Odor removal formulations and substrates comprising the same

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a water-based odor removed formulation. The water¬ based odor removal formulation comprises a fermented plant oil present in an amount in a range of 0.1 weight percent (wt%) to 20 wt%, one or more fatty acid esters present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%, and a polyorganosiloxane. A weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1. The water- based formulation further comprises water in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt%. A process (100) for preparing the odor removal formulation and a substrate incorporating the formulation are also provided.

Description

ODOR REMOVAL FORMULATIONS AND SUBSTRATES COMPRISING THE SAMEBACKGROUNDFIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] Various embodiments of the disclosure relate generally to odor removal formulations. More specifically, various embodiments of the disclosure relate to waterbased odor removal formulations and substrates comprising the same.DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

[0002] Designing effective odor removal solutions is a significant challenge, considering the diverse nature of odor molecules and the various surfaces they can adhere to. There is no universal solution that can effectively eliminate all types of odors. For example, cigarette smoke can linger in the air and adhere to surfaces such as skin, hair, and clothing.

[0003] There are various products in the market utilizing different approaches to tackle odors. Some products work by masking odors with stronger, more dominant odors. The stronger, dominant odors are typically fragrances or fragrant molecules that are selectively sensed by our nasal system while overshadowing molecules causing foul odors. While this approach may provide temporary relief, it doesn't address the underlying cause of the odor and may not be suitable for individuals sensitive to strong fragrances.

[0004] Another approach is to neutralize odor molecules by altering the chemical structure of the odor molecules. For example, hydrogen sulfide odor may be neutralized by complexing with a metal compound that may convert hydrogen sulfide into an odorless metal complex. Using porous materials such as activated charcoal that may adsorb odor molecules is yet another method to address odor removal. The odor molecules get trapped within the pores of the porous material. However, theeffectiveness of the odor removal products can vary depending on factors such as the type and intensity of the odor, period of exposure, as well as the surface it is adhered to.

[0005] Cigarette smoke inhalation and its impact on the health of smokers and secondary smokers are well-understood. Cigarette smoke contains more than 7000 different compounds, of which more than 100 have been identified as carcinogens. The smoke contains highly volatile to non-volatile compounds. Highly volatile compounds such as benzene and acetaldehyde evaporate quickly and are present in the immediate surroundings after smoking. Moderately volatile compounds such as phenol and pyridine may persist in the air longer when compared to highly volatile compounds. The non-volatile compounds such as tar, nicotine, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in the smoke can persist in the surroundings much longer thus contributing to the lingering odor of smoke. Hence, smoke odor removal solutions are quite challenging considering the vast number and diversity of odor molecules present in the smoke.

[0006] The non-volatile compounds may adhere to the smoker’s body, such as on skin, hair, and clothing, and surfaces exposed to smoke. The effect of smoke particles on the body of the smoker and the residual toxins of the smoke that remain on the body is an issue that has not been addressed due to limited information. One way to minimize the odor and to remove the smoke particles that remain on the body is to perform frequent washing. However, frequent washing to remove odor molecules may not always be possible. Hence there is a need to develop an effective skin-friendly odor removal solution that may minimize odor and odor particles that adhere to surfaces.

[0007] Limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, through comparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present application and with reference to the drawings.SUMMARY

[0008] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a water-based odor removal formulation is provided. The water-based odor removal formulation comprises a fermented plant oil present in an amount in a range of 0.1 weight percent (wt%) to 20 wt%, one or more fatty acid esters present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%, and a polyorganosiloxane. A weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1. The water-based formulation further comprises water in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt%.

[0009] In some embodiments, a water-based odor removal formulation is provided. The water-based odor removal formulation comprises a fermented plant oil present in an amount in a range of 0.1 weight percent (wt%) to 20 wt%, one or more fatty acid esters present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%, a polyorganosiloxane, an emulsifier present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 6 wt%, a gelling agent present in an amount in a range of 0.001 wt% to 0.5 wt%, a surfactant present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 10 wt%, a chelating agent present in an amount in a range of 0.001 wt% to 0.5 wt%, a preservative present in an amount in a range of 0.001 to 2 wt %, optionally comprising a humectant present in an amount in a range of 0.5 wt% to 5 wt%, a soothing agent present in an amount in a range of 0.001 wt% to 0.1 wt%, a metal complexing agent present in an amount in a range of 0 wt% to 3 wt%, a fragrance present in an amount in a range of 0 wt% to 3 wt%, and water present in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt%. A weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1.

[0010] In some embodiments, an absorbent article comprising a substrate impregnated with a water-based odor removal formulation is provided. The waterbased odor removal formulation comprises a fermented plant oil present in an amount in a range of 0.1 weight percent (wt%) to 20 wt%, one or more fatty acid esters present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%, and a polyorganosiloxane. A weightpercent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1. The waterbased formulation further comprises water in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt%.

[0011] In some embodiments, a process for preparing a water-based odor removal formulation is provided. The process may comprise providing a first mixture and a second mixture at a temperature in a range of 70 degree Celsius (°C) to 85 °C. The first mixture comprises a polyorganosiloxane and optionally a gelling agent and a chelating agent. The second mixture comprises a fermented plant oil, one or more fatty acid esters, and optionally an emulsifier. A weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1. The process may further comprise mixing the first mixture and the second mixture at a mixing speed in a range of 1000 to 1500 rotations per minute (rpm) to form a homogeneous mixture. The process may further comprise optionally adding one or more of a soothing agent, a surfactant, a metal complexing agent, a humectant, a fragrance, and a preservative to form the formulation.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1 is a flow chart that illustrates a process for preparing a water-based odor removal formulation, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0013] Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description of exemplary embodiments is intended for illustration purposes only and is, therefore, not intended to necessarily limit the scope of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0014] The following description illustrates some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed disclosure in detail. Those of skill in the art will recognize that there are numerous variations and modifications of this disclosure that are encompassed by its scope. Accordingly, the description of a certain exemplary embodiment should not be deemed to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0015] The term “comprising” as used herein is synonymous with “including,” or “containing,” and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements, or process steps.

