Use of mono-ester glycolipids in hard surface cleaning product compositions

Abstract

The present invention relates to the use of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids in hard surface cleaning product compositions.

Description

[0001] Use of mono-ester glycolipids in hard surface cleaning product compositions

[0002] Technical field of the invention

[0003] The present invention relates to surfactants for hard surface cleaning products.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] A hard surface cleaning product is a specially formulated chemical solution used to clean, disinfect, and sometimes protect surfaces that are hard and often non-porous. The term "hard surface" typically refers to materials, such as metal, glass, ceramics, stone, and wood, that have a solid, impermeable surface, in contrast to soft surfaces, like fabrics or upholstery. These products are designed to remove dirt, stains, grease, germs, and other contaminants from a variety of surfaces. There are general-purpose hard surface cleaners as well as specialized hard surface cleaners designed for specific surfaces (like glass, wood, or stainless steel) or specific types of dirt (like limescale, or oven grease). The differentiation between hard surface cleaners and other types of cleaners, such as liquid hand soap, is primarily based on the specific formulation and concentration of their active ingredients, which are tailored to their intended use. While both hard surface cleaners and liquid hand soaps may share some common ingredients, such as surfactants, the key differences lie in the type and concentration of these ingredients, as well as the presence of additional components specific to their functions. Hard surface cleaners often use a higher concentration of surfactants, as they are designed to remove tough dirt, grease, and stains from a variety of surfaces. Anionic surfactants are commonly used for their grease-cutting abilities. Hard surface cleaners might contain abrasives, disinfectants, solvents, and chelating agents to tackle a variety of cleaning tasks, while liquid hand soaps often include moisturizers, and conditioners to protect and nourish the skin. Hard surface cleaners may have a broader pH range. Some are highly alkaline for cutting through grease, while others might be acidic for removing mineral deposits. Hand soaps are usually formulated to be close to the skin's natural pH, which is mildly acidic to neutral, to maintain skin health.

[0006] Hence, hard surface cleaning products typically consist of several base components. Each component plays a specific role in the overall formulation, contributing to the product's efficacy, safety, and user experience. The exact formulation can vary widely depending on the type of product, its intended use, and the brand's philosophy (e.g., natural, organic, hypoallergenic). The primary base components are surfactants, water / organic solvent, stabilizers, builders (when water-based), and pH adjusters. Other components may be specialty additives, preservatives, fragrances, and dyes. The surfactants are responsible for cleaning and for forming lather in water-based cleaners. Lather is the frothy foam formed when the surfactants are mixed with water and air, typically through agitation (like rubbing or shaking). Surfactants reduce surface tension, allowing the product to spread easily and trap dirt and oils. Water acts as a solvent, diluting other ingredients and facilitating their application and distribution. Organic solvents are similarly used, either alone or combined with water, to dilute other ingredients and to facilitate their application and distribution but also to dissolve grease. While surfactants in non-water-based cleaners still serve to reduce surface tension and aid in cleaning, their behaviour in terms of lather formation is fundamentally different due to the lack of an aqueous environment. Therefore, in non-water-based cleaners, the presence of foam is not a typical characteristic and is often not an indicator of cleaning efficacy. Builders are water softeners that enhance the cleaning efficiency of the surfactants. They work by binding to minerals in the water, which could otherwise interfere with the surfactant's effectiveness. Common builders include sodium carbonate, phosphates (though less common now due to environmental concerns), and zeolites. Stabilizers, such as buffers and chelating agents, are used to maintain the stability of the formulation over time. pH adjusters (could also be considered as pH stabilizers) are used to adjust the acidity or alkalinity of the product, which can affect the cleaning effectiveness and stability. Common pH adjusters include citric acid (to lower pH) and sodium hydroxide (to raise pH).

[0007] Currently used surfactants for hard surface cleaning products are shown to be very effective. However, consumer demands for new milder and "greener" hard surface cleaning products mean that this area needs to be addressed again.

[0008] Summary of the invention

[0009] Thus, an object of the present invention is to provide a green alternative to the currently used surfactants for hard surface cleaning products.

[0010] The inventors of the present invention have found use of a new subtype of non-ionic surfactants, mono-ester glycolipids, that is a green alternative to conventional anionic and non-ionic surfactants for hard surface cleaning products.

[0011] The inventors of the present invention have also found a process for producing mono-ester glycolipids from renewable sources, such as enzymatically cleaved starch (e.g., maltose) and used cooking oils (e.g., sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, corn oil, and olive oil). Furthermore, these mono-ester glycolipids are biodegradable. A part of the by-products (mono- and diglycerides, and glycerol) may even be separated, e.g., as valuable food ingredients or food additives or kept together with the mono-ester glycolipids to be used as emulsifiers in the hard surface cleaning product.

[0012] Thus, a first aspect relates to the use of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of monoester glycolipids in hard surface cleaning products.

[0013] A second aspect relates to a hard surface cleaning product composition comprising a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids.

[0014] A third aspect relates to a hard surface cleaning product composition comprising:

[0015] - at least 70% w / w water;

[0016] - a builder; and

[0017] - 1-40% w / w of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids.

[0018] A fourth aspect relates to a hard surface cleaning product composition comprising:

[0019] - at least 25% w / w of an organic solvent, such as alcohols, glycol ethers, and / or hydrocarbons; and

[0020] - 1-10% w / w of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids.

[0021] A fifth aspect relates to a manual dish washing product composition comprising :

[0022] - at least 20% w / w water;

[0023] - a builder; and

[0024] - 1-60% w / w of mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids.

[0025] A sixth aspect relates to a process for producing a hard surface cleaning product composition comprising :

[0026] (i) dispersing and / or solubilizing a carbohydrate in a polar organic solvent in a reaction vessel;

[0027] (ii) adding a diglyceride and / or triglyceride to said reaction vessel to form a starting mixture;

[0028] (iii) dispersing a lipase in said starting mixture under stirring;

[0029] (iv) performing a transesterification between said carbohydrate and said diglyceride and / or triglyceride at a temperature between 0-100 degrees Celsius to form a first liquid fraction comprising said polar organic solvent, mono-ester glycolipid, and mono-, di- and / or triglyceride, and a first solid fraction comprising lipase and optionally unreacted carbohydrate;

[0030] (v) separating the first liquid fraction from the first solid fraction;

[0031] (vi) removing said polar organic solvent from said first liquid fraction to form a second liquid or solid fraction; and

[0032] (vii) adding water and builder and / or an organic solvent to said second liquid or solid fraction to form a hard surface cleaning product composition.

