Composition for washing textile fibres, related methods and uses

Abstract

The present patent application discloses novel polymers that can be formed using raw materials from renewable sources and are used as compositions for washing textile fibres, preserving them, preventing premature loss of strength and breakage of these fibres, as well as hindering the formation of pilling, fraying and tearing of the textile fabric.

Description

WASHING COMPOSITION FOR TEXTILE FIBERS, METHODS AND RELATED USES Technical Field of the Invention

[0001] This patent application presents novel polymers that can be made from raw materials from renewable sources and are useful as compositions for washing textile fibers, preserving them, preventing loss of strength and premature breakage of these fibers, as well as hindering the formation of "pilling," fraying, and tearing of the textile fabric. Background of the Invention

[0002] Fibers are filamentous structures that can be found in nature or even produced artificially. Examples of natural fibers include silk, cotton fibers, asbestos, and hair. Artificial fibers can be obtained through various processes, aiming at the formation of filaments chemically composed of synthetic polymers, such as nylon and polyester, and semi-synthetic polymers, such as rayon.

[0003] Fibers have diverse applications, with the production of textile fabrics being one of the most significant. A textile fabric is obtained through one or more processes of grouping fibers. One of the most important processes is spinning, which transforms fibers into yarns; these can be used directly in this form or interwoven, forming some types of textile fabrics.

[0004] The intrinsic properties of fibers can be modified through physical and chemical treatments. These modifications aim to improve characteristics for a specific application – such as water absorption capacity, elasticity, and strength. The durability of these treatments can vary, depending not only on the type of treatment but also on the intended use of the material composed of these fibers.

[0005] One of the problems encountered in the textile industry is pilling. Pilling is the destruction of fabric due to the progressive disincorporation of fibers – eventually leading to globular clumping of fibers on the fabric surface. This gives the fabric an aged and rough appearance, reducing the commercial value of the product. After the formation of these globules, the only way to address the appearance issue is through the mechanical removal of the pilling, usually using blades.

[0006] The main cause of pilling is continuous abrasion, commonly caused by Pilling can occur due to the fabric's own use or repeated washing cycles. It is believed that pilling begins with the formation of a fuzz of fibers that stand out on the surface of the fabric, which then become entangled, generating the little balls.

[0007] Thus, pilling is a problem not only for the textile and clothing industry, but also for users, as it implies a decrease in fabric quality and a negative influence on the user's tactile comfort, due to the formation of pilling (small balls on the fabric).

[0008] To combat this fabric destruction, anti-pilling substances can be applied. These substances reinforce the structure of the yarns, reducing the shedding of fiber ends. Due to the very nature of the fabrics, frequent reapplication of these substances is necessary, so these agents are commonly added to products for washing or conditioning these fabrics. The main anti-pilling agents are petrochemical polymers containing chemical groups that increase their adhesion to the fibers (for example, acrylates).

[0009] Another common problem with fabrics is their deformation over their lifespan, especially after many washing cycles. The tension applied to the fabric, combined with its lack of stability and elasticity, eventually leads to a rearrangement of the fiber arrangement, causing deformation. One possible way to minimize this effect is through a chemical treatment that stabilizes the arrangement of the fibers and yarns, so that even with the application of destabilizing forces, the yarns and fibers return to their original position.

[0010] In the search for the state of the art, the following documents were found:

[0011] Bednarz et al. “Persulfate-initiated free-radical polymerization of itaconic acid: kinetics, end-groups and side products”, European Polymer Journal 106 (2018) 63-71, reveals a study of the aqueous homopolymerization of itaconic acid at 65 °C with ammonium persulfate, focusing on kinetics and low molecular weight byproducts.

[0012] Yang et al. “Crosslinking cotton with poly(itaconic acid) and in situ polymerization of itaconic acid”, J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 87 (2003) 2023-2030, reveals a comparison of pre-formed polyitaconic acid (PIA) and in situ polymerization on cotton to improve wrinkle recovery angle; uses IA / NaH2PO2 / K2S2O8.

[0013] Polowihski “Stiffening Agents Made from Poly(ltaconic Acid)”, Fibers & Textiles in Eastern Europe 12 (2004) No. 2 reveals the obtaining of PIA (possibly with PEG) as a sizing agent that imparts temporary stiffness to cotton fabrics; the effect disappears after washing.

