Fiber treatment agent composition

Abstract

To provide a fiber treatment agent that gives a fiber product a skin moisturizing property and a fragrance lingering property with high palatability while suppressing occurrence of stickiness.SOLUTION: A fiber treatment agent composition contains (A) hydrocarbon oil, (B) alkylene oxide-added nonionic surfactant and (C) fragrance, with the mass ratio of the component (A) to the component (B) (A / B) being 0.5-25. The fiber treatment agent composition is diluted and then used in fiber treatment. The concentration of the component (A) in the diluted fiber treatment agent composition (volume of component (A) / volume of the diluted fiber treatment agent composition) is 100-1000 ppm, and the mass ratio of the component (A) to the component (C) (A / C) is 3-100.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fiber treatment agent composition.

Background Art

[0002] The market for fiber treatment agents is expanding year by year. In addition to the basic functions of imparting flexibility, antibacterial properties, and antistatic effects to textile products, in recent years, fragrance has been emphasized, and fiber treatment agents with various fragrances are being sold. On the other hand, there is also a concern that the fragrance remaining on textile products (residual fragrance) may be too strong (unpleasant). In addition, fiber treatment agents that claim new functions by incorporating skin care ingredients used in cosmetics to impart skin care functions (for example, gentleness to the skin and a cooling sensation when worn) to the treated textile products have also been developed (Patent Documents 1 to 2). Moisturizing the skin is one of the important skin care functions. Skin care cosmetics for moisturizing (such as lotion, emulsion, and cream) directly applied to the skin can easily achieve a high moisturizing effect, but they also have problems such as being prone to stickiness, being time-consuming to apply all over the body, and being unable to moisturize areas that are out of reach (such as the back). To solve this problem, textile products using skin care fibers incorporating moisturizing components have also been put on the market. However, skin care fibers have problems such as being limited in the types of textile products to which they can be applied and having poor washing durability. A fiber treatment agent that can impart a skin moisturizing function to the entire textile product regardless of the type of textile product solves these problems. In addition, fiber treatment agents containing hydrocarbon oil are known (Patent Documents 3 to 6).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

[0004] In developing a textile treatment agent that emphasizes fragrance and moisturizing properties, the inventors set the following objectives for the treated textile products: (1) a persistent fragrance that is not too strong (a highly desirable lingering fragrance), (2) skin moisturizing properties, and (3) a reduction in stickiness. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] As a result of diligent research into this issue, the inventors have discovered that by blending a hydrocarbon oil and a specific type of nonionic surfactant in a specific mass ratio into a textile treatment agent containing a fragrance, and then diluting the hydrocarbon oil to a specific concentration before treating textile products, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of stickiness in the treated textile products while imparting a highly desirable lingering fragrance and skin moisturizing properties. The present invention is based on this finding.

