Unit quantities and cleaning solutions for writing instruments

Abstract

To provide a writing instrument washing agent and a unit quantity object, capable of efficiently washing a writing instrument member such as a comb groove of a writing instrument where the groove is provided as an ink flow rate adjusting mechanism, a tip of a pen, a converter (ink suction tool for fountain pen) capable of sucking directly, ink into an ink storage body of a writing instrument, from an ink storage body such as an ink bottle), achieving also, re-writing properties after washing, and capable of being easily used.SOLUTION: There is provided a writing instrument washing agent comprising: a writing instrument washing composition; and a soluble film including at least some of components included in the washing composition.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning agent for writing instruments and unit quantities. More specifically, it relates to a cleaning agent for writing instruments and unit quantities for cleaning writing instrument members such as the comb groove, pen tip, converter (an ink storage body (ink inhaler for fountain pens) having a function of directly inhaling ink from an ink storage body such as an ink bottle) into the ink storage body of the writing instrument) of a writing instrument provided with a comb groove as an ink flow rate adjusting mechanism.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, writing instruments that are used by connecting an ink cartridge or a converter (an ink storage body (ink inhaler for fountain pens) having a function of directly inhaling ink from an ink storage body such as an ink bottle) to an ink storage body, such as fountain pens and drafting pens, are well known. In such fountain pens and drafting pens, when the ink runs out during writing, the writing instrument body can be reused without being discarded by replacing it with a newly filled ink cartridge or by inhaling ink from the pen tip into the converter.

[0003] In the case of the above-mentioned writing instruments, if they are left unused for a long time, the moisture in the ink gradually evaporates, and the components of the ink such as dyes and pigments solidify on the writing instrument members such as the comb groove, pen tip, and converter of the writing instrument, and the ink dries up, which may lead to poor writing or malfunction of the converter. Therefore, before the writing instrument is no longer used for a long time or when it is used again after being left unused for a long time, the writing instrument members such as the comb groove, pen tip, and converter of the writing instrument are washed with water or warm water. Furthermore, when switching from black ink to red ink in a writing instrument that previously used black ink, it is common practice to wash the remaining black ink from the writing instrument components, such as the comb grooves, nib, and converter (fountain pen ink filler), with water or lukewarm water to prevent the black and red inks from mixing inside the writing instrument, resulting in mixed-color writing, or to prevent aggregation and precipitate formation due to the mixing of different types of ink.

[0004] Furthermore, in writing instrument ink compositions that contain colorants and resins to obtain excellent writing quality with superior water resistance and lightfastness and good color development, the presence of resin components in the ink makes it extremely difficult to remove the dried ink once it has dried, simply by immersing the writing instrument's comb grooves, nib, and converter in water or lukewarm water. To address this, there were cleaning methods that involved applying ultrasound while the material was immersed (for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2), but these methods required large and cumbersome equipment. Therefore, there was a need for a simpler and easier cleaning method, and room for improvement.

[0005] Furthermore, when cleaning writing instruments that use ink compositions containing pigments as coloring agents (pigment inks), the ink tends to dry and harden strongly on writing instrument components such as the nib and converter once it dries. In particular, with fountain pens, when the ink runs out from writing, the writing instrument can be reused repeatedly without discarding the main body by drawing ink into the converter (fountain pen ink filler) from the nib. As a result, the same writing instrument components such as the comb groove, nib, and converter are used for a long period of time. Therefore, scratches such as mounting scratches and friction scratches can occur on the aforementioned writing instrument components during ink filling, and if ink gets into these scratches and dries and hardens, it becomes extremely difficult to remove the dried ink, which presents a problem and indicates that there is room for improvement in cleaning agents. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 56-76092 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2001-96974 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems and to efficiently clean writing instrument components such as comb grooves, nibs, and converters (ink reservoirs that have the function of directly drawing ink from an ink container such as an ink bottle into the ink reservoir of a writing instrument (fountain pen ink absorber)) of writing instruments in which comb grooves are arranged as an ink flow rate adjustment mechanism, and the re-writing performance after cleaning is also good and it is easy to use, for cleaning writing instrument components such as comb grooves, nibs, and converters. Unit quantities and cleaning solutions for writing instruments This provides... [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the present invention 1. A unit quantity comprising a writing instrument cleaning composition containing water and a nonionic surfactant or an anionic surfactant, individually encapsulated in predetermined unit quantities by a soluble film that is soluble in the solvent used for cleaning writing instruments, wherein the water content relative to the total mass of the writing instrument cleaning composition is 20% by mass or less, the nonionic surfactant is a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether, the anionic surfactant is a phosphate ester type surfactant, and the unit quantity is 0.5 g or more and 50.0 g or less. Unit quantity. 2. The soluble film is the unit quantity described in item 1, with pullulan as the main component. 3. The unit quantity of the writing instrument cleaning composition according to paragraph 1, comprising a pH adjusting agent. 4. The unit quantity according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the HLB value of the nonionic surfactant or the anionic surfactant is 15 or less. 5. A writing instrument cleaning solution comprising the unit amount of the substance described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, and the solvent, wherein the soluble film is dissolved. 6. A writing instrument cleaning solution comprising the unit amount described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 4 and 300 ml of the solvent, wherein the surface tension of the writing instrument cleaning solution in which the soluble film is dissolved is 20 to 50 mN / m at a 20°C environment. 7. A writing instrument cleaning solution comprising the unit amount described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 4 and 300 ml of the solvent, wherein the pH of the writing instrument cleaning solution in which the soluble film is dissolved at a 20°C environment is 10 or less. " [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the comb grooves of a writing instrument, which are arranged as an ink flow rate adjustment mechanism, the nib, and components of a writing instrument such as a converter (an ink reservoir that has the function of directly drawing ink from an ink container such as an ink bottle into the ink reservoir of the writing instrument (fountain pen ink absorber)) can be efficiently cleaned, the re-writing performance after cleaning is good, and it can be used easily. ,single quantity and cleaning solution for writing instruments We can provide this.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. In this specification, “parts”, “%”, “ratio”, etc. indicating formulation are based on mass unless otherwise specified.

[0011] The cleaning agent for writing instruments of this embodiment includes a cleaning composition for writing instruments and a soluble film containing at least some of the components contained in the cleaning composition for writing instruments.

[0012] The soluble film contains at least some of the components contained in the cleaning composition for writing instruments. The soluble film includes, for example, at least some of the components contained in the cleaning composition for writing instruments as individual unit amounts per unit amount.

[0013] The cleaning agent for writing instruments of this embodiment includes a cleaning composition for writing instruments and a soluble film containing at least some of the components contained in the cleaning composition for writing instruments. Therefore, the user can easily clean the writing instrument members by using the desired number of unit amounts formed by the soluble film containing at least some of the components contained in the cleaning composition for writing instruments.

