Composition and method and uses relating thereto

Abstract

A free-flowing particulate composition comprising: (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant; wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1:1.

Description

[0001] Composition and method and uses relating thereto

[0002] The present invention relates to compositions comprising surfactants. In particular the invention relates to compositions comprising a mixture of anionic and nonionic surfactants useful in the preparation of home care and personal care formulations.

[0003] Surfactants useful for inclusion in home and personal care formulations advantageously have good emulsification, wetting and degreasing properties. Commonly used nonionic surfactants include alcohol ethoxylates. However alternative non-ionic surfactants are sometimes desirable.

[0004] Alternative nonionic surfactants to alcohol ethoxylates include alkyl glucosides. These are also commonly referred to as alkyl poly glucosides (or APGs). These compounds show good emulsification, wetting and degreasing properties and may be entirely derived from renewable sources. Alkyl glucosides are typically available in aqueous solution comprising approximately 50 wt% active material. However they are difficult to provide in solid form which can cause difficulties for formulators. In particular the drying of non ionic surfactants can be challenging.

[0005] Solid forms of alkyl glucosides are typically hygroscopic and “mushy”. They are not readily available as a free flowing particulate material.

[0006] Solid compositions comprising alkyl glucosides have previously been obtained by including a carrier such as silicates, polymers or carbonates when the material is dried. However the presence of these other compounds can sometimes limit the potential uses of the surfactant.

[0007] The present inventors have surprisingly found that blends of alkyl glucosides and anionic surfactants can be provided as a free-flowing powder without the need for an additional carrier material.

[0008] Previous attempts to provide solid compositions comprising alkyl glucoside and anionic surfactant have involved drying the material at high temperatures. However this lead to discolouration and may cause breakdown of alkyl glucoside. This can result in traces of glucose in the product which may attract microbes. The present inventors have surprisingly found that a free-flowing particulate material comprising alkyl glucoside and anionic surfactant can be obtained without drying at high temperatures (for example above 150°C).

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a free-flowing particulate composition comprising:(a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and

[0010] (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant; wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition; and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1:1.

[0011] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of preparing a free-flowing particulate composition, the method comprising:

[0012] (i) providing an aqueous solution comprising (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant; and

[0013] (ii) drying the composition provided in step (i);

[0014] wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition; and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1 :1.

[0015] Preferred features of the first and second aspects of the invention will now be described.

[0016] The present invention relates to a free-flowing particulate composition comprising (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof.

[0017] In some embodiments component (a) comprises an anionic surfactant.

[0018] Any suitable anionic surfactant may be included. Such compounds will be known to the person skilled in the art.

[0019] Suitable anionic surfactants for use herein include salts of: fatty acids; alkoxylated carboxylic acids; ester carboxylates; ethoxylated ester carboxylates; mono- or dialkyl sulfates; mono- or dialkyl ether sulfates; lauryl ether sulfates; alkyl sulfonates; alkyl aryl sulfonates; primary alkane disulfonates; alkene sulfonates; hydroxyalkane sulfonates; internal olefin sulfonates; alkyl ester sulfonates; isethionates, alkyl isethionates, acyl isethionates, acyl alkyl isethionates, alkyl glyceryl ether sulfonates; alpha-olefin sulfonates; alkyl phosphates; sulfonates of alkylphenolpolyglycol ethers; alkyl sulfopolycarboxylic acid esters; alkyl sulfosuccinates; alkyl ether sulfosuccinates; taurates; acyl taurates; products of condensation of fatty acids with oxy-and aminoalkanesulfonic acids; sulfated derivatives of fatty acids and polyglycols; alkyl and acyl sarcosinates; sulfoacetates; acyl lactylates; alkyl phosphates; alkyl phosphate esters; acyl lactylates; alkanolamides of sulfated fatty acids, lipoamino acids and acyl amino acids, for example acyl glycinates and acyl glutamates, acyl alaninates and acyl aspartates. Particularlyexemplary salts, where applicable, are the sodium, potassium, ammonium, magnesium and triethanolamine salts.

[0020] Preferred anionic surfactants include alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alkyl glyceryl ether sulfates, taurates, acyl taurates, (alkyl) isethionates (alkyl) acyl isethionates, acyl amino acids, sarcosinates, sulfosuccinates, sulfosuccinamates, sulfoacetates, monoalkyl phosphate esters, di-alkyl phosphate esters, mono-alkyl ether phosphate esters, di-alkyl ether phosphate esters, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl lactates, alkyl ether carboxylates, glyceryl ether carboxylates, alkyl benzene sulfonates, alkyl ester sulfonates, alkane sulfonates, sulfoactetates, acyl lactylates, phosphoric esters, acyl amino acids, alkyl sulfosuccinates, naphthalene sulfonates and melamine sulfonates.

[0021] Particularly preferred anionic surfactants for use herein include one or more of alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, acyl isethionates, N-alkyl acyl taurates, acyl alkyl isethionates, acyl amino acids (especially sarcosinates and glutamates) and sulfosuccinates.

[0022] Suitable taurate surfactants for use herein are compounds of formula (I):

[0023]

[0024] wherein X is hydrogen, a metal ion or an optionally substituted ammonium ion; R1represents an optionally substituted C3-C35 hydrocarbyl group; and each of R2, R3, R4, R5and R6independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group.

[0025] Suitably R1represents an optionally substituted C3-C35 alkyl or C3-C35 alkenyl group, especially a C3-C35 alkyl group.

[0026] In some embodiments R1represents a mixture of alkyl or alkenyl groups having differing chain lengths. For example R1may be derived from the mixture of fatty acids having differing chain lengths found in triglyceride oils for example coconut oil, palm oil, palm kernel oil or rapeseed oil.Suitably R1represents a C3-C35 alkyl or C3-C35 alkenyl group, such as a Cs-Cis alkyl or Cs-Cis alkenyl group.

[0027] Preferably R1represents a C4-C29 alkyl group, such as a C7-C23 alkyl group, for example a C7-C21 alkyl group, preferably a C7-C17 alkyl group.

[0028] R1is suitably provided by one or more fatty acids (i.e. one or more acids of formula R1COOH). Fatty acids obtained from natural oils often include mixtures of fatty acids.

[0029] R1may be provided by one or more naturally occurring fatty acids and / or of one or more synthetic fatty acids. For example, R1may consist essentially of the residue of a single fatty acid.

[0030] Most preferably R1is provided by one or more naturally occurring and / or renewable fatty acids.

[0031] Examples of carboxylic acids from which R1may be derived include coco acid, hexanoic acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidic acid, gadoleic acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentanoic acid, behenic acid, erucic acid, docosahexanoic acid, lignoceric acid, naturally occurring fatty acids such as those obtained from coconut oil, tallow, palm kernel oil, butterfat, palm oil, olive oil, corn oil, linseed oil, peanut oil, fish oil and rapeseed oil; synthetic fatty acids made as chains of a single length or a selected distribution of chain lengths; and mixtures thereof. R1may also be derived from fatty acids obtained via fermentation or general biotechnological processes, or from waste vegetable oils. These may be obtained by chemical or enzymatic routes.

[0032] Each of R2, R3, R4, R5and R6is independently selected from hydrogen or a Ci to C4 alkyl group. In embodiments in which any of R2, R3, R4, R5and R6is a Ci to C4 alkyl group, the alkyl group is suitably n-propyl, ethyl or methyl, such as ethyl or methyl, most preferably methyl.

[0033] In some embodiments R6is a Ci to C4 alkyl group, preferably methyl.

[0034] In some embodiments R6is hydrogen.