[0033] Preferably, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety.

[0034] An unmodified carbohydrate is here defined as a carbohydrate in its closed form, whose functionalities, apart from the anomeric acetal / hemicacetal, only consist of hydroxyl groups and does not have any of these replaced, either naturally or chemically by another functionality such as an amino, alkoxy, carboxylate, or acetyl group.

[0035] The present invention will now be described in more detail in the following.

[0036] Detailed description of the invention

[0037] Glycolipids are amphiphilic, non-ionic molecules that comprises a hydrophilic carbohydrate moiety and one or more fatty acids as lipophilic moiety. Mono-ester glycolipids have a single fatty acid as the lipophilic moiety. The inventors of the present invention have found that mono-ester glycolipids have comparable or even better properties than conventional non-ionic surfactants.

[0038] A first aspect relates to the use of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids in hard surface cleaning products. Preferably the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety.

[0039] A second aspect relates to a hard surface cleaning product composition comprising a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids. Preferably the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety. The primary base components of hard surface cleaning product compositions are surfactants, water / organic solvent, stabilizers, builders (when water-based), and pH adjusters. Other components may be emulsifiers, specialty additives, preservatives, fragrances, and dyes.

[0040] Hard surface cleaners may be divided into organic solvent-based hard surface cleaners and water-based hard surface cleaners.

[0041] Organic solvent-based hard surface cleaners are designed for specific cleaning tasks where water-based cleaners may not be as effective, e.g., for industrial applications, where their effectiveness in cutting through heavy grease and oil is crucial, or for electronics or precision machinery. The average amount of organic solvent in organic solvent-based hard surface cleaners can vary widely depending on the specific type of cleaner and its intended application. Generally, these formulations can range from having a moderate (e.g., 25- 40% w / w) to a high (e.g., 40-90% w / w) concentration of organic solvents. It's important to note that these percentages are approximate and can vary based on the formulation goals and regulatory constraints. Additionally, the choice of solvent and its concentration will be influenced by factors like the type of soil to be removed, the nature of the surfaces to be cleaned, evaporation rate requirements, and the need to minimize toxicity and environmental impact.

[0042] The organic solvent is chosen based on its specific cleaning properties, such as solvency, evaporation rate, and compatibility with other cleaner ingredients, as well as safety and environmental considerations. Common organic solvents include isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, D-Limonene, glycol ethers, acetone, mineral spirits, Naphtha, Toluene, Xylene, Methyl ethyl ketone, turpentine, Isobutanol, Butyl Cellosolve (Butyl Glycol, Butyl Ether).

[0043] Many organic solvent-based hard surface cleaners also comprise water. The water content in organic solvent-based hard surface cleaners varies significantly depending on the type of cleaner and its intended use, but often the content is less than 65% w / w of water. If more water is present, such a cleaner will classify as a water-based hard surface cleaner.

[0044] One aspect relates to a hard surface cleaning product composition comprising:

[0045] - at least 25% w / w of an organic solvent, such as alcohols, glycol ethers, and / or hydrocarbons; and

[0046] - 1-10% w / w of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids. Preferably the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety. In one or more embodiments, the hard surface cleaning product further comprises at most 65% w / w of water.

[0047] Water-based hard surface cleaners are versatile and can be used on a wide variety of hard surfaces without causing damage. In water-based hard surface cleaners, the concentration of organic solvents is significantly lower compared to organic solvent-based cleaners. The primary function of these cleaners is carried out by water, with organic solvents playing a supporting role. In water-based hard surface cleaners, the water content varies depending on the type and purpose of the cleaner. Generally, water is the primary component in these formulations. The relatively smaller percentage of other ingredients, including organic solvents, surfactants, and additives, is formulated to complement the cleaning action of water. Generally, these formulations can range from having a moderate (e.g., 65-80% w / w) to a high (e.g., 80-99% w / w) concentration of water.

[0048] Another aspect relates to a hard surface cleaning product composition comprising:

[0049] - at least 70% w / w water;

[0050] - a builder; and

[0051] - 1-40% w / w of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids. Preferably the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety.

[0052] Yet another aspect relates to a manual dish washing product composition comprising :

[0053] - at least 20% w / w water;

[0054] - a builder; and

[0055] - 1-60% w / w of mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids. Preferably the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety.

[0056] In one or more embodiments, the hard surface cleaning product composition (or the manual dish washing product composition) further comprises 1-20% w / w of an organic solvent, such as alcohols, glycol ethers, and / or hydrocarbons.

[0057] Builders are an important component in water-based hard surface cleaners, as they enhance the cleaning efficiency of surfactants by softening water and binding to minerals. Typically, the amount of builder ranges from approximately 5% w / w to 15% w / w of the formulation. This range is optimized to enhance the cleaning effectiveness of the surfactants by softening water, binding minerals, and aiding in the removal of soils, while also considering factors like product safety, cost, and environmental impact. In one or more embodiments, the builder is selected from sodium tripolyphosphate, trisodium phosphate, zeolites, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium silicate, sodium citrate, sodium polyacrylate, nitrilotriacetic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, sodium gluconate, polycarboxylates, layered double hydroxides (LDHs), sodium borate, lignosulfonates, and mixtures thereof.

[0058] Phosphates may e.g., be sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) that is widely used for its excellent water-softening capabilities. Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is effective in removing heavy grease and stains.

[0059] Zeolites, such as synthetic or natural aluminosilicate minerals, are used as an alternative to phosphates due to environmental concerns.

[0060] Carbonates may e.g., be sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate, which are considered mild and safe, and often used for gentle cleaning and deodorizing.

[0061] Silicates may e.g., be sodium silicate, which is used for its corrosion-inhibiting properties, if the hard surface is of metal.

[0062] Sodium citrate is a biodegradable builder often used in eco-friendly products.

[0063] Sodium polyacrylate is a synthetic polymer used to bind hard water minerals.

[0064] Nitrilotriacetic acid is an effective chelating agent, though its use is sometimes restricted due to environmental concerns.

[0065] Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a powerful chelating agent used to sequester metal ions, though also with environmental considerations.

[0066] Sodium gluconate is a biodegradable chelating agent, often used in eco-friendly formulations.

