Microparticle compositions and uses thereof

Abstract

To provide a personal care product or a home care product having self- assembled microparticles having an acid having two or more acid groups and an organic base in a solvent in which the microparticles may form into a macrostructure and provide a support for carrying components of a personal care or home care composition, the particle is of micron scale, the microparticle may be obtained by contacting a bis-acid and organic base in a hydrophilic solvent, and the acid is insoluble or sparingly soluble in the hydrophilic solvent and the organic base is soluble in a hydrophilic solvent.SOLUTION: Provided are a personal care product and so on. The personal care product comprises a personal care base compositions and particulate ingredients including self-assembled microparticles.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to particulate compositions and their uses in personal care and home care compositions, in particular to particulate compositions comprising self-assembled biodegradable microparticles and uses thereof, methods for preparing particulate compositions, and products comprising macroporous materials formed from said particulate particles and uses thereof. [Background technology]

[0002] The particulate compositions and macroporous materials are useful in a wide range of processes requiring interaction with substrates, such as surfaces, articles, such as fabrics, human or animal surfaces, such as skin and scalp.The compositions are particularly useful as personal care products, including skin creams and cosmetics, fragrances, deodorants, wipes, hand care products, shampoos, mouthwashes, and toothpastes, and home care products, including sprays and wipes, detergent compositions, fabric softeners, fragrances, and surface treatments, such as dishwashing products. Microparticles are widely used in a wide range of compositions, including personal care products and home care products. Microparticles made of plastic, silica or sand, spherulites, and cellulose are known, and microparticles made of plastic are currently more widely used than other microparticles. Plastic microparticles, also known as microplastics, are environmentally undesirable due to their lack of biodegradability and their release into the marine environment and their absorption or ingestion by organic species.

[0003] Microplastics cause considerable damage to marine microorganisms, ultimately resulting in food for fish and mammals in the food chain. Microplastics are now found in every major ocean worldwide, as well as in the guts of most marine organisms, including the seafood we eat. Due to the nature of microplastics, removing them from the ocean is not feasible. The challenge of reducing environmental damage was the subject of a 2015 policy conference organized by the OSPAR Committee and supported by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment. The OSPAR Committee was established by the 1992 OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Northeast Atlantic, which consolidated and updated the 1972 Oslo Convention and the 1974 Paris Convention. The OSPAR Committee brings together the governments of Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, along with the European Union. According to a report by Eunomia published in February 2016, between 2,400 and 8,600 tonnes of microplastics from personal care and cosmetic products enter the marine environment every year from Europe alone. Microplastics are also widely used in toothpaste and home care products such as detergents for fabric cleaning and other uses, fabric conditioners, dishwashing products, etc. Typically, personal care and cosmetic products contain various ingredients that provide benefits to the end user, examples of which include skin care products that provide health care benefits such as sunscreens, anti-blemish agents, and agents to soothe cracked skin. They often also contain antibacterial ingredients or ingredients that provide combined benefits, including, examples of which include vitamin C, nicotinamide, alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid), retinol, hyaluronic acid, and dimethylaminoethanol.

[0004] Particulate and porous materials are also used to immobilize biopolymers for medical and diagnostic applications. This includes immobilization of proteins, monoclonal antibodies, and polyclonal antibodies. Cell culture is generally performed on solid supports with specific surface properties and morphology. Immobilized enzymes can be used, and these may find application in cosmetics and personal care products. Similarly, immobilized enzymes have already found application in detergent systems. Home and personal care products containing environmentally undesirable particulates or microplastics are therefore undesirable. A need exists for compositions for use in personal and home care that are biocompatible and biodegradable, desirably antimicrobial, and have the ability to act as carriers for functional ingredients depending on the intended use.

[0005] The production of known polymer particles can also be disadvantageous. Known polymer particles can typically be produced by a dispersion polymerization process or an emulsion polymerization process, in which a solution of monomers is dispersed in an immiscible solvent (continuous phase) before the start of polymerization. The formed polymer particles are then typically filtered, washed, and classified to isolate the required particle size distribution. However, this process can be complicated and expensive, and may be limited by the need to use organic solvents. As used herein, the term "polymer" includes inorganic polymers, such as silica, and organic polymers, such as polyamides. These processes are disadvantageous in several respects, including loss of monomer to the continuous phase, production of variable particle sizes, and the undesirable production of fine particles during polymerization, which then leads to tedious particle size classification, for example by sieving or air classification. In addition to undesirable production costs and waste during preparation, certain disadvantages may arise with respect to the physical properties of known polymer particles. Microporous polymer particles are generally soft and may have poor mechanical robustness. Furthermore, soft particles may undesirably compress and cause fouling during removal, e.g., filtration, from waste streams before entering, for example, the aquatic environment. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2014-513737 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The inventors have now discovered that these and other problems associated with personal and home care products can be improved by providing self-assembled microparticles comprising a fatty acid having two or more carboxylic acid groups and a base, formed by contacting the self-assembled microparticles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a personal care product comprising a personal care base composition and a particulate ingredient comprising self-assembled microparticles. Personal care base compositions are suitably selected from skin creams and cosmetics, fragrances, deodorants, wipes, hand washes, hand scrubs, shampoos, conditioners, oral dentifrices, such as mouthwashes, toothpastes, chewing gums, lozenges, bioadhesive patches or strips suitable for brushing and / or rinsing oral surfaces, etc. Personal care products are suitably formulated as products for topical or oral administration and may include known ingredients to aid in topical or oral delivery.

[0009] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a home care product comprising a home care base composition and a particulate ingredient comprising self-assembled microparticles. Home care base compositions are suitably selected from surface treatments such as sprays and wipes, detergent compositions, fabric softeners, fragrances, and dishwashing products. The terms "personal care base composition" and "home care base composition" refer to compositions that include conventional ingredients for a particular application in combination with the biodegradable microparticles described herein or macroporous structures formed from the microparticles to provide a product suitable for personal care use or home care use, as appropriate.