[0006] In other words, the present invention relates to the following [1] to [9]. [1] A fiber treatment agent composition comprising the following components (A) to (C): (A) hydrocarbon oils, (B) Alkylene oxide-added nonionic surfactants, and (C)Fragrance It contains, The mass ratio (A / B) of component (A) to component (B) is between 0.5 and 25. The fiber treatment agent composition is used for fiber treatment after being diluted. The concentration of component (A) in the diluted fiber treatment agent composition (volume of component (A) / volume of the diluted fiber treatment agent composition) is 100 to 1000 ppm. A fiber treatment agent composition in which the mass ratio (A / C) of component (A) to component (C) is 3 to 100. [2] The fiber treatment agent composition according to [1], wherein the mass ratio (A / C) of component (A) to component (C) is 7 to 70. [3] The fiber treatment agent composition according to [1] or [2], wherein component (A) has a melting point of 20°C or lower. [4] A fiber treatment agent composition according to any one of the above [1] to [3], wherein component (A) is selected from the group consisting of liquid paraffin, isoparaffin, squalane, squalene, and tetradecane. [5] The fiber treatment agent composition according to any one of the above [1] to [4], wherein component (B) is selected from the group consisting of polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid ester, polyoxyalkylene hydrogenated castor oil, and polyoxyalkylene glycerin fatty acid ester. [6] A fiber treatment agent composition according to any one of the above [1] to [5], wherein component (B) has an HLB of 8.5 to 16.5. [7] A fiber treatment agent composition according to any one of the above items [1] to [6], wherein the mass ratio (A / B) of component (A) to component (B) is 0.5 to 25. [8] A fiber treatment agent composition according to any one of the above items [1] to [7], which is used for fiber treatment after being diluted 500 to 3000 times. [9] A method for treating textile products, comprising the step of immersing the textile products in a diluted solution of a textile treatment agent composition described in any one of the above items [1] to [8]. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] As shown in the examples described later, the fiber treatment agent composition of the present invention can impart skin moisturizing properties and a highly desirable lingering fragrance to textile products while suppressing stickiness. Therefore, the present invention can provide a fiber treatment agent with added value not found in conventional products. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [(A) Component: Hydrocarbon oil] (A) The ingredient is added to textile products to impart a moisturizing function (skin moisturizing properties) and a highly desirable lingering fragrance. (A) The hydrocarbons constituting component (hereinafter referred to as "hydrocarbons") may be saturated or unsaturated, but saturated is preferred. The hydrocarbons may be aliphatic or aromatic, but aliphatic is preferred. The hydrocarbons may be linear, branched, or cyclic. (A) Component may consist of a single type of hydrocarbon or a mixture of multiple types of hydrocarbons. The melting point of component (A) under normal pressure (hereinafter also referred to as "melting point") is preferably 40°C or lower, more preferably 20°C or lower. The melting point can be measured by conventional measurement methods for hydrocarbons, such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Specifically, it can be measured using a differential scanning calorimeter (for example, DSC120 (manufactured by Seiko Instruments (SII))). Examples of component (A) include liquid paraffin (melting point: -10°C or below), isoparaffin (melting point: 0°C), squalane (melting point: -38°C), squalene (melting point: -75°C), and tetradecane (melting point: 6°C). Of these, liquid paraffin, squalane, squalene, isoparaffin, and tetradecane, which have a melting point of 20°C or below, are preferred, liquid paraffin and squalane are more preferred, and liquid paraffin is even more preferred. (A) The components are known substances, readily available on the market, or can be prepared. (A) The component may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination.

[0009] The fiber treatment agent composition is used for fiber treatment after being diluted. The concentration of component (A) in the diluted fiber treatment agent composition (by volume; i.e., volume of component (A) / volume of fiber treatment agent composition) is 100 to 1000 ppm, preferably 150 to 800 ppm, and more preferably 200 to 500 ppm. A concentration of 100 ppm or higher can achieve the intended formulation. A concentration of 1000 ppm or lower can suppress the occurrence of stickiness in the treated fiber product. The content of component (A) in the fiber treatment agent composition is not particularly limited as long as the above-mentioned concentration can be achieved after dilution. For example, the content of component (A) in the fiber treatment agent composition diluted 750-fold and used for fiber treatment is preferably 7.5 to 75% by mass, more preferably 7.5 to 37.5% by mass, based on the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition.

[0010] [Component (B): Alkylene Oxide-Added Nonionic Surfactant] Component (B) is blended to improve the adsorptivity of components (A) and (C) to the fiber product and enhance its blending effect. Furthermore, component (B) can also be blended to further reduce the occurrence of stickiness. As component (B), an alkylene oxide-added nonionic surfactant known in the field of fiber treatment agents (for example, those derived from polyhydric alcohols, higher alcohols, higher amines or higher fatty acids) can be used without particular limitation. As the alkylene oxide, an alkylene oxide having 2 to 4 carbon atoms is preferable, ethylene oxide or propylene oxide is more preferable, and ethylene oxide is particularly preferable. The average number of moles of alkylene oxide added per molecule of component (B) is preferably 7 to 100 moles, more preferably 10 to 80 moles, still more preferably 10 to 60 moles, particularly preferably 20 to 60 moles, and most preferably 20 to 40 moles. When the average number of moles of alkylene oxide added is 7 to 100 moles, the dispersibility of component (A) can be enhanced and the adsorptivity to the fiber product can be further improved. Examples of component (B) include polyoxyalkylene glycerin fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene pentaerythritol fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene castor oil, polyoxyalkylene hydrogenated castor oil, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyalkylene alkyl phenyl ethers, polyoxyalkylene alkyl amines, polyoxyalkylene fatty acid amides, and the like. "Oxyalkylene" in the above compound names indicates an alkylene oxide adduct. Among these, polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogenated castor oil, and polyoxyalkylene glycerin fatty acid esters are preferred, and polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid esters and polyoxyalkylene hydrogenated castor oil are particularly preferred.

