Foaming detergent and method of use thereof

Abstract

To provide a foamable detergent with increased foaming levels and a method for use thereof, specifically, a foamable detergent that increases foaming levels without increasing the total usage of the foamable detergent and a method for use thereof.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to a foaming detergent that includes a combination of a tablet containing a foaming agent and powder containing a foaming agent, a method of producing the foaming detergent, and a method of cleaning an object using the foaming detergent.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a foaming detergent that can be suitably used for cleaning hard surfaces around water, such as water storage parts or drain pipes in kitchens, washrooms, toilets, etc., and a method for using the same.

Background Art

[0002] Foaming detergent compositions containing bleaching agents, surfactants, etc. are used for cleaning hard surfaces around water, such as water storage parts or drain pipes in kitchens, washrooms, toilets, etc. When such a foaming detergent composition comes into contact with water, it foams, and the detergent components such as bleaching agents and surfactants spread over the object to be cleaned together with the foam, thereby exerting a cleaning effect. Conventionally, in order to efficiently remove dirt using a foaming detergent composition, studies have mainly focused on the formulation composition of the foaming detergent composition from the viewpoints of improving the bleaching effect and increasing the amount of foam generated (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2). For example, in a foaming detergent composition, increasing the blending amount of carbonates or the like that serve as a source of carbon dioxide gas as much as possible has been studied. However, in order to increase the amount of foam such as carbon dioxide gas, it is necessary to make the aqueous solution acidic, so it is necessary to increase the blending amount of acids such as organic acids in addition to the blending amount of carbonates or the like. In addition, in order to enhance the cleaning effect, it is necessary to blend detergent components such as bleaching agents and surfactants. That is, in order to achieve both foaming power and cleaning effect, it was necessary to blend various compounds in addition to the foaming components in the foaming detergent composition. Therefore, in order to further increase the amount of foam generated, a choice was made to increase the total amount of the foaming detergent composition used, resulting in excessive use of components that have no direct relation to the amount of foam generated, leading to the problem of being economically inefficient.

[0003] As described above, since there was a limit to the attempt to increase the amount of foam by focusing on the optimization of the conventional formulation composition, there has been a demand for a foaming detergent that can increase the amount of foam without increasing the total blending amount of the foaming detergent and a method for using the same.

Prior Art Documents

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-024875 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-013611 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a foaming detergent with increased foaming capacity and a method for using the same. Specifically, the aim is to provide a foaming detergent and a method for using the same that increase foaming capacity without increasing the total amount of foaming detergent used. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In view of the problems of the prior art, the inventors diligently studied techniques to increase the amount of foam produced by focusing on the dosage form and method of use of detergent compositions. As a result, they found that using a foaming detergent that combines tablets containing a foaming agent and powder containing a foaming agent increases the amount of foam produced compared to using a powder detergent containing a foaming agent alone. Based on this finding, further studies were conducted to complete the present invention. The present invention relates to the following foaming detergent and method of use thereof.

[0007] Item 1. A foaming detergent comprising a combination of tablets containing a foaming agent and powder containing a foaming agent.

[0008] Item 2. The foaming detergent according to Item 1, wherein the mass ratio of tablets to powder (tablets / powder) is 0.14 to 7.

[0009] Item 3, The foaming detergent according to item 1 or 2, wherein the total content of the foaming agent contained in the tablets and powder is 10% by mass to 99% by mass.

[0010] Item 4. A foaming detergent according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the foaming agent is one or more selected from the group consisting of foaming agents that generate oxygen and foaming agents that generate carbon dioxide.

[0011] Item 5. A foaming cleaning agent according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the tablets and powder each contain, either the same or different, a foaming agent comprising a hypochlorous acid source and a hydrogen peroxide source, and either or both of a foaming agent comprising an organic acid and a carbonate.

[0012] Item 6. A foaming cleaning agent according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the tablets and powder each contain a foaming agent consisting of a hypochlorous acid source and a hydrogen peroxide source, either identical or different.

[0013] Item 7. The foaming detergent according to item 5 or 6, wherein the hypochlorous acid source is one or more selected from the group consisting of halogenated isocyanuric acid, halogenated hydantoin, and calcium hypochlorite, and the hydrogen peroxide source is one or more selected from the group consisting of sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, and organic peroxides.

[0014] Item 8. A foaming detergent according to any one of items 1 to 7, comprising a mixture of tablets containing a foaming agent and a powder containing a foaming agent.

[0015] Item 9. A foaming detergent according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein tablets containing a foaming agent and powder containing a foaming agent are each housed in different containers.

[0016] Item 10. A method for producing a foaming detergent as described in Item 8, comprising the step of mixing a tablet containing a foaming agent and a powder containing a foaming agent.

[0017] Item 11. A method for producing a foaming detergent as described in Item 9, comprising the step of housing tablets containing a foaming agent and powder containing a foaming agent in separate containers.

[0018] Item 12. A method for using a foaming detergent, comprising the step of bringing a powder containing a foaming agent contained in the foaming detergent according to any one of Items 1 to 9 and a tablet containing a foaming agent into contact with a cleaning object to which water adheres (putting it into a cleaning object having a water pool).

[0019] Item 13. A method for cleaning a cleaning object, comprising the step of bringing a powder containing a foaming agent contained in the foaming detergent according to any one of Items 1 to 9 and a tablet containing a foaming agent into contact with a cleaning object to which water adheres (putting it into a cleaning object having a water pool).

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] The present invention is characterized by a foaming detergent combining a tablet containing a foaming agent and a powder containing a foaming agent. By bringing this foaming detergent into contact with water, the amount of foam generated increases dramatically compared to a foaming detergent composed only of conventional powder and a foaming detergent composed only of tablets. This effect is clear from the results of the examples and comparative examples in which a foaming detergent combining tablets and powder, a foaming detergent composed only of powder, and a foaming detergent composed only of tablets having the same composition (components and contents) were evaluated.

[0021] The foaming detergent of the present invention can be suitably used for cleaning hard surfaces around water, such as water pools, drain outlets, and drain pipes in the kitchen, washroom, bathroom, toilet, etc.

[0022] In this specification, "the amount of foam increases" means that, when compared with a foaming detergent composed only of powder or only of tablets, the maximum amount of foam generated within the period until the foam generated after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of foaming decreases when the foaming detergent is put into water, and / or the amount of foam at the time point after a predetermined time required for cleaning has elapsed from the start of foaming when the foaming detergent is put into water increases, either one or both cases.

[0023] The foaming detergent of the present invention can efficiently clean by allowing bubbles containing detergent components generated by foaming over a wide range to reach the areas where dirt adheres, such as the water contact surface of the water accumulation part, the periphery of the drain outlet, and the inside of the drain pipe, because the maximum amount of foam increases. Also, since the amount of foam at the time after a predetermined time required for cleaning has elapsed from the start of foaming increases, the foam containing the foaming detergent can act on the cleaning target for a long time, so a high cleaning effect can be obtained. That is, the time and the amount of foam required for cleaning the object to be cleaned can be maintained. Furthermore, when the maximum amount of foam increases within the period until the foam generated after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of foaming by adding the foaming detergent to water decreases, and the amount of foam at the time after a predetermined time required for cleaning has elapsed from the start of foaming by adding the foaming detergent to water increases, it is more preferable because both effects of efficiently cleaning the object to be cleaned over a wide range and allowing the foam containing the detergent component to act on the cleaning target for a long time can be obtained.

[0024] Generally, when comparing a powdered foaming detergent and a tablet-type foaming detergent, when their compositions (components and their contents) are the same, the powder dissolves in water more quickly and foams, so the maximum amount of foam is larger. On the other hand, tablets usually dissolve slowly because the surface area per unit mass in contact with water is smaller than that of powder, and the maximum amount of foam is less than that of powder. Therefore, it was predicted that the maximum amount of foam of a foaming detergent combining powder and tablets would be intermediate between the maximum amount of foam when only powder is used and the maximum amount of foam when only tablets are used. However, contrary to this prediction, it was confirmed that by using a foaming detergent combining powder and tablets, the maximum amount of foam increases and the amount of foam at the time after a predetermined time has elapsed also increases compared to a foaming detergent containing only powder.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0025] (Foaming Detergent) The foaming cleaning agent of the present invention can be suitably used for cleaning hard surfaces in water-filled areas such as kitchens, washrooms, bathrooms, and toilets, as well as drains and drainpipes.

