Textile treatment agents and their applications

Abstract

The present invention aims to provide a treatment agent for producing fibers that achieve both static electricity suppression and flexibility. A textile treatment agent containing a condensate (A) and a quaternary product (B), wherein the condensate (A) is at least one selected from a condensate of a fatty acid alkanolamide and urea (A1) and a salt (A2) of the condensate (A1), and the quaternary product (B) is at least one selected from a quaternary product of (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine dimethyl sulfate and a quaternary product of (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine diethyl sulfate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fiber treatment agent and fibers to which the fiber treatment agent is attached.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various alkyl phosphate alkali metal salts and / or polyoxyalkylene alkyl phosphate alkali metal salts have been used as synthetic fiber lubricants (Japanese Patent Publication No. 2-19230). However, since these alkyl phosphate alkali metal salts alone lack flexibility, various formulation examples such as nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, and silicone oils have been proposed (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-30571). However, due to the generation of static electricity in manufacturing processes such as the spinning process, the operability may deteriorate, and it has been difficult to simultaneously satisfy the fiber aggregation and flexibility.

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a fiber treatment agent for producing fibers that can achieve both suppression of static electricity generation and flexibility.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] As a result of intensive studies to solve the above problems, the present inventors have found that a fiber treatment agent containing a specific condensate (A) and a specific quaternized product (B) can produce fibers that can achieve both suppression of static electricity generation and flexibility. The present invention includes the following aspects. <1> A textile treatment agent containing a condensate (A) and a quaternary product (B), wherein the condensate (A) is at least one selected from a condensate of a fatty acid alkanolamide and urea (A1) and a salt (A2) of the condensate (A1), and the quaternary product (B) is at least one selected from a quaternary product of (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine dimethyl sulfate and a quaternary product of (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine diethyl sulfate. <2> The salt (A2) of the aforementioned condensate (A1) contains a salt with Brønsted acid (C). <1> The textile treatment agent described above. <3> Furthermore, it contains fatty acid ester (D), <1> or <2> The textile treatment agent described above. <4> Furthermore, it contains a polyoxyalkylene derivative (E), wherein the derivative (E) has a polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene structure. <1> ~ <3> A textile treatment agent as described in either of the following. <5> The molar ratio (PO / EO) of oxypropylene groups to oxyethylene groups in the aforementioned polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene structure is 5 / 95 to 95 / 5. <4> The textile treatment agent described above. <6> The weight ratio (A / B) of the condensate (A) to the quaternary compound (B) contained in the non-volatile components of the fiber treatment agent is 0.1 to 2.0. <1> ~ <5> A textile treatment agent as described in any of the following. <7> The total proportion of the condensate (A) and the quaternary compound (B) in the non-volatile content of the fiber treatment agent is 10 to 50% by weight. <1> ~ <6> A textile treatment agent as described in any of the following. <8> For use with at least one fiber selected from acrylic fibers and flame-resistant fibers. <1> ~ <7> A textile treatment agent as described in any of the following. <9> <1> ~ <8> A fiber to which any of the fiber treatment agents described in one of the following is attached. [Effects of the Invention]

[0005] The fiber treatment agent of the present invention can produce fibers that achieve both static electricity suppression and flexibility. Since the fibers of the present invention are treated with the fiber treatment agent of the present invention, they can achieve both static electricity suppression and flexibility. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0006] The components of the textile treatment agent of the present invention (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as the treatment agent) will be described in detail below.

[0007] [Condensed product (A)] The treatment agent of the present invention contains a condensate (A) which is at least one selected from a condensate (A1) of a fatty acid alkanolamide and urea (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as condensate (A1)) and a salt (A2) of condensate (A1). The condensate (A) preferably contains a salt (A2) of the condensate (A1) in terms of emulsion stability. There are no particular limitations on the method for producing the condensate of fatty acid alkanolamide and urea; known methods can be employed.

[0008] There are no particular limitations on the fatty acid alkanolamide that constitutes the condensate (A), but an amidate of a fatty acid and an alkanolamine is preferred.

