BRPI0914430B1 - Cleaning composition - Google Patents

Abstract

CLEANING COMPOSITION A cleaning composition according to one embodiment includes a surfactant system comprising a nonionic surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant; water present in an amount of 0 to about 40% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol, the solvent system being present in an amount effective to solubilize the surfactant system in water; and an enzyme present in an amount less than about 15% by weight, with the cleaning composition being in a continuous phase form; wherein the cleaning composition is characterized as exhibiting a constant cleaning effectiveness when measured using an ASTM D4255 test procedure, when the cleaning composition is added to 69 liters of outdoor water in amounts ranging from 9 to about 22 grams of cleaning composition. cleaning. Methods for pre-treating and washing clothing and non-textile surfaces are also presented

Description

Background

[001] The present invention relates to liquid cleaning compositions.

[002] Liquid cleaning compositions are used more widely than non-liquid cleaning compositions, such as granules, pastes, gels, and ground particles (“mulls”).

[003] Consumers prefer liquid cleaning compositions for convenience and appearance. Liquid cleaning compositions are easily measurable, readily dissolved in water, and capable of being applied to heavily colored areas in concentrated pre-treatment solutions. Furthermore, a clear or opaque liquid with a particular color is more aesthetically appealing to consumers. Additionally, liquid cleaning compositions can incorporate many performance-enhancing ingredients that cannot withstand dry operation while eliminating certain environmentally hazardous ingredients, such as phosphate generators.

[004] However, liquid cleaning compositions contain undesirable large percentages of water, which increases the cost of packaging and transportation due to the use of more energy and effort in handling. Furthermore, conventional liquid cleaning compositions perform mediocre or poorly in cold and hot water or without agitation. The heat and agitation during washing not only consumes a lot of energy, but also increases wear and damage to substrates, especially fabrics.

[005] Thus, there is still a strong need for a liquid cleaning composition that is effective even though packaged in a concentrated form. There is also a strong need and it is not appropriate to use a drinking liquid that has improved performance in cold or hot water. Furthermore, there is also a need for a liquid composition that is more environmentally appropriate.

[006] There is also a strong and unsatisfactory need for a liquid cleaning composition that can be easily dispensed by a small hand pump dispenser. The prior attempt to provide a pumpable detergent generally used in a “compartment type” dispenser, in a very large reservoir (due to a large amount of detergent required per wash load), making the container completely covered, heavy (when full ), and generally difficult to handle. Furthermore, prior art formulations have been designed to have a high viscosity for several reasons including: providing the appearance of a high concentration of actives, less product output if the bottle tip comes off, and providing the appearance that the product will stick. better to the surface to be cleaned. However, the higher viscosity would produce a product that is more difficult to pump. This fact alone may be the reason why hand-pumped laundry detergent containers are not currently available on the markets.

Summary of the invention

[007] A cleaning composition according to one embodiment includes a surfactant system comprising a nonionic surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant; water present in an amount of 0 to about 40% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol, the solvent system being present in an amount effective to solubilize the surfactant system in water; and an enzyme present in an amount less than about 15% by weight; wherein the cleaning composition is in continuous phase form, wherein the cleaning composition is characterized as exhibiting about constant cleaning effectiveness when measured using the ASTM D4265 test procedure when the cleaning composition is added to 69 liters of water external in amounts ranging from about 9 to about 22 grams of the cleaning composition.

[008] A cleaning composition according to another configuration includes a surfactant system selected from the group consisting of a non-ionic surfactant; an anionic surfactant or an amphoteric surfactant; a non-ionic surfactant in combination with an anionic polymer or an amphoteric polymer with dispersing properties; an amphoteric surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant; an anionic or amphoteric surfactant in combination with an anionic or amphoteric polymer with dispersing property; and combinations thereof; a solvent system comprising a humectant; and optionally water, present in an amount of 0 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; wherein the cleaning composition is in the form of a continuous phase; with the following prediction: (a) when the surfactant system contains a nonionic surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant, the weight ratio of the nonionic surfactant to the anionic surfactant is from about 1:1 to about 4 :1, and water is present in an amount of from about 10 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; and (b) the cleaning composition being characterized by having about a constant cleaning effectiveness when measured using the ASTM D4265 test procedure, when the cleaning composition is added to 69 liters of outdoor water in amounts ranging from about 9 to about 22 grams of cleaning composition.

[009] Methods for pre-treatment and washing clothes and non-textile surfaces are also presented.

[010] Other aspects and configurations of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, which, when taken in conjunction with the drawings, is given by way of illustrating the principles of the invention.

Brief description of the drawings

[011] Figure 1 illustrates a graph showing the non-linear relationship between the dosage concentration of the present cleaning composition and cleaning performance;

[012] Figure 2 illustrates a graph showing the stain removal performance of a cleaning composition according to one configuration in relation to a variety of dosage amounts for a variety of stains;

[013] Figure 3 illustrates a graph showing the trends of the lines applied to some data in Figure 1;

[014] Figure 4 illustrates a graph showing a comparative example of the cleaning effectiveness of a cleaning composition according to a TIDE 2X configuration for a variety of stains;

[015] Figure 5 illustrates a graph demonstrating a comparative example in which 12.5 grams of an experimental cleaning composition according to one configuration were used, but 60 grams of TIDE 2X were used;

[016] Figure 6 illustrates a graph of the results of pretreatment using the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and pretreatment using TIDE 2X;

[017] Figure 7 illustrates a graph demonstrating the relative non-linear relationship between dosage and cleaning effectiveness for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration;

