Liquid fabric softener composition

Abstract

The present invention provides a liquid softener composition containing (A) a cationic surfactant, (B) a nonionic polymer having a urethane skeleton, (C) a nonionic surfactant, and (D) an encapsulated fragrance, wherein a mass ratio C / B of the component (C) to the component (B) is 50-5,000.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid fabric softener composition, and more particularly to a liquid fabric softener composition having excellent dispersion stability of an encapsulated fragrance. [Background technology]

[0002] Consumers desire fabric softeners with long-lasting fragrances, and to achieve this, encapsulated fragrances are utilized. Generally, structural viscosity imparting agents are blended to stably disperse encapsulated fragrances. For example, a technique for improving the dispersion stability of encapsulated fragrances by blending specific amine compounds or semi-polar surfactants is known (Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2015-034371). Furthermore, a fabric softener composition utilizing a structuring agent such as a nonionic polymer having a urethane skeleton is known as a technique for imparting structural viscosity (Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2010-529250). Summary of the Invention

[0003] However, when a softener composition utilizing the technology described in Patent Document 1 is stored under low temperature conditions (15° C.), a problem has been found in that liquid separation occurs. Furthermore, when the composition described in Patent Document 2 is stored under low temperature conditions (5°C), the viscosity increases significantly, and it has been found that handling (ease of use / ease of discharging) decreases in low temperature environments such as winter.

[0004] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a fabric softener composition that does not undergo phase separation under low temperature conditions, has good handleability, and can stably incorporate an encapsulated fragrance.

[0005] As a result of intensive research into the above-mentioned problems, it was discovered that by blending a nonionic polymer having a urethane skeleton and a nonionic surfactant in a certain ratio into a softener composition, the dispersion stability of the capsules can be improved and phase separation and high viscosity under low temperature conditions can be suppressed. The present invention relates to, for example, the following [1] to [3]. [1] (A) Cationic surfactant (B) Nonionic polymer having a urethane skeleton (C) a nonionic surfactant, and (D) Encapsulated fragrance wherein the mass ratio C / B of the component (C) to the component (B) is 50 to 5,000. [2] The liquid fabric softener composition according to [1] above, wherein component (B) is a nonionic polymer having hydrophobic groups at both ends and a urethane skeleton inside the molecule. [3] The liquid fabric softener composition according to [1] or [2] above, wherein the content of component (B) is 0.001 to 0.05% by mass or less.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a liquid fabric softener composition having excellent dispersion stability of an encapsulated fragrance can be provided. According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a liquid fabric softener composition that is inhibited from undergoing phase separation and increasing in viscosity under low-temperature conditions. According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a liquid fabric softener composition in which the dispersion stability of an encapsulated fragrance is excellent and in which phase separation and an increase in viscosity under low-temperature conditions are suppressed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] [Component (A)] In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, component (A) is blended to impart to the liquid softener composition the effect of imparting softness (handle) to textile products (that is, the inherent function of a softener). Specifically, component (A) is "at least one compound selected from the group consisting of amine compounds having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups having 10 to 26 carbon atoms in the molecule, which are interrupted by an ester group (-COO-) and / or an amide group (-NHCO-), their salts, and their quaternized products." Among these, acid salts of tertiary amines having at least one hydrocarbon group having 10 to 26 carbon atoms in the molecule interrupted by an ester group or an amide group, or their quaternized products, are preferred. The number of carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon group having 10 to 26 carbon atoms (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "long-chain hydrocarbon group" in this specification) is preferably 16 to 26, more preferably 18 to 24. When the number of carbon atoms is 10 or more, the softening effect is good, and when it is 26 or less, the handleability of the liquid softener composition is good. The long-chain hydrocarbon group may be saturated or unsaturated. When the long-chain hydrocarbon group is unsaturated, the double bond may be located anywhere, but when there is one double bond, it is preferred that the double bond be located at or near the center of the long-chain hydrocarbon group. The long-chain hydrocarbon group may be a chain hydrocarbon group or a hydrocarbon group containing a ring in its structure, and is preferably a chain hydrocarbon group. The chain hydrocarbon group may be either a linear or branched chain. As the chain hydrocarbon group, an alkyl group or an alkenyl group is preferred, and an alkyl group is more preferred. The long-chain hydrocarbon group is separated by a separating group. The separation may occur in one place or in two or more places. The separating group is an ester group (-COO-) or an amide group (-NHCO-). When the long-chain hydrocarbon group has two or more separating groups, the separating groups may be the same or different. The carbon atoms in the separating groups are counted in the carbon number of the long-chain hydrocarbon group. The long-chain hydrocarbon group is usually introduced by using an industrially used unhydrogenated fatty acid derived from beef tallow, a fatty acid obtained by hydrogenating or partially hydrogenating the unsaturated moiety, an unhydrogenated fatty acid or fatty acid ester derived from a plant such as palm or oil palm, or a fatty acid or fatty acid ester obtained by hydrogenating or partially hydrogenating the unsaturated moiety. The number of long-chain hydrocarbon groups in an "amine compound having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups having 10 to 26 carbon atoms in the molecule, which are interrupted by an ester group (-COO-) or an amide group (-NHCO-) ​​(hereinafter sometimes referred to as an "amine compound" in this specification)" is 1 to 3. Preferably, the number is 2 (secondary amine compound) or 3 (tertiary amine compound), and more preferably 3.

[0008] The amine compound includes a compound represented by the following general formula (A1). [ka] (In the formula, R 1 ~R 3 are each independently -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 (Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3, and R 4 is a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms), -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 (n is 2 or 3, and R 5 is a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms), a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, -CH2CH(Y)OH (Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3), or -(CH2) n NH2 (n is 2 or 3), R 1 ~R 3 At least one of the groups is -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 or -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 ) The group "-CHCH(Y)OCOR" in general formula (A1) 4 In the formula, Y is preferably a hydrogen atom. R 4 is preferably a hydrocarbon group having 15 to 19 carbon atoms. 4 When there are multiple R 4 may be the same as each other or may be different from each other. R 4 The hydrocarbon group is a fatty acid having 8 to 22 carbon atoms (R 4 COOH) (a fatty acid residue) by removing the carboxyl group, and R 4 The fatty acids that form the base of 4 COOH) may be a saturated or unsaturated fatty acid, and may be a straight-chain or branched fatty acid. Among them, saturated or unsaturated straight-chain fatty acids are preferred. In order to impart good water absorbency to softened clothes, R 4The saturated / unsaturated ratio (mass ratio) of the fatty acid from which the above is derived is preferably from 90 / 10 to 0 / 100, more preferably from 90 / 10 to 40 / 60, and particularly preferably from 90 / 10 to 50 / 50. R 4 When is an unsaturated fatty acid residue, it exists in cis and trans forms, and the mass ratio of cis / trans isomers is preferably 40 / 60 to 100 / 0, particularly preferably 70 / 30 to 90 / 10. R 4 Specific examples of fatty acids that serve as the base of the above include stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, linoleic acid, partially hydrogenated palm oil fatty acid (iodine value 10 to 60), and partially hydrogenated beef tallow fatty acid (iodine value 10 to 60). Among these, it is preferable to use a fatty acid composition prepared by combining predetermined amounts of two or more acids selected from stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, and linoleic acid so as to satisfy the following conditions (a) to (c): (a) The ratio (mass ratio) of saturated fatty acids to unsaturated fatty acids is 90 / 10 to 0 / 100, more preferably 90 / 10 to 40 / 60, and particularly preferably 90 / 10 to 50 / 50. (b) The cis / trans ratio (mass ratio) is 40 / 60 to 100 / 0, more preferably 70 / 30 to 90 / 10. (c) The fatty acids having 18 carbon atoms are 60% by mass or more, preferably 70% by mass or more, the fatty acids having 20 carbon atoms are less than 2% by mass, and the fatty acids having 21 to 22 carbon atoms are less than 1% by mass. In the general formula (A1), the group "-(CH2) n NHCOR 5 In the formula, n is preferably 3. R 5 is preferably a hydrocarbon group having 15 to 19 carbon atoms. 5 When there are multiple R 5 may be the same as each other or may be different from each other. R 5 As for R 4 Specific examples include the following:

[0009] In general formula (A1), R 1 ~R 3 At least one of these is -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 or -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 ) is R 1 ~R 3 Two of them are -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 and / or -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 ) is preferred. R 1 ~R 3 Of these, one or two are -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 and / or -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 ), the remaining two or one are a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, -CH2CH(Y)OH (Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3), or -(CH2) n NH2 (n is 2 or 3), an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, -CH2CH(Y)OH, or -(CH2) n Preferably, it is NH2. Here, the alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms is preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group, and more preferably a methyl group. Y in -CH2CH(Y)OH is -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 Same as Y in -(CH2) n n in NH2 is -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 It is the same as n in

[0010] Preferred examples of the compound represented by general formula (A1) include tertiary amine compounds represented by the following general formulae (A1-1) to (A1-7). [ka] (In each of the formulas (A1-1) to (A1-7), R 9 are each independently a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms, and in each of the formulae (A1-6) to (A1-7), R 10are each independently a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms.

[0011] R 9 and R 10 As the hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms, R 4 The hydrocarbon groups having 7 to 21 carbon atoms in the formula are the same as those in the formula, and are preferably alkyl and alkenyl groups having 15 to 17 carbon atoms. 9 When there are multiple R 9 may be the same as each other or may be different from each other.

[0012] The component (A) of the present invention may be a salt of an amine compound, preferably a salt of a tertiary amine compound. The salt of an amine compound can be obtained by neutralizing the amine compound with an acid. The acid used to neutralize the amine compound may be an organic acid or an inorganic acid, such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, or methyl sulfate. The neutralization of the amine compound can be carried out by a known method.

[0013] Component (A) may be a quaternized amine compound, preferably a quaternized tertiary amine compound. Quaternized amine compounds can be obtained by reacting the amine compound with a quaternizing agent. Examples of quaternizing agents used for quaternizing amine compounds include alkyl halides such as methyl chloride and dialkyl sulfates such as dimethyl sulfate. When these quaternizing agents are reacted with an amine compound, the alkyl group of the quaternizing agent is introduced to the nitrogen atom of the amine compound, forming a salt of a quaternary ammonium ion with a halogen ion or a monoalkyl sulfate ion. The alkyl group introduced by the quaternizing agent is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, more preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group, and particularly preferably a methyl group. The quaternization of an amine compound can be carried out by known methods.

[0014] The compounds represented by general formulae (A1) and (A1-1) to (A1-7), their salts and quaternary compounds thereof may be commercially available or may be produced by known methods. For example, a compound represented by general formula (A1-1) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-1)") and a compound represented by general formula (A1-2) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-2)") can be prepared by adding R 4 The compound (A1-1) can be synthesized by a condensation reaction of the fatty acid composition described in the section 1 or a fatty acid methyl ester composition in which the fatty acid in the fatty acid composition is replaced with a methyl ester of the fatty acid, with methyldiethanolamine. In this case, from the viewpoint of imparting good flexibility, it is preferable to synthesize the compound (A1-1) / compound (A1-2) so that the abundance ratio represented by "compound (A1-1) / compound (A1-2)" is 99 / 1 to 50 / 50 by mass. Furthermore, when the quaternized product is used, it is more preferable to use dimethyl sulfate as the quaternizing agent. In this case, from the viewpoint of imparting flexibility, it is preferable to synthesize the compound (A1-1) so that the abundance ratio expressed as "quaternized product of compound (A1-1) / quaternized product of compound (A1-2)" is 99 / 1 to 50 / 50 by mass.

[0015] The compound represented by general formula (A1-3) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-3)"), the compound represented by general formula (A1-4) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-4)"), and the compound represented by general formula (A1-5) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-5)") are each a compound represented by general formula (A1) R 4 The composition can be synthesized by a condensation reaction of the fatty acid composition or fatty acid methyl ester composition described in the section 1. with triethanolamine. In this case, from the viewpoint of imparting flexibility, the content ratio of each component relative to the total mass of compounds (A1-3), (A1-4), and (A1-5) is preferably 1 to 60 mass% for compound (A1-3), 5 to 98 mass% for compound (A1-4), and 0.1 to 40 mass% for compound (A1-5), and more preferably 30 to 60 mass% for compound (A1-3), 10 to 55 mass% for compound (A1-4), and 5 to 35 mass% for compound (A1-5). When using such quaternized compounds, it is more preferable to use dimethyl sulfate as the quaternizing agent in order to ensure that the quaternization reaction proceeds sufficiently. From the viewpoint of imparting flexibility, the abundance ratios of the quaternized compounds (A1-3), (A1-4), and (A1-5) are preferably, in terms of mass ratio, 1 to 60% by mass of the quaternized compound (A1-3), 5 to 98% by mass of the quaternized compound (A1-4), and 0.1 to 40% by mass of the quaternized compound (A1-5), and more preferably 30 to 60% by mass of the quaternized compound (A1-3), 10 to 55% by mass of the quaternized compound (A1-4), and 5 to 35% by mass of the quaternized compound (A1-5). When the compounds (A1-3), (A1-4), and (A1-5) are quaternized, unquaternized esteramine generally remains after the quaternization reaction. In this case, the mass ratio of the "quaternized product / unquaternized esteramine" is preferably within a range of 70 / 30 to 99 / 1.

[0016] The compound represented by general formula (A1-6) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-6)") and the compound represented by general formula (A1-7) (hereinafter referred to as "compound (A1-7)") are each a compound represented by general formula (A1) R 4 The compound (A1-6) can be synthesized by a condensation reaction of the fatty acid composition described in the previous section with N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-methyl-1,3-propylenediamine, which is synthesized from an adduct of N-methylethanolamine and acrylonitrile by a known method described in J. Org. Chem., 26, 3409 (1960). In this case, it is preferable to synthesize the compound (A1-6) / compound (A1-7) so that the mass ratio of the compound (A1-6) / compound (A1-7) is 99 / 1 to 50 / 50. When the quaternized product is used, it is preferable to use methyl chloride as the quaternizing agent, and it is preferable to synthesize the compound so that the abundance ratio represented by "quaternized product of compound (A1-6) / quaternized product of compound (A1-7)" is 99 / 1 to 50 / 50 by mass ratio.

[0017] The component (A) is At least one selected from the group consisting of a compound represented by general formula (A1), a salt thereof, and a quaternary compound thereof is preferred, More preferably, at least one selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by general formulas (A1-1) to (A1-7), salts thereof, and quaternized products thereof, At least one selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by general formulas (A1-3) to (A1-5), salts thereof and quaternized products thereof is more preferred.

[0018] The component (A) may be one type of amine compound, its salt, or its quaternary product, or may be a mixture of two or more types, for example, a mixture of compounds represented by general formulas (A1-3) to (A1-5). The amount of component (A) blended is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but is preferably 4 to 25 mass% relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition, more preferably 5 to 18 mass%, particularly preferably 6 to 15 mass%, and most preferably 9 to 12 mass%. When the amount of component (A) blended is 4 mass% or more, the function as a fabric softener can be exerted while providing a sufficient fragrance-lasting effect. When the amount of component (A) blended is 25 mass% or less, the storage stability of the liquid fabric softener composition is better.