[0014] (Cleaning Agent for Writing Instruments) The cleaning agent for writing instruments used in the present invention will be described in detail. The cleaning agent for writing instruments is used as a cleaning solution by adding a solvent such as water. It has excellent cleaning performance for dried ink inside writing instruments such as those with a comb groove arranged as an ink flow control mechanism, thin comb grooves, precision pen tips, and converters (ink storage bodies (ink inhalers for fountain pens) having a function of directly inhaling ink from an ink container such as an ink bottle into the ink storage body of the writing instrument), and also has good re-writing performance after cleaning. In particular, in the case of a fountain pen, when the ink runs out during writing, the ink is inhaled from the pen tip into the converter, so that the writing instrument body can be continuously used repeatedly without being discarded. Therefore, the comb groove, pen tip, converter, etc., which are writing instrument members, can be continuously used without being replaced for a long time. Therefore, when the ink is inhaled or during daily use, scratches such as mounting scratches and sliding scratches may occur on the members. If the ink penetrates into the scratches and dries up, it becomes extremely difficult to remove the dried ink. However, even in such a case, it is possible to have excellent detergency.

[0015] In addition, since the cleaning agent for writing instruments contains the cleaning composition for writing instruments in a soluble film, it is individually packaged in a film in terms of portability and convenience, and is preferably used. Furthermore, it is preferable because the long-term storage stability can be improved by suppressing the evaporation of the solvent and the like.

[0016] In addition, it is preferable to sell the cleaning agent for writing instruments and the unit amount product as a writing instrument cleaning agent set together with writing instruments such as fountain pens, ballpoint pens, marking pens (signature pens), brush pens, pens for calligraphy, and pens for drafting. Moreover, it is preferable to sell it as a writing instrument cleaning agent set together with a container for adding a solvent such as water to the unit amount product to make a cleaning solution and a stirring rod (madorra).

[0017] (Cleaning composition for writing instruments) <Surfactant> In order to obtain a desired cleaning effect, the cleaning composition for writing instruments of the present invention preferably contains a surfactant. Examples of the surfactant include nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, surfactants having an acetylene bond in the structure, silicone surfactants, fluorine surfactants, etc. Among these, it is preferable to contain a nonionic surfactant or an anionic surfactant, and considering the cleaning effect, a nonionic surfactant is preferable. In particular, this is because it has excellent detergency even when scratches such as mounting scratches and sliding scratches occur on the writing instrument members. These surfactants may be used individually or as a mixture of two or more.

[0018] Regarding the surfactant, it is preferable that its HLB value be 15 or less. This is because a surfactant with an HLB value of 15 or less can clean the writing instrument's comb grooves, nib, and converter (fountain pen ink filler) even if the ink has dried up due to solidification of the ink components. Furthermore, a surfactant with an HLB value of 15 or less is stable in the writing instrument cleaning composition or cleaning solution, thus providing a long-lasting cleaning effect. Moreover, even after cleaning writing instrument components such as the comb grooves, nib, and converter (fountain pen ink filler), there are no problems with writing performance, and re-writing is also good. The reason is unclear, but I speculate it to be as follows. It is presumed that the surfactant with an HLB value of 15 or less reduces the surface tension of the cleaning solution, improving wettability to the writing instrument's grooves, nib, and converter. Furthermore, the colorants and resins contained in the dried ink are efficiently dispersed in the cleaning solution by the surfactant after dissolution, and the dispersed colorants and resins are prevented from re-adhering to the grooves, nib, and converter, resulting in high cleaning performance. In addition, it is presumed that the cleaning solution does not remain on the writing instrument components after cleaning, thus not affecting writing performance, resulting in good re-writing performance. In particular, in the case of a fountain pen equipped with a nib, a section with comb grooves, and a converter (an ink reservoir that has the function of directly drawing ink from an ink container into the ink reservoir of a writing instrument (fountain pen ink filler)), the comb grooves have a fine and complex structure, so once the ink has dried, it is difficult to remove ink stains even with washing. Therefore, using the writing instrument cleaning agent of the present invention is effective and preferable.

[0019] Among surfactants with an HLB value of 15 or less, an HLB value of 4 to 15 is preferred, taking into consideration cleaning ability and solubility in water, and if given more consideration, an HLB value of 6 to 15 is preferred. Furthermore, considering cases where there are scratches on writing instrument components such as comb grooves, pen tips, and converters, an HLB value of 8 to 14 is preferred, which has excellent cleaning ability, and if given more consideration, an HLB value of 11 to 14 is preferred. The HLB value mentioned above is calculated using the Griffin method and is determined by the following formula. HLB value = 20 × (mass of hydrophilic groups %) = 20 × (sum of formula weights of hydrophilic groups / molecular weight of surfactant)

[0020] Methods for cleaning writing instruments using writing instrument cleaning agents include adding a solvent such as water to the cleaning agent to create a cleaning solution, removing the cap, barrel, and converter from the writing instrument to leave only the grooved nib (section), and then immersing the grooved nib (section) and converter in the cleaning solution; using a dropper to pour the cleaning solution into the grooved nib (section) and converter; and using the converter, which is used as an ink reservoir, to draw the cleaning solution in through the nib, similar to replenishing ink. <Nonionic surfactants>

[0021] Examples of nonionic surfactants include polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, polyglycerin fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol, sucrose fatty acid esters, sorbitan fatty acid esters, alkyl glycosides, alkyl glyceryl glycosides, and methyl glucoside fatty acid esters. Among these, it is preferable to use a nonionic surfactant having a polyoxyalkylene group such as polyoxyethylene. This is because it has a high affinity for colorants and resins, making it easier to efficiently remove colorants and resins from the comb grooves, pen nibs, and converters. Furthermore, having a polyoxyalkylene group results in good solubility in water, stability in aqueous inks, and long-term stability, making it easier to obtain a cleaning effect. Among these, it is preferable to use one or more from polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, and polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, and more preferably polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers. This is because, due to its excellent penetration and low foaming power, it can penetrate and clean even writing instrument components such as comb grooves, nibs, and converters that have scratches, as well as fine, complex comb grooves, precision nibs, and converters, thus achieving a cleaning effect even on stubborn dirt. In particular, in the case of a fountain pen equipped with a nib, a section with a comb groove, and a converter (an ink reservoir that has the function of directly drawing ink from an ink container into the ink reservoir of a writing instrument (fountain pen ink filler)), if the ink has dried, ink stains are difficult to remove even with cleaning, so using polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether is effective and preferable.

[0022] Regarding the nonionic surfactant having a polyoxyalkylene group, it is preferable that the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl group of the nonionic surfactant having a polyoxyalkylene group is 1 to 20. This is because, within this range, the length of the alkyl group is suitable for allowing the cleaning solution to penetrate even scratches and fine, complex structures on writing instrument components, thus easily achieving a high cleaning effect. On the other hand, if the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl group is too large and the length is too long, it becomes difficult to dissolve in water, which easily affects the cleaning effect. Conversely, if the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl group is too small and the length is too short, it is difficult to obtain a sufficient cleaning effect. Therefore, it is preferable that the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl group is 4 to 16, and more preferably, 8 to 14.

