Fast-acting disinfectant composition

Abstract

A fast-acting disinfectant composition is disclosed containing relatively high amounts of hydrogen peroxide, an organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, and a carboxylic acid. The fast-acting disinfectant composition displays at least one of the following: efficacy against at least one non-enveloped virus or enveloped virus after a 15 second contact time when tested according to ASTM Test e1053, efficacy against at least one fungi after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AOAC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method, efficacy against at least one bacteria after a 15 second contact time when tested according to an AOAC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method, or efficacy against at least one tuberculo-mycobacteria after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AOAC Tuberculocidal Activity of Disinfectants.

Description

FAST-ACTING DISINFECTANT COMPOSITIONCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 514,617, filed July 20, 2023, to the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 648,694, filed May 17, 2024, to the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 648,696, filed May 17, 2024 and to the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 657.288, filed June 7, 2024 which are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.BACKGROUND

[0002] Hydrogen peroxide is used as a biocide in fast-acting disinfectant compositions in various fields because of its broad biocidal efficacy against many different types of organisms and excellent environmental profiles. Hydrogen peroxide has advantages and benefits as a disinfectant and biocide because it decomposes to oxygen and water and, therefore, is very safe to use.

[0003] In general, such fast-acting disinfectant compositions comprising hydrogen peroxide are used to destroy microorganisms and / or prevent the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, yeast, fungi, and spores. Fast-acting disinfectant compositions are used, for instance, to disinfect or sanitize objects in the food sendee industry, in the healthcare industry, in industrial settings, and for consumer household use. Fast-acting disinfectant compositions are used to sanitize or disinfect surfaces, such as hard, non-porous surfaces.

[0004] Unfortunately, many disinfectant compositions require prolonged exposure times to be efficacious against various microorganisms. Generally, the kill times of such disinfectant compositions have remained 15 minutes or more, even 30-60 minutes.

[0005] Nonetheless, it is important to effectively reduce or eliminate various microorganisms in the least amount of contact time possible, while still maintaining a reasonable cost for the product thereby allowing it to be, for example, feasible for commercial uses.

[0006] Additionally, considering that hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizer, it is typically not stable in most formulations. For instance, many hydrogen peroxide-based disinfectant products have a shelf life of less than one year. In this regard, hydrogen peroxide is ty pically combined with one or more stabilizers in formulating disinfectant products to obtain the desired shelf-life. Examples of common stabilizers for hydrogen peroxide include phosphoric acid, 1-hydroxyethylidene-l.l-diphosphonic acid (HEDP), picolinic acid, dipicolinic acid, ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid, and the like. These stabilizers, however, can significantly increase the cost of the product. Various stabilizers, for instance, are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,321,664, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0007] Alternatively, to achieve the desired stability7, hydrogen peroxide is ty pically converted into peracetic acid in formulating disinfectant products. In such embodiments, hydrogen peroxide is combined with copious amounts of acetic acid in order to produce peracetic acid in situ. For instance, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0291520, which is incorporated herein by reference, discloses a method for producing peracetic acid by reacting acetic acid with hydrogen peroxide. Acetic acid and peracetic acid, however, can produce an unpleasant odor. In addition, peracetic acid can cause skin irritation and is not as environmentally friendly as hydrogen peroxide.

[0008] In view of the above, a need currently exists for fast-acting hydrogen peroxide based disinfectant compositions that are stable without stabilizers.SUMMARY

[0009] The present disclosure is generally directed to a fast-acting disinfectant composition comprising hydrogen peroxide in an amount of at least about 3% by weight after equilibrium, an organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, and a CI-CH carboxylic acid. Further, the fast-acting disinfectant composition displays at least one of the following: efficacy against at least one non-enveloped virus or enveloped virus after a 15 second contact time when tested according to ASTM Test el 053, efficacy against at least one fungi after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method, efficacy against at least one bacteria after a 15 second contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method, or efficacy against at least one tuberculo-mycobacteria after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Tuberculocidal Activity of Disinfectants.

[0010] In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition comprising an aqueous solution. The aqueous solution contains hydrogen peroxide in relatively great amounts. For instance, the hydrogen peroxide may be present in the composition after equilibrium in an amount from about 3.5% to about 10% by weight, such as in an amount from about 4% to about 10% by weight. The hydrogen peroxide may be present in the aqueous solution in an amount greater than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 10% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 14% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 15% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 18% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 20% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 25% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween. Further, for example, hydrogen peroxide can be present in the aqueous solution in an amount less than about 25% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 19% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 15% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 10% by weight, suchas in an amount less than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween.

[0011] The aqueous solution of the present composition can also contain an organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof. For instance, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof can be present in the composition in an amount from about 0.1% by weight to about 6% by weight, such as in an amount from about 0.2% by weight to about 4% by weight. The organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof may be present in the composition in an amount less than about 6% by weight, such as less than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 4% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1 % by weight, including all increments of 0. 1 % therebetween. The organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof may be present in the composition in an amount greater than about 0. 1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 2.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 3.5% by weight such as in an amount greater than about 4% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 4.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 5% by weight such as in an amount greater than about 5.5% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% by weight therebetween.

[0012] The organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof can comprise a C1-C5 alkylsulfonic acid, a sulfonated C1-C5 carboxylic acid, a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic sulfonic acid, a mono-alkylphenylsulfonic acid, a di-alkylphenylsulfonic acid, or salts thereof, or mixtures thereof. In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof comprises a substituted aromatic or aliphatic sulfonic acid or salt thereof that is substituted with at least one C1-C3 alkyl group or phenyl group. Particular examples of organic sulfonic acids or salts thereof that may be used in accordance with the presentdisclosure include methane sulfonic acid, dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid, benzene sulfonic acid, toluene sulfonic acid, or salts thereof, or mixtures thereof.

[0013] The aqueous solution of the present composition can also contain a C1-C14 carboxylic acid. For instance, the C1-C14 carboxylic acid can be present in an amount of from about 0.1% by weight to about 9% by weight, such as in an amount from about 0.5% by weight to about 8% by weight. The carboxylic acid may be present in the composition in an amount less than about 9% by weight, such in an amount less than about 8% by weight, such in an amount less than about 7% by weight, such in an amount less than about 6% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 5% by weight, such in an amount less than about 4% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2% by weight, such in an amount less than about 1 % by weight, including all increments of 0. 1 % therebetween. The carboxylic acid may be present in the composition in an amount greater than about 0.1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.8% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.2% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.8% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 2.1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 3.4% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 4.8% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 5.9% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 6.7% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 7.8% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 8.5% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% by weight therebetween.

[0014] For instance, the carboxylic acid may comprise a Ci to C14, such as a Ci to C2 carboxylic acid. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid may comprise formic acid, formic acid salt, carbonic acid, glycolic acid, and / or acetic acid. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid may comprise a blend of a blend of glycolic acid, formic acid, and a formic acid salt. It is to be noted that despite carbonic acid not being generally classed as a carboxylic acid, it is considered as one of the possible Ci to C2 carboxylic acidswithin the context of this invention. In another embodiment, the carboxylic acid may comprise acetic acid, folic acid, glycolic acid or a salt thereof.

[0015] The fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can have a weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, a weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and the carboxylic acid, a weight ratio between the organic sulfonic acid and the carboxylic acid as well as a weight ratio among hydrogen peroxide, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, and the carboxylic acid.