[0010] Preferably, the personal care base composition is substantially free of microplastics or other non-biodegradable particulates. Preferably, the home care base composition is substantially free of microplastics or other non-biodegradable particulates. Preferably, the microparticles comprise an acid having two or more acidic groups and an organic base soluble in a hydrophilic solvent. Preferably, the acid comprises a bis-acid, preferably a bis-aliphatic acid, preferably containing two or more carboxylic acid groups, although other acidic groups may be used. Preferably, the bis-acid is insoluble or sparingly soluble in a hydrophilic solvent. Preferably, the acid, preferably a bis-aliphatic acid, may be solubilized by contacting the acid with an organic base soluble in a hydrophilic solvent. The solvent is suitably hydrophilic and is preferably an aqueous solution, for example a water-in-oil emulsion in an aqueous phase, especially in water. Advantageously, an aqueous solvent, preferably water, allows the microparticles to be used in applications where environmental considerations are important.

[0011] Preferably, the acid and base components of the microparticles are cross-linked by amide bonds. Advantageously, the microparticles are biodegradable by protease activity and aqueous hydrolysis, and are therefore environmentally beneficial. Preferably, other components may be carried by amide bond formation, or by simple ionic, hydrophilic, or hydrophobic interactions. The microparticles preferably have a narrow particle size distribution. In a preferred embodiment, the bis-aliphatic acid comprises a bis-carboxylic acid fatty acid in which the terminal carboxylic acids are linked by a region that is less hydrophilic than the terminal carboxylic acids, preferably hydrophobic. The less hydrophilic region may comprise a backbone having substituents and / or the backbone may comprise heteroatoms, e.g., poly-ε lysine. Preferably, the region linking the carboxylic acids is hydrophobic, preferably a hydrocarbyl group. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the hydrophobic group is an aliphatic hydrocarbyl group. Preferably, the bis-acid has the general formula HOOC-(CH2) n -COOH compounds, where n is large enough to render the bis-acid sparingly soluble or insoluble in water. Preferably, n is at least 5, more preferably at least 6, and especially at least 7. Suitably, n is 40 or less, preferably 36 or less, more preferably 25 or less, and especially 20 or less. Preferably, n is 7 to 18.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the organic acid is C7-C 18 In another preferred embodiment, the organic acid is selected from the group consisting of EDTA, nitrotriacetic acid, and monocarboxylic acids, preferably C6-C6. 18 Carboxylic acids, such as C7-C6, with further acids selected from caproic acid, palmitic acid and octanoic acid 13 Contains biscarboxy fatty acids. For example, by selecting two or more acids with different n values, the particle size can be adjusted as needed. The longer the hydrophobic portion connecting the acidic groups, the larger the particle size that can be obtained. For example, sebacic acid with n = 8 can produce a particle size of 2.6 μm, and brassylic acid with n = 11 can produce a particle size of 3.0 μm. The bis-carboxy fatty acid may be unsaturated, e.g., traumatic acid, or substituted, or both unsaturated and substituted. Preferably, the substitution does not render the bis-acid soluble in aqueous solution. When the bis-aliphatic acid is contacted with a solvent-soluble organic base, microparticles spontaneously form.

[0013] Bisaliphatic acids have the general formula (HO)2OP-(CH2) n-PO(OH)2 bisphosphonic acids or unsaturated bisphosphonic acids, general formula HOOC-(CH2) n Monocarboxylic monophosphonic acids of -PO(OH)2 or unsaturated forms of such bis-acids, general formula (HO)O2S-(CH2) n -SO2(OH) bissulfonic acids or unsaturated forms of such bisacids, general formula HOOC-(CH2) n Monocarboxylic monosulfonic acids of -SO2(OH) or unsaturated forms of such bis-acids, general formula (HO)2B-(CH2) n -B(OH)2 bisboronic acids or unsaturated bisboronic acids, or substituted bisboronic acids, of the general formula HOOC-(CH2) n The bis-acids may include monocarboxylic monoboronic acids of -B(OH)2 or unsaturated versions of such bis-acids, or substituted versions of the bis-acids. In these acids, n is large enough to render the bis-acids sparingly soluble or insoluble in water. Preferably, n is at least 5, more preferably at least 6, and especially at least 7. Suitably, n is 40 or less, preferably 36 or less, more preferably 25 or less, and especially 20 or less. Preferably, n is 7 to 18.

[0014] In forming the particulate or macroporous material, the bis-acid component may comprise two or more acids, in which case the bis-acids may be mixed in any proportion. Preferably, the organic base is combined with a bis-acid moiety, such that the combination of these two components comprises two separate hydrophilic or ionic head regions connected by a hydrophobic region. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions of the bis-acid adjacent to the organic base align to form micelles, resulting in the self-assembly of the microparticles of the present invention. Preferably, the microparticles comprise a multilamellar structure, and additional molecules comprising the bis-acid together with the organic base align with the hydrophilic head of another bis-acid / organic base to form a multilamellar structure. The organic base may be selected from a variety of bases that, together with the bis-acid, form the self-assembling microparticles. Preferably, the organic base comprises an amine, suitably an aliphatic or aromatic amine having basic properties, or other nitrogen-containing bases, reactive amines, or polymeric amines.

[0015] Examples of suitable organic bases include those containing one or two C 1-4 Amines having N-alkyl groups include alkylated amines, including methylated amines, and polyamines. Preferred examples of amines include N-methylmorpholine, 4-methylmorpholine (NMM), N,N-dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP), imidazole, or 1-methyl stomach These include midazole, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDAC), didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC) and dodecyldipropylenetriamine (DDPT). The amine-containing organic component can be a reactive amine or a polymeric amine, including, but not limited to, a peptide, a protein, a polyallylamine, or a polyethyleneimine.

[0016] Examples of suitable reactive amines and polyamines include ethylenediamine, poly-e-lysine, polyallylamine, polyethyleneimine, aminopropyltrialkoxysilane, 3-(2-aminoethylamino)propyltrimethoxysilane, N-(3-(trimethoxysilyl)-propyl)diethylenetriamine. The organic base component may contain two or more bases, in which case the organic bases may be mixed in any proportion. In a preferred embodiment, the acid is suitably methylmorpholine (NMM), N,N-dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP), imidazole, 1-methyl stomachOne or more of brassylic acid, sebacic acid and azelaic acid in combination with a base selected from midazole, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDAC), didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC) and dodecyldipropylenetriamine (DDPT).