[0023] Regarding the alkyl group of the nonionic surfactant having the polyoxyalkylene group, there are linear and branched structures, but the branched alkyl group is preferable because its bulkier structure gives it a higher affinity for dirt and makes it easier to achieve a cleaning effect. Therefore, as in the present invention, it is preferable because it makes it easier to remove stubborn dirt even when there are scratches on the writing instrument components, or when there are fine, complex comb grooves, precision pen nibs, or converters. Specific examples of nonionic surfactants having a polyoxyalkylene group include polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, and polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters. These include polyoxyalkylene isodecyl ether (alkyl group: branched structure), polyoxyalkylene isotridecyl ether (alkyl group: branched structure), polyoxyalkylene tridecyl ether (alkyl group: linear structure), polyoxyalkylene decyl ether (alkyl group: linear structure), polyoxyalkylene lauryl ether (alkyl group: linear structure), polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan trilaurate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan trioleate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan tristearate, polyethylene glycol monolaurate, polyethylene glycol monostearate, and polyethylene glycol monooleate. However, considering that reducing dynamic surface tension improves penetration and thus enhances cleaning power, it is preferable to use polyoxyalkylene isodecyl ether.

[0024] The polyoxyalkylene group of the polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether preferably has an ethylene oxide group or a propylene oxide group. This is because it has good solubility in water, is stable in aqueous ink, and easily provides a cleaning effect. More specifically, it is preferable that it has at least an ethylene oxide group. Furthermore, the average number of added moles of alkylene oxide to the polyoxyalkylene group is preferably 1 to 20. This is because within this range, the length of the alkylene oxide is such that it easily penetrates scratches on writing instrument components, thus easily providing a high cleaning effect. On the other hand, if the average number of added moles of alkylene oxide is too high and too long, it becomes difficult to dissolve in water and easily affects the cleaning effect. Conversely, if the average number of added moles of alkylene oxide is too low and too short, it is difficult to obtain a cleaning effect. Therefore, the average number of added moles of alkylene oxide is preferably 3 to 15, and preferably 5 to 10.

[0025] Regarding the cloud point of the polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether, it is preferably 90°C or lower, taking into consideration the cleaning effect, more preferably 30 to 80°C, and even more preferably 40 to 80°C.

[0026] Regarding the nonionic surfactants mentioned above, specifically, as polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, they include: Neugen LF series (polyoxyalkylene isodecyl ether, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.), Neugen SD series (polyoxyethylene isodecyl ether, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.), Neugen TDX series (polyoxyalkylene isotridecyl ether, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.), Neugen XL series (polyoxyalkylene isodecyl ether, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.), Neugen TDS series (polyoxyethylene tridecyl ether, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.), Neugen LP series (polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.), Solgen series (sorbitan fatty acid ester, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.), Solgen TW series (polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid ester, manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.), and Leodol series (sorbitan fatty acid ester / polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid ester, manufactured by Kao). Examples include (manufactured by [company name]), the Emanon series (polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester, manufactured by Kao Corporation), etc.

[0027] <Anionic surfactants> Examples of anionic surfactants include carboxylic acid-type surfactants, sulfonic acid-type surfactants, sulfate ester-type surfactants, and phosphate ester-type surfactants. In particular, sulfonic acid-type surfactants and phosphate ester-type surfactants containing sulfonic acid groups or phosphate groups in their molecules, which have a high affinity for colorants and resins and efficiently peel off colorants and resins from the comb grooves and pen tip, are preferred, and phosphate ester-type surfactants containing phosphate groups in their molecules, which have a high affinity for colorants and resins, are even more preferred.

[0028] In particular, when cleaning writing instruments that use an ink composition (pigment ink) containing a pigment as a coloring agent, the anionic surfactant is preferred because it has a high affinity for the pigment and pigment dispersant contained in the pigment ink. Pigment dispersants for pigment inks include acidic resins, basic resins, nonionic surfactants, and anionic surfactants. Among these, anionic surfactants are particularly effective at cleaning writing instruments that use inks made with acidic resins such as acrylic resins, styrene-acrylic resins, styrene-maleic acid resins, and phenolic resins. Therefore, the writing instrument cleaning solution of the present invention, which uses the anionic surfactant, is preferably used as a cleaning solution for writing instruments that use pigment ink.

[0029] Examples of the phosphate ester type surfactant used in the present invention include monophosphate esters of polyoxyethylene alkyl ether or polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether, diphosphate esters of polyoxyethylene alkyl ether or polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether, triesters of polyoxyethylene alkyl ether or polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether, alkyl phosphate esters, alkyl ether phosphate esters, or derivatives thereof. Examples of alkyl groups in the phosphate ester type surfactant include styrene-derived phenols, nonylphenols, octylphenols, and linear alcohols.

[0030] Specific examples of the aforementioned phosphate ester-type surfactants include the Prysurf series (Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd.) and the Phosphanol series (Toho Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.). Examples of styrenated phenol-based phosphate ester surfactants include Prisurf AL (acid value: 70-95, HLB: 5.6), while examples of linear alcohol-based phosphate ester surfactants include the lauryl alcohol type Prisurf A208B (acid value: 160-185, HLB: 6.6), the tridecyl alcohol type Prisurf A212C (acid value: 100-120, HLB: 9.4) and Prisurf A215C (acid value: 80-95, HLB: 11.5), and the octyl alcohol type Prisurf A208F (acid value: 165-195, HLB: 8.7). Also, examples of the stearyl alcohol type include Phosphanol RB410 (acid value: 80 - 90, HLB: 8.6). These phosphate ester type surfactants may be used as a single type or as a mixture of two or more types.

[0031] Regarding the acid value of the phosphate ester type surfactant, considering the cleaning ability of the brush groove and pen tip of the writing instrument and the influence on the basic components in the cleaning composition or cleaning liquid, it is preferably 200 (mgKOH / g) or less. More preferably, the acid value is 30 - 200 (mgKOH / g), and further preferably, the acid value is 50 - 100 (mgKOH / g). Note that the acid value is represented by the number of mg of potassium hydroxide required to neutralize the acidic components contained in 1 g of the sample. Regarding the HLB value of the phosphate ester type surfactant, considering the solubility in water and the cleaning ability, the HLB value of 4 - 17 is preferable, and more preferably, 5 - 13. In the present invention, the HLB value of the phosphate ester type surfactant is a value calculated from the Kawakami method and is calculated by the following formula. HLB = 7 + 11.7log(Mw / Mo), (Mw; molecular weight of the hydrophilic group, Mo; molecular weight of the lipophilic group)

[0032] In the cleaning composition for writing instruments of the present invention, the content of the surfactant is preferably 0.1 - 70% by mass, more preferably 3 - 60% by mass, and even more preferably 5 - 50% by mass based on the total mass of the cleaning composition for writing instruments. This is because if the content is less than the above range, it is difficult to fully exhibit the cleaning effect, and if it is more than the above range, the stability in the cleaning composition for writing instruments and the solubility in solvents such as water tend to be inferior, and it is difficult to recognize the improvement of the above effect, so there is no need to contain more.