[0014] US11214758 (Lubrizol, 2021) “Itaconic acid polymers and copolymers” discloses impurity-free, partially esterified or etherified PIA or copolymers for detergents.

[0015] US5223592 (Rohm & Haas, 1993) “Process for polymerization of itaconic acid” discloses an aqueous batch / continuous process using fully neutralized itaconic acid; it yields high conversion PIA for detergents.

[0016] JP2007262403 / JP2007054421 (Nippon Catalytic Chem Ind, 2007) “Itaconic-acid-based copolymer, method for producing the same and detergent composition” reveals the control of the fraction of itaconic acid-derived units in copolymers and the molecular weight, aiming at clay dispersion and Ca sequestration. 2+ in detergents.

[0017] However, the state of the art does not describe the polymers described in this patent application (it deals only with conventional PIA or simple copolymers), nor does it address the application of textile washing (often focusing on in situ polymerization) or the surprising properties described in this document; therefore, it does not anticipate or suggest the polymers described in this patent application nor their functions. Summary of the Invention

[0018] In this sense, the patent application presents new polymers designed to preserve textile fibers, preventing loss of strength and premature breakage of these fibers, thus hindering pilling and fraying of the textile fabric. It also describes fiber modifying agents capable of, among other properties, reducing pilling in textile fibers and fabric deformation.

[0019] A new composition for washing textile fibers is thus presented, characterized by comprising at least one polyitaconic acid-derived polymer selected from at least one of polyitaconate hydroxyesters, polyitaconate hydroxyesters and hydroxyamides, monoethyl polyitaconate, or a mixture thereof.

[0020] These polymers can be produced from raw materials from renewable sources and can be synthesized from natural substances.

[0021] Thus, one of the objectives of the present invention is to increase The lifespan of textile fibers, and consequently of the fabrics that compose them, is extended due to the action of new biopolymers, which exhibit adhesive and elastic properties, and which interact with textile fibers leading to their modification.

[0022] Another relevant aspect is that by modifying the structure of the textile fiber, biopolymers have the potential to increase the fixation of volatile molecules, such as fragrances.

[0023] The present invention thus differs from other products of the prior art by exhibiting elastic and "memory" properties, which provides elongation to the textile fiber with minimal residual deformation.

[0024] Furthermore, biopolymers interact with the chemical groups present in the textile fiber through hydrogen bonds, dipole-dipole interactions, and ion-dipole interactions, leading to the coating of the material. This results in mechanical modifications to the fabric, making it more resistant to abrasion and friction.

[0025] Furthermore, the new biopolymers are formed from monomers obtainable through biotechnological and renewable means, which can be polymerized using the principles of green chemistry. Description of the Figures

[0026] Figure 1: Graph showing the ratio between residual deformation and total elongation of red tricoline fabric, obtained after stretching the fabric in a dynamometer along its length.

[0027] Figure 2: Graph showing the ratio between residual deformation and total elongation of the red tricoline fabric, obtained after stretching the fabric in the dynamometer equipment, in the width direction.

[0028] Figure 3: Graph showing the ratio between residual deformation and total elongation of the white mesh fabric, obtained after stretching the fabric in the dynamometer equipment, in the direction of length.

[0029] Figure 4: Graph showing the ratio between residual deformation and total elongation of white mesh fabric, obtained after stretching the fabric in the dynamometer equipment, in the width direction.

[0030] Figure 5: Graph showing the average elongation values ​​of groups G1, G2, G3, and G4 for the red twill fabric, obtained after stretching the fabric lengthwise using a dynamometer.

[0031] Figure 6: Graph showing the average of the three individual assessments after 5000 cycles, obtained after comparison with a photographic standard.

[0032] Figure 7: Average scores of the assessments in the propensity tests for pilling of the samples after 1000 cycles.

[0033] Figure 8: Average of the results obtained in the tear resistance tests, in the width direction. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0034] This detailed description of the invention sets forth some, non-limiting definitions of the main terminologies and technical characteristics employed throughout this patent application, as well as providing examples of some embodiments of the present invention so that it may be reproduced by a person skilled in the art.

[0035] Among the products that can be obtained from the information contained in this patent application are washing and conditioning formulations that prevent premature wear of textile fibers, helping to increase resistance and effectively reducing pilling in textile fabrics, thus increasing the lifespan of clothing.