[0017] Examples of preferred embodiments include poly-ε-lysine in combination with one or more of brassylic acid and PDAC, brassylic acid and DDAC, brassylic acid and DDPT, sebacic acid and NMM, sebacic acid, brassylic acid and azelaic acid. The inventors have found that the microparticles used in personal or home care products according to the invention, which comprise amines with antimicrobial properties, are particularly suitable for use as antimicrobial compositions and biocides. The level of antimicrobial activity of the base can be higher when in the form of self-assembled microparticles according to the invention compared to when in conventional formulations.

[0018] According to a further aspect, the present invention provides an antimicrobial personal care composition comprising a personal care base composition as described herein and self-assembled microparticles comprising a bis-acid and an antimicrobial base. According to another aspect, the present invention provides an antimicrobial home care composition comprising a home care base composition as described herein and self-assembled microparticles comprising a bis-acid and an antimicrobial base. The present invention also provides the use of self-assembled microparticles comprising a bis-acid and an antimicrobial base that have a higher level of antimicrobial activity than the antimicrobial base when not in the form of a self-assembled microparticle. Preferably, providing an antimicrobial base in the self-assembled microparticles increases antimicrobial activity, providing at least a 2 log reduction in bacterial load, preferably at least a 4 log reduction in bacterial load, and desirably at least a 5 log reduction in bacterial load.

[0019] When acid and base are suitably combined in relative amounts so that the molar ratio of acidic group in acid to basic group in base is approximately stoichiometric, self-assembled microparticles are formed.The molar amount of acidic group to basic group can be less or more than stoichiometric amount, provided that self-assembled particles are formed.If the ratio of acidic group to basic group is too low or too high, the excess components will disrupt the structure of acid and base, and thus no assembled particles will be formed.The ratio of acidic group to basic group that allows the formation of self-assembled particles will vary depending on specific acid and specific base. Those skilled in the art can determine whether self-assembled particles are formed by observing under a microscope at a magnification level that allows the particles to be visually observed, for example, at 40x magnification.The relative amounts of acid and base can be varied to determine the minimum and maximum ratios of components that will form microparticles.An acid with a longer chain length can provide more stable microparticles than microparticles that contain an acid with a shorter chain length (with the same base and the same molar ratio).Higher stability allows the use of lower levels of acid, and microparticles can still be formed when the ratio of acidic groups to basic groups is smaller.

[0020] Preferably, the ratio of acidic groups to basic groups in the acid and base is 0.6 to 1.4:1, preferably 0.7 to 1.3:1, more preferably 0.8 to 1.2:1, and desirably 0.9 to 1.1:1. Sebacic acid and brassylic acid are examples of preferred acids. Preferably, microparticles containing sebacic acid together with a base have a ratio of sebacic acid to base of 0.85 to 1.15:1. Preferably, microparticles containing brassylic acid together with a base have a ratio of brassylic acid to base of 0.8 to 1.2:1. In a preferred embodiment, the acid and base are present at levels such that the molar ratio of acidic groups to basic groups is 1:1. In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal care product comprising a personal care base composition described herein and a macroporous material formed by contacting self-assembled microparticles under conditions such that the macroporous material forms.

[0021] According to another aspect, the present invention provides an antimicrobial home care composition comprising a home care base composition as described herein and a macroporous material formed by contacting self-assembled microparticles under conditions such that the macroporous material forms. The macroporous material is preferably formed by cross-linking the microparticles. The organic base may be reactive so as to crosslink the self-assembled microparticles to form a macroporous material. The organic base need not be reactive; in this case, it may be preferably displaced by another reactive species, allowing subsequent crosslinking to form a macroporous material. The solvent-soluble organic base may be displaced by adding a reactive species, including, but not limited to, an amine containing organic moiety. The amine preferably forms an amide bond, allowing crosslinking of the microparticles. In a preferred embodiment, the amine containing organic moiety is a polymeric amine, including, but not limited to, a peptide, protein, polyallylamine, polyethyleneimine, and other polyamines.

[0022] Examples of suitable amines and polyamines include ethylenediamine, poly-e-lysine, polyallylamine, polyethyleneimine, aminopropyltrialkoxysilane, 3-(2-aminoethylamino)propyltrimethoxysilane, N-(3-(trimethoxysilyl)-propyl)diethylenetriamine. In forming the microparticles or macroporous materials, the above bis-acids may be mixed in any ratio, and reactive amines may also be mixed. Preferably, the particulate or macroporous material contains functional components tailored as needed for the intended use, for example, the addition of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid to impart metal chelating properties. In another embodiment, polyethyleneimine may be used as the binding or supporting structure. Alkoxysilanes may also be used to form silica shells in the lamellar layers of the microparticles.

[0023] In another embodiment, the active site of a particular enzyme can be incorporated into a peptide within the particle, allowing for controlled release of the active agent. For example, the cleavage site of a wound-based metallino-protease can be incorporated into a wound care base material to provide controlled release of an antimicrobial agent. In another application, the microparticles of the present invention may be used to form macrostructures for growing cells. The self-assembled microparticles or macroporous materials according to the present invention may also comprise functional materials supported by the polymer. Examples of suitable functional materials include pharmaceutical actives, polymers, enzymes, nucleic acid sequences and proteins. In another embodiment, the active site of a specific enzyme can be incorporated into a peptide within the particle, allowing for controlled release of the active agent. For example, the cleavage site of a wound-based metallino-protease can be incorporated into a personal care product to provide controlled release of an antimicrobial agent. In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing self-assembled microparticles or macroporous materials in an aqueous medium, comprising contacting two acids having two or more acidic groups with an organic base in an aqueous medium, preferably water.

[0024] Suitably, polymerization and cross-linking are initiated by processes known to those skilled in the art, for example, self-assembled microparticles or macroporous materials prepared in water with amine-containing components can be cross-linked using water-soluble carbodiimides. Preferably, the self-assembled microparticles or macroporous materials are substantially monodisperse, i.e., the material has particles that are all substantially the same size. Monodisperse microparticles or macroporous materials can be advantageous, for example, in the controlled release of drugs. The drug can be, for example, a vitamin in a cosmetic or personal care application, or an enzyme in a biological detergent. The substantially monodisperse nature of the self-assembled microparticles in preferred embodiments of the present invention allows for the preparation of a slurry and the transfer of the slurry into a column to form a more uniform mixture. Alternatively, the macroporous material formed by the collision of the self-assembled microparticles can be used to prepare a monolithic sheet suitable for use as a facial treatment or wipe. In another embodiment, the voids between the particles in the monolith may be filled with a different ingredient, such as a cosmetic treatment.