[0019] [(B) Component] The component (B) blended in the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention is a nonionic polymer having a urethane skeleton. Such component (B) may be a rheology modifier. In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, component (B) is blended in a certain ratio relative to component (C) to improve the dispersion stability of the encapsulated fragrance and / or suppress phase separation and high viscosity under low temperature conditions. One mechanism by which component (B) functions as a rheology modifier may be through the formation of associations. For example, the hydrophobic groups in component (B) may associate with the vesicle particles formed by component (A) (the structure formed by connecting vesicle particles via component (B) is called a crosslinked structure), and / or the hydrophobic groups in component (B) may associate with each other. Therefore, component (B) may be a nonionic polymer having hydrophobic groups and a urethane backbone. Preferably, component (B) is a nonionic polymer having hydrophobic groups at both ends and a urethane skeleton inside the molecule, and in particular, component (B) is a nonionic polymer having hydrophobic groups at both ends and a hydrophilic group and a urethane skeleton inside the molecule. The hydrophobic group that component (B) may have is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include linear, branched, or cyclic hydrocarbon groups such as alkyl groups and cycloalkyl groups, and optionally substituted aryl groups and arylalkyl groups. The hydrophilic group that can be contained in component (B) is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include polyoxyalkylene and polyoxyalkenylene.

[0020] The component (B) may be a commercially available product or may be produced by a known method. Commercially available products of component (B) include, but are not limited to, OPTIFLO-H 7625 VF, OPTIFLO-H 7500 VF, OPTIFLO-H 6500 VF, OPTIFLO-H 3300 VF, and OPTIFLO 2600 VF manufactured by BYK-Chemie, and Aculyn 44 manufactured by DOW. One example of a method for producing component (B) is to react a polyol with an excess amount of diisocyanate to form a prepolymer having isocyanate groups at both ends, and then produce component (B) using an amine having a structure that forms a hydrophobic group. Component (B) can also be produced from a polyol, a diisocyanate, and an alcohol having a structure that forms a hydrophobic group. The method for producing component (B) is not limited to these. Examples of polyols that can be used include polyether polyols such as polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol, and polyester polyols, and the polyol constitutes the hydrophilic group in component (B). There are no particular limitations on the mass average molecular weight of component (B), but it can be, for example, 1,000 to 1,000,000, preferably 2,000 to 500,000, and more preferably 5,000 to 300,000. The component (B) may be used alone or in combination of two types. The amount of component (B) to be blended is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but is preferably 0.001 to 0.05 mass %, more preferably 0.002 to 0.03 mass %, and particularly preferably 0.003 to 0.01 mass %, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition. In the present invention, component (B) is advantageous in that even a very small amount can be blended in order to achieve the desired effect. The mechanism of action and effects of component (B) are described below. As mentioned above, component (B) is presumed to exist between vesicle particles composed of component (A) and to form a crosslinked structure by connecting the vesicle particles together. The formation of a crosslinked structure via component (B) is thought to have two effects. The first is that it imparts rheological properties. In other words, the formation of a crosslinked structure is thought to provide the viscosity and thixotropy necessary for stabilizing the dispersion of capsule particles. The second is that it prevents excessive aggregation, which can lead to phase separation. While the hydrophobic portion of component (B) interacts with vesicle particles composed of component (A), its hydrophilic urethane structure is thought to have little interaction with the hydrophobic vesicle particles, exerting a force that tends to repel the vesicle particles. Therefore, the presence of component (B) between vesicle particles is thought to maintain a constant distance between the vesicle particles and prevent excessive aggregation. Due to the above-mentioned mechanism of action, component (B) is particularly suitable for imparting rheological properties to emulsion systems. As a structuring agent for emulsion systems, component (B) is advantageous in that it is less likely to thicken after high-temperature storage than commonly used structuring agents such as gellan gum, carrageenan gum, and xanthan gum, and (meth)acrylic acid-based polymers such as acrylic acid alkyl ester copolymers.

[0021] [(C) component] Component (C) blended in the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention is a nonionic surfactant. Component (C) is blended in the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention in a fixed ratio relative to component (B) to improve the dispersion stability of the encapsulated fragrance and / or to suppress phase separation and high viscosity under low-temperature conditions. Component (C) can be, for example, a surfactant derived from a polyhydric alcohol, a higher alcohol, a higher amine, or a higher fatty acid, and can be a component known in the field of liquid softener compositions as a nonionic surfactant. Examples of component (C) include glycerin fatty acid esters in which a fatty acid having 10 to 22 carbon atoms is ester-bonded to glycerin or pentaerythritol, or pentaerythritol. Another example of component (C) is an alkylene oxide adduct of an alcohol or a fatty acid. The carbon chain portions of the alcohol and fatty acid may be branched or linear, and may be unsaturated. The carbon chain may also have a distribution of carbon atoms. The carbon chain preferably has 6 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably 8 to 18 carbon atoms. When the carbon chain is linear, the carbon chain preferably has 6 to 14 carbon atoms, more preferably 8 to 12 carbon atoms, and most preferably 10 to 12 carbon atoms. When the carbon chain is branched, the carbon chain preferably has 6 to 18 carbon atoms, more preferably 9 to 18 carbon atoms, and most preferably 13 carbon atoms.

[0022] Examples of raw materials for the nonionic surfactant component (C) include Exxal manufactured by ExxonMobil, the LUTENSOL series manufactured by BASF, Oxocol manufactured by Kyowa Hakko Kogyo, and the DOBANOL series manufactured by Shell. When the nonionic surfactant is an alkylene oxide adduct of alcohol, either a primary alcohol or a secondary alcohol can be used. An alcohol having 13 carbon atoms is produced, for example, from dodecene, but the starting material can also be butylene or propylene. When the carbon chain contains an unsaturated group, the number of carbon atoms is particularly preferably 18. The stereoisomeric structure of the unsaturated group may be a cis or trans isomer, or a mixture of both, but the ratio of cis / trans isomers is particularly preferably 25 / 75 to 100 / 0 (mass ratio). The alkylene oxide is preferably ethylene oxide (EO), but propylene oxide (PO) or butylene oxide (BO) may also be added together with EO. The average number of moles of EO added is preferably 10 to 100 moles, more preferably 20 to 80 moles, and particularly preferably 40 to 70 moles. The average number of moles of PO or BO added together with EO is preferably 1 to 5 moles, more preferably 1 to 3 moles. In this case, PO or BO may be added after EO is added, or PO or BO may be added after EO is added. Specific examples of component (C) include polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers having alkyl or alkenyl groups with 10 to 22 carbon atoms and an average number of moles of ethylene oxide added of 10 to 100 moles; polyoxyethylene fatty acid alkyl esters (wherein the alkyl has 1 to 3 carbon atoms); polyoxyethylene alkylamines having an average number of moles of ethylene oxide added of 10 to 100 moles; alkyl polyglucosides having alkyl or alkenyl groups with 8 to 18 carbon atoms; and hydrogenated castor oil having an average number of moles of ethylene oxide added of 10 to 100 moles. Among these, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers having alkyl groups with 10 to 18 carbon atoms and an average number of moles of ethylene oxide added of 20 to 80 moles are preferred, more preferably polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers having an average number of moles of ethylene oxide added of 30 to 70 moles, and particularly preferably polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers having an average number of moles of ethylene oxide added of 40 to 60 moles. Specific examples of component (C) include an average EO9PO1 adduct of nonyl alcohol, an average EO40 mole adduct of primary isononyl alcohol, an average EO20 mole adduct of primary isodecyl alcohol, an average EO20 mole adduct of lauryl alcohol, an average EO60 mole adduct of primary isohexadecyl alcohol, an average EO60 mole adduct of primary isotridecyl alcohol, an average EO50 mole adduct of tridecyl alcohol, and an average EO20 mole adduct of lauric acid. Commercially available products that can be used include the Emalex series manufactured by Nippon Emulsion, the Emalmin series manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Industry, the TDA series manufactured by Lion Chemical Industry, the Softanol series manufactured by Nippon Shokubai, and the LUTESOL series manufactured by BASF.