[0067] Polycarboxylates include various synthetic polymers that are effective in sequestering calcium and magnesium ions.

[0068] Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) are emerging as an environmentally friendly alternative, effective in softening water and capturing heavy metals. Borates may e.g., be sodium borate that is often used for its cleaning, buffering, and water-softening properties, though its use has decreased due to safety concerns.

[0069] Lignosulfonates are biodegradable polymers derived from lignin, used as dispersants and sequestrants.

[0070] The choice of builder in a hard surface cleaner formulation depends on factors like the intended use of the product, the type of surfactants used, environmental regulations, and consumer preferences for eco-friendly ingredients. While some traditional builders like phosphates are highly effective, their environmental impact has led to a shift towards more sustainable alternatives like citrates, zeolites, and polycarboxylates.

[0071] As discussed in the background section, the surfactants are responsible for cleaning and for forming lather in water-based hard surface cleaners. Lather is the frothy foam formed when the surfactants are mixed with water and air, typically through agitation (like rubbing or shaking). They reduce surface tension, allowing the product to spread easily and trap dirt and oils.

[0072] The mono-ester glycolipids may be formulated with other surfactants. A non-limiting list of surfactants commonly used in hard surface cleaning products are: Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Coco Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Caprylyl / Capryl Glucoside, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, and Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate. A few of those are discussed further in the Examples section.

[0073] The inventors of the present invention have also found a process for producing mono-ester glycolipids from renewable sources.

[0074] The hard surface cleaning product composition of the present invention can take any of a number of forms. There are e.g., general-purpose hard surface cleaners as well as specialized hard surface cleaners designed for specific surfaces (like glass, wood, or stainless steel) or specific types of dirt (like limescale, or oven grease).

[0075] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises a carbohydrate moiety selected from a monosaccharide and / or a disaccharide derived from polysaccharides, such as starch, e.g., by enzymatic cleavage. In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises a carbohydrate moiety selected from the group consisting of maltose, sucrose, lactose, cellobiose, trehalose, isomaltulose, lactulose, and isomaltose.

[0076] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises a carbohydrate moiety selected from the group consisting of glucose, fructose, galactose, mannose, fucose, xylose, ribose, N-acetyl glucosamine, N-acetyl neuraminic acid, arabinose, glucuronic acid, guluronic acid, mannuronic acid, and sialic acid.

[0077] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises a carbohydrate moiety, preferably unmodified, selected from the group consisting of maltose, cellobiose, and trehalose.

[0078] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises a carbohydrate moiety, preferably unmodified, being maltose.

[0079] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid is either a 6-O-(lipid estermaltose, and / or a 6'-O-(lipid ester)-maltose.

[0080] Preferably, the 6-O-(lipid ester)-maltose and 6'-O-(lipid ester)-maltose is present in a molar ratio of 0.1-10, preferably 0.5-2, even more preferably 0.8-1.2 and most preferably 0.9-1.1.

[0081] The performance of a surfactant depends on the balance between the hydrophilicity of the head group and the hydrophobicity of the tail group. In the case of mono-ester glycolipids, this corresponds to the hydrophilicity of the carbohydrate moity and the hydrophobicity of the hydrocarbon moity. In the case of disaccharides, the solubility in water, and therefore hydrophilicity, varies by up to an order of magnitude (as seen in table below, for example sucrose vs. cellobiose). This makes it non-trivial to predict whether the surfactants made from these different disaccharides would exhibit similar properties and be suitable as surfactants in hard surface cleaners. Furthermore, the table also shows how the solubility is drastically changed (with a factor of around 8) when comparing glucose and methylglucoside (glucose methylated in the 1 position). This shows that properties of surfactants made from unmodified and modified glycosylated carbohydrates would be nontrivial to predict beforehand.

[0082] Apart from the solubility, it is also found that self-assembly giving the micellar structure is highly dependent on the isomeric structure of a particular molecule. See for example the article The underlying order: Isomerism as a blueprint to control the behavior of sugar- based (bio)surfactants (Sanchez-Fernandez, Adrian and Poon, Jia-Fei, Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science (69), 2024), which shows that a glycosidic bond in alpha or beta configuration will significantly change the micellar structure. Furthermore, it shows that micellar structure varies drastically between an APG based on maltose and lactose due to the H-bonding pattern between the carbohydrates and between the carbohydrate and water. The latter is correlated with the water solubility. Self-assembly and micellar structure are important for hard surface cleaning products, as larger elongated micelles will give rise to a thickening effects and smaller spherical micelles will give a free-flowing solution. Macroscopic changes in for example feel, texture, and viscosity are highly valuable to the consumer experience of cleaning products that for example need a specified viscosity for better dosing. Due to these complex H-bonding patterns between carbohydrates and between carbohydrates and water in solution, it is non-trivial even to an expert in the field to predict the self-assembly behaviour of two surfactants with identical molecular structure but different isomeric compositions.

[0083] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety derived from a diglyceride and / or triglyceride selected from a source consisting of: sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, canola oil, olive oil, corn oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, tallow, lard, rice bran oil, coconut oil, linseed oil, palm oil, shea butter, shea butter oil, and mixtures thereof. The most common fatty acids present in many of the above oils are oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid and palmitic acid, why the lipid moiety will predominately be one of these four fatty acids. In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety derived from oleic acid and / or linoleic acid.

[0084] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety having a chain length within the range of C6-C26, saturated, or unsaturated with 1-6 double bonds. Preferably, the chain length is within the range of C8-C18. More preferably the chain length is within the range of C12-C18. Even more preferably the chain length is within the range of C16-C18.

[0085] Preferably, the lipid moity is derived from oleic acid and / or linoleic acid and / or stearic acid and / or palmitic acid and / or palmitelaidic acid and / or palmitoleic acid.

[0086] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises a carbohydrate moiety being maltose.

[0087] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises a carbohydrate moiety being maltose, and wherein said mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety derived from a diglyceride and / or triglyceride selected from a source of sunflower oil.

[0088] In one or more embodiments, the mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises a carbohydrate moiety being maltose, and wherein said mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety derived from a diglyceride and / or triglyceride selected from a source consisting of: sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, canola oil, olive oil, corn oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, tallow, lard, rice bran oil, coconut oil, linseed oil, palm oil, shea butter, shea butter oil, and mixtures thereof, preferably derived from sunflower oil.