[0035] In some embodiments each of R2, R3, R4, R5and R6is hydrogen and the compound of formula (I) is an acyl taurate surfactant.In some embodiments R6is a Ci to C4 alkyl group, each of R2, R3, R4and R5is hydrogen and the compound of formula (II) is an acyl N-alkyl taurate surfactant. In such embodiments R6is preferably methyl. Thus in such embodiments the compound of formula (I) is preferably an acyl N-methyl taurate surfactant.

[0036] In some embodiments R6is a Ci to C4 alkyl group and each of R2, R3, R4and R5independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group wherein at least one of R2, R3, R4and R5is not hydrogen.

[0037] In such embodiments in which at least one of R2, R3, R4and R5represents an optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl group, the alkyl group is preferably methyl.

[0038] In some embodiments one of the groups R2, R3, R4and R5represents an optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl group and the remaining groups represent hydrogen. For example, R2may represent an optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl group and R3, R4and R5may all represent hydrogen. For example, R4may represent an optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl group and R2, R3and R5may all represent hydrogen.

[0039] Preferably R2represents a C1-C4 alkyl group and R3, R4and R5all represent hydrogen and / or R4represents a C1-C4 alkyl group and R2, R3and R5all represent hydrogen.

[0040] Thus a mixture of compounds may be present in which either R2or R4is a Ci to C4 alkyl group and the remainder of R2, R3, R4and R5are hydrogen.

[0041] Most preferably R2represents a methyl group and R3, R4and R5all represent hydrogen or R4represents a methyl group and R2, R3and R5all represent hydrogen.

[0042] In some embodiments R6is hydrogen and either R2or R4is a Ci to C4 alkyl group, preferably methyl, and the remainder of R2, R3, R4and R5are hydrogen.

[0043] Suitably X represents hydrogen, a metal cation or an optionally substituted ammonium cation, preferably a metal cation. Preferably X represents a sodium cation.

[0044] Suitable taurate surfactants include sodium lauroyl taurate, sodium cocoyl taurate, sodium oleoyl taurate, sodium myristoyl taurate, sodium lauroyl methyl taurate, sodium cocoyl methyl taurate, sodium oleoyl methyl taurate, sodium myristoyl methyl taurate, sodium lauroyl N-methyl methyl taurate, sodium cocoyl N-methyl methyl taurate, sodium oleoyl N-methyl methyl taurate and sodium myristoyl N-methyl methyl taurate.Preferred taurate surfactants for use herein include compounds such as sodium lauroyl methyl taurate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate and sodium methyl oleoyl taurate.

[0045] Illustrative examples of preferred anionic surfactants include sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauroyl methyl taurate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, sodium methyl oleoyl taurate, sodium cocoyl isethionate, sodium lauroyl isethionate, sodium cocoyl methyl isethionate, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, sodium lauroyl glycinate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, sodium lauryl sarcosinate, disodium oleamido monoisopropanolamine (MIPA) sulfosuccinate, sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate, sodium lauryl glutamate and sodium cocoyl glutamate.

[0046] Suitable alkyl or alkenyl sulfates and ether sulfates are compounds of formula:

[0047] R7CH2(OR8)OSO3M

[0048] wherein R7is a C5 to C39 alkyl or alkenyl group, R8is an alkylene group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, x is from 0 to 12, and M is a metal or ammonium ion.

[0049] M maybe alkali metal or alkaline earth metal ion. Preferred metal ions are sodium ions. By ammonium ions we mean to include unsubstituted ammonium ions NHZ and substituted ammonium ions such as alkanolamine salts.

[0050] Preferably R7is a C7 to C15 alkyl or alkenyl group or a C9 to C13 alkyl or alkenyl group, suitably an alkyl group. For example, R7may be a C11 alkyl group.

[0051] R8is preferably a propylene or especially an ethylene moiety. Preferably x is from 0 to 6, preferably from 0 to 4, for example from 0 to 3. In some embodiments x is 0. In some embodiments x is 2. The skilled person will understand that alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates typically contain mixtures of compounds with different x numbers due to the statistical nature of the alkoxylation reaction used in their formation. Some molecules are not alkoxylated in such a reaction and therefore some molecules wherein x = 0 may be present, e.g. alkyl sulfate

[0052] In some preferred embodiments, n is 2 or 3, or a mixture of compounds wherein n is 2 and compounds wherein n is 3.

[0053] In some preferred embodiments, x is 1.

[0054] The above x numbers suitably represent an average x number of a mixture of such alkyl or alkenyl sulfates and ether sulfates.Suitable anionic surfactants include salts of alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, fatty acids, carboxylates, alkyl sulfonates, aryl sulfonates, alkyl benzene sulphonates, isethionates, alkyl phosphates, sulfosuccinates, taurates, sarcosinates, sulfoacetates, lactates, acyl amino acids and phosphonates.

[0055] In some preferred embodiments component (a) comprises one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl sulfates and alpha-olefin sulfonates.

[0056] Preferred alkyl sulfates are compounds of formula R7CH2OSO3M wherein M is a sodium ion and R7is a mixture of Cn to C17 alkyl groups.

[0057] Preferred alpha-olefin sulfonates are sodium salts of C12 to C22 alpha-olefin sulfonates, for example C12, C14, C16, C14 to C16 or C16 to C18 alpha-olefin sulfonates. C14 to C16 alpha-olefin sulfonates are especially preferred.

[0058] Further suitable anionic surfactants for use herein include acyl amino acid surfactants, for example glutamates, glycinates, sarcosinates, and alaninates and acyl aspartates.

[0059] Preferred acyl amino acid surfactants are glutamates. Sodium lauroyl glutamate and Sodium cocoyl glutamate are especially preferred.

[0060] Preferred anionic surfactants for use in component (a) are those obtained from renewable sources.

[0061] The renewable carbon index (RCI) is calculated according to ISO 16128-1 :2016, wherein the number of carbon atoms derived from renewable sources is divided by the total number of carbon atoms in a component. The total RCI of the composition is a weighted average of the RCI of each carbon-containing surfactant in the composition. The %RCI is obtained by multiplying the RCI by 100.

[0062] Preferably component (a) has a percentage renewable carbon index (%RCI) of at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, suitably at least 98%.

[0063] Preferably the component (a) has a percentage renewable carbon index (%RCI) of from 95 to 100%, preferably from 99 to 100%.In preferred embodiments component (a) does not comprise an anionically modified naturally derived polymeric surfactant. Suitably component (a) does not comprise a lignin sulfonate or cellulosic sulfonate surfactant.

[0064] In some embodiments component (a) comprises an aromatic sulfonate compound. For the avoidance of doubt this is not the same as the previously described anionic surfactant.

[0065] Preferred aromatic sulfonate compounds are compounds of formula:

[0066] (R)P-Ar-SO3M

[0067] wherein M is hydrogen, a metal ion or an optionally substituted ammonium ion; each R is independently an alkyl group, p is 0 or a positive integer and Ar is an aromatic ring.

[0068] M maybe alkali metal or alkaline earth metal ion. Preferred metal ions are sodium ions. By ammonium ions we mean to include unsubstituted ammonium ions NHZ and substituted ammonium ions such as alkanolamine salts.

[0069] Preferably p is at least 1 , for example 1 to 4.

[0070] Preferably p is 1 or 2.

[0071] When p is more than 1 each R may be the same or different.

[0072] Each R is an alkyl group, preferably an unsubstituted alkyl group.

[0073] Preferably R is a Ci to C4 alkyl group.

[0074] Preferably Ar is a benzene or naphthalene ring.

[0075] Preferred aromatic sulfonate compounds for use herein are toluene sulfonate salts, cumene sulfonate salts, xylene sulfonate salts, naphthalene sulfonate salts and alkyl naphthalene sulfonate salts. Preferred salts are potassium salts and especially sodium salts.