[0023] As the component (C), polyoxyalkyleneamine, its salt or its quaternized product can also be used. For example, the compound is represented by the following general formula (C1): [ka] (wherein R9 represents an alkyl group having 8 to 20 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 8 to 20 carbon atoms, or an alkanoyl group having 8 to 20 carbon atoms; A 1 O and A 2 Each O independently represents an oxyalkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms; a and b are integers that satisfy the relationship a+b=1 to 100.) The hydrocarbon group of R9 in general formula (C1) preferably has 8 to 18 carbon atoms, more preferably 10 to 18, even more preferably 10 to 14, and particularly preferably 12. When the hydrocarbon group of R9 has 8 to 18 carbon atoms, the freeze recovery of the liquid fabric softener composition can be further improved, and the dispersibility of the encapsulated fragrance can also be further improved. A in general formula (C1) 1 O and A 2 O's are each independently an oxyalkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms, and may contain two or more types of groups. When two or more types are contained, they may be added in a block manner or randomly. Examples of the compound represented by general formula (C1) include dodecylamine ethylene oxide 2-mol adduct, dodecylamine ethylene oxide 5-mol adduct, dodecylamine ethylene oxide 15-mol adduct, dodecylamine ethylene oxide 20-mol adduct, coconut alkyl(alkenyl)amine ethylene oxide 2-mol adduct, coconut alkyl(alkenyl)amine ethylene oxide 5-mol adduct, coconut alkyl(alkenyl)amine ethylene oxide 15-mol adduct, coconut alkyl(alkenyl)amine ethylene oxide 20-mol adduct, tetradecylamine ethylene oxide 30-mol adduct, hexadecylamine ethylene oxide 40-mol adduct, tallow alkylamine ethylene oxide 2-mol adduct, tallow alkylamine ethylene oxide 5-mol adduct, tallow alkyl(alkenyl)amine ethylene oxide 20-mol adduct, Examples of the decylamine ethylene oxide include a 10-mol adduct of hexadecylamine, a 2-mol adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, a 2-mol adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, a 7-mol adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, a 10-mol adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, a 30-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide and a 5-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, a 25-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide and a 5-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, a 22-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide and a 3-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, a 27-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide and a 5-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, a 40-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide and a 10-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide, and a 24-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide and a 3-mol random adduct of hexadecylamine ethylene oxide.

[0024] The component (C) may be used alone or in combination of two types. The amount of component (C) to be blended is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but is preferably 1 to 10 mass %, more preferably 2 to 6 mass %, and particularly preferably 3 to 5 mass %, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition. When the blending amount of component (C) is 1% by mass or more, the freeze recovery property is good, and when the blending amount of component (C) is 10% by mass or less, an appropriate viscosity is imparted, resulting in good handleability. In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, the mass ratio C / B of the component (C) to the component (B) is 50 to 5000, preferably 100 to 3000, more preferably 200 to 2500, and particularly preferably 500 to 2000. When C / B is within the range of 50 to 5000, it is possible to achieve both improved dispersion stability of the encapsulated fragrance and suppression of phase separation and high viscosity under low temperature conditions.

[0025] [(D) component] In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, component (D) is an encapsulated fragrance, which is blended to improve the fragrance release of textile products treated with the liquid fabric softener composition, to increase the persistence of the fragrance, or to impart a fragrance-releasing effect due to friction when the textile products are used. The encapsulated fragrance is composed of a core material and a wall material that surrounds the core material.

[0026] The core material comprises a flavor composition. The fragrance composition may be any of those used in the field of liquid fabric softener compositions without any particular limitation, and may be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include essential oils and absolutes commonly used in fabric softeners and fabric detergents, as well as synthetic perfume components such as hydrocarbons, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, acetals, ketals, and nitriles. Examples of preferred fragrance components to be incorporated into the fragrance composition are described in JP 2010-520928 A, and include, for example, Agrumex, Aldron, Ambrettolide, Ambroxan, benzyl cinnamate, benzyl salicylate, Boisambrene, Cedrol, Cedryl acetate, Celestolide / Crysolide, Cetalox, Citronellyl Ethoxalate, Fixal, Fixolide, Galaxolide, Guaiacwood Acetate, cis-3-hexenyl salicylate, hexylcinnamic aldehyde, hexyl salicylate, IsoE Super, linalyl benzoate, linalyl cinnamate, phenyllinalyl acetate, Javanol, methyl cedryl ketone, Moskene, Musk, Musk Ketone, Musk Tibetine, Musk Xylol, and Myraldyl Acetate, Nerolidyl Acetate, Novalide, Okoumal, Paracresyl Caprylate, Paracresyl Phenylacetate, Phantolid, Phenylethyl Cinnamate, Phenylethyl Salicylate, Rose Crystals, Rosone, Sandela, Tetradecanitrile, Thibetolide, Traseolide, Trimofix O, 2-Methylpyrazine, Acetaldehyde Phenylethyl Propyl Acetal, Acetophenone, Alcohols C6 (hereinafter the notation Cn includes all substances having n carbon atoms and one hydroxyl function), Alcohols C8, Aldehydes C6 (hereinafter the notation Cn includes all isomers having n carbon atoms and one aldehyde function), Aldehydes C7, Aldehydes C8, Aldehydes C9, Nonenyl Aldehydes aldehyde), allyl amyl glycolate, allyl caproate, amyl butyrate, anisic aldehyde, benzaldehyde, benzyl acetate, benzyl acetone, benzyl alcohol, benzyl butyrate, benzyl formate, benzyl isovalerate, benzyl methyl ether, benzyl propionate, bergamyl acetate, butyl acetate, camphor, 3-methyl-5-propyl-2-cyclohexenone, cinnamic aldehyde, cis-3-hexenol, cis-3-hexenyl acetate, cis-3-hexenyl formate,Cis-3-hexenyl isobutyrate, cis-3-hexenyl propionate, cis-3-hexenyl tiglate, citronellal, citronellol, citronellyl nitrile, 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-cyclopenten-1-one, cumin aldehyde, cyclal C, 2-cyclohexyloxypropenyl acetate, damascenone, alpha-damascone, beta-damascone, decahydrobeta-naphthyl formate, diethyl malonate, dihydrojasmone, dihydrolinalool, dihydromyrcenol, dihydroterpineol, anthranilic acid Dimethyl, Dimethylbenzylcarbinol, Dimethylbenzylcarbinyl acetate, Dimethyloctenone, Dimetol, Dimylcetol, Estragole, Ethyl acetate, Ethyl acetoacetate, Ethyl benzoate, Ethyl heptanoate, Ethyl linalool, Ethyl salicylate, Ethyl 2-methyl butyrate, Eucalyptol, Eugenol, Fenchyl acetate, Fenchyl alcohol, 4-phenyl-2,4,6-trimethyl-1,3-dioxane, Methyl 2-octynoate, 4-isopropylcyclohexanol, 2-sec-butylcyclohexanone, Vinegar Styryl allyl acetate, geranyl nitrile, hexyl acetate, alpha-ionone, isoamyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, isocyclocitral, dihydroisojasmone, isomenthone, isopentylate, isopulegol, cis-jasmone, levorotatory carvone, phenylacetaldehyde glyceryl acetal, carbinic acid 3-hexenylmethyl ether, 1-methyl-cyclohexa-1,3-diene, linalool, linalool oxide, pentanoic acid 2-ethyl ethyl ester, 2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenal, menthol, Menthone, methyl acetophenone, methyl amyl ketone, methyl benzoate, alpha-methylcinnamic aldehyde, methyl heptenone, methyl hexyl ketone, methyl para-cresol, methyl phenyl acetate, methyl salicylate, neral, nerol, 4-tert-pentyl-cyclohexanone, para-cresol, para-cresyl acetate, para-t-butylcyclohexanone, para-toluyl aldehyde, phenylacetaldehyde, phenylethyl acetate, phenylethyl alcohol, phenylethyl butyrate, phenylethyl formate, phenylethyl isobutyrate,Examples include phenylethyl propionate, phenylpropyl acetate, phenylpropyl aldehyde, tetrahydro-2,4-dimethyl-4-pentyl-furan, 4-methyl-2-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)tetrahydropyran, 5-methyl-3-heptanone oxime, styryl propionate, styrene, 4-methylphenylacetaldehyde, terpineol, terpinolene, tetrahydro-linalool, tetrahydro-myrcenol, trans-2-hexenal, vergyl acetate, and viridine. The fragrance composition may contain one type of fragrance ingredient or two or more types of fragrance ingredients.