[0036] In the context of this patent application, washing compositions can be understood as compositions that have softening, conditioning, or treatment functions for textile fibers. Furthermore, said compositions can be understood as useful for preservation, reduction of strength loss and / or premature breakage, reduction of pilling or pilling, reduction of deformation or fraying, increased resistance to abrasion or friction processes, and / or increased fixation of volatile molecules to said one or more textile fibers.

[0037] In the context of this patent application, textile fibers are thin, flexible yarns or filaments used to create fabrics and textiles. These fibers can be natural, such as cotton, wool, silk, and linen, derived from plants or animals. They can also be synthetic, such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, which are manufactured through chemical processes. Fibers can vary in length, strength, texture, and other properties, and are spun or woven together to form yarns and ultimately fabrics for diverse applications in clothing, home furnishings, industrial materials, and much more.

[0038] In an embodiment of the present patent application, the polymer is selected from one or more of:

[0039] In one embodiment of the present patent application, the composition, with the polymer having monomeric units of medium degree of polymerization, possessing a number-average molecular weight (Mn) greater than 20 kDa and a degree of polymerization (PD) above 98. In another embodiment of the present patent application, the number-average molecular weight (Mn) is less than 150 kDa, optionally less than 120 kDa, and the degree of polymerization (PD) is less than 1150 units.

[0040] In one embodiment of the present patent application, at least one polymer is present in the composition with at least 85% purity, optionally with at least 90% purity.

[0041] In one embodiment of the present patent application, the composition further comprises at least one quaternary ammonium compound.

[0042] In one embodiment of the present patent application, the composition further comprises at least one detergent or fabric softener formulation.

[0043] In one embodiment of the present patent application, the textile fiber is at least one of twill, white jersey, tricot, cotton, elastane, denim, or a fabric or combination of fabrics of such fibers.

[0044] In one embodiment of the present patent application, the composition comprises between 0.1% (w / w) and 10% (w / w) of the biopolymer.

[0045] In one embodiment of the present patent application, the composition comprises between 0.1% (w / w) and 2.5% (w / w) of the biopolymer.

[0046] In one embodiment of the present patent application, the composition has the function of softening, conditioning, treating textile fibers, or a combination thereof.

[0047] A new process for producing a washing composition is also presented, in which the production of at least one polyitaconic acid-derived polymer selected from at least one of polyitaconate hydroxyesters, hydroxyesters, and hydroxyamides is carried out by the following steps: i. polymerizing itaconic acid, in aqueous medium and inert nitrogen atmosphere, at a water:itaconic acid molar ratio of 5 to 10 mol / mol -1 ii. Add, fractionally, a persulfate radical initiator in a total quantity corresponding to 0.5 to 5 mol% relative to the itaconic acid monomer, maintaining the reaction at 55 to 70 °C for 16 to 30 h under stirring; iii. Incorporate glycerol in a glycerol:itaconic acid molar ratio of 3 to 6 and / or 2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol (AMP) in an AMP:itaconic acid molar ratio of 0.4 to 0.8; iv. Subject the mixture from step iii to vacuum at a temperature between 80 and 110 °C for 6 to 12 h.

[0048] A new process for producing a washing composition is also presented, in which the production of at least one polyitaconic acid-derived monoethyl polyitaconic acid polymer is carried out by the following steps: i. esterifying itaconic acid with ethanol, in an inert atmosphere, at an ethanol:itaconic acid molar ratio of 6 to 12 mol / mol -1 , in the presence of acidic ion exchange resin, under reflux at 70 to 85 °C for 16 to 30 h; ii. distill the reaction medium; iii. add water at a ratio of 50 to 100 mol per mol of monoester, maintaining a nitrogen atmosphere; iv. polymerize the mixture at 55 to 70 °C for 10 to 30 h under stirring; v. concentrate the resulting suspension by vacuum evaporation.

[0049] A method for washing textile fibers with at least one composition as defined in this patent application is also presented.

[0050] In one embodiment of the present patent application, washing provides preservation, reduction of strength loss or premature breakage, reduction of pilling, reduction of deformation or fraying, increased resistance to abrasion or friction processes, increased fixation of volatile molecules and tear resistance in textile fibers, or a combination thereof.

[0051] The use of a composition as defined in this patent application for washing textile fibers is also presented.