[0026] In this specification, "foaming detergent" refers to a combination of tablets containing a foaming agent and powder containing a foaming agent, and unless otherwise specified, includes both a form in which the tablets and powder are mixed together, and a form in which the tablets and powder are separate and combined into a single unit for use, and also includes forms that contain ingredients other than the tablets and powder. The foaming detergent of the present invention is used in combination with tablets and powder, and therefore the amount of foam can be increased without increasing the total amount of detergent composition used. The tablets and powder used in the present invention are each compositions containing multiple components, and the tablets and powder may be prepared separately. Powders can be prepared by mixing multiple powdered raw materials in a mixer or the like. Tablets can be formed by combining multiple ingredients and then going through a compression process (hereinafter sometimes referred to as tableting). The foaming detergent of the present invention is a combination of tablets and powder, therefore, the tablets alone do not... Compared to cleaning agents using only purifying agents or powders, the amount of foam generated is increased. The tablets and powders may have the same composition or different compositions. Furthermore, using tablets and powder in combination encompasses any of the following methods: adding the tablets to water first, then the powder; adding the powder to water first, then the tablets; or adding the tablets and powder to water simultaneously. A foaming detergent in which a mixture of tablets and powder is packaged in the same container is preferable because it allows for the simultaneous use of tablets and powder during cleaning, making the process easier.

[0027] (tablet) In this specification, "tablet" refers to a molded product obtained by compressing a tablet component containing a foaming agent by tableting. The form of the tablet component before tableting can be any form suitable for tableting, such as powder, granules, or briquettes. For tableting, widely known tablet presses such as rotary tablet presses and reciprocating tablet presses can be used. The tableting pressure is preferably about 5 to 100 MPa from the viewpoint of productivity and moldability. The hardness of the resulting tablet is usually preferably about 200 to 800 N from the viewpoint of shape stability. The shape of the tablet is not particularly limited. Examples include cylindrical, cylindrical, oval, go-stone shaped, polygonal prism shapes including triangular, square, and star shapes, and corner-shaped tablets. From the viewpoint of ease of processing and handling, a cylindrical shape is preferred.

[0028] The size of the tablets used in this invention is preferably such that the sum of the length of the longest line segment on the tablet base (for example, the diameter if the tablet base is circular, the length of the longest side if it is triangular, or the length of the diagonal if it is rectangular) and the tablet height is within a predetermined range, from the viewpoint of ease of processing, strength, shape retention, and ease of handling. Here, the sum of the length of the longest line segment on the tablet base and the tablet height means the sum of the diameter of the circle on the tablet base and the tablet height if the tablet is cylindrical, the sum of the length of the longest side of the triangle on the tablet base and the tablet height if it is a triangular prism, the sum of the length of the diagonal of the quadrilateral on the tablet base and the tablet height if it is a rectangular prism (the largest combination of the sum of the diagonal of the base and the height if it is a rectangular prism other than a cuboid), and in the case of a Go stone or bale shape, it means the sum of the maximum vertical thickness and the maximum horizontal width. In the present invention, it is preferable that the sum of the length of the longest line segment on the tablet base and the tablet height is greater than the average particle diameter of the powder. From the viewpoint of ease of processing and handling, the sum of the length of the longest line segment on the tablet base and the tablet height is preferably 5 mm to 400 mm, and more preferably 10 mm to 200 mm. Furthermore, the tablet can be made into a composition by combining a foaming agent with various compounds beneficial for cleaning.

[0029] If the tablet is cylindrical, the diameter of the base of the cylinder is usually 3 to 200 mm, preferably 5 to 100 mm, and more preferably 10 to 50 mm. The height of the cylinder is usually 3 to 200 mm, preferably 5 to 100 mm, and more preferably 10 to 50 mm. The sum of the diameter of the base of the tablet and the height of the tablet is usually 6 to 400 mm, preferably 10 to 200 mm, and more preferably 20 to 100 mm. Furthermore, if the tablet is cylindrical, the tablet is less likely to break or chip if the value obtained by dividing the tablet diameter (mm) by the tablet height (mm) is within a predetermined range. Therefore, the value obtained by dividing the tablet diameter (mm) by the tablet height (mm) is preferably 1 to 10, more preferably 1.5 to 6, and even more preferably 1.5 to 3.5.

[0030] (powder) In this specification, "powder" means an aggregate of particles containing a foaming agent. The shape of the particles is not particularly limited and can be irregular, spherical, or spheroidal. The powder of the present invention may be secondarily processed into granules, for example, by processing fine powder using conventionally known methods such as fluid bed granulation, or by compressing and molding using conventionally known methods such as a chill sonar and then grinding. This also includes cases where the raw material compounds are mixed beforehand and then subjected to secondary processing such as granulation, or the raw materials that have already undergone secondary processing such as granulation are mixed together to prepare the product. Furthermore, the powder can be composed by combining particles of various compounds that are beneficial for cleaning, in addition to foaming agents.

[0031] The average particle size of the powder is preferably, for example, 1 to 5000 μm, more preferably 10 to 3000 μm, and even more preferably 100 to 1500 μm. When the average particle size is 5000 μm or less, the particles are not too large and are easy to handle; when it is 3000 μm or less, it is even easier to handle; and when it is 1500 μm or less, it is even easier to handle. Furthermore, when the average particle size is 5000 μm or less, it is easy to use because it can be directly placed into drains with small openings when used for direct washing or bleaching; when it is 3000 μm or less, it is even easier to use; and when it is 1500 μm or less, it is even easier to use. On the other hand, when the average particle size is 1 μm or more, it is easy to use because it is less likely to scatter with even a slight breeze or static electricity during handling; when it is 10 μm or more, it is even easier to use; and when it is 100 μm or more, it is even easier to use.

[0032] The average particle size of the powder can be measured as follows: Using 13 sieves and a tray with mesh sizes of 75 μm, 106 μm, 150 μm, 250 μm, 425 μm, 600 μm, 710 μm, 850 μm, 1000 μm, 1180 μm, 1400 μm, 1700 μm, and 2000 μm, stack the sieves on the tray with the largest mesh sizes on top. Place the sample on top of the top sieve with a mesh size of 2000 μm, and stack the sieves on the tray with the largest mesh sizes on top. Set the stacked sieves in a sieve shaker and shake for 10 minutes to separate the samples. The sieve shaker may be used with a vibration frequency of 3600 times / min and an amplitude of 1 mm. For measuring particle size distribution, methods and equipment (sieves) described in JIS Z 8815 or JIS Z 8801 may be used.

[0033] As a sieve shaker, for example, the "AS200CONTROL" manufactured by Lechner can be used, but it is not limited to this. If a sieve shaker cannot be used, support the stacked sieves with one hand and tap the sieve frame at a rate of approximately 120 times per minute. Occasionally, place the sieves horizontally and tap the sieve frame firmly several times. Repeat this operation to ensure sufficient sieving. If the sample is agglomerated or if fine powder adheres to the inside or back of the sieve, gently loosen the sample with a brush and repeat the sieving operation, keeping the material that passes through the sieve as the "bottom of the sieve". The "bottom of the sieve" refers to the test sample that has passed through the sieve by the end of the sieving process.

[0034] If the sample contains particles larger than 2000 μm, multiple sieves with progressively different mesh sizes exceeding 2000 μm may be added. For example, sieves with mesh sizes of 2360 μm, 2800 μm, 3350 μm, 4000 μm, 4750 μm, 5600 μm, or larger may be added. If there are many particles smaller than 75 μm, multiple sieves with progressively different mesh sizes less than 75 μm may be added. For example, sieves with mesh sizes of 63 μm, 53 μm, 45 μm, 38 μm, or smaller may be added. Other mesh sizes of sieves can also be selected.

[0035] The mass of the particles remaining on each sieve and tray is measured, and the mass percentage (%) of the particles on each sieve is calculated. The mass percentages of the particles on the sieves with smaller mesh sizes are added up sequentially, starting from the tray. Let the first sieve with a mesh size of aμm be aμm, the next sieve with a mesh size of bμm, the cumulative mass percentage from the tray to the aμm sieve be c%, and the mass percentage on the aμm sieve be d%, then the average particle diameter can be calculated using the following formula 1.

[0036] (Equation 1) JPEG0007870797000001.jpg2649

[0037] The mass ratio of powder to tablets contained in the foaming detergent of the present invention is preferably within a predetermined range. For example, if the foaming detergent is in the form of a mixture of powder and tablets, it is desirable that the mass ratio of tablets to powder in the mixture be within a predetermined range. Also, if the foaming detergent is in the form of separate powder and tablets, it is desirable that the mass ratio of tablets to powder added be within a predetermined range. Specifically, the mass ratio of tablets to powder in the foaming detergent (the value obtained by dividing the mass of tablets by the mass of powder; tablets / powder) is preferably 0.14 to 7, more preferably 0.14 to 5, and even more preferably 0.3 to 2.5. If the mass ratio of tablets to powder is 0.14 to 7, an excellent increase in foam volume can be expected; if it is 0.14 to 5, an even better increase in foam volume can be expected; and if it is 0.3 to 2.5, an even better increase in foam volume can be expected.

