) of granules with a mass per particle of 0.060 to 0.10 g was determined for Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The results were 74.4%, 66.9%, 8.39%, 54.3%, and 0.57%, respectively, and at least for Examples 1 and 2, the proportion (number) of granules with a mass per particle of 0.060 to 0.10 g was 60% or more. The average mass per particle was also determined for Example 1 and Comparative Example 1. The results were 0.090 g and 0.079 g, respectively, and at least for Example 1, the average mass per particle was 0.080 g or more.

[0090] (C-7) Gap ratio The void ratio was determined for Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The results were 40.6 volume %, 40.7 volume %, 44.9 volume %, 43.7 volume %, and 44.9 volume %, respectively, and the void ratio was 45 volume % or less for at least Examples 1 to 3.

[0091] (C-8)Angle of repose The angles of repose were determined for Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The results were 44 degrees, 47 degrees, 41 degrees, 35 degrees, and 39 degrees, respectively, and for at least Examples 1 to 3, the angles of repose were 50 degrees or less, ranging from 40 to 48 degrees.

[0092] (C-9) Water absorption capacity The water absorption capacity was determined for Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The results were 123%, 157%, 121%, 160%, and 121%, respectively, and at least for Examples 1 to 3, the water absorption capacity was less than 160%.

[0093] (C-10) Collapsibility Disintegrability was measured for Examples 1, 2, and 3 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The results were 0 mL, 0.1 mL, 0%, 0.5 mL, and 0 mL, respectively, and at least for Examples 1 to 3, the disintegrability was less than 0.5 mL.

[0094] (C-11) Summary 2 The results so far are shown in Table 2. [Table 2]

[0095] The system toilet sand and the method for manufacturing system toilet sand of the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be modified as appropriate or combined with known technologies within the scope that does not deviate from the purpose and intent of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1. System toilet 10 System toilet litter 10a Granular materials

Claims

1. A system toilet litter containing a plurality of granules, the system toilet litter comprising: Each of the plurality of granular objects has a particle size of 6.0 mm or less, Among the plurality of granular materials, the proportion of granular materials having a particle size or particle length, whichever is smaller, of less than 3.2 mm is 6% or less, and the proportion of granular materials having a particle length of 3.5 to 10 mm is 85% or more; The content of crushed plant-derived materials is 70.0% by mass or more, The water absorption capacity of the plurality of granular materials is less than 160%. Toilet sand for system toilets.

2. The apparent specific gravity of the plurality of granules is 1.00 to 1.50 g / cm ３ That is, The litter for the system toilet according to claim 1.

3. Among the plurality of granules, the proportion of granules having a mass per granule of 0.065 g or more is 55% or more. The litter for a system toilet according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The void ratio between the particles in the plurality of particles is 45% by volume or less. The litter for a system toilet according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The angle of repose of the plurality of granular materials is 50 degrees or less. The litter for a system toilet according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the plurality of particles includes an odor-adsorbing material; The litter for a system toilet according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The disintegration capacity of each of the plurality of granules is less than 0.5 mL. The litter for a system toilet according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A system toilet kit comprising: a system toilet; the litter for the system toilet according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and an excrement disposal sheet.

9. A method for producing litter for a system toilet, the litter containing a plurality of first granules, the method comprising: forming a plurality of second granular objects; an obtaining step of removing second granular objects of a predetermined size from the plurality of second granular objects to obtain the plurality of first granular objects; Equipped with the particle diameter of each of the plurality of first granular materials is 6.0 mm or less, the proportion of the plurality of first granular materials having a particle diameter or particle length, either smaller than 3.2 mm, is 6% or less, and the proportion of the plurality of first granular materials having a particle length of 3.5 to 10 mm is 85% or more; The content of crushed plant-derived materials is 70.0% by mass or more, The water absorption capacity of the plurality of granular materials is less than 160%. Manufacturing method.

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