[0052] In one embodiment of the present patent application, the use provides preservation, reduction of strength loss or premature breakage, reduction of pilling or pilling, reduction of deformation or fraying, increased resistance to abrasion or friction processes, increased fixation of volatile molecules and tear resistance in textile fibers, or a combination thereof.

[0053] In one embodiment of the present patent application, detergent compositions, liquid detergents or liquid-concentrated detergents suitable for carrying the described biopolymers may be designed, by way of example, as aqueous systems containing (a) 50-90% w / w aqueous phase; (b) 5-30% w / w of one or more primary surfactants selected from C8-C18 alkyl sulfates or sulfonates, alkyl ester sulfonates, α-olefin sulfonates or their salts; (c) optionally 0-10% w / w of non-ionic surfactant (fatty alcohol ethoxylates, alkyl polyglycosides) and / or 0-5% w / w of amphoteric or cationic surfactant for adjusting foam, rheology or hard water performance; (d) 0.05-5% w / w of at least one itaconic base polymer as defined in this patent application, the range of 0.1-1% w / w being preferred for domestic preparations;and (e) usual additives such as hydrophilic solvents (ethanol, propylene glycol), chelating agents or inorganic / organomineral “builders” (citrate, carbonate, hydroxide, tripolyphosphate), enzymes, preservatives and fragrances in amounts totaling 100%. The formulation can be adjusted to pH 6-9 to maximize polymer stability and enzyme compatibility, and may also incorporate thickeners, cellulose anti-redeposition agents or hydroxylated silicones, without interfering with polymer adsorption onto the fibers during washing.

[0054] In an embodiment of the present patent application, the compositions Fabric softeners or conditioners are typically cationic systems in which (a) 70-98% w / w corresponds to water; (b) 2-25% w / w consists of a quaternary ammonium compound, preferably a quaternary ester or C-dialkyldimethylammonium i4 - W 24(a) optionally in combination with hydrogenated fatty acids or vegetable oils as co-mixers; (b) 0.05-5% w / w, more preferably 0.2-2% w / w, of itaconic acid-derived polymer described in this patent application; and (c) optional additives such as amino-functional silicones, fragrance microcapsules, structuring fatty alcohols, polyethanolamides, preservatives, colorants, or acid-base buffers to adjust the pH to 3-5, a range that optimizes the performance of the cationic surfactant without precipitating the polymer. Concentrated variants may contain up to 35% w / w of oil phase and include C12-C16 alcohols or glycols to alleviate pumping viscosity while maintaining compatibility with the polymers.

[0055] Synthetic process

[0056] Biopolymer 1 - Polytaconate hydroxyesters.

[0057] In a 10 L reactor equipped with an inert atmosphere, mechanical stirring, and a heating system, 2.4 kg of water and 2.4 kg of itaconic acid were added. The system was kept under nitrogen bubbling for 1 hour. Subsequently, portions of radical initiator were added at equal time intervals, with additions every 2 hours for a total of 10 additions. The reaction system was heated between 60-65°C for 24 hours. Then, 7.2 kg of glycerol were added. Next, the reaction system was coupled to a vacuum system and the temperature adjusted to 90-100°C. The reaction was maintained under heating, stirring, and vacuum for 8 hours, leading to the formation of Biopolymer 2 with an 85% chemical yield and the following general structure:

[0058] Biopolymer 2 - Hydroxy esters and hydroxyamides of polyitaconate.

[0059] In a 10 L reactor equipped with an inert atmosphere, mechanical stirring, and a heating system, 2.4 kg of water and 2.4 kg of itaconic acid were added. The system was kept under nitrogen bubbling for 1 hour. Subsequently, portions of radical initiator were added at equal time intervals, with additions every 2 hours for a total of 10 additions. The reaction system was heated between 60-65°C for 24 hours. Then, 7.2 kg of glycerol and 1 kg of 2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol were added. Next, the reaction system was coupled to a vacuum system and the temperature adjusted to 100-110°C. The reaction was maintained under heating, stirring, and vacuum for 8 hours, leading to the formation of Biopolymer 2 with an 85% chemical yield and the following general structure:

[0060] Biopolymer 3 - Monoethyl polyitaconate.