[0038] The foaming detergent may contain one or more tablets. As mentioned above, it is preferable to prepare the foaming detergent so that the mass ratio of the tablets to the powder is within a desired range, and one or more tablets may be used within that range. The number of tablets may also be adjusted by using tablets whose mass has been adjusted in advance.

[0039] (Foaming agent) Both the tablets and powders contained in the foaming detergent of the present invention contain a foaming agent. The foaming agent is capable of generating gas when added to water. Examples of foaming agents include foaming agents that generate carbon dioxide gas, foaming agents that generate oxygen gas, or mixtures thereof. The tablets and powders each contain either or both of a foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas and a foaming agent that generates oxygen gas. To obtain a greater effect in increasing the amount of foam, it is preferable that both the tablets and powders contained in the foaming detergent of the present invention contain a foaming agent that generates oxygen gas.

[0040] In this specification, when simply referring to "amount of foaming agent," it means the total amount of foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas and foaming agent that generates oxygen gas in the foaming detergent. When distinguishing between foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas and foaming agent that generates oxygen gas, it shall be clearly stated which type of foaming agent is being referred to.

[0041] The amount of foaming agent contained in the tablets and powder of the foaming detergent is preferably 10% by mass or more, more preferably 20% by mass or more, and even more preferably 50% by mass or more, based on the total mass of the tablets and powder. By setting the amount to 10% by mass or more, a sufficient amount of gas is ensured, so the amount of foam tends to increase when tablets and powder are combined, by setting it to 20% by mass or more, the amount of foam tends to increase even further, and by setting it to 50% by mass or more, the amount of foam tends to increase even further. In addition, since other components are added to the foaming detergent to enhance the cleaning effect, the amount of foaming agent is preferably 99% by mass or less, more preferably 90% by mass or less, and even more preferably 85% by mass or less, based on the total mass of the tablets and powder. A foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas and a foaming agent that generates oxygen gas may be combined and blended in the foaming detergent.

[0042] (A foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas) Examples of foaming agents that generate carbon dioxide gas include combinations of carbonates and acids. As the carbonate, one or more selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate (hereinafter sometimes referred to as soda ash), sodium bicarbonate (hereinafter sometimes referred to as baking soda), potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, ammonium carbonate, sodium sesquicarbonate, and mixtures thereof are preferred, and one or more selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and mixtures thereof are more preferred due to their availability and low cost. When these carbonates dissolve in water, they produce carbonate ions, and under acidic conditions, the carbonate ions become carbon dioxide and produce bubbles. Inorganic acids and organic acids can be used as acids to make the pH acidic. Inorganic acids are not particularly limited as long as they exhibit acidity when dissolved in water, such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and acidic sodium sulfate. Of these, those that are solid at room temperature and pressure are preferable for use as foaming detergents in combination with other detergent components; examples include acidic sodium sulfate. Organic acids are not particularly limited as long as they exhibit acidity when dissolved in water. For example, one or more selected from the group consisting of oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, D-tartaric acid, L-tartaric acid, D-malic acid, L-malic acid, D-aspartic acid, L-aspartic acid, glutaric acid, D-glutamic acid, L-glutamic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, hexanoic acid, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid, nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, undecanoic acid, dodecanoic acid, myristic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid, citric acid, and mixtures thereof. As organic acids, one or more selected from oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, D-tartaric acid, L-tartaric acid, D-malic acid, L-malic acid, D-aspartic acid, L-aspartic acid, glutaric acid, D-glutamic acid, L-glutamic acid, citric acid, and mixtures thereof are preferred because they are solid at room temperature and pressure and easy to handle. From the viewpoint of excellent compatibility with hypochlorous acid sources (chlorine-based bleaches) such as sodium dichloroisocyanurate, which are oxidizing agents, one or more acids selected from succinic acid, fumaric acid, and mixtures thereof are more preferable.

[0043] When the powder and / or tablets contained in the foaming detergent of the present invention contain a foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas, the mixing ratio of acid to carbonate (acid / carbonate) is preferably 0.5 to 1.4 as a reaction equivalent ratio for efficient foaming, preferably 0.7 to 1.4 for more efficient foaming, and preferably 0.7 to 1.3 for even more efficient foaming. Here, the reaction equivalent ratio is the ratio of the reaction equivalent of the organic acid to the reaction equivalent of the carbonate, and the reaction equivalents of the carbonate and the organic acid are calculated using the following formula 2.

[0044] (Equation 2) Reaction equivalent = (100g × proportion (mass%)) / (1 gram equivalent) However, 1 gram equivalent is calculated using the formula: 1 gram equivalent = (molecular weight) / (valence of acid or base). Note that valence refers to the valence as an acid or as a base.

[0045] In this specification, "containing a foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas" means containing an acid (especially an organic acid) and a carbonate, and "amount of foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas" means the total amount of organic acid and carbonate in the foaming detergent.

[0046] The blending ratio of the foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas is preferably 10 to 99% by mass, more preferably 20 to 90% by mass, and even more preferably 30 to 80% by mass, relative to the total mass of the tablets and powder (in the foaming detergent).

[0047] (A foaming agent that generates oxygen gas) As a foaming agent that generates oxygen gas, an oxidizing agent (hereinafter, when referred to as an oxidizing agent in this specification, Compounds that generate hydrogen peroxide should be excluded.) ) and compounds that generate hydrogen peroxide can be used in combination. It is preferable to use a compound that generates hypochlorous acid as an oxidizing agent. For example, one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of trichloroisocyanuric acid, sodium dichloroisocyanurate, sodium dichloroisocyanurate hydrate, potassium dichloroisocyanurate, dichlorohydantoin, chlorobromohydantoin, dibromohydantoin, calcium hypochlorite, and mixtures thereof are preferred. From the viewpoint of solubility in water and ease of handling, one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of sodium dichloroisocyanurate, sodium dichloroisocyanurate hydrate, and mixtures thereof are preferred. In addition, potassium monopersulfate double salt and the like can be used as oxidizing agents other than compounds that generate hypochlorous acid. As a compound that generates hydrogen peroxide, it is preferable to select one or more from the group consisting of sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, organic peroxides such as peracetic acid and benzoic acid peroxide, and mixtures thereof. From the viewpoint of excellent blending stability, good solubility in water, and ease of availability and handling, it is preferable to select one or more from the group consisting of sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, and mixtures thereof. The tablet and powder formulations may be identical or different.

[0048] By using a combination of an oxidizing agent and a compound that generates hydrogen peroxide, it acts as a foaming agent by generating oxygen gas. For example, 1 mole of sodium dichloroisocyanurate, which acts as an oxidizing agent and a source of hypochlorous acid, generates 2 moles of hypochlorous acid when dissolved in water. On the other hand, for example, 1 mole of sodium percarbonate, which acts as a source of hydrogen peroxide, has 1.5 moles of hydrogen peroxide added to 1 mole of sodium carbonate, and generates 1.5 moles of hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water. In water, hypochlorous acid and hydrogen peroxide react according to the following reaction equation (I) to produce hydrochloric acid, water, and oxygen. That is, 4 moles of sodium percarbonate are needed to obtain 6 moles of hypochlorous acid and an equivalent amount of 6 moles of hydrogen peroxide from 3 moles of sodium dichloroisocyanurate. HClO+H2O2→ HCl+H2O+O2···(I) The molecular weight of sodium dichloroisocyanurate is 220, and the molecular weight of sodium percarbonate, which is calculated by adding 1.5 moles of hydrogen peroxide to 1 mole of sodium carbonate, is 157. Therefore, 4 moles (628 g) of sodium percarbonate are needed to release hydrogen peroxide so that it reacts completely with the hypochlorous acid produced from 3 moles (660 g) of sodium dichloroisocyanurate. In this case, the mass ratio of sodium dichloroisocyanurate to sodium percarbonate required to obtain the complete amount of hypochlorous acid and hydrogen peroxide can be considered to be 1.05:1. In water, hypochlorous acid can take the form of hypochlorite ions or chlorine gas depending on the pH, etc., but both forms can react with hydrogen peroxide.