[0076] Preferably component (a) is selected from one or more of aromatic sulfonate compounds, alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, acyl isethionates, N-alkyl acyl taurates, acyl alkyl isethionates, acyl amino acids (especially sarcosinates and glutamates) and sulfosuccinates.Preferably component (a) is selected from one or more of aromatic sulfonate compounds, alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, N-alkyl acyl taurates and acyl amino acids (especially sarcosinates and glutamates).

[0077] Preferably component (a) is selected from one or more of toluene sulfonate salts, cumene sulfonate salts, xylene sulfonate salts, alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, acyl isethionates, N-alkyl acyl taurates, acyl alkyl isethionates, acyl amino acids (especially sarcosinates and glutamates) and sulfosuccinates.

[0078] Preferably component (a) is selected from one or more of toluene sulfonate salts, cumene sulfonate salts, xylene sulfonate salts, alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, N-alkyl acyl taurates and acyl amino acids (especially sarcosinates and glutamates).

[0079] Preferably component (a) is selected from one or more of toluene sulfonate salts, cumene sulfonate salts, xylene sulfonate salts, alkyl sulfates and alpha-olefin sulfonates.

[0080] Preferably component (a) is selected from one or more of toluene sulfonate salts, cumene sulfonate salts, xylene sulfonate salts, lauryl sulfates and Ci4to Ci6 alpha-olefin sulfonates.

[0081] In some embodiments component (a) is selected from alkyl sulfates and alpha-olefin sulfonates.

[0082] The free-flowing particulate composition provided by the present invention further comprises (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide compound.

[0083] By hydrocarbyl saccharide compound we mean to refer to a compound including a hydrocarbyl group and a saccharide moiety.

[0084] The hydrocarbyl group may be bound to the saccharide moiety via a carbon-carbon bond or via a carbon-oxygen bond. Preferably it is bound to the saccharide moiety via a carbonoxygen bond, for example via an ester linkage or an ether linkage. Most preferably it is bound to the saccharide moiety via an ether linkage.

[0085] In some embodiments the hydrocarbyl group may be bound to the saccharide moiety via a number of atoms comprising a functional group. In some embodiments the hydrocarbyl saccharide compound may comprise a plurality of hydrocarbyl groups. The saccharide moiety may be bound to the one or more hydrocarbyl groups by one or more bonds.

[0086] Preferably the or each hydrocarbyl saccharide compound is a non-ionic surfactant compoundThe hydrocarbyl saccharide compound may include one or more hydrocarbyl groups. Preferably it comprises one hydrocarbyl group. The hydrocarbyl group may be an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl group. Preferably the hydrocarbyl group is an unsubstituted hydrocarbyl group. It may be straight chained or may be branched. Most preferably it is straight chained. Preferred hydrocarbyl groups are alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl groups having from 1 to 36 carbon atoms, preferably 2 to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably from 4 to 24 carbon atoms, suitably from 4 to 20 carbon atoms, preferably from 6 to 16 carbon atoms, for example from 8 to 16 carbon atoms and most preferably from 10 to 14 carbon atoms. Preferred are straight chained alkyl or alkenyl groups having from 6 to 16 carbon atoms.

[0087] Especially preferred hydrocarbyl groups are alkyl groups having from 1 to 36 carbon atoms, preferably 2 to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably from 4 to 24 carbon atoms, suitably from 4 to 20 carbon atoms, preferably from 6 to 16 carbon atoms, for example from 8 to 16 carbon atoms and most preferably from 10 to 14 carbon atoms. Preferred are straight chained alkyl groups having from 6 to 16 carbon atoms.

[0088] The saccharide moiety of the hydrocarbyl saccharide compound may include monosaccharide, disaccharide, oligosaccharide or polysaccharide species.

[0089] The saccharide moiety of the hydrocarbyl saccharide compound may include from 1 to 30 monosaccharide species. Preferably the saccharide moiety comprises from 1 to 10, suitably from 1 to 5, preferably from 1 to 2 monosaccharide units. Any suitable monosaccharide unit may be included. Preferred monosaccharides include allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, rhamnose and talose.

[0090] Mixtures of two or more monosaccharides may be present in the saccharide moiety. Preferably the saccharide moiety comprises glucose. More preferably all of the monosaccharide units present in the saccharide moiety are glucose.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment the hydrocarbyl saccharide compound is an alkyl saccharide compound, preferably an alkyl glucoside (APG), more preferably a monoalkyl-glucoside. Suitably the hydrocarbyl-saccharide compound is a compound of general formula (II):

[0092]

[0093] wherein n is from 2 to 24, preferably from 5 to 17, more preferably from 9 to 13 and m is from 1 to 10, preferably from 1 to 2.

[0094] Preferably, on average, the hydrocarbyl saccharide compound includes 1 to 1.5, for example about 1.3 glucose units per molecule. As the skilled person will appreciate, a single molecule cannot have 1.3 glucose units. What is meant by an average number of glucose units is the mean number of glucose units per alkyl chain as the sum of all the glucose units present in a sample divided by the total number of molecules of hydrocarbyl saccharide compound.

[0095] Component (b) may comprise an alkyl glucoside surfactant.

[0096] Preferably component (b) comprises a non-ionic alkyl glucoside surfactant.

[0097] In preferred embodiments component (b) comprises an alkyl glucoside, preferably lauryl glucoside, coco glucoside and / or decyl glucoside.

[0098] The present invention provides a free-flowing particulate composition in which component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition.

[0099] For the avoidance of doubt in the free-flowing particulate composition provided by the invention at least 75 wt% of the composition is provided by active compounds of component (a) and component (b).

[0100] In some embodiments component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 80 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition.

[0101] In some embodiments component (a) and component (b) together may provide at least 85 wt%, for example at least 90 wt% or at least 95 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition.

[0102] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition comprises at least 92 wt% surfactants, preferably at least 94 wt% surfactants, more preferably at least 96 wt% surfactants.In some embodiments the free flowing particulate composition may comprise at least 97 wt% or at least 98 wt% surfactant.

[0103] In some embodiments, the free flowing particulate composition comprises an inorganic salt, for example sodium chloride.

[0104] Suitably the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention may comprise up to 25 wt% inorganic salts, for example up to 20 wt%.

[0105] In some embodiments component (a), component (b) and inorganic salts together provide at least 85 wt%, for example at least 90 wt% or at least 95 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition.

[0106] In some embodiments component (a), component (b) and sodium chloride together provide at least 85 wt%, for example at least 90 wt% or at least 95 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition.

[0107] Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises less than 5 wt% water, preferably less than 4 wt%, suitably less than 3 wt%, preferably less than 2 wt%, preferably less than 1 wt% water.

[0108] Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises less than 5 wt% silicate compounds, preferably less than 4 wt%, suitably less than 3 wt%, preferably less than 2 wt%, preferably less than 1 wt% silicate compounds, for example less than 0.1 wt%.

[0109] Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention is substantially free of silicate compounds.

[0110] Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises less than 5 wt% ethoxylated compounds, preferably less than 4 wt% ethoxylated compounds.

[0111] Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises less than 5 wt% alcohols, preferably less than 4 wt%, suitably less than 3 wt%, preferably less than 2.5 wt% alcohols.Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises less than 5 wt% fatty alcohols, preferably less than 4 wt%, suitably less than 3 wt%, preferably less than 2.5 wt% fatty alcohols.

[0112] In preferred embodiments the component (b) comprises a non-ionic alkyl glucoside surfactant.

[0113] Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises less than 5 wt% anionic esters of alkyl glucoside surfactants, preferably less than 4 wt%, suitably less than 3 wt%, preferably less than 2 wt%, preferably less than 1 wt% anionic esters of alkyl glucoside surfactants.