[0016] For example, the weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof can be from about 40: 1 to about 1:20, such as from about 20: 1 to about 1 : 10, such as from about 5: 1 to about 1 :5, such as from about 2: 1 to about 1 :2. For example, the weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide the carboxylic acid can be from 500: 1 to about 2: 1, such as from about 100: 1 to about 2: 1, such as from about 40: 1 to about 2: 1 , such as from about 20: 1 to about 2: 1, such as from about 12: 1 to about 4: 1.

[0017] In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy against at least one nonenveloped virus or enveloped virus after a 15 second contact time when tested according to ASTM Test el053. In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fast-acting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy against at least one non-enveloped virus or enveloped virus comprising Hepatitis B [HBV], Hepatitis C [HCV], HIV-1 [Strain HTLC-IIIB], SARS-CoV-2, Norovirus (ATCC VR-782 Strain F-9), or Poliovirus Type 1 (ATCC VR-1562). In one aspect, the disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can display an efficacy against at least one non-enveloped virus or enveloped virus after only a 10 second contact time, such as after a 5 second contact time, such as after a 1 second contact time when tested according to ASTM Test el053.

[0018] In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy against at least one fungus after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method. In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy against at least one fungi comprising Trichophyton interdigitate (ATCC 9533) or Candida auris (AR-BANK# 0385).

[0019] In still another embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fast-acting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy against at least one bacteria after a 15 second contact time when tested according to an AOAC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method. In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fast-acting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy against at least one bacteria comprising Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), Salmonella enterica (ATCC 10708), o Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538). In one aspect, the disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can display an efficacy against at least one bacteria after only a 10 second contact time, such as after a 5 second contact time, such as after a 1 second contact time when tested according to the AOAC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method (AOAC Methods of Analysis, 18th Edition (2013)).

[0020] In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy against at least one bacteria after a 15 second contact time when tested according to an AOAC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method. In one aspect, the disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can display an efficacy against at least one of the above bacteria after only a 10 second contact time, such as after a 5 second contact time, such as after a 1 second contact time when tested according to the AOAC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method (AOAC Methods of Analysis, 18th Edition (2013)).

[0021] In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy after a 15 second contact time, such as after a 10 second contact time, such as after only a 5 second contact time whentested according to ASTM Test e!053 against each of the following viruses: Hepatitis B [HBV], Hepatitis C [HCV], HIV-1 [Strain HTLC-IIIB]. SARS-CoV-2. Norovirus (ATCC VR-782 Strain F-9), or Poliovirus Type 1 (ATCC VR-1562).

[0022] In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy after a 15 second contact time such as after a 10 second contact time, such as after a 5 second contact time, such as after a 1 second contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method against bacteria.

[0023] In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition which displays efficacy against at least one tuberculo- mycobacteria after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Tuberculocidal Activity of Disinfectants, such as, for example, Mycobacterium bovis- BCG.

[0024] The fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can be formulated so as not to contain any hydrogen peroxide stabilizers. For instance, in one aspect, the composition does not contain l-hydroxyethylidene-l,l-diphosphonic acid. In another aspect, the composition can be free of a pyridine carboxylic acid based stabilizers, such as picolinic acid and / or dipicolinic acid.

[0025] For instance, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can also be self-stabilizing. For example, in one aspect, after reaching equilibrium and after storage at 54°C for two weeks the fast-acting disinfectant composition can display a hydrogen peroxide loss that is less than a hydrogen peroxide loss of a similar composition where the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof has been replaced with water (i.e.. does not contain the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof).

[0026] In one aspect, after reaching equilibrium and after storage at 54°C for two weeks the fast-acting disinfectant composition can display a hydrogen peroxide lossthat is at least about 5% less, such as at least about 10% less, such as at least about 15% less, such as at least about 20% less than a hydrogen peroxide loss of a similar composition where the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof has been replaced with water (i.e., does not contain the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof). Hydrogen peroxide loss is determined according to the following equation: [Initial H2O2 % - H2O2 % (after storage at 54°C)] / Initial H2O2 % x 100.

[0027] The composition can contain various other components. For instance, the composition can contain a nonionic surfactant. In one aspect, the composition can contain an anionic surfactant. For instance, anionic surfactants that may be incorporated into the composition include a linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid or salt thereof, an alkylsulfate, an alkanolamide sulfate, an ethoxylated alkylphenol, or mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the anionic surfactant comprises sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate.

[0028] The composition can also contain a pH adjusting agent. The pH adjusting agent, for instance, may comprise a hydroxide, such as sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, or mixtures thereof.

[0029] In one embodiment, for instance, the present disclosure is directed to a fastacting disinfectant composition which further comprises a nonionic surfactant, an anionic surfactant, a pH adjusting agent, or any combination thereof.

[0030] The fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure, while remaining stable, can be rapidly effective against a broad range of microorganisms. For example, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure is well suited to destroying and inhibiting the growth of Clostridium difficile, which is a microorganism that is particularly difficult to control. In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can destroy S. aureus ATCC 6538 in 1 second contact time, S. aureus ATCC 6538 in 5 second contact time, and / or P. aeruginosa ATCC 15442 in 1 second contact time.

[0031] The present disclosure is also directed to a method for disinfecting a hard or soft surface. The method includes the step of contacting a surface with a fast-acting disinfectant composition as described above. The hard surface can be a surface used in the health care industry or in a veterinarian industry. Alternatively, the hard surface can comprise food processing equipment or a food preparation service.

[0032] The fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can be applied to surfaces using various different techniques. For instance, the composition can be sprayed or otherwise applied to a surface directly. Alternatively, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can be applied to a wiping product which is then used to apply the composition to a surface. In this regard, the present disclosure is also directed to a premoistened wiping product containing the fast-acting disinfectant composition as described above. In one aspect, the present disclosure comprises premoistened wipe comprising an absorbent substrate and the acting disinfectant composition, as described above, that has been impregnated into the absorbent substrate. For example, the fastacting disinfectant composition can be impregnated into the absorbent substrate in an amount of from about 2 parts to 6 parts by weight fast-acting disinfectant composition per 1 part by weight of the absorbent substrate.

[0033] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are discussed in greater detail below.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] It is to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present discussion is a description of exemplary embodiments only and is not intended as limiting the broader aspects of the present disclosure.

[0035] In general, the present disclosure is directed to a fast-acting disinfectant composition that contains a relatively high concentration of hydrogen peroxide. In one embodiment, the fast-acting disinfectant composition contains a unique combination of hydrogen peroxide, an organic sulfonic acid, and a carboxylic acid, such as acetic acidand / or methane sulfonic acid. The unique combination of the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof in combination with relatively low amounts of the carboxylic acid were discovered to activate the efficacy of the hydrogen peroxide for making the fast-acting disinfectant composition very effective against a broad range of microorganisms. Additionally, the unique combination of the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof in combination with relatively low amounts of the carboxylic acid were discovered to be efficacious against a broad range of microorganisms very rapidly.