[0016] All numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, property measurements, and so forth used in the specification are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth herein are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained.

[0017] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure may be appreciated from a review of the following detailed description of the present disclosure, along with the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.

[0018] As used herein, the term “after feel” is defined as feel of the skin after application of a formulation, with or without touching, usually measured at a specified time point. The after feel may be measured by a trained member of a sensory panel, who can assign a certain after feel value to the user. Another method to determine after feel is described in ASTM International. 2009. Standard Terminology Relating to Sensory Evaluations of Materials and Products, E253-09a. ASTM International, West Conshohocken, Pa. E253-09a.

[0019] Odor lingering on a surface is usually caused by persistent exposure to odors, such as tobacco odor, cooking and / or food odor, where odor particles, or odor molecules adhere to the surface. Odors are mainly due to organic molecules havingdifferent structures and different functional groups, such as amines, acids, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, phenolics, polycyclics, indoles, aromatic compounds, polyaromatic compounds, or combinations thereof. The odor molecule may also include functional groups, such as a thiol, mercaptan, sulfide and / or disulfide group. The term “odor removal” as used herein refers to removing or minimizing odor associated with tobacco smoking or smoking, food odors, or combinations thereof.

[0020] The impact of smoke inhalation on the health of the smoker and secondary smokers is well-studied and understood. When a person smokes, thirdhand smoke particles or chemicals adhere to their clothes, skin, and hair, these particles can transfer from the person to surfaces they come into contact with. The chemicals can be released back into the air, producing a smell of old or stale tobacco smoke. Thirdhand smoke includes chemicals such as nicotine as well as cancer-causing substances such as formaldehyde, naphthalene, and others.

[0021] In addition to odor, another aspect of tobacco smoke is the way it can affect the skin of the smoker. In case of any pre-existing skin condition, tobacco smoke may worsen the skin condition. The skin tends to get dry and scaly leading to skin aging on prolonged exposure to smoke. Additionally, the smoke may leave residual harmful toxins and carcinogens, for example, on the skin. The smoker when (s)he comes in contact with another surface, or another person, for example, by the way of touch, transfers these toxins to such surfaces and / or persons.

[0022] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a formulation that is skinfriendly and addresses odor removal, particularly, odor associated with tobacco smoking. It is yet another objective of the disclosure to remove smoke particles, such as toxins and carcinogens adsorbed on skin.

[0023] The present disclosure provides a water-based odor removal formulation. The water-based odor removal formulation comprises a fermented plant oil present in an amount in a range of 0.1 weight percent (wt%) to 20 wt%, one or more fatty acid esters present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%, and a polyorganosiloxane. A weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermentedplant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1. The water-based formulation further comprises water in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt%.

[0024] It is an advantage of the present disclosure that the formulation while removing odor molecules from skin, provides additional skin benefits, for example, desired after feel, minimizes skin dryness, and may additionally provide hydration, moisturization and / or cooling effects. The term “hydration”, as used herein, refers to water content or water retention by the outermost layer of the skin. The term “moisturization” as used herein, refers to inhibition or reduction of water loss from the skin by applying a moisturizer that forms a barrier layer over the skin.

[0025] The term "fermented plant oil", as used herein, relates to a product or a mixture of products formed through fermentation of a plant oil, or combinations of the product or the mixture of products formed through fermentation of various plant oils, or a product or a mixture of products formed through fermentation of a mixture of plant oils, in the presence of microorganism(s) in a fermentation broth. As used herein, the term “plant oil” may refer to oils derived from plant and / or plant parts, including stem, leaves, flowers, seeds, roots, fruits, bark, or combinations thereof. The fermentation causes a detectable change, i.e. increase or decrease, in concentration of at least one constituent of the plant oil(s). In one embodiment, the change in concentration of the at least one constituent includes presence of at least one new constituent not present in the plant oil(s), the absence of at least one constituent present in the plant oil(s), or both. The fermentation broth may additionally include glucose or sugar to supplement fermentation.

[0026] In some embodiments, the fermented plant oil is characterized by a higher essential fatty acid content when compared to essential fatty acid content of the plant oil it is produced from. In one embodiment, the free fatty acid content of the fermented plant oil is 5 to 140 times higher than that of the plant oil it is produced from. In some embodiments, the essential fatty acid is rich in linoleic acid. The linoleic acid is an effective skin moisturizer. In some embodiments, the free fatty acid includes unboundglyceride that may improve a texture of the formulation by reducing stickiness or tackiness, and may improve after feel of the resulting formulation.

[0027] Certain microorganisms are known to produce biosurfactants on fermentation of plant oils. For example, yeast such as Candida Bombicola produces sophorolipids, that are surfactants with a glucose sugar group and a long-chain fatty acid. Sophorolipids consist of a hydrophilic sophorose sugar head and a hydrophobic fatty acid tail, and when present in a formulation may solubilize oils by reducing surface tension and may form micelles. The micelles may trap odor molecules within them. The fermented plant oil, in one embodiment, may contain biosurfactants such as sophorolipids.