[0114] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises less than 5 wt% glyceride ether sulfates, preferably less than 4 wt%, suitably less than 3 wt%, preferably less than 2 wt%, preferably less than 1 wt% glyceride ether sulfates, for example less than 0.1 wt%.

[0115] In preferred such embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention is substantially free of glyceride ether sulfates.

[0116] In some embodiments in which component (a) comprises one or more anionic surfactants, in the free-flowing particulate composition provided by the present invention at least 50 wt% of all surfactants present in the composition are anionic surfactants.

[0117] In such embodiments the anionic surfactants make up from 50 to 80 wt% of all surfactants present in the free-flowing particulate composition, preferably from 50 to 65 wt%, more preferably from 54 to 65 wt%.

[0118] The free-flowing particulate composition comprises (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant. The composition may optionally comprise one or more further surfactants, for example one or more cationic surfactants, one or more amphoteric surfactants or one or more nonionic surfactants (other than the hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant).

[0119] When component (a) comprises anionic surfactants, component (a) and component (b) together make up at least 90 wt%, preferably at least 95 wt%, more preferably at least 99 wt% of all surfactants present in the composition.In such embodiments hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants make up from 20 to 50 wt% of all surfactants present in the free-flowing particulate composition, preferably from 30 to 48 wt%, more preferably from 35 to 45 wt%.

[0120] The free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention preferably comprises from 50 to 70 wt% anionic compounds and from 15 to 50 wt% alkyl glucoside surfactants.

[0121] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises from 50 to 70 wt% anionic surfactants and from 30 to 50 wt% alkyl glucoside surfactants.

[0122] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition comprises from 50 to 70 wt% anionic compounds, from 5 to 30 wt% alkyl glucoside surfactants and from 5 to 20 wt% sodium chloride.

[0123] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition comprises from 50 to 70 wt% anionic surfactants, from 5 to 30 wt% alkyl glucoside surfactants and from 5 to 20 wt% sodium chloride.

[0124] Preferably the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 8:1 to 1:1, more preferably from 6:1 to 1 :1.

[0125] In some preferred embodiments the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 4:1 to 1 :1. In some embodiments the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 2.5:1 to 1 :1 , suitably from 2:1 to 1 :1 , for example from 1.8:1 to 1.1:1 or from 1.5:1 to 1.2:1.

[0126] Component (a) may comprise a mixture of two or more anionic surfactants and / or two or more aromatic sulfonate compounds and component (b) may comprise a mixture of two or more hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants. For the avoidance of doubt, the above amounts refer to the total amount of all anionic or hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants present in the composition.

[0127] In addition to component (a), component (b) and optionally inorganic salts such as sodium chloride, the free-flowing particulate composition of the previous invention may comprise amounts (typically less than 5 wt%) of one or more further components, for example chelating agents, pH adjustment agents and rheology modifiers.

[0128] In preferred embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) at least 50 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from anionicsurfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, (b) at least 10 wt% of one or more hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and up to 25 wt% sodium chloride.

[0129] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) at least 50 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, (b) at least 20 wt% of one or more hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and up to 10 wt% sodium chloride.

[0130] In preferred embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) at least 50 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, (b) at least 10 wt% of one or more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and up to 25 wt% sodium chloride.

[0131] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) at least 50 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, (b) at least 20 wt% of one or more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and up to 10 wt% sodium chloride.

[0132] In preferred embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) at least 50 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, (b) at least 10 wt% of one or more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants, up to 25 wt% sodium chloride and less than 5 wt% water, preferably less than 2 wt% water.

[0133] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) at least 50 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, (b) at least 15 wt% of one or more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and less than 5 wt% water, preferably less than 2 wt% water.

[0134] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) from 50 to 80 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, (b) from 10 to 48 wt% of one or more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and less than 2 wt% water, preferably less than 1 wt% water.

[0135] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) from 50 to 70 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, (b) from 10 to 48 wt% of oneor more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and less than 2 wt% water, preferably less than 1 wt% water.

[0136] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises from 50 to 70 wt% of (a) one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, from 10 to 48 wt% of (b) one or more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and less than 2 wt% water, wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 1:1 to 4:1, for example from 1:1 to 2.5:1.

[0137] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises from 50 to 80 wt% of (a) one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, from 10 to 48 wt% of (b) one or more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and less than 2 wt% water, wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 1:1 to 8:1 (for example from 2:1 to 6:1) and wherein component (a), component (b) and sodium chloride together provide at least 90 wt% of the free flowing particulate composition.

[0138] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises from 50 to 70 wt% of (a) one or more anionic compounds selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof, from 10 to 48 wt% of (b) one or more non-ionic hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants and less than 2 wt% water, wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 1:1 to 4:1 (for example from 1:1 to 2.5:1) and wherein component (a), component (b) and sodium chloride together provide at least 90 wt% of the free flowing particulate composition.

[0139] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises:

[0140] (a) at least 50 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from aromatic sulfonate compounds, alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, acyl isethionates, N-alkyl acyl taurates, acyl alkyl isethionates, acyl amino acids, sulfosuccinates and mixtures thereof;

[0141] (b) at least 15 wt% of one or more non-ionic alkyl glucoside surfactants; and less than 5 wt% water, preferably less than 2 wt% water.

[0142] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises (a) from 50 to 70 wt% of one or more anionic compounds selected from aromatic sulfonate compounds, alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, acyl isethionates, N-alkyl acyl taurates, acyl alkyl isethionates, acylamino acids, sulfosuccinates and mixtures thereof; (b) from 10 to 48 wt% of one or more nonionic alkyl glucoside surfactants and less than 2 wt% water, preferably less than 1 wt% water.

[0143] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises from 50 to 70 wt% of (a) one or more anionic compounds selected from aromatic sulfonate compounds, alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, acyl isethionates, N-alkyl acyl taurates, acyl alkyl isethionates, acyl amino acids, sulfosuccinates and mixtures thereof; from 10 to 48 wt% of (b) one or more nonionic alkyl glucoside surfactants and less than 2 wt% water, wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 1:1 to 4:1 , for example from 1 :1 to 2.5:1.

[0144] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises from 50 to 70 wt% of (a) one or more anionic compounds selected from aromatic sulfonate compounds, alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, acyl isethionates, N-alkyl acyl taurates, acyl alkyl isethionates, acyl amino acids, sulfosuccinates and mixtures thereof; from 10 to 48 wt% of (b) one or more nonionic alkyl glucoside surfactants and less than 2 wt% water, wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 1 :1 to 4:1 (for example from 1 :1 to 2.5:1) and wherein component (a), component (b) and sodium chloride together provide at least 90 wt% of the free flowing particulate composition.

[0145] In a particular embodiment of the invention component (a) comprises an acyl amino acid surfactant. Preferred hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactants are alkyl glucoside surfactants.

[0146] Thus the present invention may provide a free-flowing particulate composition comprising: (a) at least one acyl amino acid surfactant; and

[0147] (b) at least one alkyl glucoside surfactant;

[0148] wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1 :1.

[0149] According to this embodiment of the invention there is provided a method of preparing a free-flowing particulate composition, the method comprising:

[0150] (i) providing an aqueous solution comprising (a) at least one acyl amino acid surfactant; and (b) at least one alkyl glucoside surfactant; and

[0151] (ii) drying the composition provided in step (i);

[0152] wherein at least wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1 :1.Preferred alkyl glucoside surfactants are non-ionic alkyl glucoside surfactants. These are preferably as previously described.