[0049] When both the oxidizing agent and the compound that generates hydrogen peroxide are blended in a ratio that allows the reaction shown in formula (I) to proceed without excess or deficiency, the amount of foaming agent blended is equal to the total amount of the oxidizing agent and the compound that generates hydrogen peroxide. On the other hand, if either the oxidizing agent or the compound that generates hydrogen peroxide is blended in an amount exceeding the amount necessary for the reaction to proceed without excess or deficiency, the excess amount of the oxidizing agent or the compound that generates hydrogen peroxide acts as a bleaching agent. Therefore, in this specification, when referring to the amount of foaming agent that generates oxygen gas, it means the total amount of the oxidizing agent and the compound that generates hydrogen peroxide within the range that allows the reaction to proceed without excess or deficiency, and the excess amount of the oxidizing agent or the compound that generates hydrogen peroxide is classified as a bleaching agent. Accordingly, the same compound that acts as an oxidizing agent or a compound that generates hydrogen peroxide may be distinguished as either a foaming agent or a bleaching agent.

[0050] Typically available sodium percarbonate contains 1 mole of sodium carbonate with approximately 1.5 moles of hydrogen peroxide added. However, for safety reasons, there are sodium percarbonates with a higher sodium carbonate content (relatively fewer hydrogen peroxide additions). In this specification, sodium percarbonate refers to such sodium carbonate... This includes substances in which 1.5 moles or less of hydrogen peroxide are added to 1 mole of sodium. In other words, sodium percarbonate includes mixtures of sodium carbonate with added hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate without added hydrogen peroxide.

[0051] In this specification, "contains a foaming agent that generates oxygen gas" means that both the hypochlorous acid source and the hydrogen peroxide source are included, and "amount of foaming agent that generates oxygen gas" means the total amount of hypochlorous acid source and hydrogen peroxide source within the range in which the hypochlorous acid source and hydrogen peroxide source react without excess or deficiency. Any excess amount of hypochlorous acid source or hydrogen peroxide source that does not contribute to the oxygen gas generation reaction shall not be included in the amount of foaming agent.

[0052] The blending ratio of the foaming agent that generates oxygen gas is preferably 10 to 99% by mass, more preferably 15 to 95% by mass, and even more preferably 20 to 90% by mass, relative to the total mass of the tablets and powder (in the foaming detergent).

[0053] (Other additives) The tablets and powders of the present invention can be compositions formulated by combining compounds beneficial for various cleaning purposes. In addition to foaming agents, the tablets and powders of the present invention may contain other additives such as bleaching agents, surfactants, chelating agents (metal ion scavenging agents), organic polymers, fragrances, dyes, enzymes, and inorganic substances, as long as they do not impair the effects of the present invention. Liquid additives are not limited to solid additives and can also be used. For example, liquid additives may be pre-mixed with porous inorganic powders such as zeolites to support the liquid components on the inorganic material before being incorporated into the tablets and powders.

[0054] Examples of bleaches include chlorine-based bleaches, which become a source of hypochlorous acid when dissolved in water, and oxygen-based bleaches, which become a source of hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water. Chlorine-based and oxygen-based bleaches are also used as foaming agents to generate oxygen gas, but any portion added in excess of the reaction equivalent acts as a bleach. For example, when sodium dichloroisocyanurate and sodium percarbonate are used as foaming agents to generate oxygen gas, hypochlorous acid and hydrogen peroxide are generated when dissolved in water as described above, and these react to produce oxygen gas. In this case, if an amount of sodium dichloroisocyanurate exceeding the reaction equivalent is added, free hypochlorous acid remains in the aqueous solution after foaming, and this remaining hypochlorous acid acts as a bleach. Similarly, if an amount of sodium percarbonate exceeding the reaction equivalent is added, free hydrogen peroxide remains in the aqueous solution after foaming, and this remaining hydrogen peroxide acts as a bleach. Thus, when incorporating a bleaching agent, by adding either a hypochlorous acid source or a hydrogen peroxide source as a foaming agent that generates oxygen gas, in an amount exceeding the reaction equivalent for oxygen gas generation, the excess component can be used as a bleaching agent. When only a foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide is included, a bleaching agent may be added as appropriate.

[0055] Suitable chlorine-based bleaches include, for example, trichloroisocyanuric acid, sodium dichloroisocyanurate, sodium dichloroisocyanurate hydrate, potassium dichloroisocyanurate, dichlorohydantoin, chlorobromohydantoin, dibromohydantoin, and calcium hypochlorite. From the viewpoint of ease of availability and handling, trichloroisocyanuric acid, sodium dichloroisocyanurate, and sodium dichloroisocyanurate hydrate are preferred. These chlorine-based bleaches may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Examples of oxygen-based bleaches include organic peroxides such as sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, and benzoic acid peroxide, and potassium monopersulfate double salts. Sodium percarbonate and sodium perborate are preferred from the viewpoint of ease of availability and handling. These oxygen-based bleaches The agents may be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0056] The available chlorine content (in Cl2 equivalent) of compounds that serve as sources of hypochlorous acid for use as bleach (such as chlorine-based bleaches) can be calculated using the iodine titration method. Specifically, the iodine released by the reaction of activated chlorine with potassium iodide is titrated with an aqueous sodium thiosulfate solution, and the available chlorine content is calculated using the following formula 3.

[0057] (Equation 3) Effective chlorine content (%) = a × f × 0.35452 / b a: 0.1N sodium thiosulfate aqueous solution required for titration (ml) b: Sample (g) f: Factor of 0.1N sodium thiosulfate aqueous solution

[0058] The theoretical effective chlorine content of trichloroisocyanuric acid is 91.5%, compared to 64.5% for sodium dichloroisocyanurate and 55.4% for sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate.

[0059] As a source of hydrogen peroxide, the effective oxygen content (O2 equivalent) of oxygen-based bleaches such as hydrogen peroxide adducts represented by sodium percarbonate can be calculated using the iodine titration method with the following formula 4. Specifically, the iodine released by the reaction of reactive oxygen species with potassium iodide is titrated with an aqueous sodium thiosulfate solution, and the effective oxygen content is calculated using the following formula 4. To accelerate the reaction between reactive oxygen species and potassium iodide, a small amount of an aqueous ammonium molybdate solution prepared to 1% by mass may be added.

[0060] (Equation 4) Effective oxygen content (%) = a × f × 0.08000 / b a: 0.1N sodium thiosulfate aqueous solution required for titration (ml) b: Sample (g) f: Factor of 0.1N sodium thiosulfate aqueous solution Furthermore, the theoretically available oxygen content of sodium percarbonate, which has 1.5 moles of hydrogen peroxide added to 1 mole of sodium carbonate, is 15.3%.

[0061] The proportion of bleach added is 1 to 50% by mass relative to the total mass of tablets and powder (in the foaming detergent). % is preferred, 2 to 40% by mass is more preferred, and 5 to 35% by mass is even more preferred.

[0062] Surfactants can be added to foaming detergent tablets and powders. Adding surfactants helps maintain the foam generated by the foaming action of the detergent, facilitating contact between the detergent components and the object being cleaned. Furthermore, the surfactant itself contributes to the removal of dirt from the object. Surfactants may be added to the powder only, to the tablets only, or to both. From the viewpoint of rapid dissolution and foaming, it is preferable to add surfactants only to the powder.

[0063] The surfactant content is expressed as a mass percentage relative to the total mass of the tablets and powder. For example, if a surfactant is added to either the powder or the tablets, the surfactant content (mass %) is calculated by dividing the mass of the surfactant added to either the powder or the tablets by the total mass of the powder and tablets and multiplying by 100. The surfactant content is preferably 0.1% by mass or more, more preferably 1% by mass or more, and even more preferably 2% by mass or more, based on the total mass of the tablets and powder. A concentration of 0.1% by mass or more is preferable because it provides sufficient surfactant activity and increases foaming, and even if it is 1% by mass or more... This is preferable because it increases the amount of foaming, and it is even preferable if it is 2% by mass or more because it further increases the amount of foaming.

[0064] If the amount of surfactant is too high, it not only fails to contribute to foaming, but it also limits the amount of other cleaning agents such as foaming agents that can be added. Therefore, the amount of surfactant is preferably 20% by mass or less, more preferably 10% by mass or less, and even more preferably 8% by mass or less, based on the total mass of the tablets and powder. 20% by mass or less is preferable because no surfactant is wasted; 10% by mass or less is preferable because no surfactant is wasted and more other cleaning agents can be added; and 8% by mass or less is even more preferable because more other cleaning agents can be added.