[0028] The fermented plant oils are known for better skin penetration than the plant oils they are produced from. In one embodiment, higher skin penetration of the fermented plant oil compared to the plant oil may be due to the presence of biosurfactants. Additionally, fermented plant oils may provide better hydration, moisturization, and antimicrobial activity when compared to the plant oils.

[0029] The composition of the fermented plant oil may depend on several factors, including preparation process, fermentation time, amount of plant oil or proportion of various plant oils, source of plant oil(s), the microorganism added to the plant oil(s), temperature, pH, and the like. The fermented plant oil once formed may or may not include the microorganism(s) responsible for the fermentation of the plant oil.

[0030] Fermented plant oils may be prepared using processes known in the art, as disclosed by US4810507A, US20160354301 Al, or WO2022238489A1, respectively, and such products are available in the market.

[0031] Non-limiting examples of plant oil include almond oil, argan oil, apple seed oil, apricot kernel oil, avocado seed oil, beech nut oil, brazil nut oil, canola oil, cashew oil, castor oil, chia seeds oil, cocoa butter oil, coconut oil, com oil, cottonseed oil, flaxseed oil, grape seed oil, grapefruit seed oil, hazelnut oil, hemp seed oil, jojoba oil, lemon seed oil, linseed oil, macademia oil, millet seed oil, mongongo nut oil, mustard oil, olive oil, orange seed oil, palm oil, peanut oil, pear seed oil, pecan oil, perilla oil,pine nut oil, pistachio oil, pumpkin seed oil, rapeseed oil, rice bran oil, rye germ oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, spelt germ oil, sunflower oil, vigna mungo bean oil, walnut oil, wheat germ oil or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the oil is wheat germ oil, almond oil, avocado seed oil, apricot kernel oil, canola oil, castor oil, flaxseed oil, grape seed oil, olive oil, peanut oil, pumpkin seed oil, rapeseed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soyabean oil, sunflower oil, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the oil is a food grade oil, a cosmetics grade oil, and / or a pharmaceutical grade oil.

[0032] The plant oil may additionally include other plant extracts before fermentation to form the “fermented plant oil”. As used herein, the term “plant extract” includes juices extracted from plants or plant parts such as roots, stems, leaves, flowers, seeds, fruits, or combinations thereof. Example of plant extracts include tea extract, aloe vera extract, angelica gigas root extract, gromwell (Lithospermum erythrorhizon) extract, licorice root extract, or combinations thereof.

[0033] The plant oil that may be utilized for production of fermented plant oil may have an acid value of 0.1 to 2.0. A lower acid value is preferred for higher fermentation efficiency, preferably in a range of 0.1 to 0.5.

[0034] The microorganisms for fermentation of the plant oil may be selected from the group consisting of fungi, bacteria, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the microorganism is selected from the group consisting of yeasts, molds, lactic acid bacteria, and mixtures thereof. Non-limiting examples of yeasts are debaryomyces, kluyveromyces, saccharomyces, geotrichum, and pseudozyma. In one embodiment, the yeast is pseudozyma such as SY16 (KCTC 8950P), as disclosed in KR100308523B1, and KR101798136B1. Nonlimiting examples of molds are mucor, penicillium, and rhizopus. Nonlimiting examples of lactic acid bacteria are enterococcus, streptococcus, leuconostoc, lactobacillus, and pediococcus. In one embodiment, the lactic acid bacteria is lactobacillus.

[0035] In some embodiments, the fermented plant oil is a mixture of olive oil, sunflower oil, argan oil, rapeseed oil, licorice root extract, angelica gigas root extract,gromwell (Lithospermum erythrorhizon) extract, fermented using Candida bombicola along with glucose.

[0036] The fermented plant oils are present in a range of 0.1 to 20 wt% in the formulation. In one embodiment, the fermented plant oils are present in the range of 0.1 to 5 wt% in the formulation.

[0037] Examples of the fatty acid esters used in the present disclosure include esters of fatty acids and alcohols having 1 to 5 carbon atoms such as fatty acid alkyl esters (FAAE), or esters of fatty acids with glycerin such as triglyceride, diglyceride, and monoglycerides, or both. The alcohol is a monohydric alcohol such as methanol, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, isobutanol, or pentanol. The fatty acids may be derived from the plant oils.

[0038] In some embodiments, the fatty acids, used to make the esters, may comprise monocarboxylic aliphatic acids that can be saturated (i.e., no double bonds) or unsaturated (i.e., containing one or more double bonds) and are of plant origin. The fatty acids contain from about 6 to about 22 carbon atoms in the aliphatic chain and may contain 0 to 3 sites of double bonds.

[0039] Examples of fatty acid esters include, but are not limited to, methyl and ethyl esters of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, alpha- linoleaic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, arachidic acid, gadoleic acid, arachidonic acid, linolenic acid, myristoleic acid, capric acid, lauroleic acid, eicosanoic acid, eleostearic acid, elaidic acid or combinations thereof. The methyl and ethyl esters of fatty acids are normally produced commercially by methanolysis of naturally occurring glycerides present in the plant oil, rather than by reaction of fatty acids. The fatty acid chains within the glycerides vary within the same glyceride molecule, as well as between glyceride molecules, in chain length and in degree of unsaturation; thus, the fatty acid esters so produced are also mixtures.

[0040] Non-limiting examples of fatty acid esters include, but are not limited to, esters of olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, flax seed oil, wheat germ oil, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the fatty acidesters are esters of olive oil, namely ethyl olivate, and methyl esters of fatty acids present in olive oil. The term “olivate”, as used herein, refers to esters of fatty acids obtained from olive oil.