[0089] As used herein, the term "carbohydrate" refers to monosaccharides and oligosaccharides. It also includes derivatives of these compounds. As the term "carbohydrate" is used herein, it does not include starch, cellulose and guar, or other polysaccharides with high weight average molecular weights. As defined by the present application, "high weight average molecular weights" are those exceeding about 3000 Daltons. As used herein, the term "oligosaccharide" refers chains of two or more saccharides joined by glycosidic bonds with weight average molecular weight less than about 3000 Daltons. Preferably, the carbohydrate is a monosaccharide, or a disaccharide. Preferred disaccharides may e.g., be maltose, sucrose, lactose, cellobiose, trehalose, and isomaltose. Preferred monosaccharides may e.g., be glucose, fructose, galactose, mannose, fucose, xylose, glucuronic acid, guluronic acid, mannuronic acid, and ribose. Preferably, the monosaccharide and / or the disaccharide is derived from polysaccharides, such as starch, e.g., by enzymatic cleavage. The inventors of the present invention have found, probably due to steric hindrance, that it is only the C6-alcohol that reacts with the fatty acid when the carbohydrate is glucose, and either the C6-alcohol or the C6'-alcohol that reacts with the fatty acid when the carbohydrate is maltose using the method specific in example 1.

[0090] In one or more embodiments, the carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of: maltose, sucrose, lactose, cellobiose, trehalose, isomaltulose, lactulose, isomaltose, and mixtures thereof.

[0091] In one or more embodiments, the carbohydrate is a disaccharide.

[0092] In one or more embodiments, the carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of: glucose, fructose, galactose, mannose, fucose, xylose, ribose, N-acetyl glucosamine, N- acetyl neuraminic acid, arabinose, glucuronic acid, guluronic acid, mannuronic acid, sialic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0093] In one or more embodiments, the carbohydrate is a monosaccharide.

[0094] In one or more embodiments, the carbohydrate is unmodified maltose, cellobiose, trehalose.

[0095] A process for producing mono-ester glycolipids may be as follows:

[0096] (i) dispersing and / or solubilizing a carbohydrate in a polar organic solvent in a reaction vessel;

[0097] (ii) adding a diglyceride and / or triglyceride to said reaction vessel to form a starting mixture;

[0098] (iii) dispersing a lipase in said starting mixture under stirring;

[0099] (iv) performing a transesterification between said carbohydrate and said diglyceride and / or triglyceride at a temperature between 0-100 degrees Celsius to form a first liquid fraction comprising said polar organic solvent, mono-ester glycolipid, and mono-, di- and / or triglyceride, and a first solid fraction comprising lipase and optionally unreacted carbohydrate;

[0100] (v) separating the first liquid fraction from the first solid fraction; and (vi) separating the mono-ester glycolipid from the first liquid fraction to form a second liquid fraction comprising mono-, di- and / or triglyceride.

[0101] The concept is to use a lipase to catalyse a transesterification between a carbohydrate and a diglyceride and / or triglyceride to form a mono-ester glycolipid and a glyceride with one less fatty acid bound thereto (i.e., a monoglyceride or a diglyceride, respectively). Depending on the type of lipase, the diglyceride (diacylglycerol) may serve as a substrate for a new reaction with another carbohydrate molecule to form a mono-ester glycolipid and a monoglyceride. Again, depending on the used lipase, the monoglyceride (monoacylglycerol) may serve as a substrate for a new reaction with another carbohydrate molecule to form a mono-ester glycolipid and glycerol. The different reaction products (glycerine (glycerol) and / or monoglyceride and / or a diglyceride) as well as part of the solvent may be kept together with the produced mono-ester glycolipid as in a subsequent produced hard surface cleaning product composition, as exemplified in the following process below.

[0102] Another aspect relates to a process for producing a hard surface cleaning product composition comprising :

[0103] (i) dispersing and / or solubilizing a carbohydrate in a polar organic solvent in a reaction vessel;

[0104] (ii) adding a diglyceride and / or triglyceride to said reaction vessel to form a starting mixture;

[0105] (iii) dispersing a lipase in said starting mixture under stirring;

[0106] (iv) performing a transesterification between said carbohydrate and said diglyceride and / or triglyceride at a temperature between 0-100 degrees Celsius to form a first liquid fraction comprising said polar organic solvent, mono-ester glycolipid, and mono-, di- and / or triglyceride, and a first solid fraction comprising lipase and optionally unreacted carbohydrate;

[0107] (v) separating the first liquid fraction from the first solid fraction;

[0108] (vi) partly or completely removing said polar organic solvent from said first liquid fraction to form a second liquid or solid fraction; and (vii) adding water and builder and / or an organic solvent, to said second liquid or solid fraction to form a hard surface cleaning product composition.

[0109] In the present context, the term "transesterification" designates the chemical reaction in which the alkoxy group of an ester compound, i.e., the diglyceride and / or triglyceride (and optionally a later formed monoglyceride), is exchanged with another alkoxy group via the reaction of said ester with an alcohol, i.e., the carbohydrate, in presence of a catalyst, i.e., the lipase.

[0110] The term "glyceride" (also known as acylglycerol) as used herein refers to a monoglyceride, diglyceride, triglyceride, or combinations thereof. They are esters formed from glycerol and fatty acids. The glyceride in the oil can comprise a plurality of fatty acids saturated, unsaturated. The term "triglyceride" as used herein refers to an ester derived from glycerol and three fatty acids. The triglycerides of the present disclosure may be saturated or unsaturated. Similarly, the term "diglyceride" refers to an ester derived from glycerol and two fatty acids, and the term "monoglyceride" refers to an ester derived from glycerol and one fatty acid.

[0111] Preferably, the source of triglyceride is selected from a source consisting of: sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, canola oil, olive oil, corn oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, tallow, lard, rice bran oil, coconut oil, linseed oil, palm oil, shea butter, shea butter oil, and mixtures thereof.