[018] Figure 8 illustrates a graphical representation demonstrating the relationship between dosage and cleaning effectiveness for TIDE 2X under identical conditions when used to produce the data in Figure 7;

[019] Figure 9 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for blood, milk and carbon on cotton, with pretreatment;

[020] Figure 10 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for carbon black in olive oil on both cotton (designated by -C in the legend) and cotton-polyester textile (designated as -CP in the legend), with pre-treatment;

[021] Figure 11 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for tallow powder on both cotton and cotton polyester textiles, with pre- treatment;

[022] Figure 12 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for grass on both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles, with pre- treatment;

[023] Figure 13 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for clay on both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles, with pre- treatment;

[024] Figure 14 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for painting both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles with pretreatment ;

[025] Figure 15 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for tomato on both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles, with pre- treatment;

[026] Figure 16 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for blood, milk and carbon on cotton, using a “standard dose” of 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load;

[027] Figure 17 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical cleaning conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for carbon black in olive oil on both textiles, cotton and cotton-polyester, using 12.5 grams of the experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load;

[028] Figure 18 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for tallow powder on both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles, using 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load;

[029] Figure 19 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for grass on both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles, using 12, 5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load;

[030] Figure 20 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a clay-based configuration and TIDE 2X on both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles, using 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load;

[031] Figure 21 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for painting both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles using 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load; It is

[032] Figure 22 illustrates a comparative graphical representation of cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition according to a configuration and TIDE 2X for tomato on both cotton and cotton-polyester textiles, using 12, 5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load.

Detailed description of the invention

[033] The following description is made for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the present invention and does not mean the limit of the inventive concept claimed here. Additionally, the particular features described herein may be used in combination with other features described in each of several possible combinations and modifications.

[034] Unless otherwise indicated, or specifically defined here, all terms should be taken in their broadest possible interpretations, including the meaning implied by the specification, as well as the meaning understood by those skilled in the art and/or as defined in dictionaries, research, etc.

[035] It should be noted that, when used in the specification and the attached claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” includes reference to the plural unless otherwise specified.

[036] The terms “or” and “and/or” used in terms of the word to indicate that two words or expressions are taken together or individually. The terms “comprising”, “having”, “including”, and “containing” are constructed as opening and closing terms (i.e., meaning ““including” but not limited to”). The extreme points of all ranges directed to the same component or property are inclusively and independently combinable.

[037] As will become apparent, various configurations of the present cleaning composition have surprisingly provided excellent cleaning effectiveness with lower active doses of the cleaning ingredients, for example, less than about 22 grams of the cleaning composition per 69 liters of water. wash water (referred to here as “external water”). Also surprisingly, the cleaning effectiveness of some configurations is relatively positive, across a range of concentrations. These results were not expected. Furthermore, cleaning efficacy would not be expected at the dosages described here. Furthermore, cleaning effectiveness would be expected to change significantly with increasing concentration of cleaning ingredients, as observed in compositions currently on the market.

[038] In addition, the inventors surprisingly and unexpectedly discovered that some configurations of the present invention had a low viscosity, when a higher viscosity at the described concentrations would be expected.

[039] Thus, configurations of cleaning compositions presenting the unexpected results provide several advantages over known compositions including, but not limited to the ability to create an effective cleaning composition in a highly concentrated form (e.g., 4X, preferably 5X , more preferably 6X), thus minimizing packaging requirements and energy consumption for packaging and transportation; fewer active ingredients are required per washing load, reducing the cost of products, as well as minimizing the amount of cleaning active ingredients added to pipe and septic tank systems and the environment; less packaging for recycling or addition to landfills, etc. Furthermore, the low viscosity of some configurations accompanied with the requirement of low dosages capable of dispersion by pumping said configurations of the present cleaning composition.

[040] Figure 1 shows the cleaning effectiveness of an illustrative cleaning composition according to one configuration in terms of percentage of stain removal as a function of grams of cleaning composition added to 69 liters of water, which is the amount of water used by a typical standard washing machine for a standard load. Stain removal percentage is determined in accordance with ASTM D4265 “Standard Guide for Evaluating Stain Removal Performance in Home Laundering” using a colorimeter that measures in spaces L, a, b, and calculates in spaces X, Y, Z by “ National Bureau of Standards.” The Y value used for the calculation is as follows> Average stain/dirt removal percentage = (final Y reading average - initial Y reading average) X 100/ (99.9 - initial reading average).

[041] Figure 1 is representative of what was observed in some configurations of the cleaning compositions described here. As indicated by Figure 1, there is no linear relationship between the concentration and/or dosage amount of some configurations of the present cleaning composition and stain removal performance. Particularly, as shown in Figure 1, the cleaning effectiveness of the illustrative cleaning compositions is substantially positive (e.g., stain removal becomes no more than 10%, preferably 5% on the y-axis) across a range of dosages, and on a variety of dirt and stains.

[042] In addition, the excellent cleaning performance of configurations of the present composition can be maintained with minimal agitation or heat. As noted above, cleaning effectiveness would be expected to vary significantly with an increased concentration of cleaning ingredients, as is observed in compositions currently on the market. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is surprisingly believed that a positive response as depicted in Figure 1 is probably indicative of: (1) strong surface adsorption to clothing and dirt or stains shortly after introduction of the cleaning composition to the surface. washing water; (2) after direct interaction with the stain or dirt; and (3) finally culminate in dilution with water. This is a very different mechanism than that typically observed from detergent compositions currently in use. Said existing detergent compositions: (1) apply water first; (2) contacting the surface of clothing and dirt or stains by agitation/impact; (3) breaking down the mycelium for application; (4) mycelia interacting directly with dirt or stains; and (5) finally culminate in dilution with water.