[0061] In a 15 L reactor equipped with an inert atmosphere, mechanical stirring, reflux system, and heating system, 2.5 kg of ethanol and 0.83 kg of itaconic acid were added. The system was kept under nitrogen bubbling for 30 min. Subsequently, 5% (w / w) acidic ion exchange resin was added. The reaction system was kept under reflux and gentle stirring for 24 h. Afterwards, the solvent was removed by distillation, leading to the formation of the corresponding monoester. Then, 10 kg of water were added to the reaction system, which was bubbled with nitrogen for 1 h. Subsequently, the temperature of the reaction system was adjusted to 60-65°C and kept under stirring for 20 hours, leading to the formation of polymer 4 with a conversion greater than 90%. Finally, the biopolymer was concentrated to 50% solids by solvent distillation. Structure general:

[0062] Performance tests

[0063] Biopolymers 1 and 2 were applied to a standard fabric softener base and designated as groups G2 and G3, respectively, and subjected to washing. Their performance in terms of resistance to elongation and propensity to pilling was evaluated against a benchmark (premium market fabric softener) and a placebo (without the biopolymer).

[0064] Methodology

[0065] Product test

[0066] The standard liquid detergents and fabric softeners used in the washing processes were produced by the Applicant's application laboratory, including applications of the asset.

[0067] Table 1: Formula for standard liquid detergent.

[0068] Table 2: Formula of the standard softening agent - placebo.

[0069] * When containing the biopolymers described in this patent application.

[0070] Benchmark: Premium supermarket fabric softener.

[0071] Home washing: Application procedure.

[0072] Application of products and active ingredients to fabric through the domestic washing process.

[0073] Washing conditions

[0074] Washing equipment: Top-loading washing machine.

[0075] Amount of detergent used (g): 120.0;

[0076] Water level: Medium (Approx. 58 liters);

[0077] Rinse: Single;

[0078] Number of wash cycles: 10; and

[0079] Mass of tissue used (samples + load) (Kg): Approx. 2.0.

[0080] Drying

[0081] Temperature: Room temperature.

[0082] Fabrics used

[0083] 1 - Red twill - 97% CO 3% PUE (L: 001 / 23);

[0084] 2 - White mesh - 100% CO (L: 002 / 23);

[0085] 3 - Red cotton fabric - 100% cotton (L: 004 / 23);

[0086] CO - Cotton;

[0087] PUE - Elastane.

[0088] Test 1: Resistance to stretching

[0089] Method: ISO 13934-1 - adapted;

[0090] Equipment: Dynamometer;

[0091] - Applied mass (kg): 2.0;

[0092] - Number of samples: 5 lengthwise and 5 widthwise;

[0093] Sample dimensions (cm): Approx. 40 x 10.

[0094] In the elongation resistance test, the percentage of total elongation is evaluated, and the residual deformation generated in the process can also be observed. Excessive elongation of textile articles can cause undesirable effects such as fraying or deformation, potentially leading to a shorter lifespan for the garments; therefore, it is important to verify the resistance and elasticity of the materials.

[0095] When a fabric is stretched, the percentage of stretching produced relative to its original length is known as elongation. Deformation, in turn, is the change in shape that a body undergoes when subjected to an external force. Despite the body's tendency to return to its original shape, when the limit of proportionality between load and deformation is broken, what are called residual deformations remain. Therefore, the ratio between the average residual deformation (MDR) and the average elongation values ​​(MA) leads to normalized results, indicating that the smaller the value of this ratio, the smaller the loss of fabric strength.

[0096] During the tests, the three fabrics treated with different formulations were tested in both the lengthwise (longitudinal) and widthwise (transverse) directions of the garment or fabric.

[0097] Regarding the total elongation, in the sense of the length of the various groups treated with different formulations, it was observed that:

[0098] For tricoline and white knit fabrics, we observed lower values ​​for fabrics treated with active ingredients G2 and G3, showing that the active ingredients provided increased fabric resistance, preventing premature fraying. For tricoline fabric, group G2 showed a value of 0.18 compared to 0.32 for the benchmark, indicating 44% greater performance in resistance in the length direction (Figure 1). In the width direction (Figure 2), group G2 showed a value of 0.32 compared to 0.39 for the benchmark and 0.35 for the placebo, that is, 18% less fraying than the benchmark group and 8.6% less than the placebo group.