[0153] Acyl amino acid surfactants are typically obtained by the reaction of an amino acid and a fatty acid of formula R9COOH.

[0154] Preferably R9is a C7 to C17 alkyl or alkenyl group or a C9 to C13 alkyl or alkenyl group, suitably an alkyl group. For example, R9may be a C11 alkyl group.

[0155] The fatty acid R9COOH may comprise a mixture of homologues and / or a mixture of isomers. Mixtures are commonly present in fatty acids obtained from natural sources such as coconut oil.

[0156] Suitable acyl amino acid surfactants include glutamates, glycinates, sarcosinates, alaninates and aspartates.

[0157] Preferred acyl amino acid surfactants are glutamates. Sodium lauroyl glutamate and Sodium cocoyl glutamate are especially preferred.

[0158] In the particular embodiment in which component (a) comprises an acyl amino acid surfactant the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is preferably from 2:1 to 8:1, more preferably from 3:1 to 6:1.

[0159] Preferably in such embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition comprises from 50 to 90 wt% acyl amino acid surfactants, more preferably from 60 to 80 wt%, for example from 65 to 75 wt%.

[0160] Preferably in such embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition comprises from 2 to 40 wt% alkyl glucoside surfactants, preferably from 5 to 30 wt%, more preferably from 10 to 22 wt%.

[0161] Such embodiments suitably further comprise sodium chloride. This may be present in an amount of from 1 to 30 wt%, for example from 5 to 20 wt% or from 10 to 17 wt%.

[0162] Suitably component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 80 wt% of the composition.

[0163] Suitably component (a), component (b) and sodium chloride together provide at least 90 wt% of the free flowing particulate composition, preferably at least 95 wt%.In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition comprises from 50 to 80 wt% acyl amino acids, from 5 to 30 wt% alkyl glucoside surfactants and from 5 to 20 wt% sodium chloride.

[0164] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention comprises from 50 to 80 wt% of (a) one or more anionic acyl amino acid surfactants; from 10 to 30 wt% of (b) one or more non-ionic alkyl glucoside surfactants; from 5 to 20 wt% sodium chloride and less than 2 wt% water, wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is from 2:1 to 8:1 (for example from 3:1 to 6:1) and wherein component (a), component (b) and sodium chloride together provide at least 90 wt% of the free flowing particulate composition.

[0165] Step (i) of the method of the second aspect of the present invention involves providing an aqueous solution comprising (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant.

[0166] The aqueous solution may be obtained by admixing an aqueous solution of at least one anionic compound with an aqueous solution of at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant.

[0167] In some embodiments the aqueous solution may be obtained by adding a solid anionic compound to an aqueous solution of at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant.

[0168] The aqueous solution provided in step (i) is preferably a concentrated solution. Preferably the composition comprises from 40 to 80 wt% water, for example from 50 to 75 wt% water.

[0169] Step (ii) of the method of the second aspect of the present invention involves drying the composition provided in step (i).

[0170] The present inventors have found that co-drying the at least one anionic compound (a) with the at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant (b) enables a dry, stable free flowing particulate composition to be obtained. It is not possible to provide such a material comprising a hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant alone.

[0171] Drying step (ii) may be carried out by any suitable technique. Such techniques will be known to the person skilled in the art.Preferably drying step (ii) is carried out at a temperature of less than 120°C, preferably less than 110°C, more preferably less than 100°C. Advantageously drying step (ii) may be carried out at a temperature of less than 95°C, preferably less than 90°C, more preferably less than 85°C, for example less than 80°C or less than 75°C.

[0172] In preferred embodiments step (ii) involves a spray granulation process.

[0173] The present invention provides a free-flowing particulate composition. The term “free-flowing” is used to refer to a material which can be easily poured. The composition does not clump and the particles do not stick together.

[0174] Preferably the present invention provides a particulate composition which maintains its free flowing form on storage for at least one month under ambient conditions.

[0175] By ambient conditions we mean to refer to storage at atmospheric pressure and a temperature of from 15 to 25°C.

[0176] Preferably the particulate composition maintains its free flowing form on storage under ambient conditions for at least 3 months, preferably at least 6 months, for example at least 12 months.

[0177] Advantageously the particulate composition of the present invention may maintain its free flowing form on storage for more than 12 months under conditions of varying temperature and humidity, for example temperatures of 5 to 40 °C and up to 65% humidity.

[0178] This is particularly advantageous since the particulate composition can be stored and transported without needing any special conditions.

[0179] Preferably the particulate composition of the present invention does not form cakes of material on storing.

[0180] The flowability of a particulate composition may be measured by assessing the degree of caking. One suitable method is described in example 2. According to this method the degree of caking is the amount of powder appearing as lumps after maintaining pressure for 1 hour with a 25kg weight and which cannot pass through a 2mm sieve.

[0181] Preferably the composition of the present invention has a degree of caking as measured by the method of example 2 of less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%, suitably less than 2% or less than 1%.The flowability of a particulate composition may be measured according to the procedure set out in example 3.

[0182] Preferably the composition of the present invention has a flowability as measured by the method of example 3 of at least 5 g / s, preferably at least 10 g / s, preferably at least 15 g / s, more preferably at least 20 g / s.

[0183] Preferably the composition of the present invention maintains a flowability after 6 months of storage as measured by the method of example 3 of at least 5 g / s, preferably at least 10 g / s, preferably at least 15 g / s, more preferably at least 20 g / s.

[0184] Preferably the composition of the present invention maintains a flowability after 24 months of storage as measured by the method of example 3 of at least 5 g / s, preferably at least 10 g / s.

[0185] The free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention is preferably in the form of a powder or granules. Preferably the composition has an average particle size of from 0.1 to 1000 microns, preferably from 10 to 5000 microns, more preferably from 50 to 1000 microns, more preferably from 100 to 800 microns.

[0186] Particle size may be measured by sieving techniques. Particle size may suitably be measured according to the method described in example 4.

[0187] The density of the free-flowing particulate composition of the present invention is preferably from 0.3 to 1.5 g / mL, preferably from 0.4 to 1.0 g / mL, for example from 0.5 to 0.8 g / mL.

[0188] The free-flowing particulate composition provided by the present invention is preferably water soluble. Suitably the free-flowing particulate composition has a solubility in water at 20°C of at least 50g / kg, preferably at least 80g / kg, for example at least 100g / kg.

[0189] Preferably a 2 wt% solution of the free-flowing particulate composition provided by the present invention has a pH from 9 to 13.

[0190] The present invention may provide a composition comprising high levels of anionic compounds and non-ionic surfactant in an easy-to-handle form. The composition can be prepared at low temperatures and the material produced is storage stable.

[0191] In some preferred embodiments the composition is prepared from predominantly renewable sources.Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition provided by the present invention has a percentage renewable carbon index (%RCI) of at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, suitably at least 98%.

[0192] Preferably the free-flowing particulate composition provided by the present invention has a percentage renewable carbon index (%RCI) of from 95 to 100%, preferably from 99 to 100%.

[0193] Renewably sourced components used in the present invention include naturally derived and synthetically prepared compounds.

[0194] Because the free-flowing particulate composition is easy to handle and store, it can be readily incorporated into a variety of different formulations. It can be easily included in both solid and liquid products.

[0195] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a formulated product comprising a free-flowing particulate composition comprising: (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant; wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1 :1.

[0196] Preferred features of the third aspect are as defined in relation to the first and second aspects.

[0197] The formulated product of the third aspect of the present invention may be useful in household cleaning, automatic dishwashing, manual dishwashing, laundry, fabric care, kitchen care, carpet cleaning, air fresheners, vehicle care, polishing products, machine cleaning and maintenance, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, oilfield chemical applications, marine applications, personal care and institutional I industrial cleaning.