[043] Consequently, when compared to conventional cleaning compositions, the present composition has improved cleaning performance with smaller amounts of detergents and with moderate or no agitation and/or heating during use. Since the present cleaning composition does not contain excessive amounts of water as conventional compositions do, it is more efficient, in terms of time and energy consumption, to package, transport, and use the present cleaning composition. Furthermore, less agitation and heating during cleaning reduces energy consumption as well as accompanying substrate damage, for example damage to clothes being cleaned. Additionally, since cleaning effectiveness is positive depending on varying concentrations, a smaller amount of active ingredients is required per load, i.e., less of the cleaning composition is required to be added per load in the washing machine.

[044] Configurations generally demonstrating the foregoing unexpected results include a surfactant system comprising a nonionic surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant; water present in an amount of 0 to about 40% by weight (where “about X% by weight means “X + 3% by weight”), based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol, the solvent system being present in an amount effective to solubilize the surfactant system in water; and an enzyme present in an amount less than about 15% by weight. The cleaning composition is preferably in the form of a continuous phase. Furthermore, the cleaning composition is characterized by having about a constant cleaning effectiveness (i.e., not varying more than about 10% by weight between higher and lower values due to variation when the cleaning effectiveness is measured in terms of % stain removal (e.g., higher or lower values are 40% and 50%, respectively), more preferably not varying by more than about 5%) when measured using the test procedure of ASTM D4265 when the cleaning composition is added to 69 liters of outdoor water in amounts ranging from about 9 to about 22 grams of cleaning composition, and about 9 to about 18 grams (where “about X grams” means “X + 1 gram”) of cleaning composition.

[045] In one embodiment, the present composition has the same or similar performance with a dosage amount that is half that of a conventional cleaning composition such as TIDE 2X liquid laundry detergent sold by Procter & Gamble . In one embodiment, the present composition has the same or similar performance with the dosage amount being one-third that of a conventional cleaning composition. In one embodiment, the present composition has the same or conventional cleaning performance with a dosage amount that is one-fifth that of a conventional cleaning composition. In one embodiment, the present composition has the same or similar cleaning performance with a dosage amount that is one-sixth that of a conventional cleaning composition.

[046] In one embodiment, the present invention includes a cleaning composition comprising a surfactant system; a solvent system; and optionally water; wherein the cleaning composition is in the form of a continuous phase, and water is present in an amount of 0 to about 55% by weight (e.g., 55 + 2% by weight) based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. cleaning. The surfactant system comprises a nonionic surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant. The solvent system is present in an amount effective to solubilize the surfactant system in water (if present), that is, the solvent system is present in an amount effective to drive the surfactant system through its gel phase and to solubilize in water . The term “continuous phase” denotes a liquid in which a dispersant system or a cleaning system (e.g., a surfactant system) is suspended. The term “liquid” includes solution, suspension, dispersion, emulsion, and the like. Preferably, the continuous phase is an oil-in-water emulsion, i.e., an “inverse emulsion”. In a preferred embodiment, water is present in an amount of about 5 to about 50% by weight. A particularly preferred solvent system comprises a polyalcohol.

[047] In one embodiment, the present invention includes a cleaning composition comprising a surfactant system; a solvent system; and optionally water; wherein the cleaning composition is in the form of a continuous phase, and water is present in an amount of 0 to about 55% by weight (e.g., 55 + 2% by weight) based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. cleaning. In a preferred embodiment, water is present in an amount of about 5 to about 50% by weight. The surfactant system is selected from the group consisting of a non-ionic surfactant; an amphoteric surfactant; a nonionic surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant; an anionic surfactant in combination with an anionic polymer with dispersing properties; an amphoteric surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant; an amphoteric surfactant in combination with an anionic polymer with dispersing properties; and combinations thereof. The solvent system comprises a polyalcohol. Preferably, the continuous phase is a water-in-oil emulsion, i.e., an “inverse emulsion”.

[048] It is preferred that when the surfactant system contains a nonionic surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant, the weight ratio of the nonionic surfactant to the anionic surfactant is from about 1:1 to about 4:1; and water is present in an amount of from about 10 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. It is also preferred that when the surfactant system contains an amphoteric surfactant and does not contain any anionic surfactant or anionic polymer with dispersant property, the external pH for the cleaning composition is about 7 to about 12. It is also preferred that when the surfactant system contains an amphoteric surfactant in combination with an anionic surfactant or an anionic polymer with dispersant property, the external pH for the cleaning composition is about 7 to about 12. The “external pH” refers to the pH of the water to which the cleaning composition is added, for example in a consumer washing machine.

[049] The cleaning performance of some configurations of the present cleaning composition can be adjusted to intend the use of water content and solvent system modulators. In certain examples, the surfactant molecules of the present composition either form “inverted mycelium” or do not aggregate to form any mycelium at all. By “inverted mycelium”, should be understood a type of mycelium in water in oil with the lipophilic region of the points outside the surfactant molecule, while the hydrophilic region of the points of the surfactant molecule in relation to the center of the mycelium and are in contact with water . During the cleaning process, the active ingredients in the present composition reach the surface to be cleaned very quickly with minimal dilution, or without the dilution step.

[050] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning composition comprises a nonionic surfactant; an anionic surfactant; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol; and water; wherein the weight ratio of nonionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is about 1 to about 4, and water is present in an amount of about 10 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the composition of cleaning. In another configuration, water is present in an amount of about 10 to about 45% by weight. In another configuration, water is present in an amount of about 15 to about 40% by weight. In another configuration, water is present in an amount of about 20 to about 35% by weight.