[0099] For the white knit fabric, we observed that groups G2 and G3 presented values ​​of 0.37 and 0.41 compared to 0.47 for the benchmark group, showing a reduction in deformation of 21.7% and 12.8% in the length direction, Figure 3. In the width direction, these groups presented values ​​of 0.47 and 0.46 compared to 0.54 for the benchmark, that is, a reduction of 13% and 15% in fraying, Figure 4. Furthermore, When groups G2 and G3 are compared to the placebo group, we observed reductions of 14% and 4.7% in elongation, as well as a reduction of 4.1% and 6% in width, indicating that groups G2 and G3 show superior results to the other groups in both treated fabrics. This suggests that these active ingredients help preserve the textile fiber, thus promoting greater fabric durability during washing processes.

[0100] Stretching test - conditioning

[0101] Softening products tend to condition the textile fiber and increase the elongation to the maximum strength of the fabric in the length direction, due to the relaxation of these fibers. Thus, the greater the elongation value, the greater the conditioning effect. Therefore, we subjected twill fabric to washing processes, and after treatments, groups G1 to G4 were evaluated in elongation tests, and the values ​​obtained were compared.

[0102] It is noted that groups G3 and G4 presented values ​​of 5.35% and 5.31%, respectively, compared to 4.96% for the benchmark group and 5.07% for the placebo group in lengthwise elongation, indicating that the active ingredients present in groups G3 and G4 provided a greater conditioning effect on textile fibers. This shows that the formulation containing these active ingredients has greater softening power, leading to greater fabric softness than the other groups evaluated.

[0103] Test 2: Propensity for pilling

[0104] Method: ASTM D4970;

[0105] Equipment: Martindale;

[0106] - Applied pressure (kPa): 3;

[0107] Number of samples: 4;

[0108] Number of cycles: 5000;

[0109] - Sample dimensions (mm): 140 (lower sample) 38 (upper sample).

[0110] For the pilling test, the fabric most prone to pilling (forming small balls on the fabric) is white knit fabric. Therefore, we conducted the effectiveness test with this fabric.

[0111] In the pilling propensity test, the formation of lint (small balls) on the surface of the fabric is evaluated. The propensity of the textile article to form lint can range from an inherent characteristic of its structure to severe impacts that cause the fibrils to break and loose fibers to become entangled, leading to the formation of pills or lint. The photographic comparison standard for The evaluation of the samples simulates pilling formation on a scale ranging from 1 to 5, with 1 being the most severe and 5 indicating no pilling. Specimens are evaluated by more than one evaluator after a certain number of cycles to check for improvement or worsening of pilling. Intermediate scores can be assigned (1-2, for example). Finally, the average scores of the evaluations are presented. The scores presented refer to the samples with the largest surface area of ​​contact (the lower sample with a diameter of 140 mm). Based on these concepts, it was found that:

[0112] For white mesh fabric, it was found that the fabric's behavior when subjected to mechanical action received distinct scores in pilling formation after 5000 cycles. We observed that at the end of 5000 cycles, groups G2 and G3 obtained superior performance compared to groups G1 and G4, demonstrating that the active ingredients present in groups G2 and G3 protected the fabric during the test. Groups G2 and G3 showed 44% and 29% less pilling formation, respectively, when compared to the benchmark group, and 26.7% and 21.5% when compared to the placebo group, proving that biopolymers 1 and 2 act in preserving the textile fiber, preventing premature wear of the fabric, and presenting superior results to the placebo and benchmark groups, as shown in Figure 6.

[0113] Test 3: Propensity for pilling - Martindale

[0114] Method: ISO 12945-2:2020;

[0115] Equipment: Martindale;

[0116] - Applied mass (g): 155±1 for black mesh;

[0117] - Number of samples: 6 test specimens of each fabric, under each of the conditions;

[0118] Number of cycles: 1000;

[0119] - Abrasion phase: right side of the tissue against itself;

[0120] - Evaluation method: Score based on visual classification - Grade 1 to 5;

[0121] - Test location: Home Care Laboratory - Chemyunion.

[0122] We observed that the results of the Black Mesh samples after 1000 cycles showed that the group containing liquid detergent plus biopolymer 1 obtained a score of 4.5, while the other groups obtained a score of 4.0, indicating 12% more protection of the fabric against pilling compared to the other groups, even at low concentrations of use, as shown in Figure 7.

[0123] Test 4: Tear resistance

[0124] Method: ASTM D1424:21;

[0125] Equipment: Elmendorf;

[0126] Sample dimensions (cm): 10 x 7.5;

[0127] - Test location: Home Care Laboratory - Chemyunion.

