CONCENTRATED LIQUID SURFACTANT COMPOSITIONS

Abstract

The present invention relates to concentrated liquid surfactant compositions comprising an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and a cationic surfactant. These concentrated liquid surfactant compositions are substantially free of water or solvent and consist primarily of surfactants. They are effective as cleaning compositions.

Description

CONCENTRATED LIQUID SURFACTANT COMPOSITIONS CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 62 / 835,727, entitled LIQUID CONCENTRATED SURFACTANT COMPOSITIONS, filed on April 18, 2019, and of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 62 / 899,448, entitled LIQUID CONCENTRATED SURFACTANT COMPOSITIONS, filed on September 12, 2019, and hereby incorporates each application herein by reference in their respective entireties. FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] The present description generally refers to concentrated liquid surfactant compositions substantially free of water and which include at least one anionic surfactant, one non-ionic surfactant and one cationic surfactant. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Surfactants are widely used in many industries because of the unique properties they exhibit. For example, cleaning compositions typically include a mixture of surfactants, dispersed in water or another solvent, to provide cleaning benefits. In such In MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO compositions, surfactants act as a primary cleaning component to solubilize and remove oil, grime, and other undesirable contaminants exposed to the composition. Typically, cleaning compositions include multiple surfactants, such as an anionic surfactant and a nonionic surfactant, as the use of multiple surfactants can enhance the removal of different types of dirt. In addition to cleaning, surfactant-containing compositions can also be useful for other applications such as emulsion forming, biocides, dyes, and paints. Surfactant-containing compositions are also useful for enhanced oil recovery applications, foaming applications, metalworking, and many other uses. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] According to one embodiment, a liquid composition includes one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants, one or more nonionic surfactants, and one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants. The liquid composition has approximately 90% or more, by weight, of surfactant.

[0005] According to another embodiment, a liquid composition consists essentially of one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants, one or more nonionic surfactants, one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants and optionally MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO one or more propylene glycols and an amphoteric surfactant. The liquid composition has approximately 90% or more, by weight, of surfactant.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a method for forming a concentrated liquid surfactant composition includes mixing together until substantially clear and homogeneous one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants, one or more nonionic surfactants, and one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants. The concentrated liquid surfactant composition has approximately 90% or more, by weight, of surfactant. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0007] FIG. 1 represents a graph illustrating the viscosity of a concentrated liquid surfactant composition as a function of the percentage of aqueous dilution. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] This description generally describes substantially water-free liquid concentrated surfactant compositions that include at least one anionic surfactant, one nonionic surfactant, and one cationic surfactant. Although generally useful for any application requiring the use of surfactants, the liquid concentrated surfactant compositions described herein are particularly useful as concentrated cleaning compositions for the removal of various soils. Generally, liquid concentrated surfactant compositions are formed by selecting suitable surfactants that are available in compositions containing substantially 100% surfactant by weight, and then blending the compositions together. Definitions

[0009] The term surfactant, as used herein, refers to surface-active agents. Surfactants are generally amphiphilic compounds that reduce surface or interfacial tensions. The term surfactant includes reference to all forms of surfactant, including surfactant salts, and reference to the weight percent of a surfactant includes the full weight of the specified form, such as chelating agents and / or the counterion of any surfactant salt.

[0010] The term anionic surfactant, as used herein, refers to a surfactant in which the hydrophilic or polar group has an anionic charge.

[0011] The term nonionic surfactant, as used herein, refers to a surfactant in which the hydrophilic or polar group does not have an ionic charge.

[0012] The term cationic surfactant, as used herein, refers to a surfactant in which the hydrophilic or polar group has a cationic charge.

[0013] The term dirt, as used in the ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO present refers to unwanted contaminants such as dirt, oil, food, biological contaminants, etc. Dirt can be removed from a substrate and solubilized with surfactants.

[0014] The term % actives as used herein refers to the percentage by weight of the active components in the referenced article. For example, a 95% active composition refers to a composition that includes 95% by weight of active components and approximately 5% by weight of inert components.

[0015] The term active component refers to all components in a composition other than inert components. Inert components refer to components such as water, solvent, or filler.

[0016] The term concentrated liquid surfactant composition refers to a composition made up of approximately 100%, by weight, of surfactant and explicitly includes compositions made up of 90% or more, by weight, ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO of surfactant; approximately 91% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 92% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 93% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 94% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 95% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 96% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 97% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 98% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 99% or more, by weight, of surfactant; approximately 100%, by weight, of surfactant; and 100%, by weight, of surfactant. In certain embodiments, the remainder of the concentrated liquid surfactant composition may include minor amounts of additives, microcomponents, and / or inadvertent amounts of inert components. In certain embodiments, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions may include approximately 5% or less of inert components; approximately 3% or less of inert components; approximately 1% or less of inert components; or substantially no inert components. Unless otherwise stated, references to the pH of the concentrated liquid surfactant composition refer to the pH of a composition formed from 10%, by weight, of the concentrated liquid surfactant composition and 90%, by weight, of deionized water.

[0017] The term substantially free of means that the specified component is not intentionally included in the composition and, if present, is found only in incidental amounts of about 5% or less.

[0018] The term HCPA DCC-17 means the evaluation standard Test Method for Greasy and Hard Kitchen Soiling for the Evaluation of Cleaners Used for Cleaning Hard Surfaces promulgated by the Household and Commercial Products Association (HCPA) under Designation DCC-17 (April 2018). ASTM D5343 refers to ASTM International's evaluation standard D5343 (2018).

[0019] The surfactants for the concentrated liquid surfactant composition described herein may be selected based on their compatibility with the other surfactants included in the composition, as well as their physical and chemical properties. As used herein, compatibility means that the surfactants are miscible with each other and that precipitation, flocculation, phase separation, etc., does not occur from, for example, the formation of a salt or other ionic complex.

[0020] With respect to physical and chemical properties, suitable surfactants can preferably be formed or supplied as a liquid composition having approximately 100% by weight of surfactant or a salt or other derivative thereof, since such surfactants can be readily processed into the desired concentrated liquid surfactant composition with low processing energy. In certain embodiments, the preferred surfactant compositions comprising approximately 100% by weight of surfactant can be liquid at a temperature of approximately 5°C to approximately 50°C, or any temperature between approximately 5°C and approximately 50°C. MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO such as approximately 15°C to approximately 30°C and room temperature (e.g., approximately 23°C). However, as can be seen, suitable surfactants may also be approximately 100% by weight of gel or solid if interaction with the other surfactants in the concentrated liquid surfactant composition causes the surfactant to form a liquid in the concentrated liquid surfactant composition. As can be seen, suitable compositions of the surfactants used to form the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein may include small amounts of solvent or other compounds in certain forms. For example, a composition consisting of less than 100% by weight of surfactant may be suitable if the concentrated liquid surfactant composition formed therefrom maintains a sufficient weight percentage of surfactant (e.g., 90% or more by weight of surfactant).