[0065] Furthermore, surfactants may not be incorporated into the tablets or powder, but may be added separately to the water reservoir or other area to be cleaned. For example, a surfactant may be added to the water reservoir that comes into contact with the object to be cleaned beforehand, and then the foaming detergent may be added. In this case, the amount of surfactant added separately can be within the same range as when the surfactant is incorporated into the tablets and / or powder. Examples of surfactants include anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, etc., and one or more selected from this group can be used. Thus, the foaming detergent of the present invention also includes a form in which a container containing tablets and powder and a container containing other ingredients (such as surfactants) are bundled together (for example, a form in which these are packaged together) so that the tablets, powder, and other ingredients (such as surfactants) can be used together for cleaning.

[0066] Examples of anionic surfactants that can be used in the present invention include fatty acid salts such as potassium oleate soap, potassium castor oil soap, semi-hardened sodium tallow fatty acid soap, and semi-hardened potassium tallow fatty acid soap; alkyl sulfate ester salts such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium higher alcohol sulfate, triethanolamine lauryl sulfate, and ammonium lauryl sulfate; alkylbenzene sulfonates such as C12-C14 branched or linear alkylbenzene sulfonates; sulfonates such as C14-C18 α-olefin sulfonates; alkylnaphthalene sulfonates such as alkylnaphthalene sulfonates; and dialkyl sulfosuccinate. One or more selected from the group consisting of dialkyl sulfosuccinates such as sodium; alkyldiaryl ether sulfonates such as sodium alkyldiphenyl ether disulfonate; alkyl phosphates such as potassium alkyl phosphate; naphthalene sulfonic acid formalin condensates such as sodium salt of β-naphthalene sulfonic acid formalin condensate; aromatic sulfonic acid formalin condensates such as sodium salt of aromatic sulfonic acid formalin condensate; polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfate esters such as sodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether sulfate; alkyl sulfosuccinates such as sodium alkyl sulfosuccinate; and mixtures thereof.

[0067] Examples of nonionic surfactants include polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene cetyl ether, polyoxyethylene stearyl ether, polyoxyethylene oleyl ether, and polyoxyethylene higher alcohol ether; sorbitan fatty acid esters such as sorbitan laurate, sorbitan palmitate, sorbitan stearate, and sorbitan oleate; polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters such as polyoxyethylene sorbitan laurate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan palmitate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan stearate, and polyoxyethylene sorbitan oleate; polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters such as polyethylene glycol laurate, polyethylene glycol stearate, and polyethylene glycol oleate; polyoxyethylene alkylamines such as polyoxyethylene laurylamine, polyoxyethylene stearylamine, and ethylenediamine-polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block polymer; lauric acid monoethanolamide, lauric acid diethanolamide, and milli Alkyl alkanolamides such as monoethanolamide stearate, diethanolamide myristate, monoethanolamide stearate, diethanolamide stearate, coconut oil fatty acid monoethanolamide, and coconut oil fatty acid diethanolamide; glycerin fatty acid esters such as monoglyceride stearate, diglyceride stearate, monoglyceride palmitate, diglyceride palmitate, monoglyceride oleic acid, and diglyceride oleic acid; sucrose fatty acid esters; and one or more selected from the group consisting of mixtures thereof.

[0068] Examples of cationic surfactants include alkylamine salts such as coconutamine acetate and stearylamine acetate; lauryltrimethylammonium salt, stearyltrimethylammonium salt, distearyldimethylammonium salt, alkylbenzyldimethylammonium salt, cetyltrimethylammonium salt, stearyltrimethylammonium salt, behenyltrimethylammonium salt, distearyldimethylammonium salt, diisotetradecyldimethylammonium salt, cetylpyridinium chloride, benzethonium chloride, benzalkonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, and other quaternary ammonium salts; and one or more selected from the group consisting of mixtures thereof.

[0069] Examples of amphoteric surfactants include alkyl betaines such as lauryl betaine, stearyl betaine, and 2-alkyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethylimidazolinium betaine; amine oxides such as lauryldimethylamine oxide; and one or more selected from these groups.

[0070] In the present invention, anionic surfactants are preferred as surfactants because they offer excellent compatibility with chlorine-based bleaches such as sodium dichloroisocyanurate. More preferably, the surfactant is one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, sodium linear alkylbenzene sulfonate, sodium α-olefin sulfonate, sodium alkyl sulfate, and mixtures thereof, because it offers particularly excellent compatibility with chlorine-based bleaches, good foam retention during foaming, and fine foam.

[0071] Examples of organic polymers include one or more selected from the group consisting of carrageenan, guar gum, locust bean gum, alginic acid, alkali metal salts of alginic acid; polysaccharides such as dextrin, xanthan gum, pectin, starch or derivatives thereof; methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, alkali metal salts of carboxymethylcellulose; ethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, other cellulose derivatives; and mixtures thereof. Alternatively, one or more selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylamide, polyethylene glycol, polyacrylic acid, polymaleic acid, olefin-sodium anhydride copolymer, acrylic acid-sodium maleate copolymer, diallyldimethylammonium-sodium acrylate copolymer, diallylmethylamine-sodium maleate copolymer, other synthetic polymer compounds, and mixtures thereof. Multiple organic polymers may also be used in combination.

[0072] Among organic polymers, polysaccharides are more preferable because they excel at maintaining the foam generated by foaming for a long period of time. Among polysaccharides, carrageenan, guar gum, locust bean gum, and xanthan gum are preferred from the viewpoint of compatibility with chlorine-based bleaching agents, with guar gum being even more preferred. Polysaccharides may be included in either tablets or powder, or in both. From the viewpoint of rapid dissolution, it is preferable to include them only in powder. The proportion of polysaccharides is preferably 0.01 to 2.5% by mass, more preferably 0.01 to 1.25% by mass, and even more preferably 0.01 to 0.25% by mass, based on the total mass of the tablets and powder. When a foaming detergent is dissolved in water, the viscosity of the water does not become too high and a decrease in foam volume is suppressed, so the proportion of polysaccharides is preferably 2.5% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the tablets and powder. A proportion of 2.5% by mass or less is preferable because it allows foam to be maintained for a long time while the amount of foam does not decrease easily, a proportion of 1.25% by mass or less is more preferable because it allows foam to be maintained for a long time while the amount of foam decreases even more easily, and a proportion of 0.25% by mass or less is even more preferable because it allows foam to be maintained for a long time while the amount of foam decreases even more easily.

[0073] As chelating agents, one or more selected from the group consisting of, for example, aminocarboxylic acid salts such as nitrilotriacetate, ethylenediaminetetraacetate, β-alanine diacetate, aspartate diacetate, methylglycine diacetate, and iminodisuccinate and their hydrates; hydroxyaminocarboxylic acid salts such as serine diacetate, hydroxyiminodisuccinate, hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetate, and dihydroxyethylglycine salt and their hydrates; phosphonocarboxylic acids such as tripolyphosphate, 1-diphosphonic acid, α-methylphosphonosuccinate, and 2-phosphonobutane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid, their alkali metal salts and their hydrates; polyacrylic acid and its alkali metal salts; glutamic acid diacetate and its hydrates; and mixtures thereof can be used. From the viewpoint of availability, ease of handling, and metal ion capture effect, one or more chelating agents selected from the group consisting of aminocarboxylic acid salts, aminocarboxylic acid salts, hydroxyaminocarboxylic acid salts, hydroxyaminocarboxylic acid salts and mixtures thereof are preferred.

[0074] Examples of pigments include Scarlet G Concentrate, Permanent Red GY, Seika First® Carmine 3870, Seika First Yellow 2200, Seika First Yellow 2700 (B) (all trade names, manufactured by Dainichi Seika Kogyo Co., Ltd.), Acid Blue 9, Direct Yellow 12 (both trade names, manufactured by Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), Phthalocyanine Blue, Riboflavin (both trade names, manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.), and Ultramarine Blue (both trade names, manufactured by Hayashi Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.). These pigments may be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0075] Conventional fragrances can be used as the fragrance agent.

[0076] Various enzymes useful for washing can be used as the enzyme.

[0077] Examples of inorganic substances (excluding carbonates) include silicates, sulfates, phosphates, acetates, alkali metal hydroxides, alkali metal chlorides, aluminum sulfates, siloxanes, clay-like minerals, and boron compounds.