[0011] Polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid esters will be described in detail. The constituent fatty acids are preferably saturated or unsaturated fatty acids having 10 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably oleic acid. The number of fatty acids ester-bonded to sorbitol is preferably 1 to 4, more preferably 4 (tetraester). The polyoxyalkylene to be added is preferably ethylene oxide (EO). The average number of moles of alkylene oxide added per molecule is preferably 4 to 100, more preferably 4 to 40.

[0012] The HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance) of component (B) is preferably 8.5 to 16.5, more preferably 10 to 13, and most preferably 11 to 13. When the HLB is 8.5 to 16.5, stickiness to chemical fibers can be suppressed.

[0013] Component (B) is a known substance and can be easily obtained on the market or can be prepared. Component (B) may be used alone or in combination of multiple types.

[0014] The concentration of component (B) in the diluted fiber treatment agent composition (by volume; i.e., volume of component (B) / volume of fiber treatment agent composition) is preferably 50 to 500 ppm, more preferably 50 to 300 ppm. A concentration of 50 to 500 ppm yields a higher formulation effect. The content of component (B) in the fiber treatment agent composition is not particularly limited as long as the aforementioned concentration can be achieved after dilution. For example, the content of component (B) in a fiber treatment agent composition diluted 750 times and used for fiber treatment is preferably 3.0 to 40% by mass, and more preferably 3.75 to 22.5% by mass, based on the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition.

[0015] [Ratio of (A) component to (B) component] The mass ratio (A / B) of component (A) to component (B) in the fiber treatment agent composition is 0.5 to 25, preferably 0.7 to 20, and more preferably 1.0 to 10. When A / B is 0.5 or higher, the adsorption of component (A) to the textile product is improved, and excellent skin moisturizing properties can be imparted to the textile product. When A / B is 25 or lower, the occurrence of stickiness in the textile product after treatment can be suppressed.

[0016] [(C) Ingredient: Fragrance] (C) Component is added to scent the fiber treatment agent composition itself and / or to scent the fiber product after treatment with the composition. (C) As components, any substance known in the field of textile treatment agents can be used without particular restriction. However, a list of usable fragrance raw materials is found in various publications, such as "Perfume and Flavor Chemicals", Vol. I and II, Steffen Arctander, Allured Pub. Co. (1994), "Synthetic Fragrance: Chemistry and Product Knowledge", by Motoichi Indo, Chemical Daily Co. (1996), "Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin", Steffen Arctander, Allured Pub. Co. (1994), "Encyclopedia of Fragrances", edited by the Japan Fragrance Association, Asakura Shoten (1989), "Perfumery Material Performance V.3.3", Boelens Aroma Chemical Information Service (1996), and "Flower oils and Floral Compounds In Perfumery", Danute Lajaujis Anonis, Allured Pub. Co. (1993). Examples of fragrances include aldehydes, phenols, alcohols, ethers, esters, hydrocarbons, ketones, lactones, musks, fragrances with terpene skeletons, natural fragrances, and animal-derived fragrances. Specific examples of each fragrance are as follows. Examples of aldehydes include undecylenaldehyde, laurylaldehyde, aldehyde C-12MNA, miracaldehyde, α-amyl cinnamicaldehyde, cyclamenaldehyde, citral, citronellal, ethyl vanillin, heliotropin, anisaldehyde, α-hexyl cinnamicaldehyde, octanal, ligstral, lilial, liral, tripral, vanillin, and helional. Examples of phenols include eugenol and isoeugenol. Examples of alcohols include citronellol, dihydromyrcenol, dihydrolinalool, geraniol, linalool, nerol, sandalol, santarex, terpineol, tetrahydrolinalool, menthol, borneol, 1-decanal, bacdanol, and phenylethyl alcohol. Examples of ethers include Sedlumber, Grisalva, methyl eugenol, and methyl isoeugenol. Examples of esters include cis-3-hexenyl acetate, cis-3-hexenyl propionate, cis-3-hexenyl salicylate, p-cresyl acetate, pt-butylcyclohexyl acetate, amyl acetate, methyl dihydrojasmonate, amyl salicylate, benzyl salicylate, benzyl benzoate, benzyl acetate, cedyl acetate, citronellyl acetate, decahydro-β-naphthyl acetate. Examples include tate, dimethylbenzylcarbinyl acetate, erica propionate, ethyl acetate, erica acetate, geranyl acetate, geranyl formate, hedione, linalyl acetate, β-phenylethyl acetate, hexyl salicylate, styraryl acetate, terpinyl acetate, vetiveryl acetate, OT-butylcyclohexyl acetate, manzanate, and allyl heptanoate. Examples of hydrocarbons include limonene (especially d-limonene), α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, camphene, and terpinolene. Examples of ketones include α-ionone, β-ionone, methyl-β-naphthylketone, α-damascone, β-damascone, δ-damascone, damascenone, cis-jasmone, methylionone, allylionone, cashmeran, dihydrojasmone, isoesuper, beltfix, isolonediforanone, coavon, carvone, rosephenone, raspberry ketone, dynascone, and maltol. Examples of lactones include γ-decalactone, γ-undecalactone, γ-nonalactone, γ-dodecalactone, coumarin, and ambroxan. Examples of musk compounds include cyclopentadecanolide, ethylene brassirate, galaxolide, musk ketone, tonalide, tonalide, and nitromusks. Examples of fragrances containing a terpene skeleton include geraniol, nerol, linalool, citral, citronellol, menthol, mint, citronellal, myrcene, α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, terpinellol, carvone, ionone (e.g., β-ionone), camphene, and borneol. Examples of natural fragrances include essential oils such as orange oil, lemon oil, lime oil, petitgrain oil, yuzu oil, neroli oil, bergamot oil, lavender oil, lavandin oil, abies oil, anise oil, bay oil, rose oil, ylang-ylang oil, citronella oil, geranium oil, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, eucalyptus oil, lemongrass oil, patchouli oil, jasmine oil, rose oil, cedar oil, vetiver oil, galbanum oil, oakmoss oil, pine oil, camphor oil, sandalwood oil, fragrant camphor oil, turpentine oil, clove oil, clove leaf oil, cassia oil, nutmeg oil, cananga oil, and thyme oil. Examples of animal-derived fragrances include musk, spirit cat incense, sea lion incense, and ambergris.