[0036] For example, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can reduce the presence of the microorganisms to an undetectable level or entirely eliminate any such microorganisms in a contact time ranging from about 1 second to about 10 minutes. In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can reduce or eliminate microorganisms instantly upon contact. In another aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can reduce or eliminate microorganisms in about 1 second after contact, such as in about 2 seconds after contact, such as in about 3 seconds after contact, such as in about 4 seconds after contact, such as in about 5 seconds after contact, such as in about 6 seconds after contact, such as in about 7 seconds after contact, such as in about 8 seconds after contact, such as in about 9 seconds after contact, such as in about 10 seconds after contact, such as, in about 15 seconds after contact, such as in about 20 seconds after contact, such as in about 30 seconds after contact, such as in about 40 seconds after contact, such as in about 50 seconds after contact, such as in about 1 minute after contact, such as in about 2 minutes after contact, such as in about 5 minutes after contact, in about 7 minutes after contact, in about 10 minutes after contact, including all increments of 0. 1 seconds therebetween.

[0037] It was discovered that the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure showed excellent efficacy against the microorganisms tested even after short contact times. Remarkably, for example, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure eliminated Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosaupon 1 second contact time. To the surprise of the present inventors, such fast activity provided a virtually instant kill efficacy against microorganisms.

[0038] It was also discovered that the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure is particularly well suited to destroying and inhibiting the growth of Clostridium difficile even when contact times are relatively short. For example, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure is capable of achieving at least a 6 logio reduction against C. difficile when tested according to ASTM Test Methods ASTM E2197-11 and E2839-11 after a 10 minute contact time, after a 5 minute contact time, or even after a 2 minute contact time.

[0039] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can display efficacy against at least one non-env eloped virus or enveloped virus after a 15 second contact time when tested according to ASTM Test e!053. In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can display efficacy against at least one fungi after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method. In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can display efficacy against at least one bacteria after a 15 second contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method. In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can display efficacy against at least one tuberculo-my cobacteria after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Tuberculocidal Activity of Disinfectants.

[0040] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition the present disclosure can display efficacy against Hepatitis B [HBV], Hepatitis C [HCV], HIV-1 [Strain HTLC- IIIB], SARS-CoV-2, Norovirus (ATCC VR-782 Strain F-9), or Poliovirus Type 1 (ATCC VR-1562).

[0041] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition the present disclosure can display efficacy against Trichophyton interdigitate (ATCC 9533) or Candida auris (AR-BANK# 0385).

[0042] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition the present disclosure can display efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), Salmonella enterica (ATCC 10708), ox Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538).

[0043] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition the present disclosure can display efficacy against each of the following viruses: Hepatitis B [HBV], Hepatitis C [HCV], HIV-1 [Strain HTLC-IIIB], SARS-CoV-2, Norovirus (ATCC VR-782 Strain F- 9), or Poliovirus Type 1 (ATCC VR-1562).

[0044] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition the present disclosure can display efficacy against Mycobacterium bovis-P>CG.

[0045] In addition to the exceptionally fast efficacy, as described above, the present compositions were also surprisingly stable. In the past, acetic acid and methane sulfonic acid were combined with hydrogen peroxide in order to destabilize the hydrogen peroxide and convert the hydrogen peroxide to peracetic acid. In the present disclosure, however, it was unexpectedly discovered that when hydrogen peroxide is present in the composition with a carboxylic acid and an organic sulfonic acid in particular ratios to each other, hydrogen peroxide becomes stabilized. The present inventors found that hydrogen peroxide, when combined with carboxylic acid and an organic sulfonic acid at certain percent by weight amounts relative to one another, is not readily converted to peracetic acid, thereby rendering hydrogen peroxide stable in a solution.

[0046] In one aspect, the composition is formulated so as not to contain any hydrogen peroxide stabilizers. Consequently, the composition can be considered self-stabilized containing relatively high amounts of hydrogen peroxide that has a shelf life of at least one year, such as at least two years.

[0047] Because the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure contains relatively low amounts of a carboxylic acid and contains very low amounts, if any, of peracetic acid, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosurehas dramatically lower odor properties compared to many conventional products. For instance, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can be formulated so as to be substantially free of peracetic acid, and / or free of chlorine bleach.

[0048] The fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can be used in numerous and diverse applications. In one embodiment, for instance, the fast-acting disinfectant composition may be used to sanitize or disinfect hard, non-porous surfaces. For example, the fast-acting disinfectant composition is well suited for disinfecting or sanitizing flooring materials, countertops, ceramic surfaces, metal surfaces, glass surfaces, stone surfaces, and the like.

[0049] The fast-acting disinfectant composition is also well suited to sanitizing soft surfaces. Examples of soft surfaces include, but are not limited to, upholstery, fabric, upholstered couches, sofas, chairs, seat cushions, upholstered cushions, pillows, upholstered furniture, fabric window treatments, curtains, draperies, shower curtains, fabric gym / laundry diaper bags, backpacks, fabric hampers, fabric dog / pet bedding, blankets, fabric upholstered car seats, fabric stuffed animals, toys, and the like.

[0050] The fast-acting disinfectant composition can be used to clean the surfaces, disinfect surfaces, destroy microorganisms on the surface and / or prevent grow th of microorganisms on the surface. The fast-acting disinfectant composition can be used in numerous different fields. For instance, the fast-acting disinfectant composition is well suited for use in the healthcare industry to disinfect surfaces and / or disinfect utensils. The fast-acting disinfectant composition can be used in hospitals, for example, in order to prevent the spread of Clostridium difficile, Staphylococcus aureus, and / or Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

[0051] The fast-acting disinfectant composition can be used in the food service industry to disinfect and sanitize food processing equipment and other food processing surfaces or to wash produce, such as vegetables. The fast-acting disinfectantcomposition can also be sold for consumer household use. The composition can be used in a concentrated or diluted form depending upon the application.

[0052] The fast-acting disinfectant composition generally contains a hydrogen peroxide source in combination with an organic sulfonic acid and a carboxylic acid. The hydrogen peroxide source may comprise hydrogen peroxide. In other embodiments, however, the hydrogen peroxide source may comprise a compound that produces hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide sources can include, for instance, solutions of alkali-metal hydrogen peroxides, alkali salts of percarbonate and persulfate, and organic peroxides. Organic peroxides can include dicumyl peroxide, dialkyl peroxides, urea peroxides, and the like. Hydrogen peroxide itself can provide numerous advantages and benefits. Hydrogen peroxide not only has activity against a broad range of microorganisms but is also relatively safe to use. Hydrogen peroxide can oxidize and / or bleach a surface, while degrading into very safe byproducts, namely oxygen and water.

[0053] As described above, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure not only contains a relatively high concentration of hydrogen peroxide, but also contains the hydrogen peroxide in a relatively stable state.

[0054] The composition, for instance, can contain hydrogen peroxide in an amount greater than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 4% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 6% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 7% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 8% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 9% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 10% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 11% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 12% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 13% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 14% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 15% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 16% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 17% byweight, such as in an amount greater than about 18% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 19% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 20% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 21% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 22% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 23% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 24% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 25% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% by weight therebetween, in a ready -to-use composition.

[0055] The hydrogen peroxide can, for instance, be present in the composition in an amount less than about 24.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 23.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 22.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 21.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 20.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 19.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 18.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 17.5% byweight. such as in an amount less than about 16.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 15.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 14.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 13.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 12.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 11.5% byweight, such as in an amount less than about 10.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 9.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 8.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 7.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 6.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 5.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 4.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 3.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1.5% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% by weight therebetw een, in a ready -to-use composition.

[0056] The fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure contains hydrogen peroxide in a relatively stable state, despite relatively high concentration of hydrogen peroxide, as described above.