[0021] In certain embodiments, suitable anionic surfactants may be selected from sulfonated surfactants and related compounds thereof. For example, suitable sulfonated surfactants may be selected from both sulfonates and the related sulfonic acids used to form such sulfonates. In certain embodiments, the anionic surfactant may include an aromatic portion, such as a phenyl portion, which may ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO may be independently substituted with a sulfonic acid portion, and may be further independently substituted with one or more linear or branched C4-C24 alkyl groups. For example, the anionic surfactant may include an alkylbenzene sulfonate (as represented by Formula I) or a sulfonic acid precursor thereof: Formula I MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO where: R1- represents a hydrogen, or a linear or branched C4-C24 alkyl; R2- represents a hydrogen, or a linear or branched C4-C24 alkyl; M represents an alkali metal, an ammonium represented by N(R4>4), a Ci-Ce alkanol or Ci-Ce alkoxylated amino alcohol, or SO3M is SO3H; wherein each R4 independently represents a hydrogen, or a linear or branched Ci-Cg alkyl; and wherein at least one of R1 and R2 represents a linear or branched C4-C24 alkyl.

[0022] One or more linear or branched C4-C24 alkyl groups of the anionic sulfonated surfactant may be, or may include, mixtures of, a linear or branched C4-C8 alkyl, a Cg-Cio alkyl, a Cs-Ci4 alkyl, a C12-C16 alkyl, a C14-C18 alkyl, a C16-C20 alkyl and / or a C18-C24 alkyl. For example, in certain embodiments, the R1 and R2 groups of the anionic sulfonated surfactant represented by Formula I may represent a linear or branched C6-C24 alkyl, such as a linear or branched C4-C8 alkyl, a linear or branched Cg-C10 alkyl, a linear or branched C8-C14 alkyl, a linear or branched C12-C16 alkyl, a linear or branched C14-C18 alkyl, a linear or branched C16-C20 alkyl and / or a linear or branched C18-C24 alkyl, or mixtures thereof.In certain embodiments, the R1 and / or R2 groups of the anionic sulfonated surfactant represented by Formula I may represent a linear C6-C24 alkyl, such as a linear C4-C8 alkyl, a linear Ce-Cio alkyl, a linear C8-C14 alkyl, a linear C12-C16 alkyl, a linear C14-C18 alkyl, a linear C16-C20 alkyl and / or a linear C18-C24 alkyl, or mixtures thereof.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the R1 and / or R2 groups of the anionic sulfonated surfactant represented by Formula I may represent a branched Cg-C24 alkyl, such as a branched C4-C8 alkyl, a branched Ce-Cio alkyl, a branched C8-C14 alkyl, a branched C12Ci6 alkyl, a branched C14-C18 alkyl, a branched C16-C20 alkyl and / or a branched C18-C24 alkyl, or MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO mixtures thereof. The salt of a sulfonic acid portion of the anionic sulfonated surfactant (for example, wherein at least one of the portions represented by SO3M is not SO3H) or the amphoteric sulfonated surfactant contained within the sulfonated surfactant composition may be an alkali metal salt (such as a sodium salt (for example, wherein M is Na) or potassium salt (for example, wherein M is K)), an ammonium salt (for example, wherein M represents N(R4)4), or an amino alcohol salt.

[0024] In certain forms, the anionic surfactant may be a linear or branched alkylbenzenesulfonate (sometimes referred to as an alkylamine alkylbenzenesulfonate or an alkylammonium alkylbenzenesulfonate). Examples of such alkylbenzenesulfonates include linear or branched hexylbenzenesulfonate, linear or branched dodecylbenzenesulfonate, linear isopropylamine alkylbenzenesulfonate, branched isopropylamine alkylbenzenesulfonate, linear or branched isopropylamine hexylbenzenesulfonate, linear or branched isopropylamine dodecylbenzenesulfonate, and linear isopropylamine alkylbenzenesulfonate.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the anionic surfactant can be added as a sulfonic acid and can be substantially converted in the concentrated liquid surfactant composition, or in a precursor composition, into a MA / I / UO4ZOO sulfonate.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the anionic surfactant is commercially available and may be, for example, an anionic sulfonated surfactant or anionic sulfonic acid, comprising, or consisting of, a Calsoft® or Calimulse® type surfactant such as a linear or branched sulfonic acid or alkylbenzenesulfonate. Suitable Calsoft® surfactants are sold by Pilot Chemical Co. (Cincinnati, OH) and include Calsoft® LAS-99 and Calsoft® LPS-99.

[0027] In certain embodiments, particularly advantageous anionic surfactants may include, or be formed from, linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acids, such as Calsoft® LAS-99 or Calsoft® LPS-99, which are commercially available as 99% active liquids containing 97%, by weight, of linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid.

[0028] Generally, the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein may generally include approximately 25% to approximately 75%, by weight, of an anionic sulfonated surfactant or any amount between approximately 25% and approximately 60%, by weight, such as approximately 30% to approximately 45%, by weight.

[0029] In certain forms, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions may include an agent MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO neutralizing agent to modify the pH of the composition. As can be seen, the use of such neutralizing agents can also convert any anionic sulfonic acid into an anionic sulfonated surfactant. In certain embodiments, sufficient neutralizing agent can be added to a liquid surfactant composition to adjust the pH to approximately 10 or less, approximately 8 or less, approximately 5 to approximately 8, or approximately 7 to approximately 8. However, as can be seen, in certain embodiments, the use of a neutralizing agent may be optional, such as in embodiments where concentrated liquid surfactant compositions are added to compositions that already contain a neutralizing agent or that are intended for use at a non-neutral pH.

[0030] In certain embodiments that include a neutralizing agent, the preferred neutralizing agents may include amino alcohols. Generally prepared by reacting a secondary amine with a suitable epoxide such as a diepoxide or triepoxide, amino alcohols are useful neutralizing agents with low-foaming characteristics.

[0031] In certain forms, the amines suitable for the production of amino alcohols are presented in Formula II: MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO r <xr2N R3en donde: R1 represents an alkoxy chain containing a hydroxy group and formed from one or more reactive additions of a C2-C4 epoxide; and R2 and R3 independently represent a hydrogen, a C1-C4 alkyl, or an alkoxy chain containing a hydroxyl group formed from the reactive addition of a C2-C4 epoxide.

[0032] In certain formulations, the neutralizing agent may include one or more monoisopropanolamine (sometimes referred to as MIRA) and monoethanolamine. In addition to modifying the pH and converting sulfonic acids to sulfonates, the inclusion of a neutralizing agent may also further improve the compatibility of the surfactants included in the concentrated liquid surfactant composition with the other surfactants and may improve the composition's ability to remove certain types of soiling.