[0009] There are no particular limitations on the number of carbon atoms in the fatty acid constituting the fatty acid alkanolamide, but 4 to 24 is preferred in terms of flexibility. The upper limit of the carbon number is more preferably 24, even more preferably 22, and particularly preferably 20. On the other hand, the lower limit of the carbon number is more preferably 4, even more preferably 6, particularly preferably 8, and most preferably 10. Also, for example, 6 to 22 is more preferred, 8 to 20 is particularly preferred, and 10 to 20 is most preferred. The fatty acids that make up the fatty acid alkanolamide may be saturated or unsaturated fatty acids, but saturated fatty acids are preferred because they provide good flexibility to the fiber bundles. Specific examples of fatty acids that make up fatty acid alkanolamides are not limited to saturated fatty acids such as caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, 2-ethylhexanoic acid, and isostearic acid, and unsaturated fatty acids such as caproleic acid, myristoleic acid, oleic acid, and erucic acid.

[0010] The number of carbon atoms in the alkanolamine constituting the fatty acid alkanolamide is not particularly limited, but 1 to 8 is preferred in terms of flexibility. The upper limit of the carbon number is more preferably 8, even more preferably 6, and particularly preferably 4. On the other hand, the lower limit of the carbon number is more preferably 1, even more preferably 2. Also, for example, 1 to 6 is more preferred, and 2 to 4 is particularly preferred. Specific examples of alkanolamines that constitute fatty acid alkanolamides are not limited to methanolamine, but include methanolamine, ethanolamine, propanolamine, butanolamine, aminoethylethanolamine, and aminobutylethanolamine.

[0011] There are no particular limitations on the salt (A2) of the condensate (A1), but a salt with Brønsted acid (C) is preferred in terms of emulsion stability.

[0012] Brønsted acid (C) is not particularly limited as long as it is a proton donor, but examples include carboxylic acid compounds, inorganic acids, sulfonic acid compounds, phosphate ester compounds, sulfate ester compounds, and phosphonic acid compounds.

[0013] Carboxylic acid compounds are compounds that have a carboxyl group in their molecular structure. Carboxylic acid compounds are not particularly limited, but examples include aliphatic monocarboxylic acids, alkyl ether carboxylic acids, aliphatic polycarboxylic acids, aromatic monocarboxylic acids, aromatic polycarboxylic acids, and amino acids, with aliphatic monocarboxylic acids being preferred in terms of emulsion stability.

[0014] Examples of aliphatic monocarboxylic acids include acetic acid, lactic acid, butyric acid, crotonic acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, enanthic acid, caprylic acid, pelargonic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, pentadecanoic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, isocetyl acid, margaric acid, stearic acid, isostearic acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, iso-eicosanoic acid, gadoleic acid, eicosenoic acid, docosanoic acid, isodocosanoic acid, erucic acid, tetracosanoic acid, isotetracosanoic acid, nervonic acid, cerotic acid, montanic acid, melissic acid, etc.

[0015] Examples of alkyl ether carboxylic acids include those in which the alkyl group has 8 to 18 carbon atoms and the number of moles of polyoxyalkylene added is 1 to 50 moles. Examples of the alkyl group include an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group, an undecyl group, a dodecyl group, a tridecyl group, an isotridecyl group, a tetradecyl group, a pentadecyl group, a hexadecyl group, a heptadecyl group, and an octadecyl group. Examples of the polyoxyalkylene group include a polyoxyethylene group, a polyoxypropylene group, and a polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene group.

[0016] Examples of phosphoric acid ester compounds include alkyl phosphate monoesters, alkyl phosphate diesters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether phosphate monoesters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether phosphate diesters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl phenyl ether phosphate monoesters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl phenyl ether phosphate diesters, etc.

[0017] From the viewpoints of equipment corrosion, safety, and emulsion stability, the pKa of the Bronsted acid (C) is preferably 0 to 7, more preferably 1 to 6.5, and even more preferably 2 to 6.

[0018] Brønsted acid (C) is preferably composed of at least one selected from carboxylic acid compounds, phosphate ester compounds, and inorganic acids in terms of emulsion stability, more preferably composed of at least one selected from lactic acid, alkyl ether carboxylic acid, phosphate ester compound, phosphoric acid, and acetic acid, and even more preferably composed of at least one selected from alkyl ether carboxylic acid, phosphate ester compound, acetic acid, and phosphoric acid. Brønsted acid (C) may be composed of one or more types.