[0057] To ascertain stability, the percentage of the active hydrogen peroxide in the formulations was measured at the time when the formulations were prepared and then measured weekly thereafter. The percentage of hydrogen peroxide loss was calculated by the following formula:

[0058] [Initial H2O2 % - H2O2 % (after storage in oven)] / Initial H2O2 % x 100

[0059] The fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure is also formulated to inhibit hydrogen peroxide from converting into peracetic acid, thereby affording hydrogen peroxide stability in the composition of the present disclosure. The fast-acting disinfectant composition is formulated such that substantially no peracetic acid is present in the composition. In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition contains peracetic acid in an amount less than about 5 % by weight, such as less than about 3 % by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1 % by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.75% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.50% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.25% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.1% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween. In one particular embodiment, the composition is substantially free of peracetic acid. In one particular embodiment, the peracetic acid, if any, is present in undetectable amounts.

[0060] In one aspect, after reaching equilibrium and after storage at 54°C for two weeks, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure retains more than about 80% by weight of the hydrogen peroxide amount that was present in the initial composition. For example, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can retain at least about 81% by weight of the hydrogen peroxide amount that was present in the initial composition, such as at least about 85% by weight, such as such as at least about 90% by weight, such as such as at least about 95% by weight, such as at least about 99% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween. Unexpectedly, that was made possible by way of a unique combination of hydrogen peroxide, an organic sulfonic acid, and a carboxylic acid of the present disclosure.

[0061] In accordance with the present disclosure, the fast-acting disinfectant composition, in addition to hydrogen peroxide, also contains an organic sulfonic acid or a salt thereof in combination with relatively minor amounts of a carboxylic acid. It was surprisingly found that the presence of an organic sulfonic acid with hydrogen peroxide stabilized hydrogen peroxide, thereby maintaining the levels of hydrogen peroxide in a solution close to the initial levels. The present inventors found that when hydrogen peroxide is present in a solution with at least an organic sulfonic acid at certain amount ratios, conversion of hydrogen peroxide to peracetic acid was minimized, if not prevented. In one aspect, hydrogen peroxide becomes stabilized, without any additional stabilizers, when present in the composition with a carboxylic acid and an organic sulfonic acid.

[0062] The organic sulfonic acid can be a non-surfactant sulfonic acid. Examples of sulfonic acids that may be used include C1-C7 alkylsulfonic acid, a sulfonated C1-C7 carboxylic acid, a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic sulfonic acid, mixtures thereof and salts thereof. In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid can be methanesulfonic acid (MSA), p-toluenesulfonic acid (TSA), dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid, and / or benzenesulfonic acid (BSA).

[0063] In another embodiment, the alkylsulfonic acid and sulfonated carboxylic acid have a C1-C5 chain. In the case of a substituted aromatic sulfonic acid, the aromatic ring can be substituted with at least one C1-C3 alkyl group. Stated otherwise, if the aromatic ring is substituted, the alkyl group can contain three (3) carbons or less. Salts of the non-surfactant organic sulfonic acid are alkali metal and alkaline earth metals salts, such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Salts may also include ammonium salts. Representative examples of the non-surfactant organic sulfonic acid are methane sulfonic acid, dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid, benzene sulfonic acid, toluene sulfonic acid, xylenesulfonic acid, ethylbenzene sulfonic acid, and mixtures thereof. In one aspect, the composition, for instance, comprises dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid sodium salt.

[0064] The organic sulfonic acid can generally be present in the fast-acting disinfectant composition in an amount of from about 0.1% by weight to about 6% by weight, such as from about 0.2% by weight to about 4% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% by weight therebetween. For example, the organic sulfonic acid can be present in the fast-acting disinfectant composition in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.5% by weight, and generally in an amount less than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 4% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 3% by weight.

[0065] In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid comprises methane sulfonic acid and is present in the composition in an amount from about 1 .5% by weight to about 2.5% by weight, such as in an amount from about 1.8% by weight to about 2.2% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween. In one aspect, the methane sulfonic acid is present in the composition in an amount of about 0% by weight, in an amount of about 1% by weight, in an amount of about 2% by weight, in an amount of about 3% by weight, in an amount of about 4% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween.

[0066] In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid comprises BSA and is present in the composition in an amount from about 1% by weight to about 4% by weight, such as in an amount from about 1.4% by weight to about 3.2% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween. In one aspect, the BSA is present in the composition in an amount of about 0% by weight, in an amount of about 1% by weight, in an amount of about 1.4% by weight, in an amount of about 1.5% by weight, in an amount of about 3% by weight, in an amount of about 3.5% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween.

[0067] In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid comprises TSA and is present in the composition in an amount from about 1% by weight to about 3% by weight, such as in an amount from about 1.4% by weight to about 3. 1% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween. In one aspect, the TSA is present in the compositionin an amount of about 0% by weight, in an amount of about 1% by weight, in an amount of about 1.4% by weight, in an amount of about 1.5% by weight, in an amount of about 2.8% by weight, in an amount of about 2.9% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1 % therebetween.

[0068] In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid comprises dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid or dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid sodium salt and is present in the composition in an amount from about 0.05% by weight to about 3% by weight, such as in an amount from about 0.1% by weight to about 2.9% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebet een. In one aspect, the dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid or dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid sodium salt is present in the composition in an amount of about 0% by w eight, in an amount of about 0.25% by w eight, in an amount of about 0.5% by weight, in an amount of about 0.75% by w eight, in an amount of about 1% by weight, in an amount of about 2% by w eight, in an amount of about 2.8% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1 % therebetween.

[0069] As discussed above, the fast-acting disinfectant composition, in addition to hydrogen peroxide and an organic sulfonic acid, can also be combined with relatively small amounts of a carboxylic acid. In one aspect, the carboxylic acid can comprise a Ci to Ci4 carboxylic acid. For instance, the carboxylic acid may comprise a Ci to C4, such as a Ci to C2 carboxylic acid. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid may comprise formic acid, carbonic acid, and / or acetic acid. It is to be noted that despite carbonic acid not being generally classed as a carboxylic acid, it is considered as one of the possible Ci to C2 carboxylic acids within the context of this invention.

[0070] For instance, the carboxylic acid can be present in the fast-acting disinfectant composition in a ready -to-use state in an amount of less than about 7% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 6% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 4% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2.2% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1% by weight therebetween. The carboxylic acid may be present in the composition in anamount greater than about 0.1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.8% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.2% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.8% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 2.1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.8% by weight such as in an amount greater than about 4.8% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 5.9% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1% by weight therebetween.

[0071] The relative amounts of the organic sulfonic acid and the carboxylic acid in combination with relatively great amounts of hydrogen peroxide have been surprisingly found to "sei f-stabilize" the hydrogen peroxide preventing the hydrogen peroxide from degrading or converting to peracetic acid. The organic sulfonic acid and the carboxylic acid also are believed to activate the efficacy of the hy drogen peroxide for making the fast-acting disinfectant composition highly effective against various microorganisms, for example, C.difflcile.

[0072] The weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and the organic sulfonic acid and the weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and the carboxylic acid can vary depending upon the particular application and the desired result. In one aspect, the weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and the organic sulfonic acid can be from about 40:1 to about 1:20, such as from about 20:1 to about 1: 10, such as from about 5: 1 to about 1:5, such as from about 2: 1 to about 1:2. The weight ratio between hydrogen peroxide and the carboxylic acid can be from 500: 1 to about 2: 1, such as from about 100: 1 to about 2: 1, such as from about 40: 1 to about 2: 1, such as from about 20: 1 to about 2: 1 , such as from about 12: 1 to about 4: 1.