[0041] The fatty acid esters are present in a range of 0.1 to 20 wt% in the formulation. In one embodiment, the fatty acid esters are present in the range of 0.1 to 5 wt% in the formulation. The fatty acid esters may provide spreadability, and desired after feel to the formulation. As used herein, the term “spreadability” refers to the ease of spread of the formulation on skin.

[0042] The formulation further comprises the polyorganosiloxane. A weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1. In preferred embodiments, the weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is 1:1. The polyorganosiloxane is present in the range of 0.2 to 40 wt% in the water-based formulation.

[0043] The polyorganosiloxanes are flowable having a viscosity in a range of 10 centiStokes (cSt) to 1000 cSt, as measured at 25 degrees Celsius (°C). Examples of polyorganosiloxanes include polyalkyl siloxanes, polyaryl siloxanes, polyalkylaryl siloxanes, polyether siloxane copolymers, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the polyalkyl siloxane is polydimethylsiloxane or dimethicone. Dimethicone is available in various chain lengths and molecular weights. Examples of other dimethicones include cetyldimethicone, cyclomethicone, lauryl dimethicone, octyl dimethicone, phenyldimethicone, phenyltrimethicone, amodimethicone, stearyl dimethicone, or combinations thereof.

[0044] The polyorganosiloxanes are known to form a barrier layer on the skin thereby protecting the skin from irritants to which the skin may be exposed. Polyorganosiloxanes, in particular dimethicones, hydrate skin and provide skin moisturization.

[0045] It was surprisingly found that the effectiveness of the water-based odor removal formulation in removing odor or smoke particles adsorbed on surfaces is critically dependent on the relative amount, or ratio of components, polyorganosiloxane, one or more fatty acid esters, and the fermented plant oil. In particular, when the weight percent of polyorganosiloxane is maintained at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1 to the sum of the weight percent of the one or more fatty acid esters, and the fermented plant oil, the formulation exhibits a markedly enhanced and consistent odor removal effect.

[0046] The present formulation may include one or more additional ingredients to form a stable formulation. As used herein, the term “stable” refers to a formulation where components of the formulation form a homogeneous mixture and do not separate into individual components over time. In one embodiment, the formulation may further include emulsifiers, gelling agents, and surfactants.

[0047] In some embodiments, the formulation is an emulsion, in particular an oil in water emulsion, where an oil phase comprising the fermented plant oil, and fatty acid esters, and a water phase comprising the polyorganosiloxane. The term "emulsifier", as used herein refers to any compound that may enhance dispersion of one liquid within another. Esters of fatty alcohols and fatty acids derived from plant oil sources with a carbon chain length ranging from C12-C22 could be utilized. Example emulsifiers may include, but are not limited to, propylene glycol isostearate, glycol stearate, sorbitan sesquioleate, glyceryl stearate, lecithin, sorbitan oleate, sorbitan stearate, steareth-2, oleth-2, glyceryl laurate ceteth-2, polyethylene glycol-30 (PEG-30), dipolyhydroxystearate, sucrose cocoate, PEG-4 dilaurate, methyl glucose sesquistearate, PEG-8 dioleate, sorbitan laurate, PEG-40 sorbitan peroleate, laureth-4, propylene glycol ester of myristic acid, ester of palmitic acid, monoglyceride ester of myristic acid, monoglyceride ester of palmitic acid, monoglyceride ester of stearic acid, monoglyceride ester of oleic acid, sorbitan ester of palmitic acid, cetearyl olivate, ester of stearic acid, ester of oleaic acid, oleate, glycerol monostearate, propylene glycol monolaurate, diethylene glycol fatty acid ester, diethylene glycol monolaurate, sorbitanolivate, polyoxyethylene dioleate, tetraethylene glycol monooleate, polyoxypropylene mannitol dioleate, polyoxyethylene sorbitol, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the emulsifier is a mixture of cetearyl olivate and sorbitan olivate. Cetearyl olivates are esters of the fatty acids of olive oil with cetearyl alcohol while sorbitan olivate is made from sorbitol and olive oil.

[0048] The emulsifier may be present in an amount from 0.1% to 6 wt%. In some embodiments, the emulsifier is present in an amount from 0.1% to 3 wt% of the formulation.

[0049] The formulation may further include the gelling agents. Non-limiting examples of gelling agents include cellulose derivatives, methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, nitrocellulose, sodium cellulose sulfate, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, crystalline cellulose, cellulose powder, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, guar gum, hydroxypropyl guar, xanthan gum, gum arabic, hydrolyzed sclerotium gum, tragacanth, galacene, long bean gum, karaya gum, carrageenan, pectin, agar, cypress seed (hazelnut), starch (rice, com, potato, wheat), seaweed (Algae extract), dextran, succinyl dextran, pullulan, alginic acid based polymers, propylene glycol alginate, acrylate polymers, sodium polyacrylate, polyethyl acrylate, polyacrylamide, polyethyleneimine, or combinations thereof.

[0050] In some embodiments, the gelling agent is hydrolyzed sclerotium gum. The gelling agents may be present in an amount from 0.001% to 0.5 wt%. In some embodiments, the gelling agent is present in an amount from 0.01% to 0.1 wt% of the formulation.

[0051] The formulation may further include the surfactants. The surfactant may remove dirt, sweat, sebum, and other substances from the skin. The suitability of a particular surfactant may vary depending on the usage. In one embodiment, the surfactant is a bio-based surfactant. Bio-based surfactants may be derived from chemical reactions between fatty acids and sugars, or between fatty acids and amino acids.