[0112] The term "fatty acid" as used herein refers to a molecule that is derived from a triglyceride and is comprised of a carboxylic acid with a long aliphatic tail (chain) which is either saturated or unsaturated. When not attached to other molecules, they are known as "free" fatty acids. Most naturally occurring fatty acids have a chain of an even number of carbon atoms, from 4 to 28. Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) are fatty acids with aliphatic tails of fewer than six carbons. Medium chain fatty acids (MCFA) are fatty acids with aliphatic tails of 6-12 carbons, which can form medium chain triglycerides. Long chain fatty acids (LCFA) are fatty acids with aliphatic tails 13 to 21 carbons. Very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA) are fatty acids with aliphatic tails longer than 22 carbons. In one example, the fatty acid or the ester thereof can comprise at least 10, at least 12, at least 14, at least 16, at least 18, or at least 20 carbon atoms. In some specific examples, the fatty acid or the ester thereof can contain 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 7 , 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, or 45 carbon atoms, where any of the stated values can form an upper or lower endpoint when appropriate. In other examples, the glyceride can comprise a mixture of fatty acids or the esters thereof having different ranges of chain lengths. As each lipase shows different fatty acid specificity (both saturated / unsatu rated specificity as well as 1,3 specificity), it is important to select an appropriate lipase according to the fatty acid species of the glyceride. If non-regio specificity is wanted, i.e., all fatty acids may be cleaved / transferred from the glyceride, a lipase with non-regio specificity is selected. Suitable examples may e.g., be Candida antarctica B lipase, Lipase OF (origin from Candida rugosa), Lipase G (origin from Penicillum camembertii), Lipase AYS (origin from Candida rugosa), Lipase PS (origin from Burkholderia cepacia), Lipase AK (origin from Pseudomonas flourescens), Lipase AS (origin from Aspergillus niger), and Lipase M (origin from Mucor javanicus). If regio specificity is wanted, i.e., only some of the fatty acids may be cleaved / transferred from the glyceride, a lipase with regio specificity is selected. Suitable examples for 1,3-regio specificity may e.g., be Lipase F-AP15 (origin from Rhizopus oryzae), Lipase Newlase F3G (origin from Rhizopus niveus), Lipase R (origin from Penicillum roqueforti), Lipozyme RM-IM (origin from Rhizomucor miehei), Lipozyme TL-IM (origin from Thermomyces lanuginosus), and Pancreatic Lipase (origin from Porcine Pancreas).

[0113] In one or more embodiments, the lipase is selective for the 1-position, the 3-position or both positions in a glyceride.

[0114] In one or more embodiments, the lipolytic enzyme selective for the 1-position, the 3- position or both positions is selected from Chromobacterium viscosum, dog gastric lipase, dog pancreatic lipase, Fusarium solani cutinase lipase, guinea pig pancreatic lipase, human gastric lipase, Humicola lanuginosus lipase, human pancreatic lipase, lipoprotein lipase, Mucor miehei lipase, Pseudomonas aeruginosa lipase, Penicillium camemberti lipase, Pseudomonas fluorescens lipase, Pseudomonas glumae lipase, porcine pancreatic lipase, Penicillium simplicissimum lipase, Rhizopus arrhizus lipase, rabbit gastric lipase, Fusarium heterosporum lipase, Candida rugosa lipase, and variants thereof.

[0115] In one or more embodiments, the lipase is non-selective for the positions in a glyceride.

[0116] In one or more embodiments, the process further comprises the step of separating the mono-, di- and / or triglyceride from the second liquid fraction.

[0117] Monoglycerides are used as emulsifying agents in many food products, such as whipped cream, baked goods, and ice cream. Diglycerides are used as common food additives used to blend together certain ingredients, such as oil and water. Furthermore, both mono- and diglycerides are recommended as aerating agents and shelf-life extenders in bakery margarines and shortenings. They are also used as aerating agents in ice cream and imitation creams. Although they are more commonly associated with food products as emulsifiers, monoglycerides may also have a role in personal cleaning products. Monoglycerides can act as emulsifiers, helping to blend and stabilize mixtures of oil and water in products. Like other fatty acid derivatives, monoglycerides can also have a conditioning effect on the skin. They may contribute to the overall texture and viscosity of a product, enhancing its application and feel on the skin or hair. Glycerol is already described as a commonly used moisturizer in personal cleaning product compositions.

[0118] Hence, the different reaction products (glycerol and / or monoglyceride and / or a diglyceride) may be kept together with the produced mono-ester glycolipid in a subsequent produced hard surface cleaning product composition.

[0119] It is anticipated that the lipolytic enzyme specificities mentioned above (both saturated / unsatu rated specificity as well as 1,3 specificity) will be high at a low degree of conversion which will decrease concurrently with the depletion of the preferred substrate and the simultaneously increase of the less preferred substrate. Hence, it is preferred to run the reaction at low conversion in order to secure the highest possible specificity. It is an advantage in certain embodiments of the invention to make the best utility of all reaction products, even at low conversion rates of transesterification.

[0120] In one or more embodiments, the invention relates to a process, wherein the conversion in transesterification to mono-ester glycolipid and mono- or di-glyceride is below 5%, below 10%, below 15%, below 20%, below 25%, below 30%, below 35%, below 40%, below 45% or below 50%.

[0121] In one or more embodiments, the invention relates to a process, wherein the conversion in transesterification to mono-ester glycolipid and mono- or di-glyceride is at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, or at least 70%.

[0122] In one or more embodiments, the invention relates to a process, wherein the lipase is selective for saturated fatty acids, preferably a lipase selected from Candida antarctica lipase A, Fusarium oxysporum lipase, and variants thereof.

[0123] The separation method for purifying mono- or di-glyceride from the first liquid fraction may be selected from deodorization, distillation, evaporation, or any combination thereof. The presence of fatty acid esters or free fatty acids may be removed as the volatile fraction by deodorization, evaporation, or distillation. This volatile fraction can further be separated into alcohol (optionally for reuse in step (I)) and the unreacted free fatty acid or fatty acid ester, which may be reused in step (VI). Deodorisation is essentially a steam distillation under vacuum and is well known in the art. A deodorizer may be operated at 0.15 mbar, 225° C. with steam dosage of 0.20% to 0.25% w / w per hour. Other modes of operation are known in the art, see e.g., 'Introduction to Fats and Oil Technology', Eds O'Brien, Farrr and Wan, AOCS Press, 2000 chapter 13.

[0124] The methods of distillation and evaporation are also known in the art. Evaporation units for oils are usually vapor distillation units, called deodorizers. For step (VIII) it is an embodiment to use distillation under high vacuum to minimize thermal damage. It is in certain embodiments of the invention preferred to use a system with multiple equilibrium stages to achieve a good separation. Other preferred embodiments include Falling film Molecular Distillators operated at pressures of 0.001 to 10 mmHg and temperatures of 140- 200 degrees Celsius, or Centrifugal Molecular Distillators which can operate at pressures around 0.001-10 mmHg and temperatures of 160- 240 degrees Celsius (both of these modes are described in detail in Batistella et al, Appl. Biotechn., vol. 98, 1149-1159, 2002). It is possible to use direct or indirect heating, and it is possible to operate in batch and / or continuous operation.