[0078] Examples of silicates include alkali metal silicates such as sodium silicate, sodium metasilicate, sodium orthosilicate, and their hydrates; examples of sulfates include alkali metal sulfates such as sodium sulfate and potassium sulfate, and alkaline earth metal sulfates such as magnesium sulfate; examples of phosphates include alkali metal phosphates such as sodium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, and sodium tripolyphosphate, and ammonium dihydrogen phosphate; examples of alkali metal hydroxides include sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and lithium hydroxide; examples of alkali metal chlorides include sodium chloride and potassium chloride; examples of clay-like minerals include hectorite; and examples of boron compounds include one or more selected from the group consisting of boric acid, metaboric acid, boron oxide, and mixtures thereof. Examples of siloxanes include dimethylpolysiloxane. These silicates, sulfates, phosphates, alkali metal hydroxides, siloxanes, clay-like minerals, and boron compounds may be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0079] The tablets of the present invention may contain a lubricant for the purpose of improving production efficiency during tableting. The lubricants that can be used are not particularly limited, but examples include one or more selected from the group consisting of metal stearate salts such as magnesium stearate and calcium stearate, talc, and mixtures thereof.

[0080] (Preferred embodiments of foaming detergents) The foaming detergent of the present invention is comprised of a combination of tablets containing a foaming agent and a powder containing a foaming agent. The mass ratio of tablets to powder (tablets / powder) is preferably 0.14 to 5, and more preferably 0.3 to 2.5. The tablet shape is preferably cylindrical. The diameter of the base of the cylinder is preferably 5 to 40 mm, and more preferably 20 to 30 mm. The height of the cylinder is preferably 5 to 40 mm, and more preferably 10 to 30 mm. The sum of the diameter of the tablet base and the height of the tablet is preferably 10 to 50 mm, and more preferably 20 to 45 mm. The value obtained by dividing the diameter of the tablet base by the height of the tablet is preferably 1 to 10, and more preferably 1.5 to 3.5.

[0081] The proportion of the foaming agent contained in the tablets and powder is preferably 20% to 90% by mass, more preferably 40% to 90% by mass, and even more preferably 50% to 85% by mass, relative to the total mass of the tablets and powder (in the foaming detergent). The foaming agent contained in the tablets and powder preferably includes either or both a foaming agent consisting of a hypochlorous acid source and a hydrogen peroxide source, and a foaming agent consisting of an organic acid and a carbonate. Of these, it is more preferable to include a foaming agent consisting of a hypochlorous acid source and a hydrogen peroxide source. As the hypochlorous acid source, halogenated isocyanuric acid or its salt (particularly sodium dichloroisocyanurate, potassium dichloroisocyanurate, etc.) is preferred, and sodium dichloroisocyanurate is more preferred. As the hydrogen peroxide source, sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, etc. are preferred, and sodium percarbonate is more preferred. As the organic acid, oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, etc. are preferred, and succinic acid and fumaric acid are more preferred. As the carbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, etc. are preferred, and sodium bicarbonate is more preferred.

[0082] The foaming detergent tablets and / or powders of the present invention preferably further contain a bleaching agent and / or a surfactant. In particular, the powder is more preferably to contain a surfactant. The proportion of bleaching agent is preferably 1 to 50% by mass, and more preferably 5 to 20% by mass, relative to the total mass of the tablets and powder (in the foaming detergent). As a bleaching agent, chlorine-based bleaches are preferred, of which halogenated isocyanuric acid or its salts (especially sodium dichloroisocyanurate, potassium dichloroisocyanurate, etc.) are more preferred, and sodium dichloroisocyanurate is even more preferred. The surfactant content is preferably 0.1 to 10% by mass, and more preferably 0.3 to 8% by mass, relative to the total mass of the tablets and powder (in the foaming detergent). As for the surfactant, anionic surfactants are preferred, and among these, alkyl sulfate esters (such as sodium lauryl sulfate), alkylbenzene sulfonates, and sulfonates (such as sodium α-olefin sulfonate) are more preferred. The foaming detergent of the present invention preferably further contains other additives such as organic polymers (especially polysaccharides), inorganic substances (especially boron compounds, silicates, phosphates, etc.), and lubricants (magnesium stearate, etc.).

[0083] (How to use foaming detergents) The foaming cleaning agent of the present invention can efficiently clean or bleach dirt from an object that has a water reservoir by being added to the object. Examples of objects to be cleaned include hard surfaces in wet areas that are constantly in contact with water and where dirt tends to accumulate. Specifically, examples include water reservoirs in kitchens, washrooms, bathrooms, toilets, drains, and the inside of drain pipes.

[0084] The foaming cleaning agent of the present invention produces a large amount of foam when added to water, and the foam containing the cleaning agent components generated by the foaming can reach a wide area of ​​dirt-covered parts such as the waterline of a puddle, around the drain, and inside the drain pipe, enabling efficient cleaning. For example, when the cleaning agent composition of the present invention is added to the water in a toilet, a large amount of foam rises up and reaches the area around the waterline (the inner wall of the toilet bowl), while simultaneously allowing the cleaning agent components to spread to the bottom of the water in the water in the water in the pipes at the back. Similarly, when the cleaning agent composition of the present invention is added to the water in the water in the water in the water in the water in the water in the water in the drain of a kitchen, a large amount of foam rises up and allows the cleaning agent components to spread to the drain cover, inner wall, strainer, etc. Furthermore, the foaming cleaning agent of the present invention can be used in places where water is not normally present, as long as it can be added in combination with water. Examples include drains in bathrooms, bathtubs, and kitchen sinks.

[0085] In order to effectively exert the effects of the foaming detergent of the present invention, the concentration of the foaming detergent in the aqueous solution after addition is preferably 1 to 500 g / L, more preferably 5 to 300 g / L, and even more preferably 10 to 100 g / L. A concentration of 1 g / L or more of the foaming detergent provides sufficient foaming, making it easier to obtain an increased foaming effect compared to using only powder. A concentration of 5 g / L or more makes it easier to obtain an increased foaming effect, and a concentration of 10 g / L or more makes it even easier to obtain an increased foaming effect.

[0086] From the viewpoint of safety in use, the foaming detergent of the present invention preferably has a pH near neutral when dissolved in water. A pH near neutral in an aqueous solution means that when both the tablets and powder of the foaming detergent are dissolved in water, the pH of a 5% by mass aqueous solution (20-25°C) is 6-8. The foaming detergent of the present invention preferably has a pH of 6-8 in a 5% by mass aqueous solution, and more preferably 6.5-7.5. A pH of 6 or higher in a 5% by mass aqueous solution reduces the risk of generating harmful gases such as chlorine gas, and a pH of 6.5 or higher further reduces this risk. On the other hand, a pH of 8 or lower reduces the risk of corrosiveness to the skin and eyes due to alkalinity, and a pH of 7.5 or lower further reduces this risk, allowing for safer use of the foaming detergent. Furthermore, the foaming detergent can be used by acting on the object being cleaned at a high concentration. Therefore, it is preferable to measure the pH of the aqueous solution of the foaming detergent using a relatively high concentration 5% by mass aqueous solution. [Examples]

[0087] The present invention will be specifically described below with reference to examples and comparative examples, but the present invention is not limited to these. The raw materials and experimental equipment used in the examples and comparative examples are as follows:

[0088] [raw materials] • Sodium dichloroisocyanurate: Manufactured by Shikoku Chemicals Co., Ltd., product name "Neochlor 60MG" (effective chlorine content 64.0%) • Sodium percarbonate: Manufactured by Hodogaya Chemical Co., Ltd., product name "PC-A" (effective oxygen content 11.8%) • Sodium bicarbonate (sometimes called baking soda): Manufactured by Tokuyama Corporation • Succinic acid: Manufactured by Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd. • Boron oxide: Manufactured by Shin-Nippon Denko Co., Ltd. • Boric acid: Manufactured by Shin Nippon Denko Co., Ltd. • Sodium lauryl sulfate: Manufactured by Kao Corporation, product name "Emal 10PT" • Sodium alpha-olefin sulfonate: Manufactured by Lion Specialty Chemicals, product name "Lipolan PB800" • Guar gum: Manufactured by Sansho Co., Ltd., product name "NeoVisco G" • Magnesium stearate: Manufactured by Taihei Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. • Sodium alkylbenzenesulfonate: Lion Specialty Chemicals Co., Ltd. Company-made • Synthetic layered silicate: Manufactured by Big Chemi Japan, product name "Laponite" [device] [Sieve Shaker] • Lecce AS200CONTROL [Pot Mixer] • "PM-01" manufactured by AS ONE Corporation [pH meter] • Horiba Manufacturing Co., Ltd.'s "F-51" [pH electrode] • Horiba, Ltd. "9615S-10D"

[0089] [Method for producing foaming detergent] The compositions, mixed according to the tablet formulations listed in each table, were pressurized at a pressure of 20 MPa using a small hydraulic compressor (laboratory bender) with a hard chrome-plated steel mortar and pestle to obtain cylindrical tablets. As indicated in each table, the tablets were prepared to have a diameter of 20.0 to 30.0 mm, a height of 9.50 to 18.5 mm, and a mass of 5.00 to 20.0 g. Similarly, each component was placed in a polyethylene bag to obtain the powder composition described in each table, the opening of the bag was tightly sealed, and the entire bag was mixed by hand vigorously shaking it for more than 5 minutes to obtain the powder composition.