[051] As used herein, “water” refers to “total water”, which means including all water molecules that can move freely around the cleaning composition, i.e. “water free” and water molecules that move or activate that is substantially weakened or reduced by its interaction with other ingredients. In other words, free water refers to the portion of total water available to behave like water in solubilization (solvent action) or in hydrolysis. The present cleaning composition has a very low free water concentration, i.e., a very low water activity, due to much or all of the total water being removed or “locked” by the surfactant system and the solvent system. Thus, in some fittings having substantially no free water, when a water-soluble capsule is used to encapsulate the cleaning composition, said capsule would not be dissolved by the composition of the present invention due to its low water activity. Low water activity also favors the application of surfactants to surfaces for stain removal when the present cleaning composition is diluted by a large amount of water during use. Although the water activity is very low in the cleaning composition of the present invention, the total water content is preferably maintained at an appropriate level to avoid potential problems. For example, when the total water content is extremely low, moisture from the medium can diffuse into the cleaning composition through the water-soluble film, thereby undermining the integrity of the product. Additionally, the total water content may need to be at a certain level to dissolve or stabilize some water-soluble builders and surfactants, such as anionic surfactants.

[052] In another configuration, the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is from about 1.25:1 to about 3.50:1. In another configuration, the weight ratio of nonionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is from about 1.40:1 to about 3.25:1. In another embodiment, the weight ratio of nonionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is from about 1.50:1 to about 2.75:1. In another configuration, the weight ratio of nonionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is about 2:1.

[053] In another configuration, the anionic surfactant can be partially or entirely replaced with an anionic polymer with dispersing properties. That is, in one configuration the cleaning composition comprises a nonionic surfactant; a mixture of an anionic surfactant and an anionic polymer with dispersing properties; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol; and water. Preferably, the weight ratio of nonionic surfactant to the mixture of anionic surfactant and anionic polymer with dispersing property is about 1 to about 4, and water is present in an amount of about 5 to about 55% in weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another embodiment, the cleaning composition comprises a non-ionic surfactant; an anionic polymer with dispersing properties; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol; and water. Preferably, the weight ratio of nonionic surfactant to anionic polymer with dispersing property is about 1 to about 4, and water is present in an amount of about 5 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight. of the cleaning composition. When used together with a mixture, the anionic surfactant and the anionic polymer with dispersing properties can be in any weight or molar proportion.

[054] In yet another configuration, the cleaning composition does not contain an anionic surfactant or an anionic polymer with dispersing properties. That is, the cleaning composition comprises a nonionic surfactant; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol; and water. Preferably, water is present in an amount of about 5 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[055] In yet another configuration, the non-ionic surfactant can be replaced partially or entirely with an amphoteric surfactant. That is, in one configuration, the cleaning composition comprises an amphoteric surfactant; an anionic surfactant, an anionic polymer with dispersing properties; or a mixture of these; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol; and water. Preferably, water is present in an amount of about 5 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another embodiment, the cleaning composition comprises a mixture of a nonionic surfactant and an amphoteric surfactant; an anionic surfactant, an anionic polymer with dispersing properties, or a mixture thereof; a solvent system comprising a polyalcohol; and water. Preferably, water is present in an amount of about 5 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. When used together as a mixture, the nonionic surfactant and the amphoteric surfactant can be in any weight ratio or molar ratio. When used together as a mixture, the anionic surfactant and the anionic polymer with dispersant property can be in any molar ratio or weight ratio. It is also preferred that the weight ratio of the nonionic surfactant, the amphoteric surfactant, or a mixture thereof, to the anionic surfactant, the anionic polymer with dispersing property, or a mixture thereof is from about 1 to about 4.

[056] By “non-ionic surfactants” we mean surfactants that do not contain any ionic group. Examples of suitable nonionic surfactants include ethoxylated alcohols including poly(alkylethylene) oxide and poly(propylene) oxide, a.k.a. Polyoxamers or Polyoxamines; alkyl polyglucosides, for example, dodecyl glucoside, octyl glucoside, and docyl matoside; fatty alcohols, for example), cetyl alcohol and oleyl alcohol; cocamid MEA; cocamide DEA; polysorbates, e.g., Tween 20, Tween 80, and dodecyl-dimethylamine oxide.

[057] In one configuration, the non-ionic surfactants include an ethoxylated alcohol including ethoxylated fatty alcohol. In another configuration, the ethoxylated alcohol has the formula: R1(OC2H4)nOH, where R1 is a hydrocarbon group, and n is an integer from 2 to 12. Preferably, n is an integer from 3 to 9. The term “hydrocarbon” means an organic compound containing only carbon and hydrogen. In one configuration, the hydrocarbon group is an aliphatic group. By “aliphatic” we mean a hydrocarbon having carbon atoms linked together in open chains. Examples of aliphatic groups include, but are not limited to, alkyl, alkenyl, and alkynyl groups. In one configuration, R1 is an aliphatic group having from 6 to 22 carbon atoms. In another configuration, R1 is an alkyl group having 8 to 20 carbon atoms.

[058] In another configuration, the non-ionic surfactants include an ethoxylated fatty acid ester. The fatty acid preferably has 8 to 18 carbon atoms with 10 to 14 carbon atoms being more preferred. Examples of ethoxylated fatty acid ester include ethoxylated fatty acid methyl ester, such as ethoxylated coconut methyl ester and ethoxylated palm methyl ester.

[059] In one configuration, the nonionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 10 to about 60% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another configuration, the nonionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 12.5 to about 55% by weight. In another configuration, the nonionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 15 to about 50% by weight. In another configuration, the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 17.5 to about 45% by weight. In another configuration, the nonionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 20 to about 40% by weight. In another configuration, the nonionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 25 to about 35% by weight.