[0027] The wall substance can be any substance commonly used as an encapsulating material for perfumes in the field of liquid fabric softener compositions, without any particular limitations. For example, the wall substance is composed of a polymeric substance, and specific examples thereof include natural polymers such as gelatin and agar, oily film-forming substances such as fats and oils and waxes, and synthetic polymeric substances such as polyacrylic acid, polyvinyl, polymethacrylic acid, melamine, and urethane, and the like, and these can be used alone or in combination of two or more types as appropriate. From the viewpoint of the fragrance release properties when the encapsulated fragrance is broken, the wall material is preferably an aminoplast polymer made of a melamine-formaldehyde resin or a urea-formaldehyde resin, or a polyacrylic acid-based or polymethacrylic acid-based polymer. Aminoplast polymers such as those described in JP-A-2010-520928 are particularly preferred. Specifically, a terpolymer consisting of a polyamine-derived portion, an aromatic polyphenol-derived portion, and a methylene unit, dimethoxymethylene, and an alkylene and alkyleneoxy portion having dimethoxymethylene is preferred.

[0028] Component (D) is readily available on the market or can be synthesized by known methods. The component (D) may be one type of encapsulated fragrance used alone, or may be a mixture of two or more types. The blending amount of component (D) (the blending amount as the amount of fragrance in component (D)) is not particularly limited as long as the blending purpose can be achieved, but the amount of fragrance relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition is preferably 0.01 to 3 mass%, more preferably 0.05 to 2 mass%, and particularly preferably 0.1 to 1 mass%. A blending amount of 0.01 to 3 mass% can impart desirable fragrance persistence to the liquid fabric softener composition while maintaining better freeze recovery.

[0029] [Optional ingredients] In addition to the components (A) to (D) above, the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention may contain other components known in the field of liquid fabric softener compositions, as needed, provided that the effects of the present invention are not impaired. For example, water, amphoteric surfactants, water-soluble solvents, sugar-based compounds, dyes and / or pigments, preservatives, UV absorbers, antibacterial agents, fragrances, laundry wrinkle inhibitors, and rheology modifiers (thickeners) other than component (B) may be added.

[0030] (water) The liquid softener composition of the present invention is preferably an aqueous composition containing water. The water may be tap water, ion-exchanged water, pure water, distilled water, etc. Among these, ion-exchanged water is preferred. The amount of water to be added is not particularly limited, but is preferably 50% by mass or more, more preferably 60% by mass or more, based on the total mass of the liquid softener composition. When the amount is 50% by mass or more, handling properties become better.

[0031] (Amphoteric surfactant) An amphoteric surfactant may be added to further improve stability, particularly freeze-recovery. Examples of amphoteric surfactants include betaine, N-alkylamino acids, N-alkenylamino acids, and salts thereof. Examples of betaines include alkyl betaines, carbobetaines, amido betaines, sulfobetaines, amidosulfobetaines, imidazolinium betaines, and phosphobetaines. N-Alkylamino acids or N-alkenylamino acids have a structure in which an alkyl group or an alkenyl group is bonded to a nitrogen atom, and one or two groups represented by "-R-COOH" (wherein R represents a divalent hydrocarbon group, preferably an alkylene group, and particularly preferably having 1 to 2 carbon atoms) are further bonded. In compounds with one "-R-COOH" bonded, a hydrogen atom is also bonded to the nitrogen atom. Compounds with one "-R-COOH" are called mono-compounds, and compounds with two "-R-COOH" are called di-compounds. Either mono-compound or di-compound can be used as an amphoteric surfactant. In N-alkylamino acids and N-alkenylamino acids, the alkyl group and alkenyl group may be linear or branched. The amphoteric surfactant as an optional component is preferably a sulfobetaine or an amidosulfobetaine, and more preferably a sulfobetaine represented by the following general formula (IV) or a mixture thereof. [ka] (In the formula, R 1' is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 9 to 23 carbon atoms, W is an ester group or an amide group; r is an integer from 1 to 4; R 2' is an alkyl group or a hydroxyalkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms, R 3' Ha-(CH2) s -T or -CH2CH(OH)CH2-T (wherein s is 0 to 4 and T is -COO - , -SO3 - , -OSO3 - or -O - ) and R 4' is R 1' -S-(CH2) r -, R 2' or R 3' (It is).

[0032] In general formula (IV), R 1'The number of carbon atoms in R is preferably 11 to 17. 1' is a fatty acid residue, and specific examples include lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, palmitoleic acid, elaidic acid, linoleic acid, and eicosanoic acid. W is preferably an ester group. R 2' Specific examples of the group include a methyl group, an ethyl group, a hydroxyethyl group, and a hydroxypropyl group. R 3' In the above formula, s is preferably 2 to 3.

[0033] Specific examples of sulfobetaines represented by general formula (IV) include sulfobetaines represented by the following general formulas (V) to (VII). Among these, compounds represented by (V) and (VI) are more preferred. [ka] (In each formula, R 1' The definition of R in general formula (IV) 1' is the same as

[0034] In general formula (VI), R 1' may be the same or different. R 1' The iodine value of the fatty acid composition from which the above is derived is preferably 0-100, more preferably 0-70, and even more preferably 20-45. Such amphoteric surfactants are readily available on the market or can be synthesized by known methods. The amphoteric surfactant may be used alone or in a mixture of two or more types, such as a mixture of several sulfobetaines represented by general formula (IV) or a mixture of any combination of sulfobetaines represented by general formulas (V) to (VII). In a mixture of multiple sulfobetaines represented by general formula (IV), when the ratio of cis-isomers based on the alkenyl groups constituting each sulfobetaine is 25 to 95%, preferably 40 to 90%, the viscosity of the liquid fabric softener composition can be made appropriate. The content is preferably 0.01 to 3 mass%, more preferably 0.05 to 2 mass%, and even more preferably 0.1 to 1 mass% relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition. When the content is 0.01 mass% or more, better freeze recovery can be obtained, and when it is 3 mass% or less, better storage stability at high temperatures can be obtained.