[0019] [Quaternary compound (B)] The treatment agent of the present invention contains a quaternary compound (B) which is at least one selected from (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine dimethyl sulfate quaternary compound and (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine diethyl sulfate quaternary compound, and in terms of electrostatic properties, it is preferable to contain (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine diethyl sulfate quaternary compound. There are no particular limitations on the (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine that constitutes the quaternary compound (B), but in terms of electrostatic properties, compounds represented by the following general formula (1) are preferred. There are no particular limitations on the method of quaternization using dimethyl sulfate and diethyl sulfate; known methods can be used.

[0020] [ka] (In formula (1), R is an alkyl group having 4 to 24 carbon atoms, AO is an oxyalkylene group, and m and n are integers of 0 or greater, where m+n is 1 or greater. If there are multiple AOs in the molecule, they may be the same or different.)

[0021] In formula (1), the upper limit of the number of carbon atoms in R is preferably 24, more preferably 22, and still more preferably 20. On the other hand, the lower limit of the number of carbon atoms is preferably 4, more preferably 5, still more preferably 6, and most preferably 10. Also, for example, 5 to 22 is more preferable, 6 to 20 is still preferable, and 10 to 20 is particularly preferable. Within this range, the electrostatic properties are excellent.

[0022] In formula (1), AO preferably contains at least one selected from an oxyethylene group and an oxypropylene group, more preferably an oxyethylene group, and even more preferably an oxyethylene group, in terms of emulsion stability. In equation (1), m and n are not particularly limited as long as m+n is 1 or greater and is an integer of 0 or greater, however, m+n is preferably between 1 and 10 in terms of achieving both emulsion stability and electrostatic properties. The upper limit of m+n is more preferably 10, even more preferably 8, particularly preferably 6, and most preferably 4. On the other hand, the lower limit of m+n is more preferably 2. Also, for example, 2 to 10 is more preferably, and 2 to 8 is even more preferably. m and n may be the same or different.

[0023] The compound represented by general formula (1) is not particularly limited, but examples include 1 to 10 moles of laurylamine ethylene oxide adduct and 1 to 10 moles of stearylamine ethylene oxide adduct. In terms of achieving both emulsion stability and electrostatic properties, 2 to 10 moles of laurylamine ethylene oxide adduct is preferred.

[0024] [Fatty acid ester (D)] The treatment agent of the present invention is preferable in terms of smoothness if it contains a fatty acid ester (D). The fatty acid ester (D) is not particularly limited as long as it is a compound in which a fatty acid and an alcohol are ester-bonded. Examples include ester compounds (D1) having a structure in which a polyhydric alcohol and a fatty acid are ester-bonded and having one or more hydroxyl groups in the molecule, polyoxyalkylene castor oil ether (D2), polyoxyalkylene hydrogenated castor oil ether (D3), PEG ester (D4), and polycarboxylic acid ester (D5). In terms of smoothness, it is preferable to include ester compounds (D1) having a structure in which a polyhydric alcohol and a fatty acid are ester-bonded and having one or more hydroxyl groups in the molecule.

[0025] Ester compounds (D1) are compounds that have a structure in which a polyhydric alcohol and a fatty acid are ester-bonded, and that have one or more hydroxyl groups in their molecule.

[0026] There are no particular limitations on the polyhydric alcohol that constitutes the ester compound (D1), but sorbitol and glycerin are preferred in terms of their flocculating and smoothing properties. There are no particular limitations on the fatty acids that constitute the ester compound (D1), but saturated and / or unsaturated fatty acids having 12 to 18 carbon atoms are preferred in terms of convergence and smoothness.