[0052] Non-limiting examples of sugar-derived surfactants include alkyl polyglucoside, alkyl glycoside, acyl glucamide and mixtures thereof. The alkyl can be defined as a saturated or unsaturated, straight or branched alkyl chain having 6 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably 8 to 22 carbon atoms, more preferably 9 to 18 carbon atoms. The acyl can be defined as of formula R — C(O) — , where R can be a saturated or unsaturated, straight or branched alkyl or alkenyl group, having 6 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably 8 to 22 carbon atoms, more preferably 9 to 18 carbon atoms. In some embodiments, the surfactant is decyl glucoside, cocoyl glucoside, lauroyl glucoside, or combinations thereof. The acyl glucamide may be selected from the group consisting of lauroyl / myristoyl methyl glucamide, capryloyl / capryloyl methyl glucamide, cocoyl methyl glucamide or combinations thereof.

[0053] Non-limiting examples of aminoacid-derived surfactants include those obtained from alanine, valine, and leucine amino acids and alkyl glutamates.

[0054] In one embodiment, the surfactant is a mixture of decyl glucoside and sodium cocoyl glutamate.

[0055] The surfactant may be present in a range of 0.1% to 10 wt%. In some embodiments, the surfactant is present in the range of 0.5% to 5 wt% of the formulation.

[0056] The term "preservative", as used herein refers to a compound or mixture of compounds, that may prevent or minimize biological and / or chemical deterioration of a formulation. Example preservatives include, but are not limited to, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-hexanediol, caprylyl glycol, tropolone, quaternary ammonium compounds, polyquatemium-1, benzalkonium halides, parabens, methylparabens, propylparabens, benzyl alcohol, chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, thimerosal or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the preservative is a mixture of phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin, such as Euxyl PE 9010, sold by Schulke. The preservatives may be present in a range of 0.001% to about 2 wt% of the formulation.

[0057] The formulation may further include chelating agents. The term "chelating agent", as used herein refers to a compound capable of removing metal ions present in the formulation by forming a complex, so that metal ions are not incorporated orcatalyzed by chemical reactions in the formulation. For example, metal ions such as sodium and potassium inherently present in water may have an adverse effect on the formulation during preparation or on storage. Non-limiting examples of chelating agents include ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), disodium ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid, pentasodium pentatate, tetrasodium ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid, furidioxime and its derivatives, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the chelating agent is tetrasodium ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid.

[0058] The chelating agents may be present in a range of 0.001% to 0.5 wt%. In some embodiments, the chelating agent is present in the range of 0.01% to 0.1 wt% of the formulation.

[0059] The formulation may further include a humectant. The term “humectant” as used herein, refers to a compound when applied over skin attracts and retains water and / or moisture.

[0060] Non-limiting examples of humectants include glycerin, sorbitol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexanediol, ethoxylated glucose, 1,2-hexanediol, hexanetriol, dipropylene glycol, trehalose, diglycerin, maltitol, maltose, glucose, fructose, sodium chondroitin sulfate, sodium hyaluronate, sodium adenosine phosphate, sodium lactate, pyrrolidone carbonate, glucosamine, cyclodextrin, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the humectant is propylene glycol.

[0061] The humectant may be present in a range of 0.5% to 5 wt%. In some embodiments, the humectant is present in the range of 1% to 2.5 wt% of the formulation. Further, the formulation may include natural hydrating agents such as rose water, aloe vera extract, or combinations thereof.

[0062] The formulation may further include fragrances. Useful fragrances include materials of both natural and synthetic origin. They include a single material or a mixture of materials. Specific examples of such material may be found in the literature, e.g., in Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, 1975, CRC Press; Synthetic Food Adjuncts, 1947 by M. B. Jacobs, edited by Van Nostrand; or Perfume and FlavorChemicals by S. Arctander 1969, Montclair, N.J. (USA), and are well known to the person skilled in the art of perfumery.

[0063] A wide variety of chemicals are used as fragrances, such as aldehydes, ketones, esters and the like. Examples of fragrance include anetole, benzaldehyde, benzyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzyl formate, iso-bomyl acetate, camphene, cis-citral (neral), citronellal, citronellol, citronellyl acetate, paracymene, decanal, dihydrolinalool, dihydromyrcenol, dimethyl phenyl carbinol, eucalyptol, geranial, geraniol, geranyl acetate, geranyl nitrile, cis-3 -hexenyl acetate, hydroxy citronellal, d- limonene, linalool, linalool oxide, linalyl acetate, linalyl propionate, methyl anthranilate, alpha-methyl ionone, methyl nonyl acetaldehyde, methyl phenyl carbinyl acetate, laevo-menthyl acetate, menthone, iso-menthone, myrcene, myrcenyl acetate, myrcenol, nerol, neryl acetate, nonyl acetate, phenyl ethyl alcohol, alpha-pinene, betapinene, gamma-terpinene, alpha-terpineol, beta-terpineol, terpinyl acetate, vertenex (para-tertiary-butyl cyclohexyl acetate), amyl cinnamic aldehyde, iso-amyl salicylate, beta-caryophyllene, cedrene, cinnamic alcohol, couramin, dimethyl benzyl carbinyl acetate, ethyl vanillin, eugenol, iso-eugenol, flor acetate, heliotrophine, 3-cis-hexenyl salicylate, hexyl salicylate, lilial (para-tertiarybutyl-alpha-methyl hydrocinnamic aldehyde), gamma-methyl ionone, nerolidol, patchouli alcohol, phenyl hexanol, beta- selinene, trichloromethyl phenyl carbinyl acetate, triethyl citrate, vanillin, veratraldehyde, alpha-cedrene, beta-cedrene, sesquiterpenes, benzophenone, benzyl salicylate, ethylene brassylate, galaxolide (l,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8,- hexamethyl-cyclo-penta-gamma-2-benzopyran), hexyl cinnamic aldehyde, lyral (4-(4- hydroxy-4-methyl pentyl)-3 -cyclohexene- 10-carboxaldehy de), methyl cedrylone, methyl dihydro jasmonate, methyl-beta-naphthyl ketone, musk ambrette, musk idanone, musk ketone, musk tibetine, musk xylol, aurantiol, phenylethyl phenyl acetate or combinations thereof.