[0025] The self-assembled microparticles and macroporous materials of the present invention are particularly useful for immobilizing species including catalysts, biocatalysts, enzymes, proteins, antibodies, including polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, whole cells, and polymers. The present invention is particularly advantageous for supporting enzymes commonly used in detergents and personal care products, such as lipase Cal B. Personal or home care products according to the present invention containing self-assembled microparticles and / or macroporous materials may be used as absorbent products.

[0026] Preferably, the support comprises an inert absorbent material bound to the self-assembled microparticles and / or macroporous material. The self-assembled microparticles and / or macroporous material can be used to absorb household spills, such as tea, coffee, and wine. The absorbent support can be used to absorb the spill and then physically remove it, or in the case of a small oil spill in water, it can effectively capture the oil and retain it as a retained mass for collection and disposal. The personal care product can be any product suitable for use in the personal care of the human or animal body. The personal care base composition is preferably a liquid, lotion, cream, foam, scrub, gel, soap bar or toner, or is applied with a device or via a face mask, pad or patch. The personal care base composition is preferably selected from skin care compositions such as skin creams, cosmetics, fragrances, deodorants, hand or facial wipes, hand washing products, hand scrubs, whitening compositions, shampoos, conditioners, mouthwashes, toothpastes, and tooth whitening agents.

[0027] Personal care base compositions for use as skin care products preferably contain a cosmetically acceptable carrier. Examples of suitable carriers include water, emollients, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, humectants, thickeners, and combinations thereof. The carrier may be aqueous, anhydrous, or an emulsion. Preferably, the composition is aqueous, particularly a water-in-oil emulsion of the W / O, O / W, or W / O / W type. Water, if present, may be in an amount ranging from about 5 to about 95% by weight, preferably from about 20 to about 70% by weight, and optimally from about 35 to about 60% by weight. The emollient may function as a cosmetically acceptable carrier. Examples of suitable emollients include silicone oils, synthetic esters, and hydrocarbons. Preferably, the emollient is present at a level of from about 0.1 to about 95%, preferably from about 1 to about 50%, by weight of the composition.

[0028] The personal care composition may also contain a surfactant. Suitably, the surfactant is present at a level of about 0.1 to about 40%, preferably about 1 to about 20%, and optimally about 1 to about 5% by weight of the composition. The surfactant may be selected from the group consisting of anionic, nonionic, cationic, and amphoteric actives. Particularly preferred nonionic surfactants include C10-C20 fatty alcohols or acid hydrophobes condensed with 2 to 100 moles of ethylene oxide or propylene oxide per mole of hydrophobe, C2-C10 alkylphenols condensed with 2 to 20 moles of alkylene oxide, mono- and di-fatty acid esters of ethylene glycol, fatty acid monoglycerides, sorbitan, mono- and di-C8-C20 fatty acids, and polyoxyethylene sorbitan, and combinations thereof. Alkyl polyglycosides and saccharide fatty amides (e.g., methyl gluconamide) are also suitable nonionic surfactants. Preferred anionic surfactants include soaps, alkyl ether sulfates and sulfonates, alkyl sulfates and sulfonates, alkyl benzene sulfonates, alkyl and dialkyl sulfosuccinates, C8-C20 acyl isethionates, C8-C20 alkyl ether phosphates, C8-C20 sarcosinates, and combinations thereof.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the personal care base composition comprises vitamins, particularly vitamin B3. Examples of vitamins include vitamin A (retinol), vitamin B2, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K and biotin. Suitably, the vitamin is present at a level of from 0.0001 to 10%, preferably from 0.01% to 1%, optimally from 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of the composition.

[0030] When the personal care base composition is an antiperspirant or deodorant, the base composition preferably comprises metal salts of aluminum, zinc, zirconium, and zirconium aluminum mixtures, such as sulfate, chloride, chlorohydroxide, tetrachlorohydrex glycinate, alum, formate, lactate, benzyl sulfonate, succinate, phenol sulfonate, etc. Typical levels of antiperspirant / deodorant are from about 0% to about 35%, preferably from about 0% to about 25%, by weight of the composition. The deodorant or antiperspirant composition preferably comprises a conventional deodorant base as a cosmetically acceptable carrier and may contain hydrophilic and / or hydrophobic components. Suitable hydrophobic liquid carriers include siloxanes, hydrocarbons, branched aliphatic alcohols, esters, and ethers having a melting point of 25° C. or less and a boiling point of at least 100° C. Suitable hydrophilic carrier liquids include water and / or monohydric or polyhydric alcohols or water-miscible homologues.

[0031] For hard deodorants, the base composition may include waxes such as beeswax, candelilla, or carnauba wax, which have a waxy feel and include naturally occurring materials that are water-insoluble solids at 30-40° C. and melt at somewhat higher temperatures, typically between 50-95° C. Other suitable waxes include hydrocarbon waxes, e.g., paraffin wax, mineral wax, and microcrystalline wax, synthetic waxes such as polyethylene of 2000-10000 daltons, wax derivatives, or wax components of natural waxes. The antiperspirant or deodorant base composition may be in the form of an aerosol composition, which comprises a propellant in addition to the deodorant / antiperspirant base composition. When the personal care product is a dentifrice, such as a toothpaste mouthwash or tooth whitening agent. Dentifrice is an oral composition that is not intended to be swallowed, but is applied to the oral cavity, used to treat the oral cavity, and then spat out. Preferably, the dentifrice is a solid, semi-solid, or liquid, such as a paste or gel.

[0032] The dentifrice base composition preferably comprises an aqueous continuous phase, preferably a mixture of water and a polyhydric alcohol in conventional amounts. Typical polyhydric alcohols for use in dentifrice compositions include humectants such as glycerol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, propylene glycol, xylitol (and other edible polyhydric alcohols), hydrogenated partially hydrolyzed polysaccharides, and mixtures thereof. The dentifrice may also contain abrasive materials, such as particulate calcium carbonate abrasives, abrasive silica, other calcium sodium and potassium metaphosphates, sodium and potassium pyrophosphates, sodium trimetaphosphate, sodium hexametaphosphate, particulate hydroxyapatite, and mixtures thereof. The dentifrice may also contain a binder or thickener. The dentifrice may also contain a surfactant, preferably in an amount of 0.2 to 5% by weight based on the total weight of the dentifrice.