[0017] (C) Components are known substances, readily available on the market, or can be prepared. (C) The component may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination (fragrance composition).

[0018] The fragrance composition may contain solvents commonly used in textile treatment agents. Examples of fragrance solvents include dipropylene glycol (DPG) and isopropyl myristerate (IPM). The fragrance composition may contain antioxidants commonly used in textile treatment agents. Examples of antioxidants for fragrances include 2,6-di-t-dibutyl-4-hydroxytoluene (BHT), t-butyl-p-hydroxyanisole (BHA), p-methoxyphenol, β-naphthol, phenyl-α-naphthylamine, tetramethyldiaminodiphenylmethane, γ-oryzanol, vitamin E (α-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, δ-tocopherol), 2,2'-ethylidenebis(4,6-di-t-butylphenol), tris(tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol)·1 / 3 citrate, bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, quercetin, and 4,4'-bis(α,α-dimethylbenzyl)diphenylamine. Preferably, it is 2,6-di-t-dibutyl-4-hydroxytoluene. The content of the antioxidant for fragrance is, for example, 0.001 to 10% by mass, preferably 0.01 to 5% by mass, based on the total mass of the fragrance composition.

[0019] The concentration of component (C) in the diluted fiber treatment agent composition (by volume; i.e., volume of component (C) / volume of fiber treatment agent composition) is preferably 1 to 100 ppm, more preferably 5 to 50 ppm. A concentration of 1 to 100 ppm yields a higher formulation effect. The content of component (C) in the fiber treatment agent composition is not particularly limited as long as the aforementioned concentration can be achieved after dilution. For example, the content of component (C) in a fiber treatment agent composition diluted 750 times and used for fiber treatment is preferably 0.1 to 10% by mass, more preferably 0.5 to 5.0% by mass, based on the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition.

[0020] [Ratio of components (A) and (C)] The mass ratio (A / C) of component (A) to component (C) in the fiber treatment agent composition is 3 to 100, preferably 7 to 70, and more preferably 10 to 40. When A / C is 3 to 100, a "highly palatable lingering fragrance" is obtained.

[0021] [Optional ingredients] Any components other than the essential components (A) to (C) may be added to the fiber treatment agent composition, as long as they do not impair the effects of the present invention. Optional ingredients include those commonly found in fiber treatment agents (water, softening agents, cationic polymers, skincare ingredients, antibacterial agents, stabilizers, etc.). Several optional ingredients are described in detail below.

[0022] 〔water〕 The fiber treatment agent composition is preferably an aqueous composition containing water. For the water used, tap water, purified water, deionized water, distilled water, or ion-exchanged water can be used. Of these, ion-exchanged water is preferable. The water content is not particularly limited, but is preferably 20-70% by mass, more preferably 25-60% by mass, and even more preferably 30-50% by mass, relative to the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition.