[0033] <pH adjuster> The cleaning composition for writing instruments of the present invention preferably contains a pH adjuster. Examples of pH adjusting agents include basic inorganic compounds such as ammonia, sodium carbonate, sodium phosphate, and sodium hydroxide, which are basic components; basic organic compounds such as sodium acetate, triethanolamine, and diethanolamine; and acidic components such as lactic acid and citric acid. In the present invention, it is preferable to use basic components, considering their compatibility with the surfactant. These pH adjusting agents may be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0034] Among the basic components, water-soluble amine compounds such as monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, and triethanolamine are preferred because they have good affinity with the surfactant and make for a writing instrument cleaning composition or cleaning solution with excellent long-term storage stability. More specifically, alkanolamines are preferred, and among them, triethanolamine, which is weakly basic, is more preferred. In particular, it is preferred because it has good affinity with nonionic surfactants or anionic surfactants, and is more preferably used with nonionic surfactants.

[0035] In the writing instrument cleaning composition of the present invention, the content of the pH adjusting agent is preferably 0.1 to 95% by mass, preferably 10 to 90% by mass, preferably 20 to 90% by mass, based on the total mass of the writing instrument cleaning composition, and preferably 40 to 90% by mass, considering both the cleaning performance of the comb grooves, nib, and converter of the writing instrument and the rise in pH of the writing instrument cleaning composition or cleaning solution. If the pH adjusting agent is present in too little quantity, the intended effect of this invention may not be fully achieved. Conversely, if the quantity is too high, concerns may arise regarding the safety of the cleaning solution due to its pH.

[0036] <Water> The cleaning composition for writing instruments of the present invention preferably contains water. There are no particular restrictions on the type of water used; for example, deionized water, ultrafiltered water, distilled water, etc., can be used.

[0037] The water content relative to the total mass of the writing instrument cleaning composition is preferably as low as possible. For example, the water content relative to the total mass of the writing instrument cleaning composition is preferably 30% by mass or less, more preferably 20% by mass or less, even more preferably 10% by mass or less, and particularly preferably 5% by mass or less.

[0038] By setting the water content relative to the total mass of the writing instrument cleaning composition within the above range, film stability can be improved when a water-soluble film is used as the soluble film. Furthermore, by suppressing the water content of the writing instrument cleaning composition, the amount of preservatives contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition can be suppressed, thereby improving safety, such as suppressing skin sensitization.

[0039] Furthermore, the cleaning agent or cleaning solution may also contain fine bubbles. Fine bubbles are bubbles with a diameter of 100 μm or less contained in a liquid. In this invention, diameter refers to the diameter equivalent to a sphere. Fine bubbles are bubbles that remain in a liquid without being affected by buoyancy, undergoing Brownian motion. The fine bubbles used in this invention preferably have a diameter of 100 to 1000 nm, and more preferably 100 to 300 nm. If the diameter is smaller than this range, the bubbles tend to dissolve in the solvent, and if it is larger than this range, the bubbles may float to the surface and burst, and thus may not be able to perform their function as fine bubbles.

[0040] As for the fine bubbles, in addition to air, inert gases such as helium, nitrogen, and argon, as well as oxygen, ozone, hydrogen, methane, propane, and butane can be used as the gas within the bubbles. In particular, using air is preferable because it eliminates the need to use special gases when incorporating fine bubbles into the liquid.

[0041] The fine bubbles used in this invention penetrate into the minute gaps in the comb grooves and deliver an impact to the dirt through bubble collapse, making it possible to clean the complex structure of the comb grooves, thus enhancing the cleaning effect. Furthermore, the fine bubbles are negatively charged and exhibit a high cleaning effect by adsorbing positively charged dirt.

[0042] The fine bubbles used in this invention only need to be present in the detergent or cleaning solution, but the number of bubbles should be 1 to 1 × 10 per 1 ml of detergent or cleaning solution. 9 1 x 10 is preferable, more preferably 1 x 10 3 ~5×10 8 pieces, more preferably 1 × 10 5 ~3×10 8 The number of bubbles is one. If the number is less than this range, the effectiveness of the bubbles during cleaning may be reduced. If the number is more than this range, the bubbles may combine to form larger bubbles that rise and disappear, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the bubbles during cleaning. When the number is within the aforementioned range, the cleaning power of the bubbles can be effectively exerted.

[0043] Furthermore, the writing instrument cleaning composition and cleaning solution of the present invention preferably contain various additives such as preservatives, rust inhibitors, and chelating agents for the purpose of improving physical properties and functions.

[0044] Examples of preservatives (antibacterial agents) include phenol, sodium benzoate, sodium dehydroacetate, potassium sorbate, propyl parahydroxybenzoate, 2,3,5,6-tetrachloro-4-(methylsulfonyl)pyridine, sodium 2-pyridinethiol-1-oxide, 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, and 2-n-octyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one. These preservatives may be used individually or as a mixture of two or more. Among these preservatives (antibacterial agents), isothiazoline compounds are preferred when considering their preservative (antibacterial) effect, and more preferably selected from 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, and 2-n-octyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one. Furthermore, as in the present invention, if the effect on the stability of the cleaning solution (changes over time, changes over time with heating, changes in color) due to compatibility with other components such as the nonionic surfactant is considered, it is preferable to use 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one.

[0045] Examples of rust inhibitors include benzotriazole, toltriazole, dicyclohexylammonium nitride, diisopropylammonium nitride, sodium thiosulfate, saponin, or dialkylthiourea. Considering the rust-inhibiting effect and compatibility with the nonionic surfactant used in the present invention, benzotriazole is preferred among the rust inhibitors, and these rust inhibitors may be used individually or as a mixture of two or more.

[0046] Furthermore, the cleaning composition for writing instruments according to the present invention preferably contains a chelating agent to suppress precipitates formed by ionic substances in water after rinsing off the ionic substances of the colorant in the ink composition contained in the writing instrument, and the cleaning solution adhering to the writing instrument components with water, i.e., after "rinsing".

[0047] Examples of chelating agents include aminocarboxylic acids such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), hydroxyethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), glycol etherdiaminetetraacetic acid (GEDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), hydroxyethyliminodiacetic acid (HIDA), dihydroxyethylglycine (DHEG), diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), triethylenetetraminehexaacetic acid (TTHA), and their alkali metal salts, ammonium salts, or amine salts. Considering that chelating agents tend not to significantly affect the physical properties of writing instrument cleaning compositions before and after their addition, and also considering the compatibility of nonionic surfactants used in the present invention, it is preferable to use aminocarboxylic acids or their salts among the chelating agents, and in particular, it is preferable to use ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or its salts.

[0048] The chelating agent content in the writing instrument cleaning composition of the present invention is preferably 0.01 to 5% by mass, based on the total mass of the writing instrument cleaning composition. This is because if it is 1% by mass or less, it does not significantly affect the performance or physical properties of the writing instrument cleaning composition or cleaning solution, and if it is 0.01% by mass or more, it is difficult to suppress the generation of precipitates. More preferably, it is 0.1 to 3% by mass.