[0033] The dentifrice may be a mouthwash, which is a liquid formulation used to rinse the surfaces of the oral cavity. Preferred mouthwash base compositions include mixtures of water and polyhydric alcohols in various relative amounts known in the art. Additional ingredients useful in the skin care compositions herein may be selected from a wide variety of: skin conditioning agents, skin feel emollients, suspending agents, auxiliary thickeners, viscosity control agents, dispersing agents, solubilizing / clarifying agents, stabilizers, opacifying / pearlizing agents, chelating / sequestering agents, hydrotropes, bactericides / fungicides, antioxidants, pH controlling agents, buffering agents, colorants and fragrances / fragrances, water, other optional ingredients (adjuvants), and the like. The compositions of the present invention may also be incorporated into water-insoluble substrates for application to the skin, such as in the form of treated wipes. When the personal care product is suitable for personal cleaning, the personal care base composition preferably comprises 1 to 80% by weight of one or more surfactants and carriers as described herein.

[0034] Any type of surfactant can be used, i.e., anionic, cationic, nonionic, zwitterionic, or amphoteric surfactants. Preferably, one or more surfactants are anionic, nonionic, or a combination of anionic and nonionic surfactants. More preferably, one or more surfactants are anionic. Soap is a particularly preferred surfactant. Soap is a particularly suitable surfactant for personal cleansing applications of the antibacterial composition of the present invention. The soap is preferably a C8-C24 soap. The cation of the soap is preferably selected from sodium, potassium, or ammonium. When the personal care product is for oral care, such as a dentifrice / toothpaste or oral rinse product, the personal care base composition preferably contains one or more anionic, nonionic, or amphoteric surfactants. Suitable anionic surfactants include alkali metal alkyl sulfates, more preferably sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). Suitable amphoteric surfactants include betaines, more preferably alkylamidopropyl betaines, especially cocoamidopropyl betaine (CAPB). Suitable surfactant concentrations for oral care applications are generally from about 2% to about 15%, preferably from about 2.2% to about 10%, more preferably from about 2.5% to about 5%, by weight of the total composition.

[0035] The personal care base composition suitably comprises a soap as a surfactant, an alkyl sulfate or a linear alkyl benzene sulfonate, and a carrier, preferably water. The home care base composition suitably comprises a surfactant and a carrier. Preferably, the surfactant comprises one or more anionic, nonionic, or amphoteric surfactants. Preferably, the home care base composition comprises a soap, an alkyl sulfate, or a linear alkylbenzene sulfonate as the surfactant, and a carrier, preferably water. The home care base composition may be a detergent composition, preferably comprising the surfactants and builders described above, and may also comprise one or more bleaching agents and enzymes. When the home care base composition is a fabric conditioner, it suitably comprises a fabric softening compound, such as a quaternary ammonium salt. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows brassylic acid microspheres (non-crosslinked). [Figure 2] FIG. 1 shows cross-linked brassylic acid microspheres. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 shows sebacic acid microspheres (non-crosslinked). [Figure 4] FIG. 1 shows sebacic acid microspheres (crosslinked). [Figure 5] FIG. 1 shows a sheet formed by cross-linked sebacic acid. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 shows a CCK-8 assay for osteoblasts. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates carboxyl and hydroxyapatite. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 shows the formulation of PDAC-brassylic acid microparticles. [Figure 9] After treatment with the control dressing (A), bacterial recovery was similar to the PBS-only treated control. No viable organisms were recovered from the test specimens treated with the cationic dressing (B), representing a greater than 5-log reduction compared to the PBS-treated control. [Figure 10] The organisms surviving after treatment were primarily Pseudomonas aeruginosa. [Figure 11]Treatment with the control coating (A) resulted in a 1.27 log reduction in the number of viable bacteria recovered compared to the PBS-treated control. No viable organisms were recovered from the test coupons treated with the cationic coating (B), representing a greater than 7 log reduction compared to the PBS-treated control. [Figure 12] The surviving life forms were of mixed species. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] The invention is illustrated by the following non-limiting examples. (Example 1) Preparation of self-assembled microparticles Brassylic acid (1.54 g, 6.31 mmol) and 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP, 1.54 g, 12.62 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3 The sample was placed under a microscope and observed to be nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 3 μm (Figure 1). (Example 2) Preparation of self-assembled microparticles Brassylic acid (1.54 g, 6.31 mmol) and dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE, 1.12 g, 12.62 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3 The sample was placed under a microscope and observed to be nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 3 μm.

[0038] (Example 3) Preparation of self-assembled microparticles Brassylic acid (1.54 g, 6.31 mmol) and 4-methylmorpholine (NMM, 1.275 g, 12.62 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3 The sample was placed under a microscope and observed to be nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 3 μm.

[0039] (Example 4) Preparation of self-assembled microparticles The dicarboxylic acid dissolution experiments described above were also performed using various acids and various water-soluble organic bases. Some of the combinations tested are listed below. The combinations had a molar ratio of acidic to basic groups of 0.9 to 1.1:1. All of these combinations formed spheroids as described in Example 1. Pimelic acid + NMM Suberic acid + NMM Azelaic acid + NMM Sebacic acid + NMM Sebacic acid + DMAP Sebacic Acid + DMAE Sebacic Acid + Imidazole Dodecanedioic acid + NMM Dodecanedioic acid + DMAP Dodecanedioic acid + DMAE C36 dimer acid + NMM

[0040] (Example 5) Preparation of cross-linked self-assembled microparticles Brassylic acid (1.54 g, 6.31 mmol) and 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP, 1.54 g, 12.62 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3 The sample was placed under a microscope and observed to be nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 3 μm (Figure 1). Poly-ε-lysine (PeK) (2 g, 12.04 mmol of NH) was dissolved in water (10 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution of brassylic acid / DMAP microspheres. The mixture was filtered through a 0.45 μm membrane and a sample was placed on a microscope. Microspheres of approximately 3 μm in diameter were still present. This solution was diluted to 100 cm with water. 3 N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N'-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDCI) (4.6 g, 2.4 mmol) and HONSu (1.38 g, 1.2 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution. The cross-linking reaction was allowed to proceed overnight, and the resulting particles were washed by tangential flow filtration (TFF) and recovered by lyophilization (yield: 2.35 g). Figure 2 shows a scanning electron micrograph of the resulting microspheres.