[0033] When a neutralizing agent is included, the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein can generally be formed by including approximately 5% to approximately 15% by weight of the neutralizing agent, including any amount between 5% and approximately 15% by weight of the neutralizing agent, such as approximately 7% to approximately 10% by weight of the neutralizing agent. In certain embodiments, the amount of neutralizing agent can be determined with reference to the desired pH. For example, sufficient neutralizing agent can be added to form a concentrated liquid surfactant composition having a final pH of approximately 7 to approximately 8 when dispersed in deionized water at a concentration of 10% by weight of the liquid composition.

[0034] As can be seen, the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein may include residual amounts of the neutralizing agent in certain forms since the neutralizing agent cannot be added in an exact stoichiometric amount to any sulfonic acid, for example.

[0035] As can be seen, the inclusion of a cationic surfactant improves the performance of the concentrated liquid surfactant composition by providing unique benefits such as fabric softening, biocidal benefits, and enhanced soil removal. Although cationic and anionic surfactants typically have compatibility issues that lead to the formation of a salt or ionic complex, flocculation, or phase separation, certain anionic and cationic surfactants have been found to have surprising compatibility.

[0036] Specifically, cationic surfactants with sufficient hydrophilic character have been found to be compatible with sulfonated anionic surfactants. Examples of such cationic surfactants include alkoxylated, preferably ethoxylated, quaternary ammonium compounds formed from fatty acid compounds such as fatty amines. In certain embodiments, more specific examples of suitable cationic surfactants exhibiting suitable hydrophilic character may include alkoxylated, or preferably ethoxylated, polyethylene glycol derivatives of long-chain fatty acid amines such as cocamine and fatty acid tallows. As can be seen, the polyethylene glycol groups in such hydrophilic modified cationic surfactants may have the structure represented in Formula III: R2R1---N---R3A R4 where: A- is a suitable anion such as a halogen; R1 and R2 are linear or branched Ci-C alkyl, with the total number of carbons combined at least 8; MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO R3 is an alkoxy chain containing a hydroxyl group derived from the reactive addition of a C2-C4 epoxide; R4 is hydrogen, a C1-C4 alkyl, or an alkoxy chain containing a hydroxyl group derived from the reactive addition of a C2-C4 epoxide; and wherein the combined number of alkoxy units is sufficient to hydrophilically modify the quaternary ammonium compound.

[0037] In certain embodiments, suitable quaternary ammonium compounds can be derived from polyethylene glycol. In such embodiments, each of R3 and R4 can be: -(CH2CH2O)XH where the x of each of R3 and R4 independently represents an integer between 1 and 15.

[0038] Under the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) terminology, a polyethylene glycol (PEG) constituent may be referred to by the average sum of x in R3 and R4. For example, PEG15 refers to a PEG derivative where the average sum of x in R3 and R4 is 15.

[0039] In certain forms, the cationic surfactant may be a propoxylated cationic surfactant, such as propoxylated quaternary ammonium surfactants and propoxylated amine surfactants. Propoxylated cationic surfactants have been found to allow the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein to exhibit a reduced dioxane content. As can be seen, health concerns have led regulatory authorities to require reduced amounts of 1,4-dioxane in chemicals. An example of a suitable propoxylated surfactant is polypropoxyethylmethylammonium chloride. Certain suitable propoxylated surfactants are available from Evonik Industries AG (Esen, DE).

[0040] In certain other embodiments, a suitable cationic surfactant that is compatible with the anionic sulfonated surfactant is PEG-15 cocoalkylmethyl ammonium chloride. Available as Maquat® C-15 from Pilot Chemical Co. (Cincinnati, OH), it is advantageously a liquid at a concentration of 95%, by weight, of PEG-15 cocoalkylmethyl ammonium chloride at room temperature.

[0041] Generally, a surfactant can be included ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO cationic suitable at approximately 0.5% to approximately 35%, by weight, of the concentrated surfactant composition liquid including any percentage by weight between approximately 0.5% to approximately 35%, such as approximately 1% to approximately 30%, by weight; approximately 2.5% to approximately 25%, by weight; approximately 2.5% to approximately 10%, by weight; approximately 3% to approximately 7.5% by weight; and approximately 3% to approximately 5% by weight. In certain formulations, the cationic surfactant may be included at approximately 3% by weight of the concentrated liquid surfactant composition.

[0042] As can be seen, nonionic surfactants are generally compatible with both anionic and cationic surfactants, since they lack an ionic charge. Consequently, any known nonionic surfactant may be generally suitable for the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein. Preferred nonionic surfactants are those that can be supplied as approximately 100% surfactant by weight and are liquid at room temperature (e.g., at approximately 23°C).

[0043] In certain embodiments, suitable nonionic surfactants may include long-chain alkoxylates, and preferably ethoxylates, aliphatic alcohols, synthetic or native, having a C8-C22 alkyl group. In certain embodiments, the nonionic surfactants may include from approximately 1 mole to approximately 25 moles of ethylene oxide. The alkyl chains of the aliphatic alcohols may be linear or branched, primary or secondary, saturated or ΜΛ / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO unsaturated.

[0044] Additional examples of suitable nonionic surfactants may include alkylphenol ethoxylates, tallow amine ethoxylates, ether amine ethoxylates, ethylene oxide / propylene oxide block copolymers, amide ether condensates, alkyl polyglucosides, and cocoamine ethoxylates as known in the art.

[0045] Particularly preferred nonionic surfactants may include linear alkyl alcohol ethoxylates in certain embodiments. Examples of such nonionic surfactants include Cg-Cis linear alkyl alcohol ethoxylates having an average of 1 mol to 10 moles of ethylene oxide. Such nonionic surfactants are marketed by Pilot Chemical Co. (Cincinnati, OH) under the trade name Masodol®.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein may generally include approximately 20% to approximately 60%, by weight, of nonionic surfactants, including any amount between approximately 20% to approximately 60%, by weight, such as approximately 25% to approximately 50%, by weight, approximately 30% to approximately 45%, by weight, and approximately 35% to approximately 45%, by weight.

[0047] As can be seen, the substantial or total removal of water offers numerous benefits for the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein. For example, the removal of inert materials such as water reduces the cost and environmental impact of transporting and storing inert material. Concentrated liquid surfactant compositions can also be more effective for their given weight.

[0048] In certain embodiments, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions can be a low-viscosity, amber-colored liquid. Concentrated liquid surfactant compositions can be uniform or isotropic fluids. The low viscosity of the concentrated liquid surfactant composition can be advantageous, as such viscosities can facilitate handling and use of the composition. For example, the viscosity is suitable for pumping and pouring the concentrated liquid surfactant composition.

[0049] In certain embodiments, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions may have a dynamic viscosity of approximately 100,000 cP or less, a dynamic viscosity of approximately 50,000 cP or less, a dynamic viscosity of approximately 10,000 cP or less, a dynamic viscosity of approximately 5,000 cP or less, a dynamic viscosity of approximately 1,000 cP or less, as well as any dynamic viscosity within such ranges MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO such as a dynamic viscosity of approximately 100 cP to approximately 2,000 cP or a dynamic viscosity of approximately 150 cP to approximately 1,000 cP.