[0064] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a fragrance may be chosen based on its notes. For example, the notes of the fragrance may match notes of smoke odor, rather than overpowering the smoke odor. In one instance theoverpowering odor of a fragrance may give away that the person has smoked. Upon wiping the surface with the formulation, smoke odor as well as the fragrance disappears within some time.

[0065] The fragrance may be present in a range of 0% to 3 wt%. In some embodiments, the fragrance is present in the range of 0.1 % to 1 wt% of the formulation.

[0066] The formulation may further include soothing agents. Soothing agents are compounds having the ability to reduce the irritation or stinging / buming / itching effect of some chemicals. Soothing agents can be of a variety of chemical classes. Soothing agents can have a variety of mode of actions to neutralize the effects of the skin irritants. For example, antioxidants can be soothing agents for oxidants. Buffers can be used as soothing agents neutralizing the stinging effect of acids or bases over skin.

[0067] The preferred soothing agents of the present disclosure are ethoxylated surfactants, polymers such as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and / or N-vinylcaprolactam homopolymer, natural cooling agents like menthol, phospholipids, or the like. In some embodiments, the soothing agent may correspond to menthol.

[0068] The soothing agent may be present in a range of 0.001% to 0.1 wt%. In some embodiments, the soothing agent is present in the range of 0.01% to 0.05 wt% of the formulation.

[0069] The formulation may further include metal complexing agents. The metal complexing agents, if present in the formulation may form complexes with metal ions present in smoke, or on surfaces. Non-limiting examples of metal complexing agents include tetrasodium glutamate diacetate, zinc ricinoleate, or combinations thereof. The metal complexing agent is present in an amount in a range of 0 wt% to 3 wt%.

[0070] The formulation includes a suitable carrier, such as water, in an amount desired to provide the intended thickness and feel of the formulation. The remainder of the formulation is water, such that the total composition amounts to 100 wt%. The water may be present in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt %. In some embodiments, water may be present in an amount greater than or equal to 70% by weight of the formulation. In one embodiment, water is present in an amount greaterthan or equal to 80% by weight of the formulation. In another embodiment, water is present in an amount greater than or equal to 85% by weight of the formulation.

[0071] The formulation may have a pH that is suitable to be applied to the skin and remain on the skin surface. In some embodiments, the formulation has a pH in a range of 5.0 to about 7.0, and preferably in the range of 5.5 to 6.5.

[0072] In some embodiments, the formulation may be incorporated as a spray, such as an aerosol spray. The formulation may be packaged with a propellant that allows spraying of the formulation into the air for removal of odor molecules. The exact mechanism of odor removal using the disclosed formulation is not known, however, it is believed that the inventive formulation having the fermented plant oil, the mixture of fatty acid esters, and polyorganosiloxanes of claimed composition traps the odor molecules thus minimizing smoke odor. In one probable mechanism, the trapping of odor molecules may be through the micelles formed by sophorolipids present in the fermented plant oil. In another probable mechanism, volatile odor molecules may adhere to volatile components present in the formulation and may dissipate to the surroundings thus minimizing smoke odor. Upon spraying the formulation, a surface sprayed upon, for example, the skin, may be wiped off to remove odor molecules.

[0073] In another embodiment, a substrate is impregnated with the formulation to form an absorbent article such as a wipe (wet wipe). The absorbent articles may absorb the odor removal formulation. When used on skin, the formulation impregnated on the absorbent article penetrates the skin, traps the odor molecules, and the absorbent article absorbs the trapped odor molecules and removes the odor molecules from the skin.

[0074] Examples of substrates include woven, or non-woven spunlace material made from fibres of natural origin, or synthetic origin. Examples of substrates include polyolefin, polyester, cellulose, rayon, polyamides, polyesteramide, polyvinyl alcohols, or combinations thereof. The substrates usable in the present disclosure can be manufactured via any suitable process, such as but not limited to, spunlace process, and preferably have a dry basis weight of between about 25 grams per square meter (gsm) to 100 gsm, more preferably between 35 gsm and 65 gsm.

[0075] FIG. 1 is a flow chart 100 that illustrates a process for preparing a water-based odor removal formulation through exemplary steps 102 through 106, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. At step 102, a first mixture and a second mixture are provided. The first mixture comprises apolyorganosiloxane, and optionally a chelating agent, and a gelling agent. In some embodiments, providing the first mixture comprises dissolving the chelating agent and the gelling agent in water by heating to a temperature in a range of 70 to 85 °C with constant stirring followed by addition of the polyorganosiloxane in an alcohol / water solution.

[0076] The second mixture comprises fermented plant oil, fatty acid esters and optionally an emulsifier. In some embodiments, providing the second mixture comprises dissolving the fermented plant oil, the fatty acid esters, and the emulsifier by heating to a temperature in a range of 70 to 85°C with constant stirring.