[0049] Furthermore, the writing instrument cleaning composition of the present invention may contain a water-soluble organic solvent. Examples of water-soluble organic solvents include (i) glycols such as ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, or glycerin; (ii) alcohols such as methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, isopropanol, isobutanol, t-butanol, propagyl alcohol, allyl alcohol, 3-methyl-1-buty-3-ol, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, and other higher alcohols; and (iii) glycol ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, 3-methoxybutanol, or 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol. These water-soluble organic solvents may be used individually or as a mixture of two or more.

[0050] Furthermore, the writing instrument cleaning composition of the present invention may contain resins (pigment dispersants) and surfactants, similar to those used in writing instrument inks. This is because, since ink contains resin components, once the ink dries, ink stains containing resins such as pigment dispersants become difficult to remove. However, if the cleaning solution contains the same components as the resins used in writing instrument inks, it becomes easier to clean the ink stains. In particular, it is preferable that the composition contains a pigment dispersant, and it is even more preferable that it contains an acidic resin and a nonionic surfactant.

[0051] (Soluble film) This section will explain soluble films. The soluble film can be any film that is soluble in a solvent. More specifically, the soluble film is either a water-soluble film or an oil-soluble film. When the included writing instrument cleaning composition is a water-soluble writing instrument cleaning composition, it is preferable to use a water-soluble film for the soluble film. When the included cleaning composition is an oil-soluble writing instrument cleaning composition, it is preferable to use an oil-soluble film for the soluble film.

[0052] The thickness of the soluble film should be such that the components contained within the soluble film do not leak out of the film at room temperature, and should be adjusted according to the type and amount of components contained, the composition of the soluble film, etc. For example, the thickness of the soluble film is preferably in the range of 10 μm to 200 μm, 20 μm to 150 μm, or 35 μm to 125 μm.

[0053] (Water-soluble film) A water-soluble film can be any material that dissolves in water. Examples of water-soluble films include at least one selected from polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxide, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, cellulose ether, cellulose ester, celluloseamide, polyvinyl acetate, polycarboxylic acid and salts, polyamino acids or peptides, polyamides, polyacrylamide, maleic acid / acrylic acid copolymers, pullulan, polysaccharides including starch and gelatin, xanthan gum, and natural rubbers such as kara rubber.

[0054] The water-soluble film is preferably at least one selected from polyacrylate and water-soluble acrylate copolymer, methylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, dextrin, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, maltodextrin, and polymethacrylate. More preferably, the water-soluble film is selected from polyvinyl alcohol, pullulan, polyvinyl alcohol copolymer and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), and even more preferably, polyvinyl alcohol, pullulan, and combinations thereof.

[0055] Particularly preferably, the water-soluble film is mainly composed of polyvinyl alcohol. Being the main component means, as described above, that the polyvinyl alcohol content relative to the total weight of the water-soluble film is 50% by weight or more.

[0056] Polyvinyl alcohol possesses biodegradability and gas barrier properties. Therefore, by using a water-soluble film with polyvinyl alcohol as the main component, it is possible to protect the environment and suppress the oxidation of the writing instrument cleaning composition or at least some of its components contained within the soluble film.

[0057] In addition to general polyvinyl alcohol, various modified polyvinyl alcohols such as anionic modified polyvinyl alcohol, silanol modified polyvinyl alcohol, and acetoacetyl modified polyvinyl alcohol can also be used as polyvinyl alcohol for water-soluble films. One type of polyvinyl alcohol may be used alone, or two or more types may be used in combination.

[0058] The molecular weight of the resin contained in the water-soluble film is not limited. For example, if the water-soluble film is mainly composed of polyvinyl alcohol, the weight-average molecular weight of the polyvinyl alcohol may fall within the ranges of 1,000 to 1,000,000, 10,000 to 300,000, or 20,000 to 150,000.

[0059] Water-soluble films preferably dissolve in room temperature water (solvent) within 5 minutes. Solubility can be measured by placing the water-soluble film in a container of room temperature water and measuring the time it takes for its shape to change while stirring. Room temperature water (solvent) is an example of a solvent used when preparing a washing solution.

[0060] The solubility of water-soluble films, when polyvinyl alcohol is the main component, is adjusted by the degree of hydrolysis of the polyvinyl alcohol obtained by hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate, the use of a crosslinking agent, or partial saponification (saponification degree 87% to 89%).

[0061] The water used as the solvent for the water-soluble film is not particularly limited and can include, for example, tap water, deionized water, ultrafiltered water, distilled water, etc.

[0062] (Oil-soluble film) An oil-soluble film can be any material that dissolves in oil components. Examples of oil-soluble films include at least one of the following: polyvinyl butyral resin / ketone resin / phenol resin / polyvinylpyrrolidone / vinyl acetate, acrylate, acrylate / silicone copolymer, polybutene, polyethylene, polyurethane-14, AMP-acrylate copolymer, octylacrylamide / acrylate copolymer, polyquaternium-11, vinylcaprolactam / vinylpyrrolidone, and methylacrylamide terpolymer.

[0063] Oil-soluble films preferably show solubility in a solvent (organic solvent) within 5 minutes. Solubility can be determined by placing the oil-soluble film into a container containing a solvent at room temperature and measuring the time it takes for the shape to change while stirring.

[0064] The oil component that serves as the solvent for the oil-soluble film is not particularly limited, and examples include glycol ether solvents such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, propylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol dimethyl ether, 3-methoxybutanol, and 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol; glycol solvents such as diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, butylene glycol, and ethylene glycol; alcohol solvents such as benzyl alcohol, methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, isopropanol, isobutanol, t-butanol, propagyl alcohol, allyl alcohol, 3-methyl-1-butyne-3-ol, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, and other higher alcohols (aliphatic alcohols, aromatic alcohols, etc.); and organic solvents such as hydrocarbon solvents such as hexane, toluene, and xylene. Among these, aliphatic alcohols are preferred from the viewpoint of safety and stability with oil-soluble films, and more preferably lower aliphatic alcohols (with 1 to 4 carbon atoms) are preferred.

[0065] (Additives) The soluble film may contain one or more additive components. Examples of plasticizers include glycerol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, sorbitol, and mixtures thereof.

[0066] Furthermore, the soluble film may further contain an aversive agent. The aversive agent may be contained in any one of the following locations: on the surface of the soluble film, within the soluble film, or within the writing instrument cleaning composition incorporated into the soluble film or within the components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition.

[0067] An aversive agent is any compound that produces an unpleasant taste when ingested or put in the mouth. Unpleasant tastes include bitterness, spiciness, pungent taste, unpleasant odor, sourness, coldness, or a combination thereof. The aversive agent may be a bittering agent. Preferably, the aversive agent is any compound that is safe for the human body and produces the unpleasant tastes described above.

[0068] The aversive agent may be selected from the group consisting of, for example, naringin, octaacetylsucrose, quinine hydrochloride, denatonium benzoate, capsicinoids (such as capsaicin), vanillyl ethyl ether, vanillyl propyl ether, vanillyl butyl ether, vanillin propylene, glycol acetal, ethyl vanillin propylene glycol acetal, capsaicin, gingerol, 4-(1-menthoxymethyl)-2-(3'-methoxy-4'-hydroxyphenyl)-1,3-dioxolane, pepper oil, pepper oleoresin, ginger oleoresin, nonylic acid vanillylamide, jambu oleoresin, sansho bark extract, sanshool, sanshoamide, black pepper extract, chavicin, piperine, spiranthol, and mixtures thereof.