[0027] The ester compound (D1) is not particularly limited, but in terms of convergence and smoothness, sorbitan monoester, sorbitan diester, sorbitan triester, glycerin monoester, glycerin diester, and polyglycerin ester are preferred, with sorbitan monoester being more preferred. Examples of sorbitan monoesters include sorbitan monostearate, sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan monopalmitate, and sorbitan monolaurate; examples of sorbitan diesters include sorbitan distearate, sorbitan dioleate, sorbitan dipalmitate, and sorbitan dilaurate; examples of sorbitan triesters include sorbitan trytearate, sorbitan trioleate, sorbitan tripalmitate, and sorbitan trilaurate; examples of glycerin monoesters include glycerin monostearate and glycerin monooleate; examples of glycerin diesters include glycerin distearate, glycerin dioleate, glycerin dipalmitate, and glycerin dilaurate; and examples of polyglycerin monoesters include hexaglycerin monostearate.

[0028] Polyoxyalkylene castor oil ether (D2) is a compound having a structure in which an alkylene oxide such as ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, or butylene oxide is added to castor oil. Polyoxyalkylene castor oil ether (D2) is not particularly limited, but examples include polyoxyethylene castor oil ether (polyoxyethylene (1-25 mol) castor oil ether).

[0029] Polyoxyalkylene hydrogenated castor oil ether (D3) is a compound having a structure in which an alkylene oxide such as ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, or butylene oxide is added to hydrogenated castor oil. While not particularly limited, polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil ether (D3) can include polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil ether (polyoxyethylene (1-25 mol) hydrogenated castor oil ether), etc.

[0030] Regarding PEG ester (D4), PEG stands for polyethylene glycol, and PEG ester refers to a polyethylene glycol ester (hereinafter referred to as PEG ester) having a structure in which the hydroxyl group of PEG is esterified with a monovalent fatty acid. The number of carbon atoms in a monovalent fatty acid is not particularly limited, but 4 to 24 is preferred in terms of convergence. The upper limit of the carbon number is more preferably 22, and even more preferably 20. On the other hand, the lower limit of the carbon number is more preferably 10, and even more preferably 12. Also, for example, 10 to 22 is more preferably, and even more preferably 12 to 20. The monovalent fatty acid may be a saturated fatty acid or an unsaturated fatty acid. Examples of PEG esters (D4) include polyoxyethylene (1-20 mol) stearyl ester, polyoxyethylene (1-20 mol) oleyl ester, polyoxyethylene (1-20 mol) palmityl ester, and polyoxyethylene (1-20 mol) lauryl ester.

[0031] Polycarboxylic acid esters (D5) are compounds having a structure in which a polycarboxylic acid and a polyol are esterified together. The polycarboxylic acid is preferably a divalent or greater carboxylic acid having 10 to 66 carbon atoms. Examples of polycarboxylic acids include sebacic acid, oleate dimer, erucate dimer, oleate trimer, and erucate trimer. Among the polycarboxylic acids, it is preferably a dimer acid of an unsaturated fatty acid having 18 to 22 carbon atoms, and more preferably a dimer acid of an unsaturated fatty acid having 18 carbon atoms. The polycarboxylic acid may be an aliphatic polycarboxylic acid or an aromatic polycarboxylic acid, and it is preferably an aliphatic polycarboxylic acid. A polyol is a dihydric or higher alcohol having an oxyalkylene group with 2 to 3 carbon atoms in its molecule. The polyol is not particularly limited as long as it is a dihydric or higher alcohol and has a (poly)oxyalkylene group in its molecule. Examples include polyalkylene glycol, polyoxyalkylene sorbitan, polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid ester, polyoxyalkylene glycerin, polyoxyalkylene polyglycerin, and polyoxyalkylene polyglycerin ester, all composed of oxyethylene units and / or oxypropylene units. Among these, polyalkylene glycol composed of oxyethylene units and / or oxypropylene units is preferred. Examples of polyalkylene glycol composed of oxyethylene units and / or oxypropylene units include polyoxyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, and polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol. Polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol may be in block form or random form. Polyoxyethylene glycol is preferred as the polyalkylene glycol composed of oxyethylene units and / or oxypropylene units. The number-average molecular weight of polyalkylene glycol is preferably 100 to 10000, more preferably 200 to 2000, and even more preferably 400 to 1000.

[0032] The treatment agent of the present invention is preferable in terms of flexibility if it further contains a polyoxyalkylene derivative (E) (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as derivative (E)). The polyoxyalkylene derivative (E) is a compound having a polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene structure, and is not particularly limited as long as it is a compound other than a condensate (A), a quaternary nucleotide (B), a Brønsted acid (C), or a fatty acid ester (D). The polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene structure of derivative (E) is not particularly limited and may be block-type or random-type, but in terms of flexibility, it is preferable to include a random-type structure, and it is more preferable to include both block-type and random-type structures.