[0041] (Example 6) Preparation of cross-linked self-assembled nanoparticles containing protoporphyrin IX and heme B Brassylic acid (0.734 g, 3.3 mmol) and 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP, 0.734 g, 6.6 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3 The sample was placed under a microscope and observed to be nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 3 μm (Figure 1). Poly-ε-lysine (PeK) (1 g, 6.02 mmol NH) was dissolved in water (10 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution of brassylic acid / DMAP microspheres. The mixture was filtered through a 0.45 μm membrane and a sample was placed on a microscope. Microspheres with a diameter of approximately 3 μm were still present. This solution was then added to a saturated solution of heme B (50 cm 3 N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N'-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDCI) (2.3 g, 1.2 mmol) and HONSu (0.7 g, 0.6 mmol) were diluted with water (5 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution. The cross-linking reaction was allowed to proceed overnight, and the resulting particles were washed by tangential flow filtration (TFF) and recovered by lyophilization (yield 0.93 g).

[0042] (Example 7) Preparation of cross-linked self-assembled microparticles Sebacic acid (0.619 g, 6.12 mmol) and NMM (0.62 g, 6.12 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3 ) and the sample was placed under a microscope. Nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 2.5 μm were observed. Poly-ε-lysine (PeK) (1 g, 5.83 mmol NH) was dissolved in water (10 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution of sebacic acid / NMM microspheres. The mixture was filtered through a 0.45 μm membrane and a sample was placed on a microscope. Microspheres of approximately 2.5 μm in diameter were still present. This solution was diluted with water to 50 cm 3 EDCI (2.24 g, 11.7 mmol) and HONSu (2.0 g, 17.4 mmol) were diluted in water (10 cm 3) and added to the above solution. The cross-linking reaction was allowed to proceed overnight, and the resulting particles were washed by TFF and recovered by freeze-drying.

[0043] (Example 8) Preparation of cross-linked self-assembled microparticles Sebacic acid (5.06 g, 25 mmol) and imidazole (3.4 g, 50 mmol) were dissolved in water (50 cm 3 ) and the sample was placed under a microscope. Nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 2.5 μm were observed. Poly-ε-lysine (PeK) (8.576 g, 50 mmol NH) was dissolved in water (50 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution of sebacic acid / imidazole microspheres. The mixture was filtered through a 0.45 μm membrane and a sample was placed on a microscope. Microspheres of approximately 2.5 μm in diameter were still present (Figure 3). This solution was diluted with water to 500 cm 3 EDCI (4.8 g, 25 mmol) was diluted in water (20 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution. The cross-linking reaction was allowed to proceed for 1 hour, and then an additional 25 mmol of EDCI was added and allowed to stand overnight. The resulting particles were washed with water by decantation and recovered by freeze-drying (Figure 4). (Example 9) Preparation of cross-linked self-assembled microparticles Sebacic acid (5 g, 24.7 mmol) and (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (8.42 g, 46.9 mmol) were dissolved in water (50 cm 3 ) and the sample was placed under a microscope. Nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 2.5 μm were observed. The mixture was left overnight and then acidified with concentrated hydrochloric acid, which caused the formation of silica within the particles, resulting in a sebacic acid / silica complex.

[0044] (Example 10) Preparation of cross-linked self-assembled microparticles Sebacic acid (5 g, 24.7 mmol) and N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ethylenediamine (5.77 g, 51.9 mmol amine) were dissolved in water (50 cm 3) and the sample was placed under a microscope. Nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 2.5 μm were observed. This solution was diluted with water to 500 cm 3 EDCI (20 g, 104 mmol) was diluted with water (100 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution. The mixture was left overnight and then acidified with concentrated hydrochloric acid. Upon addition of hydrochloric acid, silica was formed within the particles, resulting in a sebacic acid / silica complex.

[0045] (Example 11) Preparation of cross-linked self-assembled microparticles Sebacic acid (5 g, 24.7 mmol) and N1-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)diethylenetriamine (4.37 g, 46.9 mmol amine) were dissolved in water (50 cm 3 ) and the sample was placed under a microscope. Nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 2.5 μm were observed. This solution was diluted with water to 500 cm 3 EDCI (20 g, 104 mmol) was diluted with water (100 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution. The mixture was left overnight and then acidified with concentrated hydrochloric acid. Upon addition of hydrochloric acid, silica was formed within the particles, resulting in a sebacic acid / silica complex.

[0046] (Example 12) Preparation of self-assembled macroporous crosslinked sheets Sebacic acid (0.619 g, 6.12 mmol) and NMM (0.62 g, 6.12 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3 ) and the sample was placed under a microscope. Nearly monodisperse spheres with a diameter of approximately 2.5 μm were observed. Poly-ε-lysine (PeK) (1 g, 5.83 mmol NH) was dissolved in water (10 cm 3 ) and added to the above solution of sebacic acid / NMM microspheres. The mixture was filtered through a 0.45 μm membrane and a sample was placed on a microscope. Microspheres of approximately 2.5 μm in diameter were still present. EDCI (2.24 g, 11.7 mmol) and HONSu (2.0 g, 17.4 mmol) were dissolved in water (10 cm 3) and added to the above solution. The cross-linking reaction was allowed to proceed overnight, and the resulting sheet was washed with water and dried by freeze-drying. The SEM image shown in Figure 5 clearly shows the formation of a fused microsphere structure of macroporous polymer.

[0047] (Example 13) Preparation of self-assembled macroporous crosslinked sheets (12-phosphonododecyl)phosphonic acid (330 mg, 1 mmol) and NMM (404 mg, 4 mmol) were dissolved in water. The sample was placed under a microscope to confirm the presence of substantially monodisperse microspheres. PeK (343 mg, 2 mmol) was dissolved in water (10 cm 3 ) and added to the bisphosphonic acid solution prepared above. At this stage, the microspheres were still present. 3 EDCI (1.15 g, 6 mmol) dissolved in ethanol (200 ml) was added and the mixture was immediately poured into a tray. At this stage, microspheres were still present. After about 2 hours, a sheet had formed, which was thoroughly washed with water. The final sheet had a rubbery texture.