[0125] The transesterification may preferably be performed at a temperature within the range of 20-95 degrees Celsius, depending on the optimal conditions for the lipase to work, such as within the range of 30-85 degrees Celsius, e.g., within the range of 40-75 degrees Celsius, such as within the range of 50-65 degrees Celsius, e.g., at about 60 degrees Celsius.

[0126] The transesterification may preferably be performed for a period in the range of a few minutes, such as five minutes, to several hours, such as 120 hours, depending on the reaction times of the used reactants.

[0127] Preferred solvents used in the transesterification reaction are tert-amyl alcohol, acetone, tert-butanol, 1-propanol, isopropanol, isobutanol, and isoamyl alcohol.

[0128] Purification of the produced glycolipid may be done by standard methods, such as extraction, filtration through a mesoporous adsorbent or filter, affinity or adsorption based chromatographic methods with various solvents, distillation of possible remaining volatile solvents, and centrifugal isolation of precipitated product, by-products, or reactants. Suitable solvents for chromatographic methods may e.g., be water, methanol, ethyl acetate, ethanol, pentane, hexane, heptane, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, dichloromethane, tert-amyl alcohol and 1-propanol.

[0129] The disclosed production method for the mono-ester glycolipid is an exemplary, but preferred, method. Other methods are also contemplated by the present invention.

[0130] It should be noted that embodiments and features described in the context of one of the aspects of the present invention also apply to the other aspects of the invention. Examples

[0131] Example 1 - production of mono-ester glycolipids

[0132] Mono- or disaccharide was added to a stirring vessel together with the chosen solvent to make a 10% w / w dispersion. Oil was then added under stirring to achieve a molar ratio of 1 : 1 for oil and saccharide. The lipase was added in a concentration of 10% w / w (compared to saccharide mass). The reaction mixture was heated to 60 degrees Celsius and stirred for 120 hours. Product formation was detected by TLC analysis and afterwards purified using column chromatography by eluting with DCM:MeOH.

[0133] Example of solvents tested and used : tert-amyl alcohol, acetone, tert-butanol, 1-propanol, isopropanol, isobutanol, and isoamyl alcohol.

[0134] Example of lipases tested and used : Candida antarctica B lipase, Lipozyme RM-IM (origin from Rhizomucor miehei), Lipozyme TL-IM (origin from Thermomyces lanuginosus).

[0135] Mono-ester glycolipids have been synthesized based on maltose, sucrose, cellobiose, trehalose, galactose, glucose, fructose, and isomaltose. The other reactant was selected from sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, olive oil, frying oil (i.e., a mixture of sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, and corn oil), and shea butter. Experiments were unsuccessful when the used carbohydrate was xylose and lactose.

[0136] Example 2 - Hard surface cleaner with low pH

[0137] Three surfactants were evaluated for their cleaning capabilities. In hard surface cleaners, surfactants are essential for improving cleaning performance by breaking down oils, dirt, and grease, and ensuring that contaminants are lifted and removed efficiently. They also enhance the overall user experience by facilitating rinsing, reducing residue, and improving surface appearance. SBS1 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being oleic acid (6- and / or 6'-oleyl-maltose). Caprylyl / capryl glucoside and rhamnolipid are also evaluated.

[0138] A 1 : 100 dilution in deionized water of the formulation shown below was used as cleaning solution. The solution was tested for removing waterproof mascara on bathroom tiles. The soiling process consisted of applying waterproof mascara, wiping off excess amounts with a cotton pad and leaving it to dry until hardened.

[0139] For the cleaning process, 5 mL of the cleaning solution was added to a cotton pad and left on the stain for 1 min. Then the pad was used to wipe the tile 3 times. Cleaning performance is evaluated visually. A negative control of only deionized water was included, and the test was performed in triplicates.

[0140] Formulation

[0141] Results

[0142] Caprylyl / capryl glucoside, a nonionic surfactant, is increasingly integrated into hard surface cleaners, particularly in formulations that prioritize environmental friendliness and mildness. This composition not only makes it inherently biodegradable but also aligns it with the growing trend towards using renewable resources in surfactant production. As a surfactant, the primary role of caprylyl / capryl glucoside is to lower the surface tension of water, enhancing its spreadability and penetration on various surfaces. This mechanism is pivotal in facilitating the loosening and subsequent removal of dirt, oils, and other surface contaminants. Its cleaning efficiency is comparable to conventional surfactants, making it suitable for a wide array of applications including all-purpose, kitchen, bathroom, and glass cleaners. A distinct advantage of caprylyl / capryl glucoside lies in its mildness. It exhibits lower irritancy compared to many traditional surfactants, which makes it an ideal candidate for use in scenarios where harsh chemicals are discouraged, such as in cleaning products intended for sensitive surfaces or environments. Environmentally, caprylyl / capryl glucoside represents a shift towards sustainable cleaning practices. Its biodegradability and derivation from natural, renewable sources address environmental concerns associated with synthetic, non-biodegradable surfactants. This attribute is particularly appealing in the context of an increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. In terms of physical properties, caprylyl / capryl glucoside is water-soluble and demonstrates stability across a broad pH spectrum. This stability and solubility are advantageous in formulating diverse cleaning agents. Additionally, it produces moderate, stable foam, which is effective in trapping dirt particles and is desirable in applications where excessive foaming might be problematic. From a formulation standpoint, caprylyl / capryl glucoside exhibits commendable compatibility with a range of other surfactants, both ionic and nonionic. This compatibility extends to various additives commonly employed in cleaning products, allowing for versatile formulation strategies. Hence, caprylyl / capryl glucoside is by the inventors considered a gold standard to test against. The formulation with SBS1 showed to perform on par with the Caprylyl / capryl glucoside formulation.