[060] By “anionic surfactants” should be understood surfactants containing one or more anionic groups and having net negative charges. Illustrative anionic surfactants may be based on sulfate, sulfonate or carboxylate anions, examples of which include, but are not limited to, perfluorooctanoate (PFOA or PFO), perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS); sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), ammonium lauryl sulfate, and other alkyl sulfate salts; sodium laureth sulfate; also known as sodium tauryl ether sulfate (SLES); alkyl benzene sulfonate; and fatty acid salts.

[061] In another configuration, the anionic surfactant is a sulfonate salt and/or a sulfate salt, each of which independently contains an organic radical having from 6 to 22 carbon atoms. In one configuration, the organic radical is selected from the group consisting of a fatty acid group or a salt thereof; an ester of a fatty acid group, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, an alkyl ether group, an alkenyl ether group, and a mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the sulfonate salt and/or sulfate salt is independently an alkali metal salt, such as a sodium salt, such as sodium salt, or an ammonium salt or amine salt.

[062] Anionic surfactants may also include water-soluble salts of higher fatty acids, i.e., “soap”, are anionic surfactants useful in the compositions described here. This includes alkali metal soaps such as sodium salts, potassium salts, ammonium salts, and higher fatty acid alkyl ammonium salts containing from about 8 to about 24 carbon atoms, and preferably about 12. to about 18 carbon atoms. Soaps can be made by direct saponification of fatty acids and oils or by neutralization of free fatty acids. Particularly useful are the sodium or potassium salts of mixtures of fatty acids derived from coconut oil and tallow, i.e. sodium or potassium tallow and coconut soap.

[063] Additional non-soap anionic surfactants that are suitable for use herein include water-soluble salts, preferably alkali metal, and ammonium salts, of organic sulfur reaction products having in their molecular structure an alkyl group containing from about 10 to about 20 carbon atoms and the sulfonic acid or sulfuric acid ester group. (Included in the term “alkyl” is an alkyl portion of the acyl groups). Examples of these groups of surfactants are: (a) alkyl ammonium sulfates and sodium sulfates and potassium sulfate, especially those obtained by sulfation of higher alcohols (C8-C18 carbon atoms) such as those produced by reduction of glycerides of tallow or coconut oil; (b) alkyl ammonium, sodium, and potassium polyethoxylated sulfates, particularly those in which the alkyl group contains from 10 to 22, preferably from 12 to 18, carbon atoms, and where the polyethoxylated chains contain from 1 to 15, preferably, from 1 to 6 ethoxylated moieties; and (c) sodium and potassium alkyl benzene sulfonates in which the alkyl group contains from about 9 to about 15 carbon atoms, in a straight-chain or branched-chain configuration, e.g., those of the type described in US Patent Nos.: US 2,220,099 and US 2,471,383. Also useful are straight-chain alkyl benzene sulfonates in which the average number of carbon atoms in the alkyl group is about 11 to 13, abbreviated as LAS C11-C13.

[064] In one configuration, the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 5 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another configuration, the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 6 to about 50% by weight. In another configuration, the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 7 to about 45% by weight. In another configuration, the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 8 to about 40% by weight. In another configuration, the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 10 to about 35% by weight. In another configuration, the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 12 to about 30% by weight. In another configuration, the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 13 to about 20% by weight.

[065] The term “an anionic polymer with dispersing property” means a polymer that contains an anionic group and has the property of preventing redeposition of stains or dirt detached from the surface being cleaned, and also preventing flocculation of stain or dirt particles into large, precipitated aggregates and thereby keeping the particles suspended in a working solution. Examples of the anionic polymer with dispersion properties are selected from the group consisting of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), salts of polyaspartic acid, and salts of polyacrylic acid and/or maleic acid.

[066] As used herein, the terms “amphoteric surfactant” and “zwitterionic surfactant” are used interchangeably and mean a surfactant containing both positive charge (e.g., cationic group) and negative charge (e.g., anionic group) and carrying a total net charge of zero. Examples of amphoteric surfactant include, but are not limited to, dodecyl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, coco-ampho-glycinate, and combinations thereof. When the amphoteric surfactant is used in the cleaning composition, it is preferred that the external pH for the cleaning composition is from about 7 to about 12, with the pH of about 8 to about 11 being most preferred, and the pH of about 9 to about 10 is much more preferred.

[067] The term “humectant” as used here refers to a hygroscopic substance. For example, the humectant may be a compound containing multiple hydrophilic groups, such as hydroxyl, amine, carboxyl, esterified carboxyl, and combinations thereof. Examples of humectants include glycerin, propylene glycol, and glyceryl triacetate. Others may be polyols, such as sorbitol, xylitol and maltitol, or polymeric polyols, such as polydextrose or natural extracts such as quillaia, or lactic acid or urea. Preferably, the humectant is a polyalcohol. By “polyalcohol” is meant an organic compound containing multiple hydroxyl groups, particularly organic compounds having an alkyl as the main chain. Examples of polyalcohol include ethylene glycol, glycerin, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and the like. In another configuration, the solvent system further comprises a methyl ether of a polyalcohol. That is, the solvent system comprises a polyalcohol and a methyl ether of a polyalcohol. In another configuration, in addition to the polyalcohol and the methyl ether of a polyalcohol, the solvent system further comprises an ingredient selected from the group consisting of a methyl ester of a fatty acid, an alcohol, water, and a mixture thereof. . In a specific configuration, the solvent system comprises a polyalcohol, a methyl ether of a polyalcohol, a methyl ester of a fatty acid, and an alcohol. In one example, the methyl ether of a polyalcohol is 1,3-propanediol. In another example, the methyl ester of a fatty acid is coconut methyl ester. Yet, in another example, the alcohol is ethanol or methanol.