[0048] (Example 14) The self-assembled microparticles and macroporous crosslinked sheets of Examples 1-13 were all suitable for use in personal and home care products according to the present invention. The microparticles can be used to replace microplastics in known home and personal care compositions. Products according to the present invention have the advantage of being free of non-biodegradable microplastics but containing microscale particles that are biodegradable yet provide functionality through the presence of the microparticles. (Example 15) Biocide Formulations Biocides for personal care, cosmetics, home care, and general disinfection currently have a limited time of remaining in contact with the surface to be treated due to abrasion. For example, surface sprays of the type used for disinfection in hospitals have a limited active lifespan and therefore reduced activity against hospital-acquired infections such as MRSA, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and C. difficile. Furthermore, some surface sprays contain organic solvents such as isopropanol or non-biodegradable ingredients such as silicone oils to reduce abrasion removal of the biocide.

[0049] Cationic and amphoteric biocides, such as quaternary ammonium compounds, act against pathogens by solubilizing cell membranes, resulting in cell lysis and death. Many biocides are commercially used for disinfection, including the cationic compounds chlorhexidine, benzalkonium chloride, climbazole, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, and dodecyldipropylenetriamine. Additionally, some biocides are polymeric cationic compounds, such as poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride). These compounds can be easily formulated into spherical microparticles using the technology described herein, which can reduce abrasive removal on surfaces, skin, and hair and enable controlled release of the biocide. Furthermore, biocides containing multiple cationic compounds within the same microparticle are possible, providing formulations that can be tailored to target specific applications with distinct sources of infection.

[0050] The samples prepared were as follows: Poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDAC) SpheriSomes PDAC (1.615 g, 10 mmol) was dissolved in water (50 cm 3) and NaOH (0.4 g, 10 mmol) was added. Brassylic acid (1.22 g, 5 mmol) was added to this solution and allowed to dissolve overnight. This appeared to be a clear solution, but observation under a microscope revealed a suspension of approximately 3 μm microparticles, confirming this novel formulation of PDAC. The results, shown in Figure 8, demonstrate the PDAC-brassylic acid microparticle formulation.

[0051] Didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC) DDAC (9.04cm 3 (40% w / v solution, 10 mmol) in water to 50 cm 3 The solution was diluted to 100°C and NaOH (0.4 g, 10 mmol) was added. Brassylic acid (1.22 g, 5 mmol) was added to the solution and allowed to dissolve overnight. This appeared to be a cloudy solution, but when viewed under a microscope it was a suspension of approximately 3 μm microparticles, confirming the novel formulation of DDAC. Dodecyldipropylenetriamine (DDPT) DDPT(9.97cm 3 (30% w / v solution, 10 mmol) in water to 50 cm 3 The solution was diluted to 100% and brassylic acid (3.66 g, 15 mmol) was added to the solution and allowed to dissolve overnight. This appeared to be a clear solution, but when observed under a microscope it was found to be a suspension of approximately 3 μm fine particles, confirming this was a novel formulation of DDPT.

[0052] (Example 16) Antibacterial Macroporous Sheet The hydrophilic nature of the porous polymer formed by the bombardment of biscarboxy fatty acid particles is advantageous for absorbent sheets. When biscarboxy fatty acids are combined with poly-ε-lysine and crosslinked to form such a porous matrix, the natural antibacterial activity of the wound dressing components can be preserved and, if necessary, enhanced. In cationic form, when an excess of poly-ε-lysine is present over fatty acid, this material has been shown to retain food preservation properties, providing a novel antibacterial sheet. Combined with its cationic nature, which can disrupt microbial biofilms, the porosity of this material allows for improved moisture retention. The anti-biofilm capacity of the cationic sheets was evaluated using a mixed-species CDC reactor model. The product of Example 13 was used in these experiments. Two mixed-species biofilms were prepared as described below and tested against PBS and a control anionic coating.

[0053] Multispecies biofilm 1 Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 8325 Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCIMB 10434 Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC 19606 Staphylococcus epidermidis Multi-species biofilm 2 Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 8325 MRSA VRE faecalis NCTC 12201 Candida albicans ATCC MYA-2876 SC5313 Escherichia coli NCTC 12923 6DOT202(03) page 3

[0054] Preparation of Mixed Inoculum 1 Using a sterile cotton swab, 24-hour cultures of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Staphylococcus epidermidis were taken from the appropriate agar plates and placed on a 20 cm 3 The mixed species suspension was diluted in TSB to give a total concentration of 10 ± 5 × 10 cfu ml-1, which was used as the inoculum for the CDC reactor. The CDC reactor was incubated at 37°C with shaking at 50 rpm for 72 hours to promote biofilm growth. Preparation of Mixed Inoculum 2 Using a sterile cotton swab, 24-hour cultures of Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, Candida albicans, and Escherichia coli were taken from the appropriate agar plates and 20 cm 3 The mixed species suspension was diluted in TSB to give a total concentration of 10 ± 5 × 10 cfu ml-1, which was used as the inoculum for the CDC reactor. The CDC reactor was incubated at 37 °C with shaking at 50 rpm for 72 h to promote biofilm growth.

[0055] Biofilm treatment After incubation, the specimens were removed from the CDC reactor and washed three times in sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) to remove floating cells. The washed specimens were then processed by sandwiching them between two discs of wound dressing material. Each disc contained 400 mm 3 The dressings were activated by adding 100 ml of PBS + 1% TSB. Control specimens were placed on a 1 cm 3 All samples were tested in triplicate. After a 24-hour treatment period, the specimens were immersed in 1 cm 3 The specimens were placed in 100 mL of PBS and sonicated for 15 minutes to recover viable microorganisms. Serial dilutions and smear plates were used to quantify the recovered microorganisms.