[0090] The average particle size of the powder was measured by the method described in the (Powder) section of this specification. All of the raw material powders used in this invention had an average particle size in the range of 200 μm to 1000 μm.

[0091] The obtained tablets and powder were mixed in a predetermined mass ratio and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to obtain a foaming detergent consisting of tablets and powder (Example). The obtained tablets were packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to obtain a foaming detergent consisting only of tablets (Comparative Example). The obtained powder was packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to obtain a foaming detergent consisting only of powder (Comparative Example).

[0092] [How to use foaming detergents] The aluminum laminate film containing the foaming cleaning agent (example) consisting of the tablets and powder obtained above was opened, and the tablets and powder were simultaneously added to the water reservoir. In other words, by simultaneously adding the tablets and powder from the same package to the water reservoir, a comparison was made with the case where only the foaming cleaning agent powder was added.

[0093] For comparison, similar tests were conducted on foaming detergents consisting solely of tablets or solely of powder, as described above. Generally, foaming detergents consisting solely of tablets produce less foam than foaming detergents consisting solely of powder; therefore, the foaming amount measurement tests primarily evaluated foaming detergents consisting solely of powder.

[0094] [Foaming amount measurement test] The amount of foam produced by the foaming detergent was measured by adding 2000 ml of tap water adjusted to 25°C to a 5000 ml resin graduated cylinder, adding 40.0 g of foaming detergent, and reading the scale on the graduated cylinder at the point where the foam reached after 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 60 minutes. The amount obtained by subtracting the amount of water (2000 ml) from this reading was considered the amount of foam (ml) at each time point. The amount of foam at 0 minutes after addition was considered 0 ml. The amount of foam at 60 minutes was considered the amount of foam produced after the predetermined time (60 minutes).

[0095] The maximum foam volume (ml) was defined as the amount of foam at which the foam volume was highest after 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 60 minutes. If the foam volume after 0, 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 60 minutes is A, B, C, D, E, F, and G (ml), then (a) = [(B+A) / 2] × (2-0) (b) = [(C+B) / 2] × (5-2) (c) = [(D+C) / 2] × (10-5) (d) = [(E+D) / 2] × (20-10) (e) = [(F + E) / 2] × (30 - 20) (f) = [(G + F) / 2] × (60 - 30) The average foam volume (ml) was calculated by performing the calculation and then dividing [(a)~(f)] by 60.

[0096] The retention rate after 30 minutes (%) and the retention rate after 60 minutes (%) refer to the percentage of the foam volume that is retained relative to the maximum foam volume, measured 30 minutes and 60 minutes after reaching the maximum foam volume. Retention rate after 30 minutes (%) = [(Amount of foam after 30 minutes) / (Maximum amount of foam)] × 100 Retention rate after 60 minutes (%) = [(Amount of foam after 60 minutes) / (Maximum amount of foam)] × 100

[0097] The percentage increase in maximum foam volume represents the ratio of the maximum foam volume of the foaming detergent according to the present invention (Example) to the maximum foam volume of the foaming detergent consisting only of powder (Comparative Example). If the percentage increase in maximum foam volume exceeds 100%, it is considered that the maximum foam volume has increased. Maximum foam volume increase rate (%) = [(Maximum foam volume in the example) / (Maximum foam volume in the comparative example)] × 100

[0098] The percentage increase in foam volume after 60 minutes represents the ratio of the foam volume of the foaming detergent according to the present invention (Example) after 60 minutes to the foam volume of the foaming detergent consisting only of powder (Comparative Example) after 60 minutes. If the percentage increase in foam volume after 60 minutes exceeds 100%, the foam volume after 60 minutes is considered to have increased. Increase in foam volume after 60 minutes (%) = [(Foam volume after 60 minutes in the example) / (Maximum foam volume after 60 minutes in the comparative example)] × 100

[0099] If the foaming detergent according to the present invention (Example) shows an increase in at least one of the maximum foam volume and the foam volume after 60 minutes compared to a foaming detergent consisting only of powder, then the foaming volume is considered to have increased. The greater the maximum foam volume, the wider the foam spreads, allowing the cleaning agent components to reach a wider area of ​​the object being cleaned. Furthermore, a larger foam volume after 60 minutes means that the foam is maintained for a longer period. When a foaming cleaning agent is added to water, the foam spreads widely over the object being cleaned, and the foam is maintained for a long time, allowing the foam containing the cleaning components to act on the object for an extended period. The foaming cleaning agent according to the present invention (Example) preferably exhibits increased maximum foam volume and foam volume after 60 minutes compared to a foaming cleaning agent consisting only of powder (Comparative Example). Therefore, in the foaming volume measurement test, if only the maximum foam volume or the foam volume after 60 minutes increased compared to when using a foaming detergent in powder form only, it was evaluated as an increase in foaming volume, marked with "〇". If both the maximum foam volume and the foam volume after 60 minutes increased, it was evaluated as a greater increase in foaming volume, marked with "◎".

[0100] [Measuring pH] A 5% by mass foaming detergent was dissolved in distilled water (deionized water may also be used) relative to the mass of water, and the mixture was stirred for 30 minutes. Approximately 50 ml of the resulting aqueous solution was transferred to a glass beaker and measured with a pH meter. Three-point calibration was performed immediately before measurement using pH 4, pH 7, and pH 9 standard solutions. The temperature of the 5% by mass foaming detergent aqueous solution at the time of measurement was 20°C. The temperature was 25°C.

[0101] (Examples 1-9, Comparative Examples 1-9) Tablets and powders containing an oxygen gas generating foaming agent but not a carbon dioxide gas generating foaming agent were prepared using the formulations described in Tables 1-3. These tablets and powders were mixed and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to prepare foaming cleaning agents. Using the foaming cleaning agents prepared in Tables 1-3, the tablets and powders were simultaneously added to a graduated cylinder containing tap water simulating the object to be cleaned, and the amount of foam generated was measured (Examples 1-9). For comparison, foaming detergents consisting only of powders with the same composition as the powders and tablets contained in Examples 1 to 9 were prepared and evaluated in the same manner (Comparative Examples 1 to 9). The results are shown in Table 4. In all of Examples 1 to 9, the rate of increase in foam volume after 60 minutes increased compared to Comparative Examples 1 to 9. In Examples 3 to 8, the rate of increase in maximum foam volume also increased.

[0102] [Table 1] [Table 2] [Table 3] [Table 4]

[0103] (Examples 10-16, Comparative Examples 10-16) Using the formulations described in Tables 5-7, prepare a powder containing a foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas but does not contain a foaming agent that generates oxygen gas, and prepare a powder containing a foaming agent that generates oxygen gas and carbon dioxide gas Tablets without a gas-generating foaming agent were prepared, and these tablets and powder were mixed and packaged in an aluminum laminate film container to prepare a foaming cleaning agent. Using the foaming cleaning agents prepared in Tables 5-7, the tablets and powder were simultaneously added to a graduated cylinder containing tap water simulating the object to be cleaned, and the amount of foam generated was measured (Examples 10-16). For comparison, foaming detergents consisting only of powders with the same composition as the powders and tablets contained in Examples 10-16 were prepared and evaluated in the same manner (Comparative Examples 10-16). The results are shown in Table 8. Compared to Comparative Examples 10-16, which consisted only of powders of the same composition, all of Examples 10-16 showed an increased rate of foam volume increase after 60 minutes, and Examples 11-16 also showed an increased rate of maximum foam volume increase.