[0050] Generally, concentrated liquid surfactant composition can be stored in any suitable container or apparatus. For example, suitable containers and apparatus include single-use containers or apparatus, refillable containers or apparatus, and refills thereof.In more specific examples, suitable containers and equipment include: aerosol cans, metal bottles, metal cans, ampoules, antistatic bags, bags in boxes, flexible bags and containers, barrels, biodegradable bags, blister packs, boil bags, bottles, boxes, bulk boxes, cages, cases, cartons, cartons, drawers, shells, corrugated box designs, packing boxes, disposable cups, drums, caps, flexible bulk intermediate containers, folding boxes, glass bottles, insulated shipping containers, bulk intermediate containers, jars, jerrycans, jugs, barrels, multipacks, oyster buckets, packages (containers), padded envelopes, buckets, paper bags, paper sacks, plastic bags, plastic bottles, retort bags, sachets, security bags, shipping containers, leather packaging, roll bottles, Tetra Briks®, tin cans, thermal bags. ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO pressurized aerosol cans, tubs (containers), tubes, unit loads, vials, wooden boxes, and the like. Containers and apparatus may include storage for additional components such as liquids, solids, or gases that can be applied or used simultaneously. Furthermore, containers and apparatus may also include, or alternatively, accessories such as hoses, applicator pads, and the like.

[0051] In certain aspects of the description, the container or apparatus may include one or more application systems for applying the concentrated liquid surfactant composition. For example, the container or apparatus may include one or more nozzles and nebulizers. Suitable nozzles may include single-fluid nozzles, plain orifice nozzles, shaped orifice nozzles, surface impact single-fluid nozzles, pressure swirl single-fluid spray nozzles, solid cone single-fluid nozzles, composite nozzles, two-fluid nozzles, internally mixing two-fluid nozzles, externally mixing two-fluid nozzles, two-fluid nozzle controls, rotary atomizers, ultrasonic atomizers, and electrostatic atomizers. Suitable nebulizers include mechanical nebulizers, soft mist inhalers, electric nebulizers, jet nebulizers, MA / I / UO4ZOO ultrasonic wave nebulizers and nebulizers with vibrating mesh technology. Aerosol cans can include a paint valve system that has a female valve with the stem being part of the upper actuator. The valve can be pre-assembled with the valve cup and installed in the can as a single unit before pressure filling. The actuator can be added later.

[0052] Vessels or apparatus may be pressurized in certain ways using, for example, an inert gas. Alternatively, vessels or apparatus may be pressurized electronically or by a chemical reaction.

[0053] In certain formulations, the concentrated liquid surfactant composition can be encapsulated in a single-use, soluble packet or capsule for laundry or dishwashing purposes. As can be seen, the absence of water or solvent in concentrated liquid surfactant compositions can be particularly advantageous for such applications due to size and weight considerations.

[0054] In certain formulations, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions can have a substantially neutral pH (e.g., approximately 7 to approximately 8) when dispersed in water at a concentration of 10% by weight of the concentrated liquid surfactant composition. As can be seen, having a neutral pH can be advantageous for reasons of safety and compatibility. For example, a neutral pH can mean that the concentrated liquid surfactant composition can be used with other non-neutral cleaning compositions (e.g., acidic or basic). A neutral pH can also prevent chemical burns to users and damage to the substrates to which the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions are applied.

[0055] Highly concentrated surfactant compositions have been found to exhibit numerous advantages compared to non-concentrated (e.g., approximately 50% or less concentrated) or even conventionally known highly concentrated surfactant compositions (having, for example, approximately 90% or less surfactant). For instance, the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein exhibit rapid dispersion in water, whereas known highly concentrated surfactant compositions having a surfactant concentration of 90% by weight or less can be difficult to disperse in water.

[0056] The concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein may be useful as a cleaning composition for domestic, industrial, and institutional applications, as they demonstrate a ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO offers a variety of useful properties. For example, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions can exhibit excellent particle and oily dirt removal properties, instant wetting, emulsifying and grease-cutting properties, transparent D'limonene microemulsions for heavy-duty cleaners, low viscosity for easy handling and storage, preservative-free and biodegradable.

[0057] In certain forms, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions can be useful for detergents, laundry compositions for domestic and institutional cleaning, hard surface cleaners, emulsifiers, fine fabric washing compositions, laundry pre-stain remover compositions, carpet shampoo compositions, textile degreasing compositions, manual and automatic dishwasher compositions, pot and pan cleaners, car wash compositions including manual or bucket-type car wash compositions and automatic car wash compositions, plastic and vinyl cleaning compositions, leather cleaning compositions, glass cleaning compositions, metal cleaners, wood cleaning compositions, marble cleaners, concrete cleaners, cement air traps, multipurpose cleaning compositions, kitchen cleaner and stripper,Kitchen degreasing compositions, kitchen countertop cleaners, bathtub and tile cleaners, bathroom cleaners, toilet cleaners, floor cleaners, floor removers, heavy-duty industrial cleaners, dairy cleaners, food processing plant cleaners, degreasing compositions, agricultural emulsifiers including pesticide emulsifiers, emulsion polymerization compositions, D'limonene microemulsions, perfume solubilizers, and foaming compositions for oil fields. However, as can be seen, the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein may be suitable for other cleaning uses known in the art.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the concentrated liquid surfactant composition may be used as an intermediate component of a larger cleaning composition or product. For example, the concentrated liquid surfactant composition may be used to formulate concentrated dishwashing liquid (e.g., 2x, 3x, 4x or more) in certain embodiments. In other certain embodiments, the concentrated liquid surfactant composition may be used as a surfactant mixture for any other household, industrial, or institutional cleaning product. In still other certain embodiments, the concentrated surfactant mixture may be used as a surfactant mixture MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO for paints, oils, emulsions, metalworking fluids, oilfield operations, foaming applications and the like.

[0059] In certain embodiments, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions may be compatible with various additives. For example, adjuvants, fillers, enzymes, bleaching agents, chelating agents, couplers, dispersing agents, dirt-trapping agents, pH agents, electrolytes, polymers (e.g., polycarboxylates, ethoxylated polyethyleneimines), antifoaming agents, fragrances, colorants, hard water modifiers, optical brighteners (e.g., fluorescent dyes), and drying agents may be added as suitable additives.

[0060] In certain embodiments, examples of suitable additives may include one or more propylene glycols and amphoteric surfactants. For example, propylene glycol may be included in the concentrated liquid surfactant compositions described herein as a dispersant, as a viscosity modifier, and / or as a low-temperature stability enhancer.

[0061] Amphoteric surfactants can be useful for improving coupling, hydrotropy, and / or dispersion of concentrated liquid surfactant compositions. At neutral pH, it is generally believed MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO that a variety of amphoteric surfactants may be suitable since such amphoteric surfactants will increase the stability of the concentrated liquid surfactant composition rather than decrease it. In certain embodiments, a suitable amphoteric surfactant may be sodium lauriminodipropionate.