[0198] In some preferred embodiments the formulated product of the third aspect is a personal care composition.

[0199] In some embodiments the formulated product is a solid personal care composition. For example the detergent formulation may be a solid shampoo bar, body wash, pre-shave formulation, soap bar, syndet bar or conditioner.

[0200] In some embodiments the formulated product is a personal care composition in the form of a paste. Suitably the paste has a viscosity of at least 10000 cP, for example at least 20000 cP at20°C. The viscosity of the formulated product may suitably be measured using a Brookfield DV-I Prime Digital Viscometer or a rheometer.

[0201] In some embodiments the formulated product is a shampoo composition.

[0202] Further components suitable for inclusion in such compositions will be known to the person skilled in the art.

[0203] In some embodiments the formulated product is a personal care composition comprising from 0.1 to 90 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect.

[0204] The formulated product may be a personal care composition comprising from 1 to 50 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect; preferably from 2 to 40 wt%, suitably from 5 to 30 wt%, for example from 10 to 20 wt%.

[0205] In some embodiments the formulated product may be a shampoo composition comprising from 1 to 50 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect; preferably from 2 to 40 wt%, suitably from 5 to 30 wt%, for example from 10 to 20 wt%.

[0206] In an especially preferred embodiment component (a) used in the free-flowing particulate composition of the shampoo composition comprises an acyl amino acid surfactant.

[0207] The formulated personal care product may comprise one or more further ingredients selected from oils and solvents, waxes, surfactants (especially amphoteric and further anionic surfactants), fragrances, pH modifiers, antioxidants and preservatives.

[0208] In some preferred embodiments the formulated product of the third aspect is a household cleaning composition.

[0209] In some embodiments the formulated product is a solid household cleaning composition. For example the detergent formulation may be a solid laundry powder or tablet, a solid dishwashing powder or tablet or a solid hard surface cleaner.

[0210] In some embodiments the formulated product is a household cleaning composition in the form of a paste. Suitably the paste has a viscosity of at least 10000 cP, for example at least 20000 cP at 20°C. The viscosity of the formulated product may suitably be measured using a Brookfield DV-I Prime Digital Viscometer.Further components suitable for inclusion in such compositions will be known to the person skilled in the art.

[0211] In some embodiments the formulated product is a household cleaning composition comprising from 0.1 to 90 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect.

[0212] The formulated product may be a household cleaning composition comprising from 1 to 50 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect; preferably from 2 to 40 wt%, suitably from 5 to 30 wt%, for example from 10 to 20 wt%.

[0213] In some embodiments the formulated product of the third aspect is a laundry detergent composition.

[0214] The laundry detergent composition of the present invention may be a solid laundry detergent composition or a liquid laundry detergent composition. In some embodiments the laundry detergent composition is in the form of a gel or paste. Preferably the laundry detergent composition is in the form of a solid. It may be in the form of a free flowing powder, a compressed powder tablet ora pouch.

[0215] In some embodiments the free flowing particulate material may be incorporated into an extruded block or tablet.

[0216] A particular advantage of the present invention is that the free-flowing particulate material can be incorporated into compressed powder tablets or pouches in a highly concentrated form.

[0217] Thus the present invention may provide laundry detergent compositions comprising in total greater than 40 wt%, preferably greater than 50 wt% active surfactants. Such “superconcentrated” laundry detergent compositions have reduced transport and packaging costs and can be packaged in environmentally friendly packaging and water soluble films.

[0218] The formulated product may be a laundry detergent composition comprising from 1 to 70 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect; preferably from 10 to 60 wt%, suitably from 20 to 55 wt%, for example from 30 to 45 wt%.

[0219] Laundry detergent compositions may comprise further additional components known to the person skilled in the art and including, for example, chelating agents, fillers, builders, bleaching agents, bleach activators, pigments, dispersants, polymeric dispersing agents, dyes, dye transfer inhibitors, fragrances, fragrance delivery systems, enzyme stabilizers, biocides, probiotics, preservatives, pH adjusting agents, phosphates, silicates, zeolites, peroxide basedcompounds (especially hydrogen peroxide, chlorine based bleaches), perborate compounds, percarbonate compounds, bleach activators and catalysts, cationic surfactants, redeposition additives, brighteners, sud suppressors, fabric softeners, anti-redeposition agents, wash performance boosting polymers, dissolution promoters and hydrotropes. As the skilled person would appreciate, the further additional components will be selected according to the particular form of the laundry detergent composition.

[0220] The method of the present invention may be used to treat any suitable surface. Suitable surfaces include but are not limited to dishes, textiles, and household surfaces. Suitable household surfaces include but are not limited to floors, kitchen surfaces and bathroom surfaces. In some embodiments, the surface is a hard surface. The hard surface is suitably a ceramic surface, a metal surface, a glass surface, or a hard plastic surface.

[0221] In some embodiments the formulated product of the third aspect is a dishwashing detergent composition.

[0222] The dishwashing detergent composition may be an automatic dishwashing composition or a manual dishwashing detergent composition.

[0223] Suitable additional components for inclusion in such compositions will be known to the person skilled in the art.

[0224] In some embodiments the formulated product of the third aspect is a manual dishwashing detergent composition.

[0225] The manual dishwashing detergent composition of the present invention may be a solid manual dishwashing detergent composition or a liquid manual dishwashing detergent composition. In some embodiments the manual dishwashing detergent composition is in the form of a gel or paste.

[0226] Preferably the manual dishwashing detergent composition is in the form of a solid. It may be in the form of a free flowing powder, a compressed powder tablet ora pouch.

[0227] In some embodiments the free flowing particulate material may be incorporated into an extruded block or tablet. In may be in the form of a bar resembling a bar of soap.

[0228] In some embodiments the formulated product may be a powdered manual dishwashing detergent composition comprising from 0.1 to 50 wt% of the free-flowing particulatecomposition of the first aspect; preferably from 0.25 to 30 wt%, suitably from 0.5 to 20 wt%, for example from 1 to 10 wt%.

[0229] In some embodiments the formulated product may be a manual dishwashing detergent composition in the form of a bar comprising from 1 to 60 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect; preferably from 5 to 50 wt%, suitably from 10 to 40 wt%, for example from 20 to 30 wt%.

[0230] In some embodiments the formulated product of the third aspect is a hard surface cleaning composition.

[0231] The hard surface cleaning composition is suitable for cleaning a ceramic surface, a metal surface, a glass surface, or a hard plastic surface. Suitable household surfaces include but are not limited to floors, kitchen surfaces and bathroom surfaces.

[0232] By “bathroom surface” we mean any surface in a bathroom, shower room, or toilet, especially a surface which comes into contact with water during the use thereof. Examples of suitable bathroom surfaces include the surfaces of toilets, bathtubs, sinks, tiles, acrylic wall panels, taps, shower heads, bath screens, shower cubicles, pipes and mirrors, preferably the surfaces of toilets, bathtubs, sinks, tiles, acrylic wall panels, taps, shower heads, bath screens, and shower cubicles.

[0233] In some embodiments, the hard surface cleaning composition is a toilet cleaning composition.

[0234] The hard surface cleaning composition of the present invention may be a solid composition or a liquid composition. In some embodiments the hard surface cleaning composition is in the form of a gel or paste.

[0235] Preferably the hard surface cleaning composition is in the form of a solid. It may be in the form of a free flowing powder, a compressed powder tablet ora pouch.

[0236] In some embodiments the free flowing particulate material may be incorporated into an extruded block or tablet.