[068] In one configuration, the solvent system is present in an amount of about 1.5 to about 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another configuration, the solvent system is present in an amount of about 5 to about 30% by weight. In another configuration, the solvent system is present in an amount of about 9 to about 22% by weight. In another embodiment, the weight ratio of the polyalcohol and the methyl ether of a polyalcohol is from about 1.0 to about 2.7. In another embodiment, the weight ratio of the polyalcohol and the methyl ether of a polyalcohol is about 1.4 to about 2.5.

[069] The present cleaning composition may further comprise an additive such as a digestive enzyme, an enzyme stabilizer, an aromatic agent, a non-phosphate former, an anti-redeposition agent, an amplifier, and/or other additives. To achieve the desired cleaning performance and/or stability, the amount and proportion of various ingredients of the surfactant system and a solvent system as well as the amount of water can be adjusted in view of a digestive enzyme, an enzyme stabilizer. , an aromatic agent, a non-phosphate builder, an anti-redeposition agent, a booster, and/or other additives. Thus, although variations are present, through the examples described here, the actual amount of additive may be greater or less than the range.

[070] In one embodiment, the cleaning composition of the present invention further comprises a digestive enzyme. Digestive enzymes can be any enzymes found in the alimentary tract of a human or animal that break down food or other organic materials so that the host organism can absorb it. Examples of digestive enzymes include, but are not limited to, one or more protease enzymes, one or more amylase enzymes, one or more cellulase enzymes, one or more lipase enzymes, one or more maninase enzymes, and combinations thereof. Examples of suitable enzymes include, but are not limited to, hemicellulases, peroxidases, proteases, other cellulases, xylanases, lipases, phospholipases, stears, cutinases, pectinases, mannanases, pectatolyases, keratinases, reductases, oxidases, phenoloxidases, lipoxinases, ligninases, pullulanases , tannases, pentosanases, malanases, β-glucanases, arabinosidases, hyaluronidases, chondroitinase, lactase, and amylases, or mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the digestive enzyme is present in an amount of about 0 to about 12% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another embodiment, the digestive enzyme is present in an amount of about 2 to about 10% by weight. In another embodiment, the digestive enzyme is present in an amount of about 3 to about 8% by weight.

[071] In one configuration, the present cleaning composition further comprises an enzyme stabilizer, that is, a substance for stabilizing the digestive enzyme. Enzymes for use in detergents can be stabilized by several techniques. The enzymes employed herein can be stabilized by the presence of water-soluble sources of calcium ions and/or magnesium ions in finishing compositions that provide said ions for the enzymes. In the case of aqueous compositions comprising proteases, reversible protease inhibitor, such as a boron compound, may be added to further improve stability. In one configuration, the enzyme stabilizer is present in an amount of about 0 to about 2% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another configuration, the enzyme stabilizer is present in an amount of about 0.001 to about 1% by weight. In another configuration, the enzyme stabilizer is present in an amount of about 0.01 to about 0.1% by weight.

[072] In another configuration, the cleaning composition may contain one or more additional components that can color the articles being colored, such as a fluorescent whitening agent. Any fluorescent whitening agent suitable for use in a washing machine detergent composition can be used in the composition of the present invention. The most commonly used fluorescent bleaching agents are those belonging to the class of diaminostilbenesulfonic acid derivatives, diarylpyrazoline derivatives and bisphenyldistyryl derivatives. In one embodiment, the additional component is present in an amount of about 0 to about 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another embodiment, the additional component is present in an amount of about 0.001 to about 1% by weight. In another embodiment, the additional component is present in an amount of about 0.005 to about 0.1% by weight.

[073] In one configuration, the cleaning composition further comprises an aromatic agent, for example, a compound or ingredient that imparts a pleasant odor to the cleaning composition. Any aromatic agent in the art may be used. In one embodiment, the aromatic agent is present in an amount of about 0 to about 5% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. In another embodiment, the aromatic agent is present in an amount of about 0.01 to about 2% by weight. In another embodiment, the aromatic agent is present in an amount of about 1 to about 2% by weight.

[074] In one configuration, the present cleaning composition further comprises a builder, preferably a non-phosphate builder. The non-phosphate former may be an organic substance or an inorganic substance. Examples of non-phosphate builders include, but are not limited to, sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, calcium chloride, magnesium carbonate, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), nitriloacetic acid (NTA), borates, zeolites, alkyl derivatives or of hydroxyalkyl cellulose, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the non-phosphate former is alkyl cellulose derivative, hydroxyalkyl cellulose derivative, carboxyalkyl cellulose derivative, or a combination thereof. Carboxyalkyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl cellulose derivatives are chemically modified by alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or carboxyalkyl group. Examples of carboxyalkyl cellulose, alkyl, hydroxyalkyl derivatives include, but are not limited to, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose ester, carboxy methyl cellulose ether or alkaline salts thereof or a mixture thereof, and a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the builder is present in an amount of from about 0 to about 15% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[075] In one embodiment, the cleaning composition of the present invention further comprises an anti-redeposition agent. By “anti-redeposition agent” we mean an additive used in the cleaning composition to assist in preventing the reattachment of stains to the surface after it has been removed during cleaning. Anti-redeposition agents are typically water-soluble and are sometimes negatively charged. In one embodiment, the anti-redeposition agent is a cellulose acetate based on polymeric material, for example, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), and the like. Other examples of anti-redeposition agent include, but are not limited to, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poly-4-vinylpyridine-N oxide, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, and the like. Depending on the intended use and desired performance, the aromatic agent, the non-phosphate former, and the anti-redeposition agent may be in various percentages and proportions in the cleaning composition.