[0073] In one aspect, the weight ratio among hydrogen peroxide, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, and the carboxylic acid can be, for instance, about 15:4:6, about 15:4:5, about 15:4:4, about 15:2:3, about 15:1 :3, about 15:2:2, about 19:0:6, about 19:4:6, about 19:3:6, respectively.

[0074] The fast-acting disinfectant composition may also contain a liquid earner. The liquid carrier can be a solubilizer for one of the components in the composition. The liquid carrier may comprise water, an alcohol, or mixtures thereof. For example, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can comprise an aqueous solution. Alcoholic solvents that may be used include ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, benzyl alcohol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, or mixtures thereof and the like.

[0075] The amount of liquid carrier present in the composition can be adjusted in order to adjust the hydrogen peroxide levels in the composition. The liquid carrier may be present in an amount from about 20% to about 95% by weight, such as from about 50% to about 80% by weight. For instance, one or more liquid carriers can be present in the fast-acting disinfectant composition in an amount greater than about 60% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 70% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 75% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween.

[0076] The solubility and compatibility of the liquid fast-acting disinfectant composition can be further improved by adding suitable amounts of other solubilizers, such as a hydrotrope, surfactants, or mixtures thereof, to improve the solubility and physical properties of the solution.

[0077] Examples of hydrotrope agents include n-octanesulfonate, a xylene sulfonate, a naphthalene sulfonate, or mixtures thereof. One or more hydrotropes can be included in the fast-acting disinfectant composition generally in an amount less than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1% by weight. One or more hydrotropes can be present in the composition in an amount greater than about 0.01% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0. 1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1 % therebetween.

[0078] Suitable surfactants may be selected from the group of ionic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants, and preferably nonionic and / or ionic surfactants or mixturesthereof. Compatible nonionic surfactants include alkoxylated alcohols such as ethoxylated alcohols, alkoxylated glycols such as alkoxylated ethylene glycol or propylene glycol with a Ce to Cis alkyl group, alkylated glycols, or mixtures thereof. When present, the fast-acting disinfectant composition may contain one or more nonionic surfactants in an amount greater than about 0. 1 % by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 1.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 2.5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 7% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 8% by weight. One or more nonionic surfactants can be present in the composition in an amount less than about 25% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 15% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 10% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 5% by weight. In one aspect, relatively small amounts of nonionic surfactants can be incorporated into the composition such as in an amount less than about 2.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1% therebetween.

[0079] Instead of or in addition to one or more nonionic surfactants, the fast-acting disinfectant composition may also contain one or more anionic surfactants. Suitable anionic surfactants include alkyl sulfate, alkylethersulfate, alkylether sulfonic acid and salts thereof, alkylbenzenesulfate. an alkanolamide sulfate, an ethoxylated alkylphenol, or mixtures thereof. Other surfactants that may be used include a quaternary ammonium salt, or a tertiary amine N-oxide. In one embodiment, the fast-acting disinfectant composition contains a salt of an alkylbenzene sulfonate, such as sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate.

[0080] One or more anionic surfactants are generally contained in the fast-acting disinfectant composition at relatively minor amounts. For instance, one or more anionic surfactants can be present in the composition in an amount less than about 5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 3% by weight, such as in an amountless than about 1.5% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 1% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.8% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1% therebetween. One or more anionic surfactants can be present in the composition in an amount greater than about 0.001% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.01% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.3% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween.

[0081] In the past, fast-acting disinfectant compositions containing hydrogen peroxide typically required the use of a stabilizer for the hydrogen peroxide. The composition of the present disclosure, however, was unexpectedly found to self-stabilize the hydrogen peroxide without the need to add any hydrogen peroxide stabilizers. Thus, in one embodiment, the fast-acting disinfectant composition is free of hydrogen peroxide stabilizers.

[0082] For instance, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can be free of one or more hydrogen peroxide stabilizers including phosphorus compounds, poly carboxylic acids, and phosphates. The composition, for instance, may be free of phosphoric acid or derivatives including salts of phosphoric acid. The composition can also be formulated to be free of metal chelators. More particularly, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can be formulated so as to not contain one or more of the following hydrogen peroxide stabilizers: phosphoric acid, 1 -hydroxy ethylidenediphosphonic acid (HEDP), phytic acid, aminophosphate, phosphonate and sodium glutamate, ethylenediamine-N,N’ -disuccinic acid, NaFbPCh, Na tripolyphosphate, organophosphonic acid, amino-phosphonate, silver dihydrogen citrate, diphosphonic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), N-(hydroxyethyl)- ethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid, a pyridine carboxylic acid base stabilizer such as picolinic acid or dipicolinic acid, tri(methylene phosphoric acid), diethylenetriamine-penta(methylene phosphoric acid), 2-hydroxy ethylimino bis(ethylene phosphoric acid), citric acid, nitriotriacetic acid (NT A), 2-hydroxyethylimino-diacetic acid (HEID A), and salts thereof, cyclohexane-1,2-diaminotetrakismethylene phosphonic acid or water-sol. di ethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid), colloidal stannate, diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid(DTPA), citrate, gallate, malate, malonate, oxaloacetate, oxalate, pyruvate, succinate or mixtures thereof.

[0083] As discussed above, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure is also formulated to promote the stability of hydrogen peroxide and to inhibit hydrogen peroxide from converting into peracetic acid. In addition, the fastacting disinfectant composition is formulated such that essentially no peracetic acid is added to the composition as a component. In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition contains peracetic acid in an amount less than about 1 % by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.75% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.50% by weight, such as in an amount less than about 0.25% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween. In one particular embodiment, the composition is substantially free of peracetic acid.

[0084] Other additives may be also added to the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure to provide the composition with suitable properties for end use applications. Typical examples include corrosion inhibitors, pH adjusting agents, emulsifiers, fragrances, dyes, preservatives, antifoam agents and mixtures thereof.

[0085] In one embodiment, for instance, the fast-acting disinfectant composition may contain a corrosion inhibitor. Corrosion inhibitors that may be used include borates, phosphates, polyphosphates, sodium benzoate, sodium gluconate, sodium silicate, sodium molybdate, sodium bisulfate, benzotriazole or mixtures thereof. When present, the corrosion inhibitor can be contained in the composition in an amount from about 0.001% to about 2% by weight, such as from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1% therebetween.

[0086] The fast-acting disinfectant composition can also contain one or more pH adjusting agents. For many applications, the composition has a pH of less than about 7, such as less than about 5. such as less than about 4, such as less than about 3. such asless than about 2, such as less than about 1. In one aspect, the pH adjusting agent can comprise a base that increases the pH. For instance, the base can comprise a hydroxide, such as sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, or mixtures thereof . The pH adjusting agent can be present in the fast-acting disinfectant composition generally in an amount from about 0.01% by weight to about 4% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1% therebetween. For instance, the pH adjusting agent can be present in the composition in an amount greater than about 0.1% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 0.3% by weight, and less than about 1.5% by weight, such as less than about 1.3% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween.

[0087] In one embodiment, a relatively concentrated fast-acting disinfectant composition is produced and sold or otherwise distributed to end users. An end user can then dilute the concentrated solution during or prior to use. Of particular advantage, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can be diluted with water, such as tap water.