[0056] Mixed inoculum 1 As shown in Figure 9, after treatment with the control dressing (A), bacterial recovery was similar to the PBS-only treated control. No viable organisms were recovered from the specimens treated with the cationic dressing (B), representing a greater than 5-log reduction compared to the PBS-treated control. The viable organisms after treatment were primarily Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Figure 10). Mixed inoculum 2 Treatment with the control coating (A) resulted in a 1.27 log reduction in the number of viable bacteria recovered compared to the PBS-treated control. No viable organisms were recovered from coupons treated with the cationic coating (B), representing a greater than 7 log reduction compared to the PBS-treated control (Figure 11). The viable organisms were mixed species (Figure 12). Another aspect of the present invention may be as follows. [1] A personal care product comprising a personal care base composition and a particulate component comprising self-assembled microparticles. [2] The personal care product according to [1], wherein the personal care base composition is selected from skin creams, cosmetics, fragrances, deodorants, hand or facial wipes, hand washing products, hand scrubs, shampoos, conditioners, mouthwashes, and toothpastes. [3] A home care product comprising a home care base composition and a particulate component comprising self-assembled microparticles. [4] The home care product according to [3], comprising a home care base composition selected from a surface treatment agent, a surface spray, a surface wipe, a detergent composition, a fabric softener, a fragrance, and a dishwashing composition. [5] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to [4] above, wherein the self-assembled microparticles comprise an acid having two or more acidic groups and an organic base. [6] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to [5] above, wherein the microparticles have a particle size of 0.5 to 10 μm, preferably 1 to 5 μm. [7] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to [6] above, wherein the molar ratio of acidic groups to basic groups in the acid and base is 0.6 to 1.4:1. [8] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to [7] above, wherein the microparticles contain acidic groups and basic groups in a molar ratio of 0.7 to 1.3:1. [9] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the microparticles comprise an acid having two or more acidic groups and an organic base, and the microparticles comprise self-assembled microparticles obtainable by a process comprising contacting the acid and the organic base in a hydrophilic solvent, wherein the acid is insoluble or poorly soluble in the hydrophilic solvent, and the organic base is soluble in the hydrophilic solvent.

[10] The personal care product or home care product according to [9], wherein the solvent comprises an aqueous solution.

[11] The personal care product or home care product according to [9], wherein the solvent comprises a water-in-oil emulsion within the aqueous phase.

[12] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein the microparticles comprise a bis-acid.

[13] The personal care product or home care product according to

[12] above, wherein the acid comprises a bis-aliphatic acid.

[14] The personal care product or home care product according to

[12] or

[13] , wherein the acid comprises a biscarboxylic acid fatty acid in which the terminal carboxylic acids are linked by a hydrophobic region.

[15] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to

[14] , wherein the microparticles contain acids in which the acidic groups are separated by saturated or unsaturated aliphatic chains or substituted saturated or substituted unsaturated aliphatic chains.

[16] The acid has the general formula HOOC-(CH 2 ) n The personal care product or home care product according to

[15] , comprising a compound of -COOH, wherein n is large enough to render the bis-acid sparingly soluble or insoluble in water.

[17] The personal care product or home care product according to

[16] , wherein n is at least 5 and not more than 40.

[18] A personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to

[17] , wherein the microparticles contain brassylic acid, sebacic acid and / or azelaic acid.

[19] A personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to

[18] , which contains an organic base including a basic aliphatic amine or aromatic amine or other nitrogen-containing base.

[20] The personal care product or home care product according to

[19] , wherein the organic base comprises one or more of an alkylated amine and an alkylated polyamine.

[21] The personal care product or home care product according to

[20] , wherein the organic base comprises one or more of N-methylmorpholine, N,N-dimethylaminoethanol, 4-dimethylaminopyridine, imidazole, 1-methylamidazole, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDAC), didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC), dodecyldipropylenetriamine (DDPT), and poly-ε-lysine.

[22] A personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to

[21] , wherein the microparticles comprise a multilamellar structure.

[23] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to

[22] , wherein the microparticles contain a bis-acid, and the bis-acid reacts with an organic base to form a crosslinked species.

[24] The personal care product or home care product according to any one of [1] to

[23] , which contains an organic base, and the base is replaced with another reactive base, which then reacts to form a crosslinked species.

[25] A personal care or home care product comprising: i) a personal care base composition or a home care base composition; and ii) a macroporous material comprising crosslinked self-assembled microporous particles.

[26] Use of self-assembled crosslinked microparticles as a carrier for one or more ingredients of a personal care or home care base composition.

[27] The antibacterial personal care product or antibacterial home care product according to any one of [1] to

[25] , wherein the self-assembled microparticles have antibacterial properties.

Claims

1. i) a personal care or home care base composition, and ii) (a) General formula HOOC-(CH 2 ) n a particulate component containing self-assembled microparticles comprising: (a) a bis-acid comprising a compound of —COOH, where n is 5 to 40; and (b) an organic base comprising one or more of N-methylmorpholine, N,N-dimethylaminoethanol, 4-dimethylaminopyridine, imidazole, 1-methylimidazole, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDAC), didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC), and dodecyldipropylenetriamine (DDPT); wherein the molar ratio of acidic groups in the acid to basic groups in the base is 0.6 to 1.4:1, and the self-assembled microparticles have a particle size of 0.5 to 10 μm.

2. 10. The care product of claim 1, wherein the personal care base composition is selected from skin creams, cosmetics, fragrances, deodorants, hand or facial wipes, hand washing products, hand scrubs, shampoos, conditioners, mouthwashes, and toothpastes.

3. 10. The care product of claim 1, comprising a home care base composition selected from surface treatments, surface sprays, surface wipes, detergent compositions, fabric softeners, fragrances, and dishwashing compositions.

4. 4. A care product according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bis-acid is insoluble in water and the organic base is soluble in water.

5. 5. A care product according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the microparticles comprise brassylic acid, sebacic acid and / or azelaic acid.

6. 6. The care product of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the organic base is replaced with a reactive base which then reacts with a bis-acid to form a crosslinked species.

7. (a) Water-insoluble, general formula HOOC-(CH 2 ) n Bis acids containing compounds of —COOH, where n is 5 to 40; (b) organic bases comprising one or more of N-methylmorpholine, N,N-dimethylaminoethanol, 4-dimethylaminopyridine, imidazole, 1-methylimidazole, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDAC), didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC), and dodecyldipropylenetriamine (DDPT); in water, wherein the molar ratio of acidic groups in the acid to basic groups in the base is 0.6 to 1.4:1.

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