[0023] [Cationic surfactants] Cationic surfactants are added to textile products to impart flexibility (texture). Cationic surfactants can be used without particular restrictions, including those commonly incorporated into fiber treatment agents. Cationic surfactants are well-known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. A specific example of a cationic surfactant is N,N-distearoyloxyethyl-N-methyl-N-hydroxyethylammonium methyl sulfate. The content of the cationic surfactant is preferably 4 to 25% by mass, more preferably 5 to 18% by mass, particularly preferably 6 to 15% by mass, and most preferably 9 to 12% by mass, based on the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition. A content of 4% by mass or more yields better formulation effects. A content of 25% by mass or less can improve the storage stability of the fiber treatment agent composition.

[0024] [Flexibility-improving base] Flexibility-improving agents are added to textile products to impart flexibility. As a flexibility-imparting agent, those commonly incorporated into fiber treatment agents can be used without particular restrictions. Flexibility-imparting agents are well-known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. Examples of commercially available products include Dowsil SH 3775M (component name: polyoxyethylene methylpolysiloxane copolymer, manufactured by Toray Dow). The content of the flexibility-imparting base is preferably 0.5 to 3% by mass, more preferably 1 to 2.5% by mass, and even more preferably 1.5 to 2% by mass, based on the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition. A content of 0.5 to 3% by mass yields a better formulation effect.

[0025] [Cationic polymers] Cationic polymers are added to textile products to give them a moist feel and prevent them from becoming stiff. Cationic polymers can be used without particular limitations, including those commonly incorporated into fiber treatment agents. Cationic polymers are well-known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. Examples of commercially available products include Marcoat 100 (ingredient name: dimethyldiallylammonium chloride polymer). The content of the cationic polymer is preferably 0.2 to 3% by mass, more preferably 0.3 to 1% by mass, based on the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition. A content of 0.2 to 3% by mass yields superior formulation effects.

[0026] [Skincare ingredients other than ingredient (A)] (A) Other skincare ingredients that are commonly used in cosmetics may be used without any particular restrictions. These skincare ingredients are publicly known substances, readily available on the market, or can be prepared. Commercially available ingredients include cetyl 2-ethylhexanoate, 2-octyldodecanol, N-lauroyl-L-glutamate di(cholesteryl / octyldodecyl), vegetable oils such as almond oil and avocado oil, as well as hydrogenated palm oil, horse oil, and tri(caprylic / capric acid)glyceride. When these are incorporated into a product, they can suppress moisture evaporation from the skin. By incorporating amino acids, 1,3-butylene glycol, PEG, PG, glycerin, trehalose, sorbitol, urea, etc., it is possible to improve the skin's hygroscopicity (the function of taking in moisture from the outside) and its hygroscopicity and moisturizing properties (the function of retaining absorbed moisture). By incorporating ingredients such as BG, hyaluronic acid, and collagen, the moisture content of the stratum corneum can be increased, making the skin more supple. Combining ingredients such as N-stearoyldihydrosphingosine, glycosylceramide, ceramide, and eucalyptus extract can improve the skin's barrier function. The content of skincare ingredients is preferably 5 to 75% by mass, more preferably 20 to 60% by mass, based on the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition.

[0027] [Antibacterial agent] As antimicrobial agents, those commonly incorporated into textile treatment agents can be used without particular restrictions. Antimicrobial agents are well-known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. Examples of antimicrobial agents include diclosan, triclosan, bis-(2-pyridylthio-1-oxide)zinc, polyhexamethylene biguanidine hydrochloride, 8-oxyquinoline, and polylysine.

[0028] [Water-soluble solvent] As for water-soluble solvents, those commonly used in fiber treatment agents can be used without particular restrictions. Water-soluble solvents are known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. Examples of water-soluble solvents include primary alcohols with 2 to 3 carbon atoms (ethanol, isopropanol, etc.); glycols with 2 to 6 carbon atoms (ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, etc.); and polyhydric alcohols with 3 to 8 carbon atoms (diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, etc.). Among these, primary alcohols and polyhydric alcohols, which have excellent aroma and cost, are preferred, and ethanol is even more preferred. A single type of water-soluble solvent may be used, or multiple types may be used in combination.

[0029] [Preservatives] As for preservatives, those commonly used in textile treatment agents can be used without any particular restrictions. Preservatives are well-known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. Examples of commercially available products include 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one (Clariant Japan Co., Ltd., trade name: Nipacide BIT20), dimethyldiallylammonium chloride polymer (Daidol EC-004, Daido Chemical Industries, Ltd.), and butylated hydroxytoluene (SUMILIZER BHT, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.).