[0035] (Water-soluble solvent) The water-soluble solvent may be added to further improve the stability of the liquid softener composition, particularly to further improve the freeze recovery property. The water-soluble solvent is preferably one or more selected from the group consisting of alcohols having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, glycol ether solvents, and polyhydric alcohols. Specifically, it is preferable to blend a solvent component selected from ethanol, isopropanol, glycerin, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, polyoxyethylene phenyl ether, and water-soluble solvents represented by the following general formula (X): R 6 -O-(C2H4O) y -(C3H6O) Z -H (X) (In the formula, R 6 is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, preferably 2 to 4 carbon atoms, y and z are each the average number of moles added, y is 1 to 10, preferably 2 to 5, and z is 0 to 5, preferably 0 to 2. Among the above, ethanol, ethylene glycol, butyl carbitol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether are preferred. The amount of the water-soluble solvent to be added is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0 to 30% by mass, more preferably 0.01 to 25% by mass, and even more preferably 0.1 to 20% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0036] (sugar compounds) The sugar-based compound can be added to the liquid softener composition to further improve its stability, particularly its freeze recovery. The sugar compound preferably has a number of repeating units (degree of polymerization) of the sugar skeleton of 1 to 40, more preferably 1 to 20, and particularly preferably 1 to 5 (i.e., monosaccharides and oligosaccharides with a degree of polymerization of more than 1 and not more than 5). Preferred sugar compounds include monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and sugar alcohols. Specific examples of sugars include glucose, fructose, galactose, arabinose, ribose, maltose, isomaltose, cellobiose, lactose, sucrose, trehalose, talose, maltotriose, isomaltotriose, and oligosaccharides obtained by partial hydrolysis of natural polysaccharides, as well as compounds (sugar derivatives) in which a substituent has been introduced into these sugars. Substituents that can be introduced include alkyl groups, alkenyl groups, alkoxy groups, hydroxyalkyl groups, amine groups, quaternary ammonium groups, and carboxyl groups, with alkyl groups, alkenyl groups, and alkoxy groups being particularly preferred. The substituent is preferably an alkyl group, alkenyl group, or alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, more preferably an alkyl group, alkenyl group, or alkoxy group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, even more preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, and most preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms. The sugar is preferably one or more selected from monosaccharides and oligosaccharides having a degree of polymerization of 1 to 5, and compounds in which the hydrogen atom of at least one hydroxyl group in a monosaccharide or oligosaccharide having a degree of polymerization of 1 to 5 is substituted with an alkyl group. Among the above, trehalose is preferred from the viewpoint of freeze-reconstitution. Examples of sugar alcohols include erythritol, threitol, pentitol, hexitol, dulcitol, sorbitol, mannitol, volemitol, perseitol, xylitol, maltitol, and lactitol. The sugar-based compound may be used alone or as a mixture of two or more kinds. The amount of the sugar-based compound to be added is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.01 to 10% by mass, more preferably 0.05 to 7% by mass, and even more preferably 0.1 to 5% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition.

[0037] (dyes and / or pigments) Dyes and pigments, respectively, may be incorporated to enhance the appearance of the liquid softener composition. Both the dyes and pigments can be any known components in the field of liquid fabric softener compositions, without any particular restrictions. Specific examples of dyes that can be added are described in the Dyes Handbook (edited by the Organic Synthetic Chemistry Association, published July 20, 1970 by Maruzen Co., Ltd.). Also usable are dyes described in JP-A-6-123081, JP-A-6-123082, JP-A-7-18573, JP-A-8-27669, JP-A-9-250085, JP-A-10-77576, JP-A-11-43865, JP-A-2001-181972, JP-A-2001-348784, and the like. Preferably, the dye is one or more water-soluble dyes of red, blue, yellow or purple selected from acid dyes, direct dyes, basic dyes, reactive dyes and mordant / acid mordant dyes. From the viewpoint of the storage stability of the liquid softener composition and dyeability to fibers, acid dyes, direct dyes, or reactive dyes having at least one functional group selected from a hydroxyl group, a sulfonic acid group, an amino group, and an amide group in the molecule are preferred. The dyes and pigments may be used singly or in combination of two or more. The amount of each of the dye and pigment to be added is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1 to 50 ppm, more preferably 1 to 30 ppm, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0038] (preservatives) The preservative may be added mainly to enhance the preservative and sterilizing power of the liquid fabric softener composition and to maintain the preservative properties during long-term storage. As the preservative, any component known in the field of liquid fabric softener compositions can be used without particular limitation, and specific examples include isothiazolone-based organic sulfur compounds, benzisothiazolone-based organic sulfur compounds, benzoic acids, 2-bromo-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, etc. Examples of isothiazolone organic sulfur compounds include 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, 2-n-butyl-3-isothiazolone, 2-benzyl-3-isothiazolone, 2-phenyl-3-isothiazolone, 2-methyl-4,5-dichloroisothiazolone, 5-chloro-2-methyl-3-isothiazolone, 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, and mixtures thereof. Among these, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one are preferred, and a mixture of 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one is more preferred, with a mixture of about 77% by mass of the former and about 23% by mass of the latter, or a diluted solution thereof (e.g., an isothiazolone solution), being particularly preferred. Examples of benzisothiazolone organic sulfur compounds include 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, 2-methyl-4,5-trimethylene-4-isothiazolin-3-one, and related compounds such as dithio-2,2-bis(benzmethylamide), and mixtures thereof. Among these, 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one is particularly preferred. Examples of benzoic acids include benzoic acid or a salt thereof, parahydroxybenzoic acid or a salt thereof, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, ethyl parahydroxybenzoate, propyl parahydroxybenzoate, butyl parahydroxybenzoate, and benzyl parahydroxybenzoate. The amount of preservative to be added is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.0001 to 1% by mass relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. When the amount is 0.0001% by mass or more, the preservative's effect can be fully achieved, and when the amount is 1% by mass or less, the high storage stability of the liquid fabric softener composition can be fully maintained.

[0039] (ultraviolet absorber) UV absorbers may be included to protect the liquid softener composition from UV rays. UV absorbers are components that absorb UV rays, convert them into infrared rays or visible light, and then emit them, thereby exerting UV protection effects. As the ultraviolet absorber, any component known in the field of liquid softener compositions can be used without particular limitation. Specific examples include aminobenzoic acid derivatives such as p-aminobenzoic acid, ethyl p-aminobenzoate, glyceryl p-aminobenzoate, and amyl p-dimethylaminobenzoate; salicylic acid derivatives such as ethylene glycol salicylate, dipropylene glycol salicylate, octyl salicylate, and myristyl salicylate; cinnamic acid derivatives such as methyl diisopropylcinnamate, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate, isopropyl p-methoxycinnamate, 2-ethylhexyl p-methoxycinnamate, and butyl p-methoxycinnamate; benzophenone derivatives such as 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone-5-sulfonic acid, and 2,2'-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone; azole compounds such as urocanic acid and ethyl urocanate; and 4-t-butyl-4'-methoxybenzoylmethane. The amount of the ultraviolet absorber to be added is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.001 to 5% by mass relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0040] (Antibacterial agent) Antimicrobial agents may be included to enhance the shelf life of the liquid fabric softener composition. As the antibacterial agent, any component known in the field of liquid fabric softener compositions can be used without particular limitation. Specific examples include diclosan, triclosan, benzalkonium chloride, bis-(2-pyridylthio-1-oxide)zinc, 8-oxyquinoline, biguanide compounds (e.g., polyhexamethylene biguanide), chlorhexidine hydrochloride, and polylysine. Among these, benzalkonium chloride, biguanide compounds, and chlorhexidine hydrochloride are preferred. The amount of the antibacterial agent to be added is not particularly limited as long as the amount is an amount that can achieve the purpose of addition, but is preferably 0.001 to 5% by mass relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition.