[0237] In some embodiments the hard surface cleaning composition may be a solid toilet cleaning composition. This may be in the form of a toilet block. Suitably the toilet block is a rim block or a cistern block. The toilet block may be a compressed powder or a solid gel. The gel may be self-adhesive.The toilet block may be adapted to fit to the toilet by any suitable means. Such means will be known to the person skilled in the art.

[0238] The formulated product may be a toilet block comprising from 1 to 60 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect; preferably from 5 to 50 wt%, suitably from 10 to 40 wt%, for example from 20 to 30 wt%.

[0239] In some embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect may be incorporated into a “toilet bomb” which effervesces when thrown into a toilet. In such embodiments the free-flowing particulate composition is suitably present in an amount of 0.1 to 50 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition of the first aspect; preferably from 0.25 to 30 wt%, suitably from 0.5 to 20 wt%, for example from 1 to 10 wt%.

[0240] Other suitably ingredients for inclusion in such products will be known to the person skilled in the art.

[0241] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of a free flowing particulate composition comprising: (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant; in household cleaning (such as toilet care), manual dishwashing, automatic dishwashing, laundry, fabric care, kitchen care, carpet cleaning, vehicle care, polishing products, machine cleaning and maintenance, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, oilfield chemical applications, marine applications, personal care or institutional I industrial cleaning formulations; wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1 :1.

[0242] Preferred features of the fourth aspect are as defined in relation to the first, second and third aspects.

[0243] The invention will now be further described with reference to the following non-limiting examples.

[0244] Example 1

[0245] Compositions of the invention were prepared by admixing a 50% aqueous alkyl glucoside solution with a concentrated solution of anionic compound.Fluidised bed granulation was carried out on the resultant mixture at a temperature of 70°C to provide a free-flowing particulate material.

[0246] The process was carried out using various different alkyl glucosides and anionic surfactants, as set out in table 1 :

[0247] Table 1

[0248]

[0249] Example 2

[0250] The degree of caking of the compositions of the present invention may be tested according to the following procedure.

[0251] Compaction test on dried products

[0252] 1. Scope and principle

[0253] This method is used to evaluate the degree of caking of dry products in powder, agglomerates, granules or needles form.

[0254] The degree of caking is defined as the proportion of powder appearing as lumps after applying pressure for 1 hour with a 25kg weight and which cannot pass through a 2mm sieve.

[0255] 2. Apparatus

[0256] • Plastic resealable bag (8x10 cm)

[0257] • 25 kg weight

[0258] • 2mm Sieve

[0259] 3. Analytical Procedure.100 mL of the material to be analyzed was weighed (Wi)

[0260] The material was closed it in a resealable plastic bag of 8x 12 cm

[0261] A 25 Kg weight was placed on top of the bagged material for 1 hour

[0262] The weight of a 2 mm sieve was recorded

[0263] The bag was opened and the material poured on the 2 mm sieve

[0264] The sieve was gently shaken for 30 sec

[0265] The weight of the sieve and the quantity of product not passing through the sieve was recorded, and the initial weight of the sieve was subtracted from total weight (Wf)

[0266] 4. Plotting of the results

[0267] The compacted material percentage (%C.M.) may be calculated using the formula:

[0268] Wfx 100

[0269] %C.M.

[0270] Wj

[0271] <

[0272] >

[0273] >

[0274]

[0275] Example 3

[0276] The flowability of the compositions provided by example 1 were assessed by the method below initially, and after a storage period of 6 months.

[0277] Method for the flowability measurements of dried products

[0278] o Instruments:■ Plastic tube, e> 4 cm, volume 500mL

[0279] ■ Support apparatus for the plastic tube (with a base containing a 1 ,5cm hole and an opening / closing system)

[0280] ■ Empty container (to be placed under the instrument) ■ Scale

[0281] ■ Stopwatch

[0282] o Procedure:

[0283] ■ Insert the tube in the support apparatus and close the hole

[0284] ■ Fill the tube with the dried product to be analysed (500mL)

[0285] ■ Weigh the empty container and place it under the apparatus (Wi) ■ Open the hole and after the dried product starts to flow start the stopwatch; If the dried product is not immediately flowing, gently hit the base of the support

[0286] ■ When the dried product flow stops, stop the watch and record the time (t); if some dried product is still in the tube, after 10 seconds of not flowing, the base of the apparatus can be gently hit to help the flowing. If after 3 attempts the majority of the solid is still in the tube, the dried product is not flowable

[0287] ■ Weigh the container (Wf)

[0288] ■ The flowability will be measured using the formula:

[0289] Flowability

[0290]

[0291] Example 4

[0292] The average particle size of the compositions of the present invention may be determined according to the following method which is used to evaluate the granulometry of the solid material in a powder, agglomerate, granular or needle form.

[0293] Apparatus:

[0294] - Sieves at different mesh size:

[0295] Plate, 75pm, 125pm, 250pm, 500pm, 1000 pm

[0296] - Vibrating screen with a timer

[0297] - Weight scale

[0298] Analytical Procedure:- Take the sieves and weigh each of them

[0299] - Stack the sieves starting from the one with smallest mesh and increasing the size. - Pour approx. 100 g of the dry product on the top sieve.

[0300] - Place the sieves on the vibrating screen, cover with a lid and vibrate for 60 seconds. - Weigh each sieve again and record the data.

[0301] - Subtract the weight of each sieve from the final weight of the sieves containing the powder.

[0302] The results can be normalized and plotted on a chart to illustrate the particle size distribution.

[0303] Example 5

[0304] The final properties of compositions A to G are set out in table 6 below. The pH was recorded fora 2 wt% solution of the composition.

[0305] Table 2

[0306] > > > > > > >

[0307]

[0308]

[0309] ‘inorganics, unreacted materials and impurities

[0310] Example 6

[0311] Two shampoo formulations were prepared comprising composition G and having the components and properties listed in table 3.

[0312] Table 3

[0313]

[0314] The viscosity of the compositions was measured using a Brookfield DV-I Prime Digital Viscometer at room at temperature (20°C).

[0315] Example 7

[0316] Shampoo formulations 1 and 2 were evaluated and compared with a commercial shampoo formulation (3) comprising sodium cocoyl isethionate and sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate.The shear rate viscosities of shampoo formulations 1 and 2 and the comparative commercial formulation 3 were recorded using an Anton Paar rheometer (MCR 302), operated in linear shear rate sweep at 20°C and using 40 mm parallel plate. Figure 1 shows the flow curves for each of the samples.

[0317] All the formulations were shear thinning.

[0318] Example 8

[0319] Hardness of the three shampoo formulations was measured using a Texture Analyser (Stable Micro Systems, UK) equipped with a 1” spherical stainless steel probe. Test mode used: compression with test speed 2 mm / s, target mode: distance, trigger type: Force, trigger force: 2.5g. The shampoo formulations were stored at 20°C for 1 hour prior to the measurements. The results are in table 4.

[0320] Table 4

[0321]

[0322] Example 9

[0323] The foam quality of shampoo formulations 2 and 3 was evaluated visually by 2 volunteers. The volunteers first washed their hands for 30 seconds with 2 mL of a formulation containing: 2.6wt% sodium laureth sulfate, 0.26% Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, 0.5wt% Sodium Benzoate, 1wt% Phenoxyethanol and water.

[0324] After the initial washing step 0.5 g of each formulation was placed on wet hands and the volunteers washed their hands for 30 seconds before a photograph was taken. These photographs are shown in Figure 2.

[0325] Shampoo formulation 2 had similar desirable foaming properties to the commercial formulation 3.

[0326] Example 10

[0327] Compositions of the invention were prepared by admixing an aqueous solution of alkyl glucoside comprising 50% solid material with a concentrated solution of anionic compound.Fluidised bed granulation was carried out on the resultant mixture at a temperature of 70°C to provide a free-flowing particulate material.