[0069] The soluble film may be transparent, opaque, or translucent. The soluble film may also be colored. Furthermore, the soluble film may include a printable area. For example, the soluble film may include a printable area on which identification information of the incorporated writing instrument cleaning composition or components contained in the incorporated writing instrument cleaning composition is printed.

[0070] The soluble film can be formed into a film shape by any thermoforming or plasticizing technique.

[0071] (Writing instrument cleaning agent) (Unit quantity) The writing instrument cleaning agent of this embodiment comprises a writing instrument cleaning composition and a soluble film containing at least some of the components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition.

[0072] The writing instrument cleaning agent of this embodiment is provided as one unit quantity or a group of multiple unit quantities, each consisting of a soluble film containing at least some of the components included in the writing instrument cleaning composition in unit quantities.

[0073] A unit quantity is an object in which at least some of the components contained in a writing instrument cleaning composition are individually contained in predetermined unit quantities by a soluble film.

[0074] In detail, for example, a unit quantity is composed of each of its different components individually contained in predetermined unit quantities.

[0075] Furthermore, the unit quantity may consist of a predetermined unit quantity of components individually included in each of several groups, which are formed by classifying the components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition according to predetermined classification conditions. The classification conditions can be predetermined.

[0076] For example, the classification criteria may be based on whether a component belongs to the surfactant category or not. In this case, the unit quantity may be composed of a predetermined unit quantity of components, with surfactants and non-surfactant components included in the writing instrument cleaning composition being treated as separate groups. Furthermore, the individually contained unit quantities may be connected to each other.

[0077] Furthermore, for example, a classification criterion may be that components that become unstable when coexisting are in different unit quantities. In this case, the unit quantity may be a unit quantity that encompasses multiple components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition, grouped by the components that exist stably even when coexisting. In other words, in this case, the unit quantity may be a structure in which multiple components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition are separately encompassed by a soluble film, with the components that become unstable when coexisting being separated into different unit quantities. Even in this case, the separately encompassed unit quantities may be interconnected.

[0078] Furthermore, for example, components having the same function may be used as classification criteria. In this case, the unit quantity may be configured by classifying the multiple components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition into multiple groups based on the group of components having the same function, and individually containing predetermined unit quantities of components for each group. Specifically, for example, a vehicle that has the function of imparting the cleaning effect of the writing instrument cleaning composition (including surfactants, pH adjusters, etc.) and a vehicle that enhances the cleaning effect of the writing instrument cleaning composition (including chelating agents, fine bubble-containing liquids, etc.) may be individually contained as separate unit quantities by a soluble film. Even in this case, the separately contained unit quantities may be connected to each other.

[0079] By making the unit quantity an object in which a cleaning composition for writing instruments, or at least some of the components contained in a cleaning composition for writing instruments, are individually contained in predetermined unit quantities by a soluble film, the following effects can be obtained.

[0080] In this embodiment, the writing instrument cleaning composition contained in the writing instrument cleaning agent, or at least some of the components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition, exist as separate unit quantities enclosed by a soluble film.

[0081] These unit quantities are then mixed with a solvent such as water to prepare a cleaning solution. In other words, the writing instrument cleaning composition contained within the soluble film, or at least some of the components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition, exist as separate unit quantities and are only mixed when the cleaning solution is prepared. Therefore, it is possible to improve the stability of the writing instrument cleaning composition contained within the soluble film, which exists as unit quantities, and at least some of the components of the writing instrument cleaning composition, including the stability over time and suppression of precipitation.

[0082] Furthermore, since the writing instrument cleaning composition contained in the ink, or at least some of the components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition, exist as separate unit quantities enclosed by a soluble film, it is possible to reduce the number of containers that house the writing instrument cleaning composition, reduce transportation costs, and reduce energy consumption such as CO2 emissions.

[0083] The unit amount of the writing instrument cleaning composition or the components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition enclosed by the soluble film may be predetermined according to the type of writing instrument cleaning composition and the target application of the adjusted ink. The unit amount may be in the range of, for example, 0.1g to 10.0g, 0.5g to 50.0g, 1.0g to 100.0g, etc., but is not limited to these ranges.

[0084] Furthermore, at least a portion of the writing instrument cleaning composition encompassed by the soluble film, or the components contained in the writing instrument cleaning composition, may be either liquid or solid. Solids include, for example, powders.

[0085] (Method for producing unit quantities) The method for producing the unit quantity is not limited. For example, the above-mentioned cleaning composition for writing instruments or components contained in the cleaning composition for writing instruments can be encapsulated in unit quantities by a soluble film in a known manner.

[0086] For incorporating a writing instrument cleaning composition or components contained in a writing instrument cleaning composition using a soluble film, for example, a vertical pillow packaging machine, a rotary drum packaging machine, a pleated packaging machine, etc., can be used.

[0087] (Cleaning solution) The writing instrument cleaning agent used in this invention can be used as a cleaning solution by adding a solvent such as water to dissolve the soluble film containing the writing instrument cleaning composition. The cleaning solution is used to clean dried ink from the fine, complex structure of the comb grooves in writing instrument components where the comb grooves are arranged as an ink flow rate adjustment mechanism, the inside of the precise nib, and the converter (ink filling device for fountain pens). Therefore, the surface tension of the cleaning solution at a 20°C environment is preferably 50 mN / m or less, more preferably 40 mN / m or less, and more preferably 35 mN / m or less. Furthermore, a surface tension of 20 mN / m or more is preferable because even if cleaning solution remains in the comb grooves, nib, or converter of the writing instrument, it is less likely to affect the ink newly added to the writing instrument, and a surface tension of 23 mN / m or more is more preferable. Surface tension can be determined by measuring it using a platinum plate and the vertical plate method at a temperature of 20°C, using a surface tension meter manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd. In particular, in the case of a fountain pen equipped with a nib, a section with comb grooves, and a converter (an ink reservoir that has the function of directly drawing ink from an ink container into the ink reservoir of a writing instrument (fountain pen ink filler)), the comb grooves have a fine and complex structure, so when the ink dries, ink stains are difficult to remove even with washing. Therefore, using the cleaning solution of the present invention is effective and preferable.

[0088] Furthermore, because the cleaning solution has excellent penetration, it can penetrate and clean even if there are scratches on writing instrument components such as comb grooves, nibs, and converters, or even fine comb grooves and precision nibs. Therefore, using a Brookfield DV-II viscometer (CPE-42 rotor), the results were measured at 20°C and a shear rate of 380 sec. -1 The viscosity of the cleaning solution, measured at a rotation speed of 100 rpm, is preferably 12 mPa·s or less, preferably 6 mPa·s or less to further improve penetration and cleaning performance, and more preferably 3 mPa·s or less if further consideration is given.