[0033] The derivative (E) is not particularly limited, but examples include compounds having a structure in which an alkylene oxide such as ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, or butylene oxide is added to an aliphatic monohydric alcohol and / or aliphatic polyhydric alcohol. There are no particular limitations on the aliphatic monohydric alcohol that constitutes derivative (E), but in terms of convergence and smoothness, alcohols having 8 to 18 carbon atoms are preferred, and octyl alcohol, 2-ethylhexyl alcohol, decyl alcohol, lauryl alcohol, tridecyl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, isostearyl alcohol, and oleyl alcohol are more preferred. There are no particular limitations on the aliphatic polyhydric alcohol that constitutes derivative (E), but alcohols having 2 to 18 carbon atoms are preferred in terms of flocculation and smoothness, and ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerin, sorbitol, sorbitan, and trimethylolpropane are more preferred.

[0034] The molar ratio (PO / EO) of oxypropylene groups to oxyethylene groups in the polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene structure of derivative (E) is not particularly limited, but 5 / 95 to 95 / 5 is preferred in terms of flexibility. The upper limit of this ratio is more preferably 95 / 5, even more preferably 80 / 20, and particularly preferably 50 / 50. On the other hand, the lower limit of this ratio is more preferably 5 / 95, even more preferably 7 / 93, and particularly preferably 10 / 90. For example, 7 / 93 to 90 / 10 is more preferred, and 10 / 90 to 80 / 20 is even more preferred. When multiple derivatives (E) are used, the molar ratio (PO / EO) of oxypropylene groups to oxyethylene groups refers to the molar ratio of the entire derivative (E) mixture.

[0035] There are no particular limitations on the weight-average molecular weight of derivative (E), but 1,000 to 30,000 is preferred in terms of flexibility. The upper limit of the average molecular weight is more preferably 30,000, even more preferably 25,000, and particularly preferably 20,000. On the other hand, the lower limit of the average molecular weight is more preferably 1,000, even more preferably 2,000, and particularly preferably 3,000. Also, for example, 2,000 to 25,000 is more preferred, and 3,000 to 20,000 is even more preferred. When multiple derivatives (E) are used, the weight-average molecular weight of derivative (E) refers to the weight-average molecular weight of the entire derivative (E) mixture. The weight-average molecular weight in this invention is determined by the method described in the examples. The number of moles of the alkylene oxide of derivative (E) to be added is preferably 1 to 100 moles in terms of convergence and smoothness. The upper limit of the number of moles to be added is more preferably 70 moles, even more preferably 50 moles, and particularly preferably 30 moles. On the other hand, the lower limit of the number of moles to be added is more preferably 2 moles, even more preferably 3 moles, and particularly preferably 4 moles. Also, for example, 2 to 70 moles is more preferably, and 3 to 50 moles is even more preferably.

[0036] Examples of derivatives (E) include random-type polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene polyether, blocked-type polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene polyether, and polyoxyalkylene aliphatic alcohol ethers (polyoxyethylene (1-20 mol) stearyl ether, polyoxyethylene (1-20 mol) oleyl ether, polyoxyethylalkylene (1-20 mol) palmityl ether, polyoxyalkylene (1-20 mol) lauryl ether). Random-type polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene polyether and blocked-type polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene polyether are preferred in terms of imparting a good texture.

[0037] [Other ingredients] The treatment agent of the present invention may contain other components besides those listed above. Examples of other components include those commonly used in treatment agents, such as antistatic agents, antibacterial agents, preservatives, rust inhibitors, and hygroscopic agents.

[0038] [Textile treatment agent] The treatment agent of the present invention contains a condensate (A) and a quaternary compound (B). The reason why the inclusion of condensate (A) and quaternary compound (B) can achieve both static electricity suppression and flexibility is not particularly limited, but we believe that the condensate (A) having an amide bond allows it to adhere uniformly to the acrylic fiber and impart flexibility, and furthermore, the inclusion of a (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine dialkyl sulfate in the quaternary compound (B) allows for sufficient suppression of static electricity generation.