[0088] In one embodiment, a relatively concentrated fast-acting disinfectant composition is produced that contains hydrogen peroxide in an amount from about 20% to about 70% by weight, such as from about 22% to about 65% by weight, one or more organic sulfonic acids in an amount of from about 5% to about 35% by weight, such as from about 15% to about 25% by weight, and one or more carboxylic acids in an amount of from about 5% to about 35% by weight, including all increments of 0. 1% therebetween. Other ingredients may be present, which may reduce the water content.

[0089] In another embodiment, the concentrated composition contains only inert components and / or all the components except the hydrogen peroxide. The hydrogen peroxide can be added to the concentrate at the time of use. For example, the concentrated composition can contain one or more organic sulfonic acids in an amount of from about 5% to about 35% by weight, such as from about 15% to about 25% by weight, and one or more carboxylic acids in an amount of from about 5% to about 35% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween. An aqueous hydrogenperoxide solution can then be added to the concentrated composition at the time of use in a manner that produces desired concentrations of the components. The aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution can contain hydrogen peroxide in an amount of from about 5% by weight to about 80% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% by weight therebetween. In one aspect, the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution can contain hydrogen peroxide in an amount less than about 24.5% by weight, such as in an amount of from about 18% by weight to about 24% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween.

[0090] The fast-acting disinfectant composition may be used in any suitable application where disinfecting, sanitizing, cleaning and / or bleaching are desired. The fast-acting disinfectant composition can be used for consumer household use, for use in the healthcare field, for use in the food processing field or food service field, for use in sterilizing surfaces in dairies and breweries, for use in the veterinarian field, and / or for use in clean rooms.

[0091] The fast-acting disinfectant composition can be applied to an opposing surface using various methods and techniques. For instance, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can be sprayed onto the opposing surface or an object can be dipped into the composition.

[0092] One particularly useful application method is to impregnate the fast-acting disinfectant composition into a wipe substrate. The wipe can be a single use wipe that is impregnated with the fast-acting disinfectant composition and is stored in a container that will dispense the wipe to a user. The container with the wipes may contain a single wipe, or several wipes. Suitable containers include a pouch containing a single wipe, such as a moist towelette which is tom open by the user, or may be a pouch or other container with a resealable opening containing several wipes in a stacked fashion, a rolled fashion or other suitable formation that would allow a single wipe to be removed from the opening at a time. Pouches are generally prepared form a fluid impervious material, such as a film, a coated paper or foil or other similar fluid impervious materials. In another way to dispense wipes of the present disclosure is to place thewipe into a fluid impervious container having an opening to access the wipes in the container. Containers may be molded plastic container with lids that are fluid impervious. Generally, the lid will have an opening to access the wipes in the container. The wipe in the container may be in an interleaved stack, such that as a wipe is removed from the container, the next wipe is positioned in the opening of the container ready for the user to remove the next wipe. Alternatively, the wipe may be a continuous material which is perforated between the individual wipes of the continuous material. The continuous wipe material with perforations may be in a folded form or may be in a rolled form. Usually, in the rolled form, the wipe material is fed from the center of the rolled material. As with the interleaved stack, as a wipe is removed from the container, the next wipe is positioned in the opening to facilitate removal of the next wipe, when needed.

[0093] The fast-acting disinfectant composition can be impregnated into the wipe such that the wipe is pre-moistened and will express or release the fast-acting disinfectant composition onto the surface as the wipe is run across the surface to be treated. Generally, the fast-acting disinfectant composition is saturated into the wipe such that the wipe will release the fast-acting disinfectant composition to the surface through the wiping action. Generally, the fast-acting disinfectant composition is present in an amount of from about 2 parts to 6 parts by w eight per 1 part by weight of the wiper substrate, more preferably from about 3 to about 5 parts by weight per 1 part by weight of the wiper substrate. In these ranges, complete saturation of the substrates can be achieved. It is noted that the amount of the fast-acting disinfectant composition may go up or dow n to achieve complete saturation of the wipe substrate, depending on the particular wipe substrate.

[0094] Suitable wipe substrates include woven and nonwoven materials. Essentially any nonwoven w eb material may be used. Exemplary nonw oven materials may include, but are not limited to meltblown, coform, spunbond, airlaid, hydroentangled nonwovens, spunlace, bonded carded webs, and laminates thereof. Optionally, the nonwoven may be laminated w ith a film material as well. The fibers used to prepare the wipe substrate may be cellulosic fiber, thermoplastic fibers and mixtures thereof. Thefibers may also be continuous fibers, discontinuous fibers, staple fibers and mixtures thereof. Basis weights of the non woven web may vary from about 12 grams per square meter to 200 grams per square meter or more.

[0095] Once applied to the surface, the fast-acting disinfectant composition is allowed to remain on the surface for a period of time. As mentioned, it has been unexpectedly found that the described fast-acting disinfectant composition has dramatically reduced contact times necessary for killing microorganisms.

[0096] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can comprise an aqueous solution, the aqueous solution comprising hydrogen peroxide present in the composition in an amount of at least about 1% by weight, at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, a Ci to Ci4 carboxylic acid, wherein the composition does not contain a pyridine carboxylic acid based stabilizer or 1 -hydroxy ethylidene- 1,1- diphosphinic acid, and wherein after reaching equilibrium and after storage at 54°C for two weeks, the composition displays a hydrogen peroxide loss that is less than a hydrogen peroxide loss of a similar composition that does not contain the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof. In one aspect, such similar composition, as compared to the fast-acting disinfectant composition, can comprise identical amounts by percent weight of hydrogen peroxide and carboxylic acid, such as identical amounts by percent weight of hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid. In one aspect, such similar composition, as compared to the fast-acting disinfectant composition, can comprise identical amounts by percent weight of hydrogen peroxide and carboxylic acid without comprising any stabilizers, such as identical amounts by percent weight of hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid without comprising any organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof. For instance, in one aspect, such similar composition can comprise about 18.5 %w / w of hydrogen peroxide and about 6 %w / w of acetic acid and about 0 %w / w of at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof. For instance, in another aspect, such similar composition can comprise about 8 %w / w of hydrogen peroxide and from about 0.5 %w / w to about of 3 %w / w of carboxylic acid and about 0%w / w of at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof.

[0097] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition, after reaching equilibrium and after storage at 54°C for two weeks, can display a hydrogen peroxide loss that is at least about 5% less, such as at least about 10% less, such as at least about 15% less, such as at least about 20% less than a hydrogen peroxide loss of a similar composition that does not contain the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof. In one aspect, the hydrogen peroxide loss is at least about 20% less than a hydrogen peroxide loss of a similar composition where the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof has been replaced with water.

[0098] In one aspect, such similar composition, as compared to the fast-acting disinfectant composition, can comprise identical amounts by percent weight of hydrogen peroxide and carboxylic acid, such as identical amounts by percent weight of hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid. In one aspect, such similar composition, as compared to the fast-acting disinfectant composition, can comprise identical amounts by percent weight of hydrogen peroxide and carboxylic acid without comprising any stabilizers, such as identical amounts by percent weight of hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid without comprising any organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof.

[0099] In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, in the fast-acting disinfectant composition, can comprise a C1-C5 alkylsulfonic acid, a sulfonated C1-C5 carboxylic acid, an alkylbenzene sulfonic acid, a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic sulfonic acid, a mono-alkylphenylsulfonic acid, a di-alkylphenylsulfonic acid, or mixtures thereof, or salts thereof, wherein the substituted aromatic sulfonic acid is substituted with at least one C1-C3 alkyl group.