[076] In yet another configuration, the composition of the present invention further comprises a booster. A “booster” is an additive used in the cleaning composition to improve or “amplify” the cleaning effectiveness of the active cleaning ingredients in the cleaning composition. Some water boosting/amplifying conditions make the detergent work more efficient. In one approach, the booster is or includes an alkalinity agent that induces the water to which it is added to become more alkaline. Illustrative boosters include borates such as sodium borate decahydrate (also known as “borax”), which has many chemical properties that contribute to its cleaning power. Sodium borate decahydrate and other borates clean and whiten by converting some water molecules to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). This reaction is more favorable in hot water. The pH of sodium borate decahydrate is about 9.5, so it produces a basic solution in water, thereby increasing the effectiveness of bleach and other cleaning ingredients. In other configurations, the booster is a metallic carbonate such as sodium carbonate.

[077] While not criticizing its intended use and performance, it is preferred that the cleaning composition is compatible with external additives, i.e., additives that are added to the washing machine or surface to be cleaned by a consumer separately from of the cleaning composition. Illustrative external additives include boosters/amplifiers, light water composition, alkalinity agents, vinegar, lye, etc.

[078] While not criticizing the intended use and performance, it is preferred that the cleaning composition is environmentally friendly. In particularly preferred embodiments, the cleaning composition does not comprise any ingredient that is not environmentally pleasant. As used herein, the cleaning composition or ingredients thereof are considered to be environmentally friendly if they meet one or more of the following conditions. For example, it is preferred, although not critical, that the cleaning composition contains material derived from natural and/or sustainable sources (e.g., renewable source), and not derived from petroleum. It is also preferred, although not essential, that all ingredients of the cleaning composition can be degraded through biological or natural processes. In one approach, all ingredients and the final formula are considered readily biodegradable according to the OECD 301F biodegradability standard. It is also preferred, although not essential, that none of the ingredients of the cleaning composition are known to accumulate appreciably in the environment and/or in animals.

[079] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning composition comprises one or more nonionic surfactants in an amount ranging from about 13 to about 58% by weight, with about 22 to about 44% by weight preferred, and from about 24 to about 39% by weight, more preferred; one or more more preferred anionic surfactants; one or more anionic surfactants in an amount ranging from about 10 to about 50% by weight, with about 12 to about 35% by weight preferred, and from about 13 to about 22% by weight most preferred; one or more polyalcohols in an amount ranging from about 3 to about 26%, with about 8 to about 20% by weight preferred, and from about 12 to about 18% by weight more preferred; an alcohol in an amount ranging from about 0 to about 8% by weight, with about 0 to about 4% by weight preferred, and from about 0 to about 2% by weight more preferred; a methyl ether of a polyalcohol in an amount ranging from about 0 to about 10% by weight, with about 2 to about 7% by weight preferred, and from about 3 to about 5% by weight more preferred ; a methyl ester of a fatty acid in an amount ranging from about 0 to about 6% by weight, with about 0 to about 4% by weight preferred, and from about 0 to about 3% by weight. most preferred weight; adding water in an amount ranging from about 0 to about 10% by weight, with about 0 to about 5% by weight preferred, and from about 0 to about 2% by weight more preferred; one or more aromatic agents in an amount ranging from about 0 to about 4% by weight, with about 0 to about 2.5% by weight preferred, and from about 0 to about 2% by weight most preferred ; one or more digestive enzymes in an amount ranging from about 0 to about 11% by weight with about 2.5% to about 9.5% by weight preferred, and from about 5 to about 8% by weight most preferred; one or more stabilizing enzymes in an amount ranging from about 0 to about 5% by weight, with about 0 to about 3% by weight preferred, and from about 0 to about 2% by weight more preferred; and anti-redeposition agents in a varying amount of from about 0 to about 2% by weight, with about 0 to about 1% by weight preferred, and from about 0 to about 0.5% by weight more preferred . In an illustrative embodiment, the one or more nonionic surfactants are a combination of a mixture of sodium sulfonate of a fatty acid or an ester of a fatty acid and secondary alkane sulfonate, the mixture of sodium sulfonate of a fatty acid or an ester of a fatty acid in an amount of about 10% by weight to about 30% by weight, and secondary alkane sulfonate is in an amount of about 0% by weight to about 20% by weight, one or Most anionic surfactants are in a combination of one or more ethoxylated fatty alcohols and one or more ethoxylated fatty acid methyl esters, the ethoxylated fatty alcohol being and one or more ethoxylated fatty acid methyl esters, the ethoxylated fatty alcohol being is in an amount of about 13% by weight to about 38% by weight and the ethoxylated fatty acid methyl ester is in an amount of about 0% by weight to about 20% by weight; and one or more polyalcohols is in a combination of 1,3-propanediol and glycerin, wherein 1,3-propanediol is in an amount of about 0% by weight to about 5% by weight and the glycerin is in an amount of from about 3% by weight to about 11% by weight. In another example configuration, the alcohol is ethanol; the methyl ester of a polyalcohol is dipropylene glycol methyl ester; and the methyl ester of a fatty acid is coconut methyl ester. In another example of the configuration, one or more digestive enzymes are a combination of several subtilisin proteases; and the enzyme stabilizer is CaCl (30% aqueous solution). In another example of the configuration, the non-phosphate former is sodium polyaspartate; and the anti-redeposition agent is a biodegradable polyester, such as Clariant Texcare SRN 240. Additional nonionic surfactants are those of the formula R1(OC2H4)nOH, where R1 is a C10-C16 alkyl group or a C8- C12, and n is from 3 to about 80. Particularly preferred are condensation products of C12-C15 alcohols with about 5 to about 20 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of alcohol, e.g., C12-C13 alcohol condensed with about 6.5 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of alcohol.