[0039] The content of the condensate (A) in the nonvolatile content of the treatment agent of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1 to 50% by weight in terms of flexibility. The upper limit of the content is more preferably 50% by weight, even more preferably 40% by weight, and particularly preferably 30% by weight. On the other hand, the lower limit of the content is more preferably 1% by weight, even more preferably 3% by weight, and particularly preferably 5% by weight. Also, for example, 3 to 40% by weight is more preferably, and 5 to 30% by weight is even more preferably.

[0040] The content of quaternary ammonium compound (B) in the nonvolatile content of the treatment agent of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1 to 50% by weight in terms of electrostatic properties. The upper limit of the content is more preferably 50% by weight, even more preferably 45% by weight, and particularly preferably 40% by weight. On the other hand, the lower limit of the content is more preferably 1% by weight, even more preferably 5% by weight, and particularly preferably 10% by weight. Also, for example, 5 to 45% by weight is more preferably, and 10 to 40% by weight is even more preferably.

[0041] The content of fatty acid ester (D) in the nonvolatile components of the treatment agent of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is preferably 5 to 50% by weight in order to achieve both convergence and smoothness. The upper limit of the content is more preferably 50% by weight, even more preferably 45% by weight, and particularly preferably 40% by weight. On the other hand, the lower limit of the content is more preferably 5% by weight, even more preferably 10% by weight, and particularly preferably 15% by weight. Also, for example, 10 to 45% by weight is more preferably, and 15 to 40% by weight is even more preferably.

[0042] The content of derivative (E) in the nonvolatile content of the treatment agent of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10 to 60% by weight in order to achieve both smoothness and flexibility. The upper limit of the content is more preferably 60% by weight, even more preferably 55% by weight, and particularly preferably 50% by weight. On the other hand, the lower limit of the content is more preferably 10% by weight, even more preferably 15% by weight, and particularly preferably 20% by weight. Also, for example, 15 to 55% by weight is more preferably, and 20 to 50% by weight is even more preferably.

[0043] The weight ratio (A / B) of the condensate (A) to the quaternary compound (B) contained in the non-volatile components of the treatment agent of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.1 to 2.0 in terms of achieving both electrostatic properties and flexibility. The upper limit of this weight ratio is more preferably 2.0, even more preferably 1.8, and particularly preferably 1.0. On the other hand, the lower limit of this weight ratio is more preferably 0.1, even more preferably 0.2, and particularly preferably 0.3. Also, for example, 0.2 to 1.8 is more preferably, and 0.3 to 1.0 is even more preferably.

[0044] The total proportion of the condensate (A) and quaternary ammonium compound (B) in the non-volatile content of the treatment agent of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10 to 50% by weight in terms of achieving both electrostatic properties and flexibility. The upper limit of this proportion is more preferably 50% by weight, even more preferably 45% by weight, and particularly preferably 40% by weight. On the other hand, the lower limit of this proportion is more preferably 10% by weight, even more preferably 12% by weight, and particularly preferably 15% by weight. Also, for example, 10 to 45% by weight is more preferably, and 15 to 40% by weight is even more preferably.

[0045] The treatment agent of the present invention may contain water, within a range that does not impair the effects of the present invention. From the viewpoint of improving the stability of the treatment agent, the water content is preferably 5 to 95% by weight. The upper limit of the water content is more preferably 95% by weight, and even more preferably 90% by weight. On the other hand, the lower limit of the water content is more preferably 5% by weight, and even more preferably 10% by weight. Also, for example, 5 to 95% by weight is more preferably, and even more preferably 10 to 90% by weight.

[0046] The pH of the 1.0% diluted non-volatile content solution of the treatment agent of the present invention is preferably 3.5 to 7.0 from the viewpoint of adhesion to fibers. The upper limit of the pH is more preferably 6.8, and even more preferably 6.5. On the other hand, the lower limit of the content is more preferably 3.8, and even more preferably 4.0. Also, for example, 3.8 to 6.8 is more preferably, and even more preferably 4.0 to 6.5. The pH of the 1.0% diluted non-volatile content solution of the treatment agent in the present invention is determined by the method described in the examples.