[0089] The cleaning solution preferably has a pH of 10 or less at 20°C. This is because a pH of 10 or less makes it less likely to become strongly alkaline, which helps to suppress the precipitation and discoloration of dyes and other colorants contained in the ink, and also ensures superior safety even if the cleaning solution comes into contact with the user's hands or clothing during cleaning. Furthermore, considering cleaning performance and stability, the pH of the cleaning solution at a 20°C environment is preferably pH 7 to 10, more preferably pH 8 to 10, and even more preferably pH 9 to 10. Furthermore, the pH of the cleaning solution may be measured using the highly concentrated stock solution described later, or the pH of the cleaning solution may be measured after diluting the stock solution with water or the like. In particular, it is advisable to measure the pH during cleaning of the comb grooves and nib of writing instruments. In this invention, the pH value is measured at 20°C using a commercially available pH meter (for example, an IM-40S pH meter manufactured by Toa DKK Corporation).

[0090] As described above, after removing dried ink from the comb grooves and nib of a writing instrument, the cleaning solution is generally rinsed off with water. However, if this rinsing is insufficient, cleaning solution may remain in the comb grooves and nib of the writing instrument. If a converter filled with new ink is then attached to the comb grooves and nib (section) of the writing instrument in this state, and new ink is drawn into the converter from the nib, the cleaning solution remaining in the comb grooves, nib, and converter may mix with the new ink. Thus, if rinsing is insufficient and cleaning solution remains in the comb grooves, nib, and converter of the writing instrument, it may mix with the newly drawn ink and have an adverse effect. To minimize such effects, the pH of the cleaning solution at 20°C is preferably 10 or less, and the surface tension is preferably 20 to 50 mN / m. More preferably, the pH of the cleaning solution at 20°C is preferably 7 to 10, and the surface tension is preferably 23 to 40 mN / m.

[0091] In particular, when cleaning writing instruments that use an ink composition (pigment ink) containing a pigment as a coloring agent, the nonionic surfactant is preferred because it has a high affinity for the pigment and pigment dispersant contained in the pigment ink. Examples of pigment dispersants for pigment inks include acidic resins, basic resins, nonionic surfactants, and anionic surfactants. Nonionic surfactants with an HLB value of 15 or less are particularly preferred because they easily provide a cleaning effect for writing instruments using inks made with acidic resins such as acrylic resins, styrene-acrylic resins, styrene-maleic acid resins, and phenolic resins, and even more easily provide a cleaning effect for writing instruments using inks made with acrylic resins and styrene-acrylic resins. Therefore, the writing instrument cleaning solution of the present invention, which uses the nonionic surfactant, is preferably used as a cleaning solution for writing instruments that use pigment ink.

[0092] When cleaning writing instruments that use pigment-based ink compositions (pigment inks), the ink dries and hardens in the comb grooves, nib, and converter, making it difficult to remove the dirt even with washing. Therefore, using the writing instrument cleaning agent of the present invention is effective. Pigments used in ink compositions (pigment inks) include inorganic, organic, and processed pigments. Among these, organic pigments are particularly difficult to remove even with washing, making the cleaning agent of the present invention effective. Furthermore, considering this, phthalocyanine-based organic pigments are most effective, and ink compositions using phthalocyanine green and phthalocyanine blue are particularly effective and preferred. Examples of phthalocyanine green include Pigment Green 7, 36, and 58, while examples of phthalocyanine blue include Pigment Blue 16, 15, 15:1, 15:2, 15:3, 15:4, 15:6, 75, and 79. In particular, Pigment Blue 15, 15:1, 15:2, 15:3, 15:4, and 15:6 are effective. (Example 1)

[0093] <Cleaning composition for writing instruments (1)> Nonionic surfactant 3.0% by mass (Manufactured by Daiichi Kogyo Seiyaku Co., Ltd., Product name: Neugen XL-70, Polyoxyalkylene branched decyl ether, HLB value 14.7) Triethanolamine 9.0% by mass Preservative 0.3% by mass (1,2-Benzisothiazoline-3-one) Rust inhibitor 0.3% by mass (benzotriazole) A nonionic surfactant, triethanolamine, a preservative, and a rust inhibitor were added and mixed by propeller stirring to obtain a cleaning composition for writing instruments.

[0094] (Writing instrument cleaning compositions (2)~(33)) A cleaning composition for writing instruments was obtained in the same manner as cleaning composition for writing instruments (1), except that the composition of each component contained in the cleaning composition for writing instruments was changed to the compositions shown in Tables 1 to 3.

[0095] [Table 1] [Table 2] [Table 3]

[0096] (Preparation of unit quantities) For each of the writing instrument cleaning compositions (1) to (33), the mass obtained by converting the proportion of each writing instrument cleaning composition listed in Table 1 to 1 in grams was used as the unit amount, and it was encapsulated by heat welding using Kuraray Co., Ltd.'s POVA, which is a water-soluble film mainly composed of polyvinyl alcohol. Through this encapsulation process, writing instrument cleaning compositions (1) to (31) were prepared, each consisting of a group of unit amounts in which the proportion of each writing instrument cleaning composition listed in Table 1 to 1 in grams was individually encapsulated by a water-soluble film.

[0097] (Evaluation of film stability) The stability of the water-soluble film was evaluated by observing the state of each unit amount of the writing instrument cleaning compositions (1) to (33) when left for 24 hours in an environment of 20°C and 65% humidity, based on its resistance to solubility and swelling. The evaluation criteria are shown below. The evaluation results are shown in Tables 1 to 3.

[0098] ◎: No change in the shape of the water-soluble film. No leakage of the enclosed writing instrument cleaning composition to the outside. ○: The water-soluble film shows deformation in its shape. There is no leakage of the enclosed writing instrument cleaning composition to the outside. △: The water-soluble film shows deformation in its shape. There is no leakage of the enclosed writing instrument cleaning composition to the outside, but it is inferior to ○. ×: The water-soluble film has deformed in shape. The writing instrument cleaning composition contained within has leaked out.

[0099] (Example 1) A unit amount containing the writing instrument cleaning composition (1) encapsulated in the above-mentioned water-soluble film was used as the writing instrument cleaning composition agent (1) in Example 1, and 300 ml of deionized water was added to prepare a cleaning solution.

[0100] (Examples 2-30, Comparative Example 1) A cleaning solution was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the unit quantity of the cleaning composition for writing instruments, i.e., the cleaning composition for writing instruments contained in a water-soluble film, was changed to the combination shown in the table.

[0101] (Example 31) As a cleaning agent for writing instruments, the unit quantity of the writing instrument cleaning composition, that is, the writing instrument cleaning composition encapsulated in a water-soluble film, was changed to the combination shown in the table. In Example 31, a unit quantity of the writing instrument cleaning agent (31) in which the writing instrument cleaning composition (31) was encapsulated in the water-soluble film was mixed with a unit quantity of the writing instrument cleaning agent (32) in which the writing instrument cleaning composition (32) was encapsulated in the water-soluble film, and 300 ml of de-iced water was added to prepare a cleaning solution.