[0030] [Coloring agents] As for colorants, those commonly used in fiber treatment agents can be used without any particular restrictions. Colorants are known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. Examples of commercially available products include common dyes and pigments such as Acid Red 27, Acid Yellow 203, Acid Blue 74, Brilliant Blue, Blue 205, Green 3, Red 106, and Yellow 203 (all trade names).

[0031] [UV absorber] As for UV absorbers, those commonly used in fiber treatment agents can be used without particular restrictions. UV absorbers are well-known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. Examples of UV absorbers include aminobenzoic acid derivatives (p-aminobenzoic acid, ethyl p-aminobenzoate, glyceryl p-aminobenzoate, amyl p-dimethylaminobenzoate, etc.); salicylic acid derivatives (ethylene glycol salicylate, dipropylene glycol salicylate, octyl salicylate, myristyl salicylate, etc.); cinnamic acid derivatives (methyl diisopropylcinnamate, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate, isopropyl p-methoxycinnamate, 2-ethylhexyl p-methoxycinnamate, butyl p-methoxycinnamate, etc.); benzophenone derivatives (2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone-5-sulfonic acid, 2,2'-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, etc.); azole compounds (urocanic acid, ethyl urocanate, etc.); and 4-t-butyl-4'-methoxybenzoylmethane.

[0032] [Other optional ingredients] In addition to the above-mentioned components, additives such as antioxidants, defoamers, and viscosity reducers may also be included.

[0033] [pH of the fiber treatment agent composition] The pH of the fiber treatment agent composition is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of storage stability, the pH at 25°C is preferably adjusted to a range of 4.5 to 8.0. The pH can be adjusted by adding a known pH adjusting agent (e.g., citric acid). The pH can be measured with a pH meter (e.g., Mettler Toledo model MP230).

[0034] [Viscosity of fiber treatment agent composition] The viscosity of the fiber treatment agent composition is not particularly limited as long as it does not impair its usability, but it is preferable that the viscosity at 25°C is less than 1000 mPa·s. A viscosity of less than 1000 mPa·s results in good usability (such as ease of handling when adding to a washing machine). The viscosity of the fiber treatment agent composition can be measured using a Type B viscometer (manufactured by TOKIMEC).

[0035] [Method for producing fiber treatment agent composition] The fiber treatment agent composition can be manufactured according to known methods. If the fiber treatment agent composition contains a flexibility-imparting base, it can be manufactured by a method similar to that used for conventional liquid softeners that use polyether-modified silicone as the main component. For example, a fiber treatment agent composition can be produced by mixing an oil phase containing components (A), (B), and (C) with an aqueous phase under conditions of a temperature above the melting point of component (A) to prepare an emulsion, and then adding and mixing other components as needed.

[0036] [Method of using the fiber treatment agent composition] The method of treating textile products using the textile treatment agent composition is not particularly limited, and it can be used, for example, as a fabric softener, a fragrance (for adding scent to textile products), or a wrinkle remover. Methods of using the fabric softener include dissolving the fiber treatment agent composition in the rinse water during the rinse cycle of a washing machine, or dissolving the fiber treatment agent composition in water in a container such as a basin, and then immersing the textile product in it. In either case, the fiber treatment agent composition is diluted by dissolution in water to the concentrations of components (A) to (C) mentioned above before being used to treat the textile product. When used as a fragrance or wrinkle remover, the method of application to textile products is not particularly limited. For example, textile products may be immersed in the textile treatment composition and then air-dried. The types of textile products are not particularly limited, but examples include dress shirts, T-shirts, polo shirts, blouses, chinos, suits, slacks, skirts, jackets, coats, knitwear, jeans, pajamas, tablecloths, placemats, curtains, cushions, seat cushions, sofas, pillowcases, sheets, bed pads, pillows, futons, bed covers, blankets, mattresses, shoes, toilet mats, bath mats, doormats, carpets, rugs, and carpets. The materials used in textile products are not particularly limited, but examples include natural fibers such as cotton, wool, and linen; synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic; semi-synthetic fibers such as acetate; regenerated fibers such as rayon, Tencel, and polynosic; and blends, woven, and knitted products of these various fibers.