[0062] In certain embodiments, viscosity modifiers may be included as an additive. Such additives are particularly useful when concentrated liquid surfactant compositions are diluted with water to, for example, form a cleaning product. Generally, known viscosity modifiers may be suitable. Particularly suitable viscosity modifiers have been found to include hydrophobically modified acrylate polymers and myristyl dimethylamine oxide.

[0063] For example, to increase the viscosity of a dilute solution containing a concentrated liquid surfactant composition with more than 80% water and having a low initial viscosity, a hydrophobically modified acrylate polymer solution may be included at approximately 1% to approximately 5% by weight. At moderate dilutions of approximately 50% to approximately 80% water, hydrophobically modified acrylate polymers or myristyl dimethylamine oxide may be used. MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO to increase viscosity. At low dilutions of 20% to 40% water, the initial viscosity of a concentrated liquid surfactant composition may be a gel. To break the gel and reduce viscosity, approximately 1% to approximately 5% propylene glycol may be added. At very low dilutions of 5% to approximately 15% water, myristyl dimethylamine oxide may be used at levels of approximately 1% to approximately 5% to increase viscosity.

[0064] The addition of additives can be particularly useful when concentrated liquid surfactant compositions are intended for direct application without being incorporated into a larger cleaning composition or product, or to improve other miscellaneous properties such as storage stability.

[0065] In certain formulations, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions may be substantially or entirely free of preservatives. As can be seen, the lack of need to include a preservative can be beneficial for compatibility with other components as well as for health reasons.

[0066] Generally, concentrated liquid surfactant compositions can be formed by mixing each of the surfactants together with conventional mixing equipment until a homogeneous mixture is formed. MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO Exemplary Cleaning Formulations

[0067] Exemplary formulations for various cleaning products formed using concentrated liquid surfactant compositions are described herein. In each sample formulation, each component is added in the order indicated with constant mixing. Mixing begins after each component is added and continues until a smooth, homogeneous mixture is achieved, free of lumps and particles. The pH is adjusted to approximately 8-9 using either citric acid or sodium hydroxide.

[0068] Laundry Detergent for One Laundry Capsule Component % w / w Composition Concentrated Liquid Surfactant 100% Propylene Glycol 5.0 Commercial Protease Enzyme 2.0 Commercial Mannanase Enzyme 1.0 Perfume and Dye qs

[0069] Liquid Laundry Detergent - High Performance Component % w / w Water 100% Oleic Acid 6.0 Sodium Hydroxide Solution 50% 1.7 Liquid Concentrated Surfactant Composition 32.0 Sodium Citrate 2.0 Propylene Glycol 5.0 Sodium Formate 1.0 Optical Brightener 0.05 Commercial Hydrophobic Modified Copolymer 1.0 Commercial Non-Ionic Soil Release Polymer 1.0 Commercial Enzyme Solution 3.0 Preservative, Perfume, Dye CS MA / I / UO4ZOO

[0070] Standard Liquid Laundry Detergent Component % w / w 100% Water Hydrophobically Modified Acrylate Polymer 2.0 10% Sodium Hydroxide Solution 1.0 Liquid Concentrated Surfactant Composition 22.0 Sodium Citrate 3.0 Optical Brightener 0.05 Commercial Hydrophobic Modified Copolymer 1.0 Preservative, Perfume, CS Dye

[0071] Economical Liquid Laundry Detergent Component % w / w Water at 100% Hydrophotically Modified Acrylate Polymer 2.0 10% Sodium Hydroxide Solution 1.0 Concentrated Liquid Surfactant Composition 12.0 Sodium Citrate 2.0 Preservative, Perfume, Dye CS MA / I / UO4ZOO

[0072] Concentrated Laundry Detergent (5X) Component % w / w Water at 100% Sodium Citrate 3.0 Concentrated Liquid Surfactant Composition 60.0 Propylene Glycol 5.0 Optical Brightener 0.1 Commercial Enzyme Solution 5.0 Preservative, Perfume, Dye CS

[0073] Tub and Tile Cleaner Component % w / w Water a. 100% Composition Concentrated Liquid Surfactant 1.0 Citric Acid 1.0 Sodium Citrate 1.0 Preservative, Perfume, Dye CS

[0074] Multipurpose Cleaner Component % w / w Water 100% Composition Concentrated Liquid Surfactant 3.0 Sodium Citrate 1.0 Sodium Carbonate 1.0 Glycol Ether 3.0 Preservative, Perfume, Dye CS MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO

[0075] Heavy Duty Industrial Cleaner and Degreaser Component % w / w Water at 100% Composition Liquid Concentrated Surfactant 10.0 D'limonene 5.0 Glycol ether 5.0 Preservative, Perfume, CS Dye

[0076] Each of the exemplary cleaners demonstrated performance equal to or better than comparable commercial products using industry-standard evaluation tests, such as HCPA DCC-17, Test Method for Greasy and Hard Soil. For example, Tub & Tile Cleaner 10 showed a Percent Soil Removal Test result of 98.6% compared to commercial product values ​​ranging from 4.9% to 98.1% when evaluated using the ASTM D5343 Soap Foam Evaluation Test. Examples

[0077] Several examples of concentrated liquid surfactant compositions were produced to evaluate their cleaning ability. Each of the exemplary compositions was formed by mixing all components in a suitable container with constant mixing until a clear, isotropic, and homogeneous batch was produced. Physical and Evaluative Tests pH measurements

[0078] The pH of the sample compositions was evaluated using a Symphony B-10 P pH meter manufactured by VWR Scientific (Radnor, PA). Measurements were performed according to the manufacturer's standards. The sample compositions were diluted with water to form a 10% aqueous solution. Foam Height

[0079] The foam height of the sample compositions was evaluated using a 1% solution of the evaluated composition. Measurements were performed according to the Ross-Miles method (ASTM D 1173) and reported as initial, after 5 minutes, and after 10 minutes. Wetting Time

[0080] The wetting time measurements of the sample compositions were evaluated using a 1% solution of the evaluated composition and cotton balls. The measurements were performed according to the Draves Wetting test. MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO Viscosity Measurements The viscosity of the sample compositions was determined using a Brookfield LV viscometer manufactured by Brookfield Ametek (Middleboro, MA). Viscosity was measured using spindle #3 at a speed of 20 RPM at a temperature of 25°C. Percent Solids Measurements

[0081] The percentage of solids in the sample compositions was determined using an Ohaus MB-45 moisture balance manufactured by Ohaus Corp. (Parsippany, NJ). Measurements were performed in accordance with the manufacturer's standards. Soiling Removal Test

[0082] The soil removal capacity of the exemplary compositions was determined by washing samples coated with clay, tallow powder, makeup, grass, grape juice, spaghetti sauce, mud, coffee, cocoa, and blood / milk / ink in an independent laboratory (Sterling Labs, Sylvania, OH). All reflectance values ​​were measured using a Photovolt 577 reflectometer manufactured by Photovolt Instruments (Minneapolis, MN) with a three-stimulus green filter.