[0041] (Rheology modifiers (thickeners) other than component (B)) Rheology modifiers (thickeners) other than component (B) can be added to adjust the viscosity of the liquid softener composition or to stabilize the dispersion of capsule fragrances, etc. Specific examples include gums such as gellan gum, carrageenan gum, and xanthan gum, acrylic acid-based polymers such as alkyl methacrylate ester-acrylic acid copolymer (CARBOPOL AQUA30) and cationic acrylic homopolymer (Rheovis FRC), fine cellulose, and highly branched cyclic dextrin (cluster dextrin).

[0042] In addition to the above-mentioned optional ingredients, the liquid fabric softener composition may contain antioxidants (e.g., butylated hydroxytoluene) and reducing agents for improving the stability of fragrance and color tone, emulsifiers (polystyrene emulsion, etc.), opacifying agents, shrink prevention agents, anti-wrinkle agents (e.g., polyether-modified silicone), shape retention agents, drape retention agents, ironing improvers, oxygen bleach inhibitors, brighteners, whitening agents, fabric softening clay, antistatic agents, dye transfer inhibitors (e.g., polyvinylpyrrolidone), polymer dispersants, soil release agents, scum dispersants, fluorescent whitening agents (e.g., 4,4-bis(2-sulfostyryl)biphenyl disodium (Tinopal CBS-X manufactured by Ciba Specialty Chemicals)), dye fixatives, and anti-fading agents (e.g., 1,4-bis(3-aminopropyl)piperazine). and the like), stain removers, fiber surface modifiers (enzymes such as cellulase, amylase, protease, lipase, and keratinase), foam inhibitors, components that impart the texture and functionality of silk, such as moisture absorption and release properties (silk protein powder, surface-modified products thereof, emulsified dispersions, specifically K-50, K-30, K-10, A-705, S-702, L-710, FP series (Idemitsu Petrochemical), hydrolyzed silk liquid (Jomo), Silkgen G Soluble S (Ichimaru Falcos)), and stain prevention agents (nonionic polymer compounds consisting of alkylene terephthalate and / or alkylene isophthalate units and polyoxyalkylene units, such as FR627 manufactured by GOO Chemical Industry and SRC-1 manufactured by Clariant Japan) can be appropriately blended.

[0043] [pH of liquid fabric softener composition] The pH of the liquid fabric softener composition is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of improving the dispersibility of the encapsulated fragrance and suppressing the hydrolysis of component (A) over time in storage, it is preferable to adjust the pH at 25°C to a range of 1 to 6, more preferably a range of 2 to 4, and even more preferably a range of 2 to 3. For pH adjustment, pH adjusters such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, alkyl sulfuric acid, benzoic acid, paratoluenesulfonic acid, citric acid, malic acid, succinic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, hydroxyethanediphosphonic acid, phytic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, short-chain amine compounds such as dimethylamine, alkali metal hydroxides such as sodium hydroxide, alkali metal carbonates, and alkali metal silicates can be used.

[0044] [Viscosity of liquid fabric softener composition] The viscosity of the liquid softener composition is not particularly limited as long as it does not impair its usability, but it is preferably less than 1000 mPa·s. Considering the increase in viscosity over time during storage, the viscosity immediately after production is more preferably less than 800 mPa·s, and even more preferably less than 500 mPa·s. If it is less than 800 mPa·s, ease of use, such as ease of handling when putting it into a washing machine, is good. From the viewpoint of ease of use, there is no particular lower limit for the viscosity. In order to control the viscosity of the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, inorganic or organic water-soluble salts can be used. Specifically, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, sodium p-toluenesulfonate, sodium citrate, etc. can be used, with calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and sodium citrate being preferred. These water-soluble salts can be blended in an amount that does not impair the dispersibility of the encapsulated fragrance, and the blending amount is, for example, 0 to 0.5% by mass, preferably 0 to 0.3% by mass, and more preferably 0 to 0.1% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. The water-soluble salts can be blended in any step during the production of the liquid fabric softener composition. The viscosity of the liquid softener composition in the present invention refers to a value measured at 25°C using a B-type viscometer (for example, Brookfield Analogue Viscometer T).

[0045] [Method for preparing liquid fabric softener composition] The method for preparing the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention is not particularly limited. The liquid fabric softener composition can be produced by a known method for preparing a liquid fabric softener composition, for example, a method similar to a method for preparing a conventional fabric softener composition using a cationic surfactant as a main component. For example, an emulsion can be produced by mixing an oil phase containing components (A) and (C) with an aqueous phase at a temperature equal to or higher than the melting point of component (A), and then adding components (B) and (D) and, if necessary, other components to the resulting emulsion and mixing them. The oil phase can be prepared by mixing component (A), component (C), and, if necessary, optional components at a temperature equal to or higher than the melting point of component (A). The aqueous phase can be prepared by mixing water and, if necessary, any optional ingredients. Component (C) may be mixed with the aqueous phase, or may be added to and mixed with an emulsion obtained by mixing the oil phase and aqueous phase at a temperature equal to or higher than the melting point of component (A).

[0046] [Method of using the liquid fabric softener composition] The method of using the liquid softener composition of the present invention is not particularly limited, and it can be used in the same manner as general softener compositions. For example, there is a method of dissolving the liquid softener composition of the present invention in rinse water at the rinsing stage of laundry to soften the laundry, or a method of dissolving the liquid softener composition of the present invention in water in a container such as a basin, and then placing the laundry in the container for immersion treatment. [Example]

[0047] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. In the examples, the amounts of components are all expressed in mass % (based on pure content unless otherwise specified).

[0048] [Component (A): Cationic surfactant] The following A-1 to A-3 were used. A-1: The cationic surfactant described in Example 4 of JP-A No. 2003-12471. A-1 is a compound represented by general formula (A1-3), (A1-4) or (A1-5) (in each formula, R 9 is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 15 to 17 carbon atoms) quaternized with dimethyl sulfate. A-2: Product name "Stepantex SE-88", manufactured by Stepan. A-3: Cationic surfactant (a 1:1 molar mixture of N,N-bis(stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) N,N-dimethylammonium chloride and N-(stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) N-hydroxyethyl N,N-dimethylammonium chloride obtained by quaternizing with methyl chloride the reaction product of a fatty acid and methyldiethanolamine in a molar ratio of 1.5:1). A-3 is a compound represented by general formula (A1-1) or (A1-2) (wherein R 9 is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 15 to 17 carbon atoms) quaternized with methyl chloride.

[0049] [Component (B): Nonionic polymer having a urethane skeleton] The following B-1 to B-6 were used. B-1: Product name "OPTIFLO-H 7625 VF", manufactured by BYK-Chemie. B-2: Product name "OPTIFLO-H 7500 VF", manufactured by BYK-Chemie. B-3: Product name "OPTIFLO-H 6500 VF", manufactured by BYK-Chemie. B-4: Product name "OPTIFLO-H 3300 VF", manufactured by BYK-Chemie. B-5: Product name "OPTIFLO 2600 VF", manufactured by BYK-Chemie. B-6: Product name "Aculyn 44", manufactured by DOW.