[0143] Rhamnolipid, a type of biosurfactant, is gaining attention in the field of hard surface cleaners, particularly for applications where eco-friendliness and biocompatibility are paramount. Rhamnolipids are produced by microbial fermentation, most notably by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Their structure typically consists of one or two rhamnose sugar molecules linked to long-chain fatty acids, making them inherently biodegradable and derived from renewable biological resources. The formulation with SBS1 showed to perform on par with the Rhamnolipid formulation

[0144] Example 3 - Glass cleaner

[0145] SBS1, Caprylyl / capryl glucoside and rhamnolipid were also tested in a glass cleaner formulation and evaluated on streak formation. In glass cleaners' surfactants help break down grease and dirt, but if the cleaner contains too much surfactant, it can leave behind a residue on the glass surface. This residue can dry unevenly, leading to streaks. Additionally, some surfactants may not dissolve completely in water, causing film formation that appears as streaks when the cleaner dries.

[0146] For the test of residue / streak formation on glass slits 1 mL of the glass cleaner formulation was applied to a glass slit and allowed to run down the glass slit. The slits were set to dry and evaluated for streaks or residue formation.

[0147] Formulation

[0148] Results

[0149] For formulation #1 and #3 there was a achieved a good homogeneous formulation. For #2 there was an initial issue with the rhamnolipid phase separated and large amounts of sediments crashed out of the formulation. This is also the formulation that performed the worst as described below.

[0150] Example 4 - Liquid dish soap without sodium chloride SBS1, Caprylyl / capryl glucoside and rhamnolipid were tested as a co-surfactant in a liquid dish soap formulation. The formulation was tested without using sodium chloride that is commonly used as a thickener when formulating with SLS and betaine. There is an increasing demand for products without sodium chloride. All formulations had their viscosity measured using an NDJ-8S viscometer at 22 deg and a number 2 spindle. For a concentrated commercial liquid dish soap a viscosity of 2000 - 7000 mPaS is preferred.

[0151] Formulation

[0152] SBS1 showed to have a much higher viscosity in this formulation when compared to Rhamnolipid and Caprylyl / capryl viscosity. This means that SBS1 can be used as a biobased thickener and be added in an even lower concentration to obtain the preferred viscosity.

[0153] Example 5 - comparison of emulsion-based product compositions for emulsifying properties

[0154] Six surfactants (see Table 1) were evaluated for their emulsifying capabilities. The solubilization of contaminants, such as dirt, oils, and grease residues, from domestic surfaces, including kitchen countertops, dishes, and bathroom tiles, is a critical factor in ensuring comprehensive cleaning efficacy. Enhanced emulsification of these substances facilitates their amalgamation with water, thereby augmenting the removal efficiency of such stains. SBS1 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being oleic acid (6- and / or 6'-oleyl-maltose).

[0155] The ability to suspend oil in a water phase was tested with an emulsification assay using 3 mL 1% aqueous solutions of the six surfactants and 3 mL used frying oil (i.e., a mixture of sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, and corn oil). The samples were prepared in 15 mL test tubes and shaken in a vortex mixer until fully emulsified. The ratio between the height of the emulsion and the total volume height were used to compare the different surfactants and were measured after 10 minutes and 1 hour. All the experiments were run in triplicates.

[0156] Table 1

[0157] The results indicate that SBS1 has an increased ability to emulsify and hold the frying oil (i.e., a mixture of sunflower oil, corn oil, and rapeseed oil) in solution. As such it can be seen as a suitable candidate of non-ionic surfactant used in hard surface cleaners. It showed to outperform the alkyl glucoside caprylyl / capryl glucoside and the biosurfactant rhamnolipid earlier described in example 2.

[0158] Coco glucoside, a member of the alkyl glucoside family of nonionic surfactants, is gaining prominence in the formulation of hard surface cleaners due to its environmentally friendly profile and effective cleaning properties. It is produced through the reaction of coconut- derived fatty alcohols with glucose, a process that yields a surfactant that is not only biodegradable but also derived from renewable resources. Coconut oil contains a mix of fatty acids, with carbon chain lengths typically ranging from C8 to C18. This results in coco glucoside having a mixture of alkyl chains of varying lengths. SBS1 showed to outperform coco glucoside in this experiment.

[0159] Lauryl glucoside, yet another member of the alkyl glucoside family of nonionic surfactants, is increasingly prominent in the formulation of hard surface cleaners, particularly in those that prioritize both environmental sustainability and effective cleaning performance. This surfactant is synthesized by combining fatty alcohols derived from coconut or palm kernel oil with glucose. This production process not only ensures the biodegradability of lauryl glucoside but also underscores its origin from renewable resources. SBS1 showed to outperform lauryl glucoside in this experiment.

[0160] Laureth-4, a synthetic nonionic surfactant, holds a significant position in the formulation of various hard surface cleaners, particularly those where efficient cleaning and emulsification properties are sought. The '4' in Laureth-4 indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units in the molecule, which influences its solubility and surfactant properties. This surfactant is versatile and finds use in a variety of cleaning products, including those tailored for kitchen and bathroom surfaces, as well as general-purpose cleaners. One of the key attributes of Laureth-4 is its strong emulsifying ability. It is particularly effective in breaking down and emulsifying oily and greasy soils, making it a valuable ingredient in cleaners designed to tackle challenging grime. From an environmental and health perspective, Laureth-4, like many synthetic surfactants, may raise some concerns. Although it is generally considered safe when used as intended, there is an ongoing assessment in the industry regarding the environmental impact and biodegradability of such synthetic surfactants. This has led to an increased focus on ensuring that these ingredients are as safe and environmentally friendly as possible. SBS1 showed to outperform Laureth-4 in this experiment.

[0161] Another emulsion test was performed using a lower amount of surfactant. Here, 2 mL 0.01% aqueous solutions of surfactants were mixed with 2 mL sunflower oil. Pure sunflower oil was used instead of the frying oil (i.e., the mixture of sunflower oil, corn oil, and rapeseed oil) as the oil phase. Mixing was done by a vortex mixer for 20 seconds and set to rest. The ratio between the height of the emulsion and to the total volume height are measured after respectively 10 minutes and 1 hour. The commercially available surfactants Rhamnolipid, Coco glucoside and Caprylyl / capryl glucoside were used as benchmarks. Apart from SBS1, three other monoester glycolipids, SBS2, SBS3 and SBS4 were tested. SBS1 is, as described before, a glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being oleic acid (6- and / or 6'-oleyl-maltose). SBS2 is a monoester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being sucrose and a lipid moiety being oleic acid (6- and / or 6'-oleyl-sucrose). SBS3 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being trehalose and a lipid moiety being oleic acid (6- and / or 6'-oleyl- trehalose). SBS4 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being cellobiose and a lipid moiety being oleic acid (6- and / or 6'-oleyl- cellobiose).