[0328] The process was carried out using various different alkyl glucosides and anionic surfactants, as set out in table 5:

[0329] Table 5

[0330]

[0331] The final properties of compositions H to M are set out in table 6 below. The pH was recorded fora 2 wt% solution of the composition.

[0332] The methods used to measure the properties are as set out in examples 2, 3 and 4.

[0333] Table 6

[0334] > > > > > >

[0335]

[0336] "inorganics, unreacted materials and impuritiesExample 11

[0337] Laundry formulations were prepared comprising free flowing particulate compositions E and L and having the further components and properties listed in table 7.

[0338] The compositions were prepared using a powder blender at room temperature.

[0339] Table 7

[0340]

[0341] 1Methylglycinediacetic acid (87% active)

[0342] 2Cocoamidopropyl betaine

[0343] inorganics, residual waterThe laundry washing performance of the laundry compositions of table 7 and comparative example compositions was assessed using a Linitest procedure as described below on a panel of different stain types. The comparative composition used as a Benchmark was a vegetable based laundry powder (ROWE “Buntwashmittel” Florenz).

[0344] This Linitest procedure evaluates the ability of detergent formulations to remove applied soils from fabrics. Soiled fabric swatches are washed in a laboratory washer (Linitest, SDL Atlas) under specific conditions of temperature, detergent solution, washing time and water hardness. The Linitest machine rotates closed cannisters (8 x 500 mL) in a thermostatically controlled water bath at 40 ± 2 RPM.

[0345] The washing conditions for the washing tests used for the example compositions were as shown in Table 8. For the Benchmark test the dosage was 8g / L.

[0346] Table 8

[0347]

[0348] For each run, four of the same type of swatches were placed in each closed cannister within the Linitest washer. The swatches were each 6 cm x 6 cm in size and simulate different types of fabrics and soil stains. The swatches are commercially available from CFT Center for Test Materials (Vlaardingen, Netherlands).

[0349] After the washing cycle, the washes liquors were emptied and the swatches rinsed under running cold tap water, then dried on a clothes line within a fume hood (in the dark and with the fume hood airflow switched on).

[0350] The effectiveness of the test detergent against a given type of swatch (e.g. specific fabric and stain type) was assessed by reflectometry. A Datacolor400 high performance, reflectance only bench top spectrophotometer was used. The spectrophotometer had a D65 light source and a UV cut-off filter (400 nm). Reflectance measurements were taken by the spectrophotometerusing the Y-value of the Y, x, y colour coordinates measurement (according to AISE protocol standard for laundry washing tests).

[0351] Measurements were taken of the soiled swatch before the wash and of the cleaned swatch after the wash. The measurements were taken with each swatch in a defined set of different positions and an average value used to generate the results. The results discussed herein were generated by averaging the measurements (before and after the wash) for the four swatches used in each test. The following formula was used to calculate detergency as the percentage change in reflectance, compared to the initial reflectance before the washing cycle.

[0352] Detergency = 100 x (Fb - Ri)

[0353] Ri

[0354] where:

[0355] Ri = reflectance of soiled cloth before wash

[0356] R2 = reflectance of soiled cloth after wash

[0357] A positive value for the above detergency calculation means that the swatch material has become more reflective after washing. This signifies that the stain has been removed or partially removed from the swatch by the detergent composition during the test.

[0358] The results of these tests for each swatch / stain type are given in Table 9 below and in the bar chart of Figure 3 (which shows the data provided in Table 9).

[0359] Table 9

[0360]

[0361] This data demonstrates the good performance of the inventive laundry detergents even when used at a much lower dose (2g / L) than the benchmark (8g / L).Example 12

[0362] An effervescent toilet cleaning composition was prepared by combining the ingredients listed in table 10 at room temperature using a powder blender.

[0363] Table 10

[0364]

[0365] 1Cocoamidopropyl betaine

[0366] Example 13

[0367] A bar of manual dishwashing detergent was prepared by mixing the ingredients listed in table 11 until a homogeneous dough was obtained. The dough was extruded in a single screw plodder into a cylinder shape. Bars were obtained by cutting the extruded cylinder shape. The bars can also be pressed in a typical soap bar shape using a mold.

[0368] Table 11

[0369]

[0370]

[0371] Example 14

[0372] A toilet rim block was prepared by mixing the ingredients listed in table 12 until a homogeneous dough was obtained. The dough was extruded in a single screw plodder into a cylinder shape. Blocks were obtained by cutting the cylinder.

[0373] Table 12

[0374]

[0375]

[0376] Example 15

[0377] Hand dishwashing powders were prepared by mixing the ingredients listed in table 13 until homogeneous. All were in the form of free flowing powders.

[0378] Table 13

[0379]

[0380]

[0381] Example 17

[0382] Hard surface cleaners were prepared by mixing the ingredients listed in table 14 until homogeneous and then submitting the mixture to a tableting machine which presses the composition at ca. 0.5-1 Ton to obtain a tablet.

[0383] Table 14

[0384]

Claims

1. 42Claims1. A free-flowing particulate composition comprising:(a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and(b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant;wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1 :1.

2. A method of preparing a free-flowing particulate composition, the method comprising:(i) providing an aqueous solution comprising (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant; and(ii) drying the composition provided in step (i);wherein at least wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1 :1.

3. A composition or method according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein component (a) comprises ones or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl or alkenyl sulfates, alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, acyl taurates, acyl isethionates, N-alkyl acyl taurates, acyl alkyl isethionates, acyl amino acids (especially sarcosinates and glutamates) and sulfosuccinates.

4. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein component (a) comprises one or more anionic surfactants selected from alkyl sulfates and alpha-olefin sulfonates.

5. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein component (a) comprises an aromatic sulfonate compound.

6. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein component (a) comprises an acyl amino acid surfactant.

7. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein component (a) has a percentage renewable carbon index (%RCI) of at least 80%.

8. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein component (b) comprises an alkyl glucoside surfactant.

439. A composition according to claim 8 wherein component (b) comprises a non-ionic alkyl glucoside surfactant.

10. A composition or method according to any preceding claim component (a) and component (b) together may provide at least 90 wt% of the free-flowing particulate composition.

11. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein the free-flowing particulate composition comprises less than 2 wt% water, preferably less than 1 wt% water.

12. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein component (a) comprises one or more anionic surfactants and anionic surfactants make up from 50 to 70 wt% of all surfactants present in the free-flowing particulate composition.

13. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein component (a) comprises one or more anionic surfactants and component (a) and component (b) together make up at least 95 wt% of all surfactants present in the composition.

14. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein the weight of component (a) to component (b) is from 1:1 to 4:1 , preferably from 1 :1 to 2.5:1.

15. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein component (a), component (b) and sodium chloride together provide at least 90 wt% of the free flowing particulate composition.

16. A composition or method according to any preceding claim wherein the free-flowing particulate composition has a percentage renewable carbon index (%RCI) of at least 90%.

17. A formulated product comprising a free-flowing particulate composition comprising (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant; wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1:1.

18. The use of a free flowing particulate composition comprising: (a) at least one anionic compound selected from anionic surfactants, aromatic sulfonate compounds and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one hydrocarbyl saccharide surfactant; in household cleaning (such as toilet care), manual dishwashing, automatic dishwashing, laundry, fabric care, kitchen care, carpet cleaning, vehicle care, polishing products, machine cleaning and maintenance,44pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, oilfield chemical applications, marine applications, personal care or institutional I industrial cleaning formulations; wherein component (a) and component (b) together provide at least 75 wt% of the composition and wherein the weight ratio of component (a) to component (b) is at least 1 :1.

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