[0077] At step 104, the first mixture and the second mixture are mixed to form a homogeneous mixture. In one embodiment, the second mixture is added to the first mixture at a temperature in a range of 70 to 85°C with constant stirring. The stirring is performed at a speed of 1000 to 1500 rotations per minute (rpm).

[0078] At step 106, additional components are added to the homogeneous mixture to form the water-based odor removal formulation. Examples of additional components include one or more of soothing agents, fragrance, metal complexing agent, surfactants, humectants, and preservatives. A temperature of the homogeneous mixture is in a range of 40 to 55 °C before addition of additional components of the formulation.

[0079] The water-based odor removal formulation prepared according to embodiments of the present disclosure is skin-friendly without any adverse skin reaction and provides additional skin benefits such as hydration and moisturization. The odor removal formulation is water-based, in contrast to solvent or alcohol-based formulations of the prior art. Moreover, the water-based odor removal formulation is bio-degradable as all the ingredients are bio-degradable.EXAMPLESComparative ExamplePreparation of an odor removal formulation without fermented plant oil

[0080] To evaluate the significance of fermented plant oil in the claimed formulation, a comparative sample was prepared in which fermented plant oil was omitted.

[0081] In a clean vessel, about 100 millilitres (mL) of water was taken. About 0.1 wt % EDTA was added to water while stirring continuously till it dissolved to form a solution. A menthol-water mixture was prepared by heating at 60°C. About 2 wt% dimethicone was added to the menthol-water mixture. The menthol-water mixture mixed with dimethicone was added to the solution to form a first mixture. In a separate clean beaker, 2 wt% emulsifier and 2 wt% olive oil esters were combined to form a second mixture. The first mixture and the second mixture were heated to a temperature between 75 °C to 80 °C with stirring at a speed of 1000 to 1500 rpm. The second mixture was poured into the first mixture to form a homogenous mixture. The stirring speed was reduced to medium (approximately 400-500 rpm) and the homogeneous mixture was allowed to cool down to 40 °C. Preservatives and surfactants, decyl glucoside and sodium cocoyl glutamate, were added to the homogeneous mixture to form the formulation, while stirring at low speed (approximately 200 to 300 rpm) to prevent the formation of foam. The pH of the formulation was around 5.5 to 6.5.

[0082] The formulation illustrated in Comparative Example failed to achieve the desired odor removal effect and additionally showed unfavorable handling properties, such as stickiness and poor stability. The Comparative Example clearly demonstrates that the presence of fermented plant oil is critical for achieving both the functional efficacy and the desired physical characteristics of the formulation.Example 1Preparation of inventive odor removal formulation

[0083] In a clean vessel, about 100 mL of water was taken. About 0.1 wt % EDTA was added to water while stirring continuously till they dissolved to form a solution. Amenthol- water mixture was prepared by heating at 60°C. About 2 wt% dimethicone was added to the menthol-water mixture. The menthol-water mixture mixed with dimethicone was added to the solution to form a first mixture. In a separate clean beaker, 0.5% emulsifier, 1 wt % fermented plant oil, and 1 wt% olive oil esters were combined to form a second mixture. The first mixture and the second mixture were heated to a temperature between 75 °C to 80 °C with stirring at a speed of 1000 to 1500 rpm. The second mixture was poured into the first mixture to form a homogenous mixture. The stirring speed was reduced to medium (approximately 400-500 rpm) and the homogeneous mixture was allowed to cool down to 40 °C. Propylene glycol, aloe vera extract, preservative, and rose water were added to the mixture while stirring gently to ensure homogeneity. Next, the fragrance was added. Surfactants, decyl glucoside and sodium cocoyl glutamate were added to the homogeneous mixture to form the formulation while stirring at low speed (approximately 200 to 300 rpm) to prevent the formation of foam. The pH of the formulation was around 5.5 to 6.5.

[0084] A 40 GSM non-woven spunlace fabric comprising 80% polyester and 20% viscose was taken. The fabric was cut into squares with dimensions of 200mm X 200mm and about 4 to 6 ml of the formulation was poured over each cut pieces to obtain wipes (wet wipes) incorporating the odor removal formulation.Testing of wines of Example 1 :

[0085] A study with 34 test subjects (habitual smokers) with an equal number of males and females between the ages of 18 to 45 and with differing skin types (oily, dry, combination) was conducted. The subjects were exposed to tobacco smoke and were made to use the wipes comprising the formulation prepared according to Example 1. The results for odor removal after using the wipes at time intervals after exposure to tobacco smoke, immediately after using the wipe (TO), after five minutes (T5), after 10 minutes (T10), after 30 minutes (T30), and after 60 minutes (T60) were recorded across 4 days. The test subjects were made to wipe their own hands, neck, and face for at least 90 seconds using the wipe. A self-assessment of the effectiveness of the wipe in odorremoval was conducted at TO, T5, T10, T30, and T60 time periods by the test subjects. The wipes were found to be effective in removing cigarette smoke odor by the test subjects at TO, T5, T10, T30, and T60 minutes with 100% positive results. Other characteristics of the wipe that were evaluated were hydration, moisturization, and freshness feel upon use, which were again found to be satisfactory among the test subjects. The physical characteristics of the wipe in terms of non-stickiness and absence of any residue on skin on application were appreciated by the test subjects. The wipes were non-allergenic and skin-friendly as the test subjects did not observe any itching, stinging, or burning sensation on the skin. Clinical tests on the safety of the wipe were assessed by dermatologists looking for defined clinical signs such as erythema (itching), oedema (tingling), dryness, scaling, and peeling on a scale of 0 to 3, where 0 corresponds to no adverse reaction, 1 corresponding to mild reaction, 2 corresponding to moderate reaction, and 3 corresponding to severe reaction. The wipes were found to have zero adverse reactions on the assessment by dermatologists ascertaining the safety and skin-friendliness of the wipe prepared according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0086] An expert assessment of the effectiveness of the wipe was conducted by a panel of olfactory experts immediately after smoking (before using the wipe), TO, T5, T10, T30, and T60 time periods. The outcome of the tests, i.e., whether the smoke odor was present on the test subjects on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 corresponds to no odor, 2 corresponds to mild odor, 3 corresponds to moderate odor, 4 corresponds to strong odor, and 5 corresponds to extremely strong odor, were recorded. Table 1 provides the mean values obtained for the tests before wiping, at TO (immediately after wiping), T5 (5 minutes after wiping), T10 (10 minutes after wiping), T30 (30 minutes after wiping) and T60 (60 minutes after wiping) averaged over 34 test subjects and panelists. As shown in Table 1, immediately after smoking and before using the wipe the panelists recorded a mean value of 4.16 which reduced to 2.09 after wiping and the odor further reduced to 1.35, confirming the effectiveness of the wipe prepared according to embodiments of the present disclosure.Table 1