[0128] The tear resistance test refers to the evaluation of the fabric's resistance and the force required to propagate a tear from a cut, provided that the fabric or article does not tear in the direction transverse to the direction of force application, being suitable for knitted and / or woven fabrics. It should be considered that the greater the resistance, the greater the force required to cause tearing. We observed that for the black denim fabric samples, treated with detergent containing 0.5% of biopolymer 1, the best result was obtained, achieving 12.6% more tear resistance when compared to the benchmark group, in the width direction, as shown in Figure 8.

[0129] Table 3: Basic formula of liquid detergent containing (Active biopolymer 1 0.5%).

[0130] The examples presented here demonstrate only some of the ways in which the present invention can be carried out and used. Alternative forms and variations of the invention may be devised by a person skilled in the art based on the The technical knowledge described in this patent application is defined based on the claims set forth herein.

Claims

Claims 1. Textile fiber washing composition, characterized by comprising at least one polyitaconic acid-derived polymer selected from at least one of polyitaconate hydroxyesters, polyitaconate hydroxyesters and hydroxyamides, monoethyl polyitaconate, or a mixture thereof.

2. Composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the polymer is selected from one or more of:

3. Composition, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the polymer has a number-average molecular weight (Mn) greater than 20 kDa and a degree of polymerization (PD) above 98.

4. Composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by further comprising at least one quaternary ammonium compound.

5. Composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by additionally comprising at least one detergent or fabric softener formulation.

6. Composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the textile fiber is at least one of twill, white jersey, tricot, cotton, elastane, denim, or a fabric or combination of fabrics of such fibers.

7. Composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by comprising between 0.1% (w / w) and 10% (w / w) of the polymer.

8. Composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by comprising between 0.1% (w / w) and 2.5% (w / w) of the polymer.

9. A composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by being for softening, conditioning, treating textile fibers, or a combination thereof.

10. A process for producing a washing composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the production of at least one polyitaconic acid-derived polymer selected from at least one of polyitaconate hydroxyesters, hydroxyesters, and hydroxyamides is carried out by the following steps: i. Polymerizing itaconic acid, in aqueous medium and inert nitrogen atmosphere, at a water:itaconic acid molar ratio of 5 to 10 mol / mol -1 ; 11. Add, fractionally, a persulfate radical initiator in a total quantity corresponding to 0.5 to 5 mol% relative to the itaconic acid monomer, maintaining the reaction at 55 to 70 °C for 16 to 30 h under stirring; iii. Incorporate glycerol in a glycerol:itaconic acid molar ratio of 3 to 6 and / or 2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol (AMP) in an AMP:itaconic acid molar ratio of 0.4 to 0.8; iv. Subject the mixture from step iii to vacuum at a temperature between 80 and 110 °C for 6 to 12 h.

11. A process for producing a washing composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the production of at least one polyitaconic acid-derived monoethyl polyitaconic acid polymer is carried out by the following steps: i. esterifying itaconic acid with ethanol, in an inert atmosphere, at an ethanol:itaconic acid molar ratio of 6 to 12 mol / mol -1 , in the presence of acidic ion exchange resin, under reflux at 70 to 85 °C for 16 to 30 h; 11. Distill the reaction medium; iii. Add water at a ratio of 50 to 100 mol per mol of monoester, maintaining a nitrogen atmosphere; iv. Polymerize the mixture at 55 to 70 °C for 10 to 30 h under stirring; v. Concentrate the resulting suspension by vacuum evaporation.

12. A method for washing textile fibers, characterized by comprising washing with at least one composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9.

13. Method according to claim 12, characterized in that washing provides at least one of the following: preservation, reduction of loss of strength or premature breakage, reduction of pilling or fluffing, reduction of deformation or fraying, increased resistance to abrasion or friction processes, increased fixation of volatile molecules and tear resistance in textile fibers.

14. Use of a composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it is for washing textile fibers.

15. Use according to claim 14, characterized by the washing providing at least one of the following: preservation, reduction of loss of strength or premature breakage, reduction of pilling or fluffing, reduction of deformation or fraying, increased resistance to abrasion or friction processes, increased fixation of volatile molecules and tear resistance in textile fibers.

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