[0050] [Component (C): Nonionic surfactant] The following C-1 to C-3 were used. C-1: Polyoxyethylene isotridecyl ether EO60 mol (ethylene oxide added to Rutensol TO3 manufactured by BASF (EO60 mol indicates that the average number of moles of ethylene oxide added is 60)). C-2: Polyoxyethylene isotridecyl ether EO 40 moles (ethylene oxide added to Rutensol TO3 manufactured by BASF (EO 40 moles indicates that the average number of moles of ethylene oxide added is 40)). C-3: Polyoxyethylene lauryl ether EO 20 moles (a product obtained by adding ethylene oxide to lauryl alcohol (EO 20 moles indicates that the average number of moles of ethylene oxide added is 20)).

[0051] [(D) Ingredient: Encapsulated fragrance] D-1: Product name "GREEN BREEZE CAPS", manufactured by Givaudan. D-2: Product name "ORCHARD GARDEN CAPS", manufactured by Givaudan. Both D-1 and D-2 are encapsulated fragrances in which a fragrance composition is used as a core material and a melamine-formaldehyde resin is used as a capsule wall.

[0052] [Optional ingredients] [Preservatives] E-1: Isothiazolone liquid (trade name "Caisson CG-ICP", manufactured by DuPont) E-2: 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one (trade name "Nipacide BIT 20", manufactured by Clariant Japan K.K.) [Viscosity control agent] F-1: Calcium chloride (product name "Granular Calcium Chloride", manufactured by Tokuyama Corporation) [Fragrance] G-1: Free fragrance containing fragrance ingredients with the composition shown in Table 1 below [Table 1] [Antioxidants] H-1: Butylated hydroxytoluene (trade name "SUMILIZER BHT", manufactured by Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.) [Washing prevention agent] I-1: Polyether-modified silicone (kinematic viscosity 8000 mm) described as A-1 in the examples of JP-A 2009-155739 2 / s).

[0053] [Method for preparing liquid fabric softener composition] Using a glass container with an inner diameter of 100 mm and a height of 150 mm and an agitator (Ajiter SJ type, manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation), the amount of each component was adjusted as shown in Table 2 below, and fabric softener compositions were prepared according to the following procedure. In Table 2 below, the numerical value for each component is the amount (mass%) of the component relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. The numerical value for component (D) is the amount (mass%) of the component as a fragrance relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. First, component (A), component (C), fragrance, antioxidant, and optionally, a laundry wrinkle inhibitor (silicone) were mixed and stirred to obtain an oil phase mixture. Meanwhile, a preservative was dissolved in ion-exchanged water for balance to obtain an aqueous phase mixture. Here, the mass of the ion-exchanged water for balance corresponds to the remainder obtained by subtracting the total amount of the oil phase mixture, component (B), preservative, component (D), and viscosity control agent from 980 g. Next, the oil phase mixture heated above the melting point of component (A) was placed in a glass container and stirred. The aqueous phase mixture heated above the melting point of component (A) was added in two separate portions and stirred. The aqueous phase mixture was divided into two portions at a mass ratio of 30:70, and stirring was continued at 1,000 rpm for 3 minutes after the first addition of the aqueous phase mixture and for 2 minutes after the second addition. To the resulting emulsion, components (B), (D), and a viscosity control agent were added. If necessary, an appropriate amount of hydrochloric acid (1 mol / L, Kanto Chemical) or sodium hydroxide (1 mol / L, Kanto Chemical) was added to adjust the pH to 2.5. Ion-exchanged water was then added to bring the total mass to 1,000 g, yielding the desired liquid fabric softener composition.

[0054] [Method for evaluating liquid fabric softener compositions] <Evaluation of capsule dispersion stability> 80 mL of each softener composition prepared by the above "Method for preparing a liquid softener composition" was placed in a lightweight PS glass bottle (PS-No. 11, manufactured by Tanuma Glass Industry Co., Ltd.) and sealed. The dispersibility of component (D) was evaluated using the four-point rating system shown below. Similarly, sealed evaluation samples were stored at 30°C for one month and visually evaluated by five expert panelists based on the following criteria. The results are expressed as the average of the five panelists (rounded to the nearest whole number) and are shown in the "Capsule dispersion stability" section of Table 2 below. From the perspective of commercial value, a rating of 3 or higher was considered acceptable. (Evaluation criteria) 4: No floating or settling of capsules observed 3: Slight floating or settling of capsules observed 2: Capsules float or settle, but are easily redispersed by gentle shaking 1: Capsules are clearly floating or settling, and do not redisperse with light shaking

[0055] <Evaluation of phase separation stability> Each liquid fabric softener composition prepared by the above-mentioned "method for preparing a liquid fabric softener composition" was placed in a lightweight PS glass bottle (PS-No. 11, manufactured by Tanuma Glass Industry Co., Ltd.) in an amount of 80 mL and sealed to prepare an evaluation sample. The evaluation sample was stored at 15°C for one month, and the condition after storage (degree of separation of the fabric softener composition) was evaluated based on the following criteria. Evaluation was performed visually by a panel of five experts based on the following criteria. The results are expressed as the average of the five experts (rounded to the nearest whole number) and are shown in the "Phase separation stability" section in Table 2 below. A score of 3 or higher was considered to be acceptable. (Evaluation criteria) 4: No phase separation, equivalent to the sample before storage 3: A slightly translucent layer can be seen on the top or bottom. 2: A clearly translucent layer is visible in the upper or lower layer. 1: A clear transparent layer can be seen on the top or bottom

[0056] <Evaluation of fluidity under low temperature conditions> Each liquid fabric softener composition prepared by the above-mentioned "method for preparing a liquid fabric softener composition" was poured into a lightweight PS glass bottle (PS-No. 11, manufactured by Tanuma Glass Industry Co., Ltd.) in an amount of 80 mL and sealed to prepare an evaluation sample. The evaluation sample was stored at 5°C for one week, and the fluidity of the fabric softener composition at 5°C was evaluated based on the following criteria. The evaluation was performed visually by a panel of five experts based on the following criteria. The results are expressed as the average of the five experts' scores (rounded to the nearest whole number) and are shown in the "Fluidity" section in Table 2 below. A score of 3 or higher was considered to be acceptable. (Evaluation criteria) 4: Sufficient fluidity, and almost no change is observed compared to before the low-temperature test. 3: Viscosity increased compared to before the low-temperature test, but fluidity was still observed. 2: Viscosity has increased compared to before the low-temperature test, and the fluidity is poor. 1: Viscosity has increased significantly compared to before the low-temperature test, and there is almost no fluidity.

[0057] [Table 2]

Claims

1. (A) Cationic surfactant 6 to 15% by mass (B) 0.002 to 0.006% by mass of a nonionic polymer having a urethane skeleton (C) 3 to 5% by mass of a nonionic surfactant, and (D) Encapsulated fragrance wherein component (C) is a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether having an alkyl group with 10 to 18 carbon atoms and an average number of moles of ethylene oxide added of 10 to 100, and the mass ratio C / B of component (C) to component (B) is 500 to 2500.

2. The liquid fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the average number of moles of ethylene oxide added in component (C) is 40 to 60.

3. 3. The liquid fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein component (B) is a nonionic polymer having hydrophobic groups at both ends and a urethane skeleton within the molecule.

4. The liquid fabric softener composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein component (A) is at least one compound selected from the group consisting of amine compounds having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups having 10 to 26 carbon atoms in the molecule, which are separated by ester groups (-COO-) and / or amide groups (-NHCO-), their salts, and their quaternized products.

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