[0100] In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof comprises methane sulfonic acid and the composition contains the Ci to C14 carboxylic acid in an amount less than about 6% by weight.

[0101] In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof comprises a salt of dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid. In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof comprises benzene sulfonic acid, toluene sulfonic acid, or mixtures thereof.

[0102] In one aspect, the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof is present in the composition in an amount from about 1% by weight to about 6% by weight andwherein the composition contains the Ci to Ci4 carboxylic acid in an amount greater than about 2% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 3% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 4% by weight, such as in an amount greater than about 5% by weight, including all increments of 0.1% therebetween.

[0103] In one aspect, the hydrogen peroxide is present in the composition, after reaching equilibrium, in relation to the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof at a weight ratio of from about 5: 1 to about 1 :5, such as from about 2: 1 to about 1:2.

[0104] In one aspect, after the composition reaches equilibrium, the hydrogen peroxide is present in the composition in an amount greater than about 3% by weight, such as greater than about 4% by weight, such as greater than about 5% by weight.

[0105] In one aspect, the Ci-Cw carboxylic acid comprises acetic acid. In one aspect, the CI-CM carboxylic acid comprises formic acid or a salt thereof. In one aspect, the C1-C14 carboxylic acid comprises glycolic acid. In one aspect, the C1-C14 carboxylic acid comprises a blend of glycolic acid, formic acid, and a formic acid salt.

[0106] In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition displays a 6 logic reduction or greater after a 3 minute contact time or less when tested against Clostridium difficile according to ASTM Test Method E2197-11.

[0107] In one aspect, the composition further comprises a nonionic surfactant. In one aspect, the composition further comprises an anionic surfactant. In one aspect, the composition further contains a pH adjusting agent. In one aspect, the pH adjusting agent comprises sodium hydroxide.

[0108] In one aspect, a premoistened wipe can comprise an absorbent substrate and fast-acting disinfectant composition impregnated into the absorbent substrate. In one aspect, the fast-acting disinfectant composition can be impregnated into the absorbent substrate in an amount of from about 2 parts to 6 parts by weight fast-acting disinfectant composition per 1 part by w eight of the absorbent substrate.

[0109] The present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following examples.Examples

[0110] The following examples demonstrate some of the advantages and benefits of the present disclosure.

[0111] Tables 1-4 below list the formulations that were prepared and tested. The ingredients were mixed at room temperature. The order of addition was not critical for preparing the fast-acting disinfectant compositions of the present disclosure.

[0112] Table 1

[0113] Table 2

[0114] Table 3

[0115] Table 4

[0116] As shown in Table 5 below, it was found that the fast-acting disinfectant compositions of the present disclosure were efficacious against microorganisms.

[0117] Table 5* Passing criteria: >6.0 logio reduction

[0118] As shown above, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure showed excellent efficacy against the microorganism even after short contact times.

[0119] As further shown in Table 6 below, it was found that the fast-acting disinfectant compositions of the present disclosure exhibited good efficacy of 6 logio reduction when the carboxylic acid utilized in the composition had a carbon chain length between Ci and Cs (e.g., formic acid, acetic acid, citric acid).

[0120] Table 6* Passing criteria: >6.0 logio reduction

[0121] Sample Nos. 13-15 which included formic acid, acetic acid, and glycolic acid, respectively, were effective against C.difficile when about 8% w / w of hydrogen peroxide along with about 1-4% w / w of MSA were present in the composition.Surprisingly, these example compositions displayed a 6 logio reduction or greater after a 3-minute contact time or less when tested against Clostridium difficile according to ASTM Test Method E2197- 11.

[0122] Efficacy of Ready -to-Use and Pre-saturated wipes was also tested. The wipes were loaded with the fast-acting disinfectant compositions of the present disclosure, for example, Sample No. 7. The methodology that was utilized is shown in Table 7.

[0123] Table 7

[0124] Table 8 lists various Enveloped and Non-Enveloped Viruses against which the fast-acting disinfectant compositions of the present disclosure were tested. The tests were conducted at 15 seconds contact time at room temperature in the presence of a 5% fetal bovine serum organic soil which demonstrated GLP passed test results of hospital related organisms.

[0125] Table 8

[0126] Table 9 lists various Fungi and Bacteria against which the fast-acting disinfectant compositions of the present disclosure were tested. The tests were conducted with exposure time of 1 minute with respect to Fungi as well as TB - Mycobacteria and with exposure time of 15 seconds with respect to other Bacteria. The tests were conducted in the presence of a 5% fetal bovine serum organic soil load at room temperature. GLP passed test results of hospital related organisms.

[0127] Table 9

[0128] Additional tests were carried out on Sample Nos. 17-20 at only 1 second contact times and 5 seconds contact times against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonasaeruginosa. The Germicidal Spray Products Test Method (GST) according to AO AC Methods of Analysis, 18th edition (2013) was used.

[0129] For each of the Samples tested, 20 carriers were used in these tests, and no organic soil was applied. It was unexpectedly found that, for Staphylococcus aureus, all four test formulations showed zero positive growth out of the 20 carriers at 1 second contact time and 5 seconds contact time. Similarly unexpectedly, for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, all four test formulations showed zero positive growth out of the 20 carriers at 1 second contact time.

[0130] Table 10 shows micro efficacy test results for S. aureus ATCC 6538 (1 second contact time and 5 seconds contact time) as well as P. aeruginosa ATCC 15442 (1 second contact time). Surprisingly an instant kill efficacy was observed.

[0131] Table 10

[0132] As shown above, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure showed excellent efficacy against the microorganisms tested even after short contact times. Remarkably, 100% of positive carriers of Staphylococcus aureus were disinfected upon 1 second contact and 5 second contact with the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure. Also surprisingly, 100% of positive carriers of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were disinfected upon 1 second contact with the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure. The present inventors discovered a composition that provides a virtually instant kill efficacy against microorganisms.

[0133] Additionally, it was noticed that the formulations containing lower amounts of acetic acid, particularly 2%w / w acetic acid, such as shown in Table 1, havesignificantly lower odor than known commercial products that contain greater levels of acetic acid and peracetic acid.

[0134] Sample Nos. 1-12 were also tested for stability’. In particular, the formulations were stored in an oven at a temperature of 54°C. The percentage of the active hydrogen peroxide in the formulations was measured at the time when the formulation was prepared and has reached equilibrium and then measured weekly during the stability storage period. The percentage of hydrogen peroxide loss was calculated by the following formula:[Initial H2O2 % - H2O2 % (after storage in oven)J / Initial H2O2 % x 100

[0135] The stability’ test results for Sample Nos. 1-8 are shown in Table 11 below .

[0136] Table 11** Formulations were prepared at around 5.0-5.2% I I FF

[0137] As shown above, all of the formulations displayed less than 5% hydrogen peroxide loss at 54°C after two weeks, which is equivalent to one year shelf life at room temperature. The stability results are unexpected and dramatic, especially in view of the fact that no hydrogen peroxide stabilizers were present in the formulations. Reducing the amount of carboxylic acid in the formulation led to a more stable product.

[0138] As shown above, the fast-acting disinfectant composition of the present disclosure can display a hydrogen peroxide loss of less than about 2%, such as less than about 1% after storage at 54°C for one week or for two weeks.