[0104] [Table 5] [Table 6] [Table 7] [Table 8]

[0105] (Examples 17-25, Comparative Examples 17-25) Using the formulations described in Tables 9-11, powders containing an oxygen-generating foaming agent but without a carbon dioxide-generating foaming agent were prepared, and tablets containing a carbon dioxide-generating foaming agent but without an oxygen-generating foaming agent were prepared. These tablets and powders were mixed and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to prepare foaming cleaning agents. Using the foaming cleaning agents prepared in Tables 9-11, the tablets and powders were simultaneously added to a graduated cylinder containing tap water simulating the object to be cleaned, and the amount of foam generated was measured (Examples 17-25). For comparison, foaming detergents consisting only of powders with the same composition as the powders and tablets contained in Examples 17-25 were prepared and evaluated in the same manner (Comparative Examples 17-25). The results are shown in Table 12. Compared to Comparative Examples 17-25, which consisted only of powders of the same composition, all of Examples 17-25 showed an increased rate of increase in foam volume after 60 minutes, and also an increased rate of increase in maximum foam volume.

[0106] [Table 9] [Table 10] [Table 11] [Table 12]

[0107] (Examples 26-34, Comparative Examples 26-34) Tablets and powders containing a foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas but not an oxygen gas generating agent were prepared according to the formulations described in Tables 13-15. These tablets and powders were mixed and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to prepare foaming cleaning agents. Using the foaming cleaning agents prepared in Tables 13-15, the tablets and powders were placed in a graduated cylinder containing tap water simulating the object to be cleaned. The substances were added simultaneously, and the amount of foaming, etc., was measured (Examples 26-34). For comparison, foaming detergents consisting only of powders with the same composition as the powders and tablets contained in Examples 26-34 were prepared and evaluated in the same manner (Comparative Examples 26-34). The results are shown in Table 16. In all of Examples 26-34, the rate of increase in maximum foam volume increased, and furthermore, in Examples 26-30 and 32-34, the rate of increase in foam volume after 60 minutes also increased.

[0108] [Table 13] [Table 14] [Table 15] [Table 16]

[0109] (Examples 35-41, Comparative Examples 35-38) Tablets and powders containing a foaming agent that generates carbon dioxide gas but not an oxygen gas generating agent were prepared with the formulations shown in Table 17. These tablets and powders were mixed and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to prepare foaming cleaning agents (Examples 35-36). Also, Table 1 Tablets and powders containing both an oxygen gas-generating foaming agent and a carbon dioxide-generating foaming agent were prepared using the formulations described in 8-19. These tablets and powders were mixed and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to prepare foaming cleaning agents (Examples 37-41). Using the foaming cleaning agents prepared in Tables 17-19, the tablets and powders were simultaneously added to a graduated cylinder containing tap water simulating the object to be cleaned, and the amount of foam generated was measured (Examples 35-41). For comparison, a foaming detergent consisting only of powder with the same composition as the powder and tablets contained in Examples 35-36 (Comparative Example 35), and a foaming detergent consisting only of tablets with the same composition as the powder and tablets contained in Examples 35-36 (Comparative Example 36) were prepared and evaluated in the same manner. For Comparative Example 36, eight tablets (φ20.0 mm, 5.00 g) were used, the same as those used in Examples 35-36. Similarly, a foaming detergent consisting only of powder with the same composition as the powder and tablets contained in Examples 37-41 (Comparative Example 37), and a foaming detergent consisting only of tablets with the same composition as the powder and tablets contained in Examples 37-41 (Comparative Example 38) were prepared and evaluated in the same manner. For Comparative Example 38, eight tablets (φ20.0 mm, 5.00 g) identical to those used in Examples 37-41 were used. The results for Examples 35-36 and Comparative Examples 35-36, as well as the results for Examples 37-41 and Comparative Examples 37-38, are shown in Table 20. In Examples 35-36, the rate of increase in foam volume after 60 minutes increased, and the rate of increase in maximum foam volume also increased. In Examples 37-41, the rate of increase in foam volume after 60 minutes increased, and in addition, in Examples 37-39 and 41, the rate of increase in maximum foam volume also increased.

[0110] [Table 17] [Table 18] [Table 19] [Table 20]

[0111] (Examples 42-47, Comparative Examples 39-41) Tablets and powders containing an oxygen-generating foaming agent but not a carbon dioxide-generating foaming agent were prepared using the formulations listed in Table 21. These tablets and powders were mixed and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to prepare foaming cleaning agents (Examples 42-44). Additionally, tablets and powders containing both a carbon dioxide-generating foaming agent and an oxygen-generating foaming agent were prepared using the formulations listed in Table 22. These tablets and powders were mixed and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to prepare foaming cleaning agents (Examples 45-47). Using the foaming cleaning agents prepared in Tables 21-22, the tablets and powders were simultaneously placed into a graduated cylinder containing tap water simulating the object to be cleaned, and the amount of foam generated was measured (Examples 42-47). For comparison, a foaming detergent consisting only of powder with the same composition as the powder and tablets contained in Examples 42-44 (Comparative Example 39), and a foaming detergent consisting only of tablets with the same composition as the powder and tablets contained in Examples 42-44 (Comparative Example 40) were prepared and evaluated in the same manner. For Comparative Example 40, eight tablets (φ20.0 mm, 5.00 g) were used, the same as those used in Examples 42-44. Similarly, the powders and tablets contained in Examples 45-47 consist solely of powders with the same composition. A foaming detergent (Comparative Example 41) was prepared and evaluated in the same manner. The results for Examples 42-44 and Comparative Examples 39-40, as well as the results for Examples 45-47 and Comparative Example 41, are shown in Table 23. In Examples 42-44, both the maximum foam volume increase rate and the foam volume increase rate after 60 minutes increased. In Examples 45-47, both the maximum foam volume increase rate and the foam volume increase rate after 60 minutes also increased.

[0112] [Table 21] [Table 22] [Table 23]

[0113] (Examples 48-54, Comparative Example 42) Tablets and powders containing both a carbon dioxide-generating foaming agent and an oxygen-generating foaming agent were prepared using the formulations described in Tables 24-26. These tablets and powders were mixed and packaged in aluminum laminate film containers to prepare foaming cleaning agents (Examples 48-54). Examples 48-50, described in Table 24, used 1 to 3 tablets with a diameter of φ20.0 mm. Examples 51-54, described in Tables 25-26, used 1 tablet with a diameter of φ30.0 mm. Using the foaming cleaning agents prepared in Tables 24-26, the tablets and powders were simultaneously added to a graduated cylinder containing tap water simulating the object to be cleaned, and the amount of foam generated was measured (Examples 48-54). Similarly, foaming detergents consisting only of powders with the same composition as the powders and tablets contained in Examples 48-54 (Comparative Examples 42-48) were prepared and evaluated in the same manner. The results for Examples 48-54 and Comparative Examples 42-48 are shown in Table 27. In all of Examples 48-54, both the maximum foam volume increase rate and the foam volume increase rate after 60 minutes increased.

[0114] [Table 24] [Table 25] [Table 26] [Table 27]

[0115] From the above results, it was found that the foaming detergent of the present invention, which combines tablets and powder, increases either or both the maximum foam volume increase rate and the foam volume increase rate after 60 minutes compared to foaming detergents consisting of powder alone or tablets alone of the same composition. Due to this effect of increasing foam volume, it was found that the foaming detergent of the present invention can more efficiently clean dirt near the waterline.

[0116] Generally, when the composition of foaming detergents is the same, tablets produce less foam than powders. Therefore, it was expected that the foaming amount of a foaming detergent combining powder and tablets would be somewhere between that of a foaming detergent using only powder and one using only tablets. However, it has become clear that combining tablets and powder, as in the present invention, results in a higher foaming amount than either powder alone or tablets alone. This effect is remarkable and could not be predicted from the prior art. Furthermore, the combination improved the persistence of the foam and increased the rate of increase in foam volume after 60 minutes, which is another remarkable effect that could not be predicted from the prior art. [Industrial applicability]

[0117] According to the present invention, it is possible to have a high foaming capacity and to spread the detergent components over a wide area. This invention provides a foaming detergent and a method for using the same, offering significant industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A foaming detergent comprising a combination of tablets containing a foaming agent and powder containing a foaming agent, wherein the tablets containing a foaming agent and powder containing a foaming agent are each housed in different containers, and the foaming detergent comprises a combination of one or more containers housing tablets containing a foaming agent and one or more containers housing powder containing a foaming agent.

2. A method for using a foaming detergent, comprising the step of simultaneously bringing a tablet containing a foaming agent and a powder containing a foaming agent, both contained in the foaming detergent described in Claim 1, into contact with an object to be cleaned that has water attached to it.

3. A method for using a foaming detergent, comprising the step of first bringing one of the tablets containing a foaming agent and the powder containing a foaming agent contained in the foaming detergent described in Claim 1 into contact with a cleaning object to which water has adhered, and then bringing the other into contact with the object.

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