[0047] The method for producing the treatment agent of the present invention is not particularly limited, and known methods can be employed. The treatment agent can be produced by adding and mixing the constituent components in any or a specific order.

[0048] 〔fiber〕 The fibers of the present invention are those to which the fiber treatment agent of the present invention has been applied. The fibers to which the fiber treatment agent of the present invention is applied are not particularly limited, but examples include polyester fibers, polyamide fibers, acrylic fibers, polyolefin fibers, flame-resistant fibers, etc., and acrylic fibers and flame-resistant fibers are more preferred in that they better exhibit the effects of the present invention.

[0049] There are no particular limitations on the proportion of the fiber treatment agent of the present invention that is applied to the fibers, but in terms of process passability, it is preferable to apply the treatment agent so that the non-volatile content of the treatment agent is 0.1 to 3% by weight relative to the fibers. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the method of applying the treatment agent, and known methods such as roller lubrication, guide lubrication using a metering pump, immersion lubrication, and spray lubrication can be employed. [Examples]

[0050] The present invention will be specifically described below with reference to examples, but is not limited to the examples described herein. In the following examples, percentages (%) and parts refer to "weight percent" and "parts by weight" respectively, unless otherwise specified. Each characteristic value was measured based on the method described below.

[0051] <Condensed product (A)> A1-1: Condensation of aliphatic alkanolamide (amidated lauric acid and N-(2-aminoethyl)ethanolamine) and urea A2-1: Acetate of a condensate of aliphatic alkanolamide (amidated lauric acid and N-(2-aminoethyl)ethanolamine) and urea A2-2: Acetate of a condensate of aliphatic alkanolamide (amidate of stearic acid and N-(2-aminoethyl)ethanolamine) and urea A2-3: Acetate of a condensate of aliphatic alkanolamide (amidated lauric acid and N-(2-aminobutyl)ethanolamine) and urea

[0052] <Comparative example condensate> a1: Acetate of a condensate of aliphatic amide (amidate of lauric acid and diethylenetriamine) and urea

[0053] <Quaternary compound (B)> B1: (Bis-hydroxyethyl) laurylammonium ethosulfate (Diethyl sulfate quaternary of a (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine satisfying general formula (1) with R having 12 carbon atoms, AO being an oxyethylene group, m=1, and n=1) B2: (Bis-hydroxyethyl) laurylammonium methosulfate (Dimethyl sulfate quaternary of a (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine satisfying general formula (1) with R having 12 carbon atoms, AO being an oxyethylene group, m=1, and n=1) B3: (Bis-hydroxyethyl)stearylammonium ethosulfate (Diethyl sulfate quaternary of a (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine satisfying general formula (1) with R having 18 carbon atoms, AO being an oxyethylene group, m=1, and n=1) B4: Bis(2-ethoxyethyl)laurylammonium ethosulfate (a quaternary diethyl sulfate of a (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine satisfying general formula (1) that R has 12 carbon atoms, AO is an oxyethylene group, m=2, and n=2)

[0054] <Comparative example: Quaternary compound> b1: (Bishydroxyethyl) laurylammonium chloride b2: Laurylammonium ethosulfate

[0055] <Fatty acid ester (D)> D-1: Esterified sorbitol and oleic acid (monoester:diester:tryester = 3:4:3 (molar ratio)) D-2: Esterified sorbitol and stearic acid (monoester:diester:tryester = 3:4:3 (molar ratio)) D-3: Esterified glycerin and stearic acid (monoester:diester:tryester = 3:4:3 (molar ratio))

[0056] <Polyoxyalkylene derivative E> E1: Polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene block polyether (molar ratio of oxypropylene groups to oxyethylene groups (PO / EO) = 20 / 80 (molar ratio)) (Mw5500) E2: Polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene random polyether (molar ratio of oxypropylene groups to oxyethylene groups (PO / EO) = 20 / 80 (molar ratio)) (Mw 15000)

[0057] [Table 1]

[0058] [Table 2]

[0059] [Table 3]

[0060] Each component and water were mixed to create an aqueous emulsifier so that the non-volatile content of the treatment agents shown in Examples 1 to 21 and Comparative Examples 1 to 11 in Tables 1 to 3 above would be 70% by weight, and a textile treatment agent with a non-volatile content of 70% by weight was prepared. Next, the prepared treatment agent was further diluted with water to obtain a diluted solution with a non-volatile content of 1.0%.