[0102] The cleaning compositions and cleaning solutions for writing instruments obtained in Examples 1-31 and Comparative Example 1 were evaluated as follows, and the results are shown in the table. A fountain pen manufactured by Pilot Corporation (product name: Custom NS) was fitted with a nib and comb groove (section) and a push-type converter (an ink reservoir that can directly draw ink from the ink reservoir of the writing instrument into the ink reservoir of the writing instrument (fountain pen ink filler)) that uses a pressing member filled with 0.5 ml of the writing instrument cleaning composition of Example 1 to draw ink. This was used as a test fountain pen. The fountain pen was then used for writing until the ink ran out. Afterward, ink was drawn from the ink bottle using a push-type converter to refill the pen. This process was repeated 10 times, and as the same writing instrument components were used repeatedly, scratches such as mounting marks and friction marks appeared on the nib and converter. The nib, comb groove (section), and converter, which were stained with ink and had scratches, were cleaned by drawing in water. Afterward, the nib, the grooves (section), and the converter were cleaned by drawing in cleaning solution. The converter was removed from the nib and section (barrel), and the nib, section (barrel), and converter were left immersed in 100 ml of cleaning solution at 20°C for 24 hours. Next, the pen nib, comb groove, and converter were cleaned with deionized water, and their ink presence was visually inspected. Furthermore, a converter filled with 0.5 ml of writing instrument cleaning composition was attached, and the re-writing performance was evaluated.

[0103] The viscosity of the cleaning solution obtained as in Example 1 was measured using a Brookfield DV-II viscometer (CPE-42 rotor) at 20°C and a shear rate of 380 sec. -1 When measured at a rotation speed of 100 rpm, the viscosity of the cleaning solutions in Example 1, Example 2, and Example 23 was 1 mPa·s, 1 mPa·s, and 4 mPa·s, respectively. Furthermore, the pH value of the obtained cleaning solution was measured using an IM-40S pH meter (at 20°C, manufactured by Toa DKK Co., Ltd.), and the surface tension of the obtained cleaning solution was measured using a surface tension meter (at 20°C, platinum plate, vertical plate method, manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd.). The results are shown in the table.

[0104] <Water-based pigment ink composition for writing instruments> • Pigment dispersion (acrylic resin dispersion) 18.0% by mass (Manufactured by Fuji Pigment Co., Ltd., contains Pigment Blue 15:3, 17% by mass aqueous dispersion) • Moisturizer 2.0% by mass (Glycerin) • pH adjuster 0.5% by mass (Triethanolamine) • Preservative 0.2% by mass (Manufactured by Lonza Japan Co., Ltd., Product name: Proxel XL-2) • Ion-exchanged water 79.3% by mass Deionized water, a humectant, a pH adjuster, and a preservative were added and mixed by propeller stirring to obtain a base liquid. Then, a pigment dispersion was added to the base liquid and mixed by propeller stirring to obtain an aqueous pigment ink composition for writing instruments.

[0105] <Cleaning capability of the converter (with scratches)> ◎: There was almost no ink staining on the converter. ○: Some ink stains were observed on the converter. △: Some ink stains were observed on the converter, but it was at a level that did not affect practical use. ×: There was a lot of ink residue left in the converter.

[0106] <Cleaning of the pen tip (with scratches)> ◎: There was almost no ink smudge on the pen tip. ○: There was some ink staining on the pen tip. △: There was some ink staining on the pen tip, but it was at a level that did not affect its practical use. ×: There was a lot of ink residue on the pen tip.

[0107] <Cleanability of the comb grooves> ◎: Almost no ink stains were observed in the comb grooves. ○: Some ink stains were observed in the comb grooves. △: Some ink stains were observed in the comb grooves, but this was at a level that did not affect practical use. ×: There was a lot of ink residue in the comb grooves.

[0108] <Rewriting performance> ◎: The handwriting was good. ○: The handwriting was perfectly acceptable for practical use. ×: The handwriting was smudged and inconsistent, to a level that was problematic.

[0109] As shown in the table, the cleaning solutions of Examples 1 to 31 showed superior cleaning effectiveness compared to the cleaning solution of Comparative Example 1, even when the pigment ink had dried inside the converter, nib, and comb groove. They also demonstrated excellent cleaning effects on the converter and nib even in the presence of scratches, and did not affect the ability to rewrite. Furthermore, since Examples 19, 27, and 28 had HLB values ​​of less than 10, their solubility in the cleaning solution was somewhat inferior. When the cleaning solution was visually inspected, it appeared cloudy, and Example 1 had higher cleaning power.

[0110] On the other hand, the cleaning solution in Comparative Example 1 did not have sufficient cleaning effect, and ink stains remained throughout the entire test. As is clear from the above results, the cleaning solution of the present invention has proven to be excellent as a cleaning solution.

[0111] In this embodiment, the nib, comb groove, and converter of a fountain pen were used as writing instrument components and cleaned with a cleaning agent. However, other writing instrument components may also be used. For example, the nibs of ballpoint pens, such as plastic or metal tips, ballpoint pen tip holders, ink cartridges, writing instrument barrels, and writing instrument caps may also be used for cleaning. Furthermore, the converter is not limited to any particular type, and includes push-type converters that use a pressing member to draw in ink, slide-type converters that use a sliding member to draw in ink, and rotary-type converters that use a rotating body to draw in ink. [Industrial applicability]

[0112] The writing instrument cleaning agent of the present invention can be suitably used as a cleaning solution for writing instruments such as fountain pens, ballpoint pens, marking pens (sign pens), brush pens, calligraphy pens, and drafting pens, and can be suitably used as a cleaning agent for writing instruments equipped with comb grooves as an ink flow rate adjustment mechanism.

Claims

1. A unit quantity comprising a writing instrument cleaning composition containing water and a nonionic surfactant or an anionic surfactant, individually encapsulated in predetermined unit quantities by a soluble film that is soluble in a solvent used when cleaning writing instruments, The water content relative to the total mass of the writing instrument cleaning composition is 20% by mass or less. The nonionic surfactant is a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether, The aforementioned anionic surfactant is a phosphate ester type surfactant. The aforementioned unit amount is 0.5 g or more and 50.0 g or less. Unit quantity.

2. The unit quantity according to claim 1, wherein the soluble film is mainly composed of pullulan.

3. The unit quantity according to claim 1, wherein the writing instrument cleaning composition comprises a pH adjusting agent.

4. The unit quantity according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the HLB value of the nonionic surfactant or the anionic surfactant is 15 or less.

5. A writing instrument cleaning solution comprising the unit amount of the substance according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and the solvent, wherein the soluble film is dissolved.

6. A unit amount of the substance according to any one of claims 1 to 4, and 300 ml of the solvent, A writing instrument cleaning solution in which the soluble film is dissolved has a surface tension of 20 to 50 mN / m at a 20°C environment.

7. A unit amount of the substance according to any one of claims 1 to 4, and 300 ml of the solvent, A writing instrument cleaning solution in which the soluble film is dissolved has a pH of 10 or less at a 20°C environment.

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