[0087] A patch test was conducted to assess irritation as per standard test protocols (IS 4011:2018 Methods of test for safety evaluation of cosmetics - 3rd Revision) on a Draize scale (Clause 4.3.1.3 Observation and scoring for Skin Irritation Test). 26 test subjects were selected for the patch test. The patches of the wipes were applied on the test subjects for 3 days and after removal of the patch, the effect of the patch on skin was evaluated for up to 1 week. The wipe prepared according to embodiments of the present disclosure after dermatological testing (patch-test) for safety was certified to be non-irritant to skin.

[0088] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Furthermore, many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be recognized that the disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described, but can be practiced with modification and alteration.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A water-based odor removal formulation comprising: a fermented plant oil present in an amount in a range of 0.1 weight percent (wt%) to 20 wt%; one or more fatty acid esters present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%; a polyorganosiloxane, wherein a weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1; and water present in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt%.

2. The water-based odor removal formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the water-based odor removal formulation comprises a gelling agent present in an amount in a range of 0.001 wt% to 0.5 wt%; an emulsifier present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 6 wt%; and a chelating agent present in an amount in a range of 0.001 wt% to 0.5 wt%.

3. The water-based odor removal formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more fatty acid esters comprise methyl and ethyl esters of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, alpha-linoleaic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, arachidic acid, gadoleic acid, arachidonic acid, linolenic acid, myristoleic acid, capric acid, lauroleic acid, eicosanoic acid, eleostearic acid, elaidic acid, or combinations thereof.

4. The water-based odor removal formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the polyorganosiloxane comprises polyalkyl siloxanes, polyaryl siloxanes, polyalkylarylsiloxanes, polydimethyl siloxane, polyether siloxane copolymers, or combinations thereof.

5. The water-based odor removal formulation as claimed in claim 4, wherein the polyorganosiloxane is polydimethylsiloxane.

6. The water-based odor removal formulation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the water-based formulation comprises one or more of a preservative, a surfactant, a fragrance, a soothing agent, a humectant, or a metal complexing agent.

7. A water-based odor removal formulation comprising: a fermented plant oil present in an amount in a range of 0.1 weight percent (wt%) to 20 wt%; one or more fatty acid esters present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%; a polyorganosiloxane, wherein a weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1; an emulsifier present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 6 wt%; a gelling agent present in an amount in a range of 0.001 wt% to 0.5 wt%; a surfactant present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 10 wt%; a chelating agent present in an amount in a range of 0.001 wt% to 0.5 wt%; a preservative present in an amount in a range of 0.001 to 2 wt %; optionally comprising a humectant present in an amount in a range of 0.5 wt% to 5 wt%, a fragrance present in an amount in a range of 0 wt% to 3 wt%, a soothing agent present in an amount in a range of 0.001 wt% to 0.1 wt%, and a metal complexing agent present in an amount in a range of 0 wt% to 3 wt %; andwater present in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt%.

8. A substrate impregnated with the water-based odor removal formulation as claimed in claims 1-7.

9. The substrate as claimed in claim 8, wherein the substrate comprises polyolefin, polyester, cellulose, rayon, polyamides, polyesteramide, polyvinyl alcohols, or combinations thereof.

10. An absorbent article comprising a substrate impregnated with a water-based odor removal formulation, wherein the formulation comprises: a fermented plant oil present in an amount in a range of 0.1 weight percent (wt%) to 20 wt%; one or more fatty acid esters present in an amount in a range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%; a polyorganosiloxane, wherein a weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1; and water present in an amount in a range of 50 wt% to 90 wt%.

11. A process (100) for preparing a water-based odor removal formulation comprising: providing a first mixture and a second mixture at a temperature in a range of 70 degree Celsius (°C) to 85 °C (102), wherein the first mixture comprises a polyorganosiloxane and optionally a gelling agent and a chelating agent, wherein the second mixture comprises a fermented plant oil, one or more fatty acid esters and optionally an emulsifier, and wherein a weight percent of the polyorganosiloxane to a sum of weight percent of the fermented plant oil and the one or more fatty acid esters is at a ratio in a range of 0.9 to 1.1;mixing the first mixture and the second mixture at a mixing speed in a range of 1000 to 1500 rpm (104) to form a homogeneous mixture; and optionally adding one or more a soothing agent, a metal complexing agent, a surfactant, a humectant, a fragrance and a preservative (106) to form the formulation.

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