[0061] The above diluted solution was applied to 1.7 dtex × 51 mm acrylic cotton that had been degreased with hot water, so that the amount of oil adhering after drying was 0.30 to 0.40% by weight in terms of the non-volatile content of the treatment agent. The samples were then dried in a constant temperature dryer at 100°C for 1 hour. The antistatic properties of each sample were evaluated by measuring the generated static electricity after performing the fiber opening process, carding process, and drawing process on a miniature spinning machine. In addition, the stability, pH, and texture (flexibility) of the oiling solution were evaluated.

[0062] <Evaluation of antistatic properties> Tables 1-3 summarize the measurement results of static electricity generated during the miniature card and dough-making processes for each sample prepared using the method described above. A smaller amount of static electricity generated (a smaller absolute value) indicates superior antistatic properties.

[0063] <Solution stability> The stability of aqueous dispersions of each fiber treatment agent, diluted with deionized water to a non-volatile content of 10% by weight, was assessed by visual inspection after being left in a constant-temperature dryer at 50°C for one week, based on the following criteria. The results are summarized in Tables 1-3. ○: No separation or precipitate was observed after 7 days, indicating good stability. △: No separation or precipitate is observed after 4 days, but separation or precipitate is confirmed after 7 days, indicating slightly inferior stability. ×: Separation or precipitation may be observed within 3 days, indicating poor stability.

[0064] <pH of the diluted solution> The pH of each fiber treatment agent diluted with deionized water to a non-volatile content of 1.0% by weight was measured at 25°C, and the results are summarized in Tables 1-3.

[0065] <Texture (Flexibility)> The texture of each sample was evaluated based on the following criteria, and the results are summarized in Tables 1-3. ◎: Excellent flexibility ○: Good flexibility △: Flexibility possible ×: Poor flexibility

[0066] As shown in Tables 1-3, the textile treatment agents of Examples 1-21 were the treatment agents of the present invention, and therefore achieved both static electricity suppression and flexibility. On the other hand, the textile treatment agents of Comparative Examples 1-11 were not the treatment agents of the present invention, and therefore lacked excellence in at least one of static electricity suppression and flexibility. [Industrial applicability]

[0067] The textile treatment agent of the present invention is suitable for synthetic fibers such as polyester fibers, polyamide fibers, acrylic fibers, polyolefin fibers, and flame-resistant fibers used for industrial materials and clothing.

Claims

1. A textile treatment agent containing a condensate (A) and a quaternary compound (B), The condensate (A) is at least one selected from a condensate of fatty acid alkanolamide and urea (A1) and a salt (A2) of the condensate (A1). The quaternary compound (B) is at least one selected from (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine dimethyl sulfate quaternary compound and (poly)oxyalkylene alkylamine diethyl sulfate quaternary compound. A treatment agent for textiles.

2. The textile treatment agent according to claim 1, wherein the salt (A2) of the condensate (A1) contains a salt with Brønsted acid (C).

3. The textile treatment agent according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a fatty acid ester (D).

4. The textile treatment agent according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a polyoxyalkylene derivative (E), wherein the derivative (E) has a polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene structure.

5. The textile treatment agent according to claim 4, wherein the molar ratio (PO / EO) of oxypropylene groups to oxyethylene groups in the polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene structure is 5 / 95 to 95 / 5.

6. The textile treatment agent according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the weight ratio (A / B) of the condensate (A) to the quaternary compound (B) contained in the nonvolatile components of the textile treatment agent is 0.1 to 2.

0.

7. The textile treatment agent according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the total proportion of the condensate (A) and the quaternary compound (B) in the nonvolatile content of the textile treatment agent is 10 to 50% by weight.

8. A fiber treatment agent according to claim 1 or 2, which is for at least one fiber selected from acrylic fibers and flame-retardant fibers.

9. A fiber to which the fiber treatment agent according to claim 1 or 2 is attached.

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