[0162] The results are shown in Table 2

[0163] Table 2

[0164] The emulsification data shows similar capacity after both 10 minutes and 1 hour for all the surfactants tested besides the SBS2.

[0165] Hence, SBS1, SBS3, and SBS4 seem to be possible substitutes to the commonly used surfactants without loss of emulsion capacity.

[0166] Example 6 - Emulsion capacity of different chain lengths of SBS1 Emulsion capacity was measured by mixing 1 mL of 1 % surfactant solution in water with 1 mL sunflower oil for 20 seconds to form an emulsion. These were left at room temperature for 17 hours after which the emulsion phase was measured relative to the total volume.

[0167] SBS1 is, as described before, a glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being oleic acid (6- and / or 6'-oleyl-maltose). SBS5 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being palmitic acid (6- and / or 6'-palmityl-maltose). SBS6 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being myristic acid (6- and / or 6'-myristyl-maltose). SBS7 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being lauric acid (6- and / or 6'-lauryl-maltose).

[0168] The data show that SBS1 behaves very similar across the range of C12-C18 chain lengths in terms of emulsion capacity.

[0169] Example 7 - Manual dishwashing formulations with mono-ester glycolipids of different chain lengths

[0170] The following manual dishwashing formulations were prepared. SBS1 is, as described before, a glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being oleic acid (6- and / or 6'-oleyl-maltose). SBS5 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being palmitic acid (6- and / or 6'- palmityl-maltose). SBS6 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being myristic acid (6- and / or 6'-myristyl-maltose). SBS7 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being lauric acid (6- and / or 6'-lauryl-maltose). SBS8 is a mono-ester glycolipid with a carbohydrate moiety being maltose and a lipid moiety being caprylic acid (6- and / or 6'- caprylyl-maltose).

[0171] Example 8 - All purpose hard surface cleaner with high pH

[0172] The following hard surface cleaner was prepared by mixing all the ingredients listed in the formulation and adjusting to pH 9.

[0173] Formulation Example 9 - Toilet cleaner

[0174] A mild toilet bowl cleaner with low pH was formulated with SBS1 by mixing the following ingredients and adjusting pH to 2.5 with citric acid. Formulation

Claims

Claims1. Use of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids in hard surface cleaning products; wherein said mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety.

2. The use according to claim 1, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of monoester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety selected from the group consisting of maltose, cellobiose, and trehalose.

3. The use according to claim 1, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of monoester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety being maltose.

4. The use according to claim 1, wherein the mono-ester glycolipid is either a 6-0-(lipid ester)-maltose, and / or a 6'-O-(l ipid ester)-maltose.

5. The use according to claim 4, wherein the 6-O-(lipid ester)-maltose and 6'-O-(lipid ester)-maltose is present in a molar ratio of 0.1-10, preferably 0.5-2, even more preferably 0.8-1.2 and most preferably 0.9-1.1.

6. The use according to any one of the claims 1-5, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety derived from a diglyceride and / or triglyceride selected from a source consisting of: sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, canola oil, olive oil, corn oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, tallow, lard, rice bran oil, coconut oil, linseed oil, palm oil, shea butter, shea butter oil, and mixtures thereof.

7. The use according to any one of the claims 1-6, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety having a chain length within the range of C6-C26, saturated, or unsaturated with 1-6 double bonds, such as oleic acid and / or linoleic acid and / or stearic acid and / or palmitic acid and / or palmitelaidic acid and / or palmitoleic acid.

8. The use according to any one of the claims 1-6, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety having a chain length is within the range of C8-C18, preferably within the range of C12-C18, most preferably within the range of C16-C18.

9. A hard surface cleaning product composition comprising :- at least 70% w / w water;- a builder; and- 1-40% w / w of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids; whereinsaid mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety.

10. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to claim 9, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety selected from the group consisting of maltose, cellobiose, and trehalose.

11. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to claim 9, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety being maltose.

12. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to claim 9, wherein the mono-ester glycolipid is either a 6-0-(lipid ester)-maltose, and / or a 6'-0-(lipid estermaltose.

13. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to claim 12, wherein the 6-0- (lipid ester)-maltose and 6'-0-(lipid ester)-maltose is present in a molar ratio of 0.1-10, preferably 0.5-2, even more preferably 0.8-1.2 and most preferably 0.9-1.1.

14. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to any one of the claims 9-13, further comprising :- 1-20% w / w of an organic solvent, such as alcohols, glycol ethers, and / or hydrocarbons.

15. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to any one of the claims 9-14, wherein said builder is selected from sodium tripolyphosphate, trisodium phosphate, zeolites, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium silicate, sodium citrate, sodium polyacrylate, nitrilotriacetic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, sodium gluconate, polycarboxylates, layered double hydroxides (LDHs), sodium borate, lignosulfonates, and mixtures thereof.

16. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to any one of the claims 9-15, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety having a chain length within the range of C6-C26, saturated, or unsaturated with 1-6 double bonds, such as oleic acid and / or linoleic acid and / or stearic acid and / or palmitic acid and / or palmitelaidic acid and / or palmitoleic acid.

17. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to any one of the claims 9- 15, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid comprises a lipid moiety having a chain length iswithin the range of C8-C18, preferably within the range of C12-C18, most preferably within the range of C16-C18.

18. A hard surface cleaning product composition comprising:- at least 25% w / w of an organic solvent, such as alcohols, glycol ethers, and / or hydrocarbons; and- 1-10% w / w of a mono-ester glycolipid or a mixture of mono-ester glycolipids; wherein said mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety.

19. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to claim 18, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety selected from the group consisting of maltose, cellobiose, and trehalose.

20. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to claim 18, wherein said mono-ester glycolipid or mixture of mono-ester glycolipids comprises an unmodified carbohydrate moiety being maltose.

21. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to claim 18, wherein the mono-ester glycolipid is either a 6-0-(lipid ester)-maltose, and / or a 6'-0-(lipid estermaltose.

22. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to claim 21, wherein the 6-O- (lipid ester)-maltose and 6'-0-(lipid ester)-maltose is present in a molar ratio of 0.1-10, preferably 0.5-2, even more preferably 0.8-1.2 and most preferably 0.9-1.1.

23. The hard surface cleaning product composition according to any one of the claims 18- 22, further comprising :- at most 65% w / w of water.

Images