[0083] Samples coated with clay, tallow powder, makeup, and grass were prepared by applying the dirt to clean cotton samples produced by Eidgenósische ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO Materialprüfungs- und Forschungsanstalt (later EMPA) in Dübendorf, Switzerland (translated, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology). Clay, tallow powder, makeup, and grass were obtained from Scientific Services S / D Inc. (Sparrowbush, NY). Samples coated with cranberry-grape juice, spaghetti sauce, mud, and coffee were prepared using soils supplied by the laboratory and samples from Scientific Services S / D Inc. Pre-soiled samples, soiled with cocoa, and blood / milk / ink were obtained from EMPA as EMPA Samples 112 and 116.

[0084] The reflectance of the unsoiled samples and the subsequently soiled samples was measured.

[0085] For washing, three soiled samples of each soil were washed in a GE Model GTW330ASK0WW washing machine with sufficient sample quantities of each test product for a 56.78 L (15-gallon) average wash load. The water in each test load was adjusted to a water hardness of 150 ppm using magnesium and calcium chloride concentrates at a ratio of 1 Mg to 2 Ca. The samples were processed at 32.2°C (90°F) for a normal 12-minute cycle. The samples were dry-pressed using the permanent press setting. After drying, the reflectance of each sample was measured using the same machine and procedure as the samples before the MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO washing .

[0086] The percentage of soil removal was calculated by comparing the reflectance values ​​of each unsoiled sample with the reflectance values ​​of the soiled and washed samples. The results were averaged for each set of replicates and then totaled for each sample composition. The higher the value, the better the cleaning of the sample composition. The difference between the means, which was statistically significant at the 95% confidence level, was also determined.

[0087] Table 1 represents the components, in weight percent, used to form Examples 1 to 9. Monoisopropanolamine or monoethanolamine was added at levels sufficient to adjust the pH of the exemplary compositions to a pH of approximately 7 to approximately 8. Monoisopropanolamine or monoethanolamine also substantially converted linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid to linear alkylbenzenesulfonate in the exemplary compositions.

[0088] Examples 1–3 evaluated the effect of varying the ratio of anionic to nonionic surfactants. Example 4 evaluated the difference between a nonionic surfactant with a low hydrophilic-lipophilic equilibrium (HLB) and a nonionic surfactant with a high HLB. Example 5 evaluated the difference between a salt of Example 6 evaluated the effect of including a hydrophilic cationic surfactant. Example 7 evaluated the effect of including a low HLB nonionic surfactant, a high HLB nonionic surfactant, and a hydrophilic cationic surfactant. Example 8 compared the difference between a linear monoethanolamine alkylbenzenesulfonate salt and a linear monoisopropanolamine alkylbenzenesulfonate salt. Example 9 evaluated the effect of adding a hydrotrope, coupler, and dispersant.

[0089] Examples 10 and 11 were commercial liquid concentrated surfactant compositions and were used as is. Example 10 was 91% active and included triethanolamine dodecylbenzenesulfonate, nonylphenol ethoxylate, sodium laureth sulfate, and cocamide diethanolamine. Example 11 was 100% active and included a proprietary blend of anionic surfactants and amide surfactants. MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO TABLE 1 Component Ex. Ex- Ex- Ex. Ex- Ex- Ex. Ex. Ex. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Copper Alcohol Ethoxylate (Average of 7 moles of EO) 47.3 27.3 67.2 37.8 15.8 37.8 28.4 49.8 42.6 Monoisopropanolamine 10.7 14.7 6.6 8.5 — 8.5 6.4 — 9.6 Linear Alkylbenzenesulfonic Acid (99% active) 42.0 58.0 26.2 33.6 14.0 33.6 25.2 42.0 37.8 Copper Alcohol Ethoxylate (Average of 3 moles of EO) 20.0 20.0 Sodium Hydroxide (50% active) — — — — 3.7 — — — — Chloride of Cocomonium PEG-15 (95% actives) 20.0 20.0 Monodimethylamine — — — — — — — 8.2 — Propylene glycol — — — — — — — — 10.0 Water DI — — — — 66.5 — — — — ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO

[0090] Table 2 represents the results of the evaluation of Examples 1 to 11 with the Dirt Removal Test. TABLE 2 Teacher Ex. 1 Ex2 Ex- 3 Ex4 Ex5 Ex- 6 Ex7 Ex8 Ex- 9 Ex10 Ex11 Diff. Meaning. Cocoa (EMPA 112) 6.6 8.3 11.1 14.3 6.2 8.8 9.1 8.9 8.9 17.3 15.4 5.9 Blood / milk / ink (EMPA 116) 20.7 18.1 22.4 21.8 21.9 24.1 20.7 20.2 21.7 26.1 12.7 3.5 Coffee 52.1 54.8 55.2 54.8 52.7 56.2 53.5 55.9 60.9 57.0 52.4 9.1 Clay 59.5 57.4 60.5 59.2 58.8 64.4 62.9 64.5 68.4 61.6 47.8 7.1 Powdered suet 62.3 60.3 68.3 60.4 64.4 69.9 58.9 60.5 61.3 64.0 40.6 7.3 Grass 65.8 50.3 63.0 55.5 73.0 65.7 70.2 60.0 67.8 77.0 15.1 9.3 Cranberry-grape juice 66.6 70.6 63.2 65.3 73.3 72.6 64.5 71.1 66.8 72.9 67.2 9.2 Spaghetti sauce 80.9 81.9 80.7 83.1 85.1 80.0 82.0 87.6 85.6 85.5 77.9 4.8 Mud 93.7 93.6 90.4 91.0 93.9 93.3 92.0 91.5 87.5 90.7 89.1 3.4 Makeup 93.8 84.3 84.6 87.3 92.2 84.7 82.6 89.3 82.0 77.4 81.2 8.3 Total 602.0 579.6 599.4 592.7 621.5 619.7 596.4 609.5 610.9 629.5 499.4 — % of the Effect 96% 92% 95% 94% 99% 98% 95% 97% 97% 100% 79% — MA / I / UO4ZOO

[0091] As shown in Table 2, Examples 6 and 7, which included a hydrophilic cationic surfactant and were composed of nearly 100% by weight of surfactant, performed extremely well in removing a variety of soils. In addition to the high soil removal performance, Examples 6 and 7 were expected to exhibit unique properties due to the inclusion of the hydrophilic cationic surfactant.