[0037] The dilution ratio of the fiber treatment agent composition used for fiber treatment can be appropriately set according to the concentration of each component after dilution (especially component (A)) and the content of each component before dilution. However, when the fiber treatment agent composition is dissolved in the rinse water during the rinsing stage of a washing machine, the dilution ratio is preferably 500 to 3000 times, more preferably 600 to 2000 times, and particularly preferably 700 to 1000 times. When the fiber treatment agent composition is dissolved in water in a container such as a basin, and then the textile product is placed in it for immersion treatment, the dilution ratio is preferably 150 to 1000 times, more preferably 200 to 700 times, and particularly preferably 250 to 350 times. If the dilution ratio is below the upper limit or above the lower limit, the amount to be added will be an appropriate amount that is neither too much nor too little and easy to add. [Examples]

[0038] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the examples and comparative examples, the content (%) of each component is shown as mass% (on a pure content basis unless otherwise specified).

[0039] [(A) Component: Hydrocarbon oil] The following a-1 to a-2 were used. a-1: Liquid paraffin (Liquid paraffin 350-S, Sanko Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) a-2: Squalane (Product name: Squalane. Junsei Chemical Co., Ltd.)

[0040] [(B) Component: Alkylene oxide-added nonionic surfactant] The following b-1 to b-3 were used. b-1: Polyoxyethylene sorbitan tetraoleate (30EO) (NIKKOL GO-430NV, manufactured by Nikko Chemicals Co., Ltd.). The average number of moles of ethylene oxide (EO) added to b-1 was 30 moles. The HLB of b-1 was 11.5. b-2: Polyoxyethylene sorbitan tetraoleate (6EO) (NIKKOL GO-4V, manufactured by Nikko Chemicals Co., Ltd.). The average number of moles of ethylene oxide (EO) added to b-2 was 6 moles. The HLB of b-2 was 8.5. b-3: Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil (40EO) (NIKKOL HCO-40, manufactured by Nikko Chemicals Co., Ltd.). The average number of moles of ethylene oxide (EO) added to b-3 was 40 moles. The HLB of b-3 was 12.5. b-4: Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil (100EO) (NIKKOL HCO-100, manufactured by Nikko Chemicals Co., Ltd.). The average number of moles of ethylene oxide (EO) added to b-4 was 100 moles. The HLB of b-4 was 16.5.

[0041] [(C) Ingredient: Fragrance] Fragrance composition c-1 having the composition shown in the table below was used. The content values ​​in the table represent the content (mass %) relative to the total mass of the fragrance composition.

[0042] c-1 TIFF0007867798000001.tif239149

[0043] [Method for preparing a fiber treatment agent composition] A fiber treatment agent composition having the composition shown in Table 1-1 below was prepared. In Table 1-1, "Content before dilution" is the ratio (mass %) of the mass of each component (A) to (C) to the total mass of the fiber treatment agent composition before dilution. In Table 1-1, "A / B" indicates the mass ratio of component (A) to component (B) in the fiber treatment agent composition before dilution. "A / C" indicates the mass ratio of component (A) to component (C) in the fiber treatment agent composition before dilution.

[0044] The fiber treatment agent composition was prepared by emulsifying an oil phase containing components (A), (B), and (C) with an aqueous phase consisting of ion-exchanged water under conditions of a temperature above the melting point of component (A). The prepared fiber treatment agent composition was diluted 750 times with water and used as the diluted fiber treatment agent composition to treat textile products. In Table 1-2, "Diluted Concentration" indicates the ratio (ppm) of the volume of each component (A) to (C) to the volume of the diluted fiber treatment agent composition.

[0045] [Evaluation of fiber treatment agent compositions] The textile treatment agent compositions were evaluated from the perspectives of "imparting skin moisturizing properties to textile products," "reducing stickiness of treated textile products," and "residual fragrance."