[0139] Wipe substrates were saturated w ith Sample Nos. 6 and 7 and also tested for stability. The wipe substrates were made from 100% polypropylene fibers. The wipe substrates were ERHT bonded and not pretreated with any surfactants. The loading ratio of liquid to wipe substrate w as 4: 1 on a weight basis. The wipes w ere stored in an oven at 54°C for four weeks. The initial hydrogen peroxide concentration was determined and then measured weekly during the stability study. The results are shown in Tables 12 and 13. Table 12 illustrates the results using Sample No. 6 while Table 13 illustrates the results using Sample No. 7.

[0140] Table 12

[0141] Table 12 shows stability test results for Sample No. 6 Wipes

[0142] Table 13

[0143] Table 13 shows stability test results for Sample No. 7 Wipes

[0144] As shown above, the hydrogen peroxide concentration decreased by no more than 5%, even after four weeks. The hydrogen peroxide concentration decreased by nomore than 2%, such as by no more than about 1.5% after three weeks. These results are surprising and dramatic in that the composition does not contain a hydrogen peroxide stabilizer.

[0145] As shown in Table 14 below, it was noticed that organic sulfonic acids, namely, BSA (Sample No. 10), TSA (Sample No. 11) as well as dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid sodium salt (Sample No. 12) showed similar stability profiles in formulations comprising high hydrogen peroxide levels.

[0146] Table 14

[0147] The fast-acting disinfectant composition of Sample No. 10 and Sample No. 11 show ed the lowest percent loss of hydrogen peroxide. For example. Sample No. 10 lost about 4.77% of hydrogen peroxide and Sample No. 11 lost about 4.39% of hydrogen peroxide. It was noticed, however, that Sample No. 9, which did not contain any organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof exhibited a higher hydrogen peroxide percent loss than the above noted Sample Nos. 10 and 11 , which included BSA and TSA, respectively.

[0148] It was surprisingly found that less hydrogen peroxide is lost when the composition contains at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, even if in small amounts, as compared to a similar or otherwise nearly identical composition which does not contain any organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof. These results are surprising and dramatic in that the composition does not contain a hydrogen peroxide stabilizer.

[0149] In fact, as noted above, it w ould have been thought that a composition containing high amounts of hydrogen peroxide along with high amounts of acetic acid would react to produce peracetic acid, thereby, significantly lowering the percent ofhydrogen peroxide in the composition. However, the present disclosure unexpectedly discovered that when a composition containing high amounts of hydrogen peroxide along with high amounts of acetic acid is further combined with an organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof, even in small amounts, the percent loss of hydrogen peroxide is minimized, thereby making the composition stable without any stabilizers. Such stability when stored at 54°C for two weeks, as tested, is equivalent to at least one year shelf life at room temperature.

[0150] These and other modifications and variations to the present invention may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, which is more particularly set forth in the appended claims. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchanged both in whole or in part. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the foregoing description is by way of example only and is not intended to limit the invention so further described in such appended claims.

Claims

What Is Claimed:

1. A fast-acting disinfectant composition comprising an aqueous solution, the aqueous solution comprising: hydrogen peroxide present in the composition after equilibrium in an amount of at least about 3% by weight; an organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof; a Ci to C 14 carboxylic acid; and wherein the composition displays at least one of the following:(a) efficacy against at least one non-enveloped virus or enveloped virus after a 15 second contact time when tested according to ASTM Test el 053;(b) efficacy against at least one fungi after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method;(c) efficacy against at least one bacteria after a 15 second contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method; or(d) efficacy against at least one tuberculo-my cobacteria after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Tuberculocidal Activity of Disinfectants.

2. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in claim 1, wherein the composition displays efficacy against at least one non-enveloped virus or enveloped virus after a 15 second contact time when tested according to ASTM Test el 053, the at least one non-enveloped virus or enveloped virus comprising Hepatitis B [HBV], Hepatitis C [HCV], HIV-1 [Strain HTLC-IIIB], SARS-CoV-2, Norovirus (ATCC VR-782 Strain F-9), or Poliovirus Type 1 (ATCC VR-1562).

3. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in claim 1, wherein the composition displays efficacy against at least one fungi after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method, the at least one fungi comprising Trichophyton interdigitate (ATCC 9533) or Candida auris (AR-BANK# 0385).

4. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in claim 1. wherein the composition displays efficacy against at least one bacteria after a 15 second contact time when tested according to an AO AC Germicidal Spray / wipe Method, the at least one bacteria comprising Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), Salmonella enterica (ATCC 10708), or Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538).

5. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in claim 1, wherein the composition displays efficacy after a 15 second contact time when tested according to ASTM Test el053 against each of the following viruses: Hepatitis B [HBV], Hepatitis C [HCV], HIV-1 [Strain HTLC-IIIB], SARS-CoV-2, Norovirus (ATCC VR-782 Strain F-9). or Poliovirus Type 1 (ATCC VR-1562).

6. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in claim 1. wherein the composition displays efficacy against at least one tuberculo-my cobacteria after a 1 minute contact time when tested according to an AO AC Tuberculocidal Activity of Disinfectants, the at least one tuberculo-my cobacteria comprising Mycobacterium bovis-QCG.

7. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof comprises methane sulfonic acid, benzene sulfonic acid, toluene sulfonic acid, a salt of dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid, or mixtures thereof.

8. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof is present in the composition in an amount from about 1% by weight to about 6% by weight, such as in an amount from about 0.2% by weight to about 4% by weight.

9. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrogen peroxide is present in the composition after equilibrium in an amount from about 3.5% to about 10% by weight, such as in an amount from about 4% to about 10% by weight.

10. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is free of pyridine carboxylic acid based stabilizers, such as picolinic acid and / or dipicolinic acid.

11. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is free of l-hydroxyethyhdene-l,l-diphosphinic acid.

12. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the Ci to Ci4 carboxylic acid comprises acetic acid, folic acid, glycolic acid or a salt thereof.

13. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the Ci to C14 carboxylic acid is present in the composition in an amount from about 0.5% by weight to about 8% by weight.

14. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises a nonionic surfactant.

15. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises an anionic surfactant.

16. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further contains a pH adjusting agent.

17. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in claim 16, wherein the pH adjusting agent comprises sodium hydroxide.

18. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims, wherein after reaching equilibrium and after storage at 54°C for two weeks, thecomposition displays a hydrogen peroxide loss that is less than a hydrogen peroxide loss of a similar composition wherein the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof has been replaced with water.

19. A fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in claim 18, wherein after reaching equilibrium and after storage at 54°C for two weeks, the composition displays a hydrogen peroxide loss that is at least about 5% less, such as at least about 10% less, such as at least about 15% less, such as at least about 20% less than a hydrogen peroxide loss of a similar composition wherein the at least one organic sulfonic acid or salt thereof has been replaced with water.

20. A premoistened wipe comprising: an absorbent substrate; and fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of the preceding claims impregnated into the absorbent substrate.

21. A premoistened wipe as defined in claim 20. wherein the fast-acting disinfectant composition is impregnated into the absorbent substrate in an amount of from about 2 parts to 6 parts by weight fast-acting disinfectant composition per 1 part by weight of the absorbent substrate.

22. A method of disinfecting a surface comprising applying to the surface the fast-acting disinfectant composition as defined in any of claims 1 through 21.

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