[0092] Table 3 presents additional examples of concentrated liquid surfactant compositions. In Table 3, Examples 12 through 14 were formed by combining the components in the order presented in Table 3 with continuous mixing. After the addition of linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid, the pH was adjusted to approximately 7 to approximately 9 by the further addition of either monoisopropanolamine or linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid. After pH adjustment, the remaining components were added in the order listed in Table 3 with constant mixing until a clear, smooth, homogeneous batch was formed that was free of lumps, particles, or gel spots. ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO TABLE 3 Component Ex. 12 Ex. 13 Ex. 14 Copper Alcohol Ethoxylate (Average of 7 moles of OE) 41.15 42.10 37.84 Monoisopropanolamine 9.31 9.52 8.56 Linear Alkylbenzenesulfonic Acid (99% active) 36.54 37.38 33.6 Propylene Glycol 5.00 5.00 PEG-15 Cocommonium Chloride (95% active) 5.00 3.00 20.0 Sodium Lauriminodipropionate (30% active) 3.00 3.00 5.00 MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO

[0093] Table 4 represents the test results for Examples 12 to 14 in a manner similar to Examples 1 to 11 in Table 2. TABLE 4 Sample Ex. 12 Ex13 Ex14 Diff. Signif. Cocoa (EMPA 112) 5.2 2.4 7.3 2.1 Blood / milk / ink (EMPA 116) 16.6 18.9 18.2 1.5 Coffee 49.1 52.9 52.3 3.5 Clay 56.3 60.9 60.2 4.3 Tallow powder 64.8 63.5 63.2 5.0 Grass 20.1 18.9 21.5 6.9 Cranberry-grape juice 64 . 9 59.8 59.8 5.7 Spaghetti Sauce 71.2 74.4 73.0 6.7 Mud 86.8 86.7 88.4 3.3 Makeup 82.2 83.9 82.5 4.7 Total 517.2 522.3 526.4 - % of the Best 98% 99% 100% - MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO

[0094] As seen in the results in Table 4, each of Examples 12 to 14 behaved similarly in dirt removal and were advantageous compositions.

[0095] The physical properties of Example 13 were further evaluated and are represented in Table 5. Table 6 further represents the temperature and viscosity dependence of Example 13. 10 TABLE 5 Property Measurement Appearance (25°C) Clear amber liquid Color (Klett, 5%, 40 mm) 7.0 Solids Percentage (%) 95%-100% Odor Mild pH 7-8 Foam Height (mm) 172 / 162 / 161 Wetting Time (s) Instant Cloud Point (°C) -5.2 Pour Point (°C) -2.7 Freezing Point (°C) -24.1 Density (lbs / gal) 8.7 Water Solubility Soluble MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO TABLE 6 Temperature °C (°F) Viscosity (cP) 4.4 (40) 5280 10 (50) 1000 15.5 (60) 650 21.1 (70) 470 26.6 (80) 350 32.2 (90) 280 37.7 (100) 200

[0096] As represented in Tables 5 and 6, the physical properties of Example 13 are desirable for a large number of household, industrial, and institutional cleaning applications.

[0097] As can be seen, it may be necessary to adjust the viscosity of a composition for various applications. For example, laundry detergents have 6 typically has a viscosity of approximately 100 cP to approximately 500 cP, while hand dishwashing detergents may have a viscosity of approximately 400 cP to approximately 800 cP. FIG. 1 represents a graph illustrating the viscosity of Example 13 as a function of the ratio of water to Example 13, by weight.

[0098] Experiments were conducted to determine if the viscosity of the dilute solutions represented in the FIG. 1 could be modified. Table 7 reports a description of how to modify the viscosity at various dilutions. MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO TABLE 7 Dilution Amount (% of Example 13) Viscosity Modification High Dilution (<20%) The low initial viscosity can be increased by adding 1% to 5% of a hydrophobically modified acrylate polymer and adjusting the pH to 7 to 9. Moderate Dilution (20% to 50%) The low initial viscosity can be increased by adding either a hydrophobically modified acrylate polymer or 1% to 5% of myristyl dimethylamine oxide. Low Dilution (60% to 80%) Initial gel rate. To break the gel and reduce viscosity, 1% to 5% of propylene glycol can be added. Very Low Dilution (85% to 95%) The low initial viscosity can be increased by adding 1% to 5% of myristyl dimethylamine oxide.

[0099] The compatibility of Example 13 with various additives: A 5% w / w solution of Example 13 was prepared in deionized water. Subsequently, various additives, including acids, alkalis, and salts, were added to a 100 g aliquot of the 5% w / w solution until the solution became cloudy. The amount of additive that caused cloudiness and the pH of the final solution are shown in Table 8. TABLE 8 MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO Additive | Amount of additive that made the mixture cloudy | Final pH of the mixture | 50% Sodium Hydroxide Solution | 4.4 g | 13.3 | Monoisopropanolamine | 100 g (Mixture still clear) | 11.9 | 25% Anhydrous Sodium Carbonate Solution | 15.3 g | 10.4 | 50% TKPP Solution | 6.9 g | 9.01 | 33.3% Tetrasodium EDTA Solution | 25.9 | 9.8 | 20% Anhydrous Sodium Metasilicate Solution | 25.5 | 12.9 | 37% Hydrochloric Acid | 1.8 g | 0.9 | 85% Phosphoric Acid | 15.0 g | 0.6 | 25% Citric Acid Solution | 100 g (Mixture still clear) | 1.5

[0100] As depicted in Table 8, the Example is compatible with several common cleaning agents, additives, and modifiers.

[0101] Table 9 represents an example of a concentrated liquid surfactant composition containing reduced amounts of dioxane (e.g., 1,4-dioxane). Example 15 was formed by combining the components in the order presented in Table 9 with continuous mixing. After the addition of linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid, the composition was cooled to approximately 40°C and the pH was adjusted to approximately 7.0 to 8.0 by the further addition of monoisopropanolamine or linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid. After pH adjustment, the remaining components were added in the order listed in Table 9 with constant mixing until a clear, smooth, homogeneous batch free of lumps, particles, or gel spots was formed. Similar compositions can also be formed by replacing the propoxylated quaternary ammonium with propoxylated amines. MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO TABLE 9 Component E e.g. 15 Copper Alcohol Ethoxylate (Average of 7 moles of OE) 44.50 Monoisopropanolamine 10.05 Linear Alkylbenzenesulfonic Acid (99% active) 39.45 Propylene Glycol 4.25 Quaternary Ammonium Propoxylate 1.75

[0102] The dimensions and values ​​described herein should not be understood as strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​listed. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each of these dimensions is intended to mean both the value mentioned and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value.

[0103] It shall be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this specification includes every lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly stated herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this specification shall include every higher numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly stated herein. Every numerical range given throughout this specification shall include every narrower numerical range that lies within a wider numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly stated herein.

[0104] Each document cited herein, including any related or cross-referenced patent or application, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention described or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests, or describes such invention. Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term herein conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in the document shall prevail.

[0105] The foregoing description of embodiments and examples has been presented for descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive nor to limit the forms described. Numerous modifications are possible in light of prior teachings. Some of these modifications have been discussed, and others will be understood by those skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described to illustrate various embodiments. Certain embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments as would be understood by someone skilled in the art. The scope, of course, is not limited to the examples or embodiments described herein, but may be employed in any number of equivalent applications and articles by those skilled in the art. On the contrary, it is intended that the scope be defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A liquid composition comprising: one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants; one or more non-ionic surfactants; and approximately one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants; and wherein approximately 90%, by weight, or more of the composition comprises surfactants.

2. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants, one or more non-ionic surfactants, and one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants comprise approximately 90%, by weight, or more of the surfactants in the liquid composition.

3. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein the surfactants in the liquid composition consist essentially of one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants, one or more non-ionic surfactants, and one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants.

4. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants comprise the salt of a linear or branched alkylbenzenesulfonic acid.

5. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants comprise the salt of a linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid.

6. The liquid composition according to claim 5, wherein the salt of a linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid is formed with one or more neutralizing agents.

7. The liquid composition according to claim 6, wherein one or more neutralizing agents comprise an amino alcohol.

8. The liquid composition according to claim 7, wherein the amino alcohol comprises one or more monoisopropanolamine and monoethanolamine.

9. The liquid composition according to any of claims 6 to 8 further comprises residual amounts of one or more neutralizing agents.

10. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 25% to approximately 75%, by weight, of one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants.

11. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 30% to approximately 45%, by weight, of one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants.

12. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants 53 comprise a quaternary alkoxylated fatty amine or a derivative thereof.

13. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants comprise a quaternary ammonium compound formed from a cocamine polyethylene glycol derivative.

14. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants comprise PEG-15 cocoalkylmethyl ammonium chloride.

15. The liquid composition according to any of claims 12 to 14, wherein one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants are ethoxylated.

16. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants comprise a propoxylated cationic surfactant.

17. The liquid composition according to claim 16, wherein the propoxylated cationic surfactant comprises a propoxylated quaternary ammonium or a propoxylated quaternary amine.

18. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 0.5% or more, by weight, of one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants.

19. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 1% to approximately 5%, by weight, of one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants.

20. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more non-ionic surfactants comprise a C8-C22 alkyl alcohol alkoxylate.

21. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more non-ionic surfactants comprise a C8-C22 alkyl alcohol ethoxylate.

22. The liquid composition according to claim 1, wherein one or more non-ionic surfactants comprise a CsCi6 linear alkyl alcohol ethoxylate, the Cg-Cis linear alkyl alcohol ethoxylate having an average of approximately 3 moles to approximately 10 moles of ethylene oxide.

23. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 25% to approximately 50%, by weight, of one or more non-ionic surfactants.

24. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises: linear alkylbenzenesulfonate; PEG-15 cocoalkylmethyl ammonium chloride; and a Cs-Cie linear alkyl alcohol ethoxylate.

25. The liquid composition according to claim 24, wherein linear alkylbenzenesulfonate, ML / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO, PEG-15 cocoalkylmethyl ammonium chloride, and Cg-Cie linear alkyl alcohol ethoxylate comprise approximately 90%, by weight, of the surfactants in the liquid composition.

26. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises: approximately 30% to approximately 45% by weight of one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants; approximately 1% to approximately 5% by weight of one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants; and approximately 35% to approximately 50% by weight of one or more non-ionic surfactants.

27. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 35% to approximately 45% by weight of linear alkylbenzenesulfonate; approximately 1% to approximately 3% by weight of propoxylated quaternary ammonium or propoxylated quaternary amine; and approximately 40% to approximately 50% by weight of a Cg-Cig linear alkyl alcohol ethoxylate.

28. The liquid composition according to claim 1 further comprises one or more additives.

29. The liquid composition according to claim 28, wherein one or more additives comprise one or more propylene glycol and an amphoteric surfactant.

30. The liquid composition according to claim 29, wherein the amphoteric surfactant comprises sodium lauriminodipropionate.

31. The liquid composition according to any of claims 28 to 30 comprises approximately 10%, by weight, or less of one or more additives.

32. The liquid composition according to claim 29 comprises approximately 3% to approximately 5%, by weight, of amphoteric surfactant.

33. The liquid composition according to claim 29 comprises approximately 5% to approximately 35%, by weight, of propylene glycol.

34. The liquid composition according to claim 1 has a dynamic viscosity of approximately 10,000 cP or less.

35. The liquid composition according to claim 1, has a dynamic viscosity of approximately 100 cP to approximately 2,000 cP.

36. The liquid composition according to claim 1, has a pH of approximately 5 to approximately 8 when dispersed in deionized water at a concentration of 10%, by weight, of the liquid composition.

37. The liquid composition according to claim 1, has a pH of approximately 7 to approximately 8 when dispersed in deionized water at a concentration of 10%, by weight, of the liquid composition.

38. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 95% by weight of surfactants.

39. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 99% by weight of surfactants.

40. The liquid composition according to claim 1 comprises approximately 100% by weight of surfactants.

41. The liquid composition according to claim 1 consists essentially of surfactants.

42. The liquid composition according to claim 1 is substantially free of preservatives.

43. The liquid composition according to claim 1 is a cleaning composition.

44. The liquid composition according to claim 1 is a laundry composition.

45. The liquid composition according to claim 1 is a concentrated liquid surfactant composition.

46. ​​Use of the liquid composition according to claim 1, for cleaning a substrate or article.

47. A cleaning product comprising approximately 1% to approximately 60%, by weight, of the liquid composition of claim 1.

48. A liquid composition consisting essentially of: an anionic sulfonated surfactant; a nonionic surfactant; a hydrophilic cationic surfactant; and optionally one or more propylene glycol and an amphoteric surfactant; and wherein approximately 90% or more, by weight, of the liquid composition comprises surfactants.

49. A method for forming a liquid composition comprising: mixing together until substantially clear and homogeneous: one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants; one or more non-ionic surfactants; and one or more hydrophilic cationic surfactants; and wherein the liquid composition comprises approximately 90% or more, by weight, of the surfactants.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein one or more anionic sulfonated surfactants are formed by reacting an anionic sulfonic acid with a neutralizing agent MA / t / ZUZ I / UO4ZOO.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the reaction of the anionic sulfonic acid and the neutralizing agent occurs substantially simultaneously with the mixing of the liquid composition.

52. The method of claim 50, wherein the reaction of the anionic sulfonic acid and the neutralizing agent occurs separately from the mixing of the liquid composition.

53. The method according to claim 50, wherein the neutralizing agent adjusts the pH of the liquid composition to a pH of approximately 5 to approximately 10 when dispersed in deionized water at a concentration of 10% of the liquid composition.

54. The method according to claim 50, wherein the neutralizing agent adjusts the pH of the liquid composition to a pH of approximately 7 to approximately 8 when dispersed in deionized water at a concentration of 10% of the liquid composition.

55. The method according to any of claims 49 to 54, wherein the neutralizing agent comprises an amino alcohol.

56. The method according to any of claims 49 to 54, wherein the neutralizing agent comprises one or more monoisopropanolamine and monoethanolamine.