[0046] [Improving skin-moisturizing properties in textile products] Skin moisturizing properties were evaluated using the change in skin moisture content before and after wearing the evaluation fabric treated with the fiber treatment agent composition as an indicator. Three evaluation fabrics (material: 38% polyester, 31% acrylic, 21% rayon, 10% polyurethane; manufactured by Uniqlo) were placed in a washing machine containing 30L of diluted fiber treatment agent composition and subjected to a 3-minute rinse cycle. After rinsing, the fabrics were dewatered for 1 minute in a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S) and then dried overnight to obtain the treated evaluation fabrics. Untreated evaluation fabrics were used as a control. The evaluators' "initial skin moisture content" was measured according to the following procedure. The skin on the subject's forearm was washed with the surfactant AES (sodium alkyl ether sulfate), and after resting for 30 minutes in a constant temperature room (20°C, 40%RH), the skin moisture content was measured using a corneometer (manufactured by Integral Co., Ltd.). Next, the evaluators' "skin moisture content (6 hours later)" on their forearms after wearing the evaluation cloth for 6 hours was measured using a corneometer (manufactured by Integral Co., Ltd.) after resting for 30 minutes in a constant temperature room (20°C, 40%RH). This procedure was performed on the forearms of four evaluators. The percentage change in skin moisture content (%) was calculated by applying the measured values ​​to the following formula. Skin moisture change rate (%) = Skin moisture content (after 6 hours) / Skin moisture content (initial) × 100 For each evaluator, the rate of change X of the treated evaluation fabric was calculated, with the value of the untreated evaluation fabric (control) set to 100%. Next, the average of the rate of change X for all evaluators was subjected to a t-test, and the obtained t-value was applied to the following judgment criteria to evaluate the "performance of imparting skin moisturizing function to textile products." The results are shown in the "Skin Moisturizing Effect" column of Table 1-2. ○○ and ○ were considered passing grades. <Judgment criteria> ○○: t-value less than 0.05 ○: t-value is 0.05 or greater and less than 0.1 ×: t value is 0.1 or higher

[0047] [Sticky texture of treated textile products] Three evaluation fabrics (material: 38% polyester, 31% acrylic, 21% rayon, 10% polyurethane; manufactured by Uniqlo) were placed in a washing machine containing 30L of diluted fiber treatment agent composition and subjected to a 3-minute rinse cycle. After rinsing, the fabrics were spun dry for 1 minute in a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S) and dried overnight to obtain the evaluation fabrics. The sticky feeling of the treated fabric when touched with a finger was evaluated sensorily according to the following criteria. The average score (calculated to one decimal place) of four evaluators was applied to the following judgment criteria to evaluate the "stickiness of the treated textile product." The results are shown in the "stickiness" column of Table 1-2. ○○ and ○ were considered acceptable. <Evaluation Criteria> 5 points: Very sticky 4 points: Quite sticky 3 points: It's sticky. 2 points: Slightly sticky 1 point: Not sticky <Judgment criteria> ○○: Average score is less than 2.0 points ○: Average score is between 2.0 and 4.0 points. ×: Average score is 4.0 or higher

[0048] [Lingering fragrance of treated textile products] Three evaluation fabrics (material: 38% polyester, 31% acrylic, 21% rayon, 10% polyurethane; manufactured by Uniqlo) were placed in a bucket washing machine containing 30L of diluted fiber treatment agent composition and subjected to a 3-minute rinse treatment. After rinsing, they were dewatered for 1 minute in a twin-tub washing machine (Toshiba VH-30S) and then dried overnight to be used as the evaluation fabrics. The fragrance intensity of three treated cloths for evaluation was sensory-evaluated according to the following criteria. The average score (calculated to one decimal place) of four evaluators was applied to the following criteria to evaluate the "lingering fragrance of the treated textile product." The results are shown in the "Lingering Fragrance" column of Table 1-2. ○○ and ○ were considered acceptable (fragrance persistence that is not too strong (highly desirable lingering fragrance)). <Evaluation Criteria> 0 points: Odorless. 1 point: The scent is barely detectable. 2 points: The scent is faint enough to recognize what it is. 3 points: An easily detectable scent. 4 points: Strong scent. 5 points: Intense scent. <Judgment criteria> ○○: Average score between 2.5 and 3.5 points ○: Average score is above 1.5 points but below 2.5 points, or above 3.5 points but below 4.5 points. ×: Average score of 1.5 points or less, or 4.5 points or more. [Industrial applicability]

[0049] This invention is applicable to the field of textile treatment agents.

[0050] [Table 1-1] [Table 1-2]

Claims

[Claim 1] A method for treating textile products, comprising the step of immersing the textile products in a 700 to 1000-fold diluted solution (by volume) of a concentrated textile treatment agent composition, The processing of textile products includes imparting skin-moisturizing properties to the textile products. The above composition comprises the following components (A) to (C): (A) Hydrocarbon oil, (B) Alkylene oxide-added nonionic surfactants, and (C) Fragrance It contains, (A) The content of component is 22.5 to 37.5% by mass relative to the total mass of the composition. (B) The average number of moles of alkylene oxide added per molecule of component is 20 to 40 moles. The mass ratio (A / B) of component (A) to component (B) is 0.5 to 25. A method in which the mass ratio (A / C) of component (A) to component (C) is 3 to 100.

Images