[080] Unlike conventional liquid cleaning compositions, which contain preservatives to inhibit microbial growth in these compositions, various configurations of the cleaning composition of the present invention do not require the presence of any preservative. In some embodiments, the cleaning composition of the present invention does not contain any preservative. As used herein, “preservative” is a compound that is added to the cleaning composition to inhibit microbial growth.

[081] In another embodiment, the cleaning composition of the present invention contains a preservative to inhibit microbial growth. For example, preservatives may optionally be included in various configurations as a way to provide additional microbial protection against contamination from raw bacteria, viruses and/or fungi introduced, for example, by the consumer, via a contaminated ingredient, a contaminated storage container , equipment, processing step or other sources. Any conventional preservative known in the art can be used. Some illustrative preservatives include: potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, benzoic acid, phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, dehydroxyacetic acid, sodium borate, boric acid, usinic acid, phenols, quaternary ammonium compounds, glycols, isothiazolinones (methyl, benzyl, chlorine ), hydrantoin DMDM, hexidine, ethanol, polyaminopropyl biguanide, phenylphenol, imidazolidinyl urea, iodopropynyl butyl carbamate, parabens, formaldehyde, salicylic acid or salts, caprylyl glycol, D-glucono-1,5 lactone, sodium erythorbate, hydroxymethyl glycinate sodium, peroxides, sodium sulfite, disulfide, glucose oxidase, lacto peroxidase, and other preservatives compatible with cleaning ingredients. Some other natural materials can also be considered, such as cinnamon, fruit acids, essential oils such as thyme and rosemary, willow bark, aspen bark, tocopherol, curry spice, citrus extract, honeysuckle, and preservatives based on amino acids. Especially preferred are preservatives that do not compete with cleaning ingredients (cationic materials) and have no reported environmental or health harms (parabens, formaldehyde, etc.). Some of the most preferred preservatives are: phenoxyethanol, benzoic acid/potassium sorbate, enzymes, borates and the above natural solutions. In one embodiment, the preservative is present in an amount of about 0.01 to about 2% by weight. In another embodiment, the aromatic agent is present in an amount of about 0.01 to about 1% by weight.

[082] In one embodiment, the cleaning composition of the present invention has a viscosity of about 200 centipoise (e.g., 200 + 20 cp) or less at 23°C. In another embodiment, the cleaning composition of the present invention has a viscosity of less than about 100 centipoise. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning composition of the present invention has a viscosity of less than about 50 centipoise. As noted above, the inventors have unexpectedly and surprisingly discovered that some embodiments of the present invention have said low viscosity. This result was contrary to what would be expected, that is, it was expected to have a higher viscosity at the described concentrations of the components.

[083] Table 1 represents the illustrative formulation parameters that provide cleaning compositions characterized as exhibiting constant cleaning effectiveness when measured using the above-mentioned test procedure when the cleaning composition is added to 69 liters of external water in quantities ranging from about 9 to about 22 grams of cleaning composition. A practice of the present invention using the formulations derived from table 1 should have results similar to those in the figures attached here. TABLE 1 Cleaning composition A

[084] In a practice of the present invention, using the formulations derived from Table 1, results similar to those shown in the figures attached here should be obtained. Figure 1 has already been discussed.

[085] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a water-soluble or water-ruptible capsule encapsulating the present cleaning solution. “Water soluble” or “water burstable” as used interchangeably herein describes a capsule that can be dissolved or broken upon contact with a sufficient free quantity of water to thereby discharge the cleaning composition of the present invention or expose the cleaning composition of the present invention for water in the surrounding environment. The water-soluble capsule can be made from any water-soluble material in a method known to the person skilled in the art. By “water-soluble material” we mean any substance that dissolves easily or breaks down in free water. The water-soluble material may be a polymeric material or a non-polymeric material. Examples of suitable water-soluble materials include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene oxide, methyl cellulose, partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate, alginates, carrageenan gelatin, cellulosics, and combinations thereof. The water-soluble material can be used in the form of a plasticizer. That is, the water-soluble material can be mixed or treated with plasticizers, such as, for example, glycerin, sorbitol, and the like. Polyvinyl alcohol films are more preferred. The invention encompasses the use of materials having water solubility ranging from partially soluble in hot water to complete solubility in cold water. Furthermore, to improve the performance or stability of the water-soluble capsule, it may contain ingredients other than the water-soluble materials described above. Examples of additional ingredients include, but are not limited to, brightening agents, builders, activators, enzymes, and the like.

[086] Depending on the intended use and desired performance, the water-soluble capsule can be in any shape or thickness. For example, the capsule may be in a round, oval, rectangular, square, triangular, diamond shape, or a combination thereof. By “thickness” we mean the length from the inner surface of the capsule to the outer surface of the capsule. In a specific configuration, the thickness of the capsule is about 0.5 to about 10 thousandths. Preferably, the capsule is in the form of a circular film. The capsule may be transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque. The capsule can also be any color.

[087] In one embodiment, the present invention includes a container containing one or more capsules as described above.

[088] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a container, such as, for example, a controlled dose container, comprising a cleaning composition of the present invention. The container may be in any shape or size depending on the intended use and other functional considerations. For example, the container may be in a form that is space-saving for storage or transportation purposes, or in a form that can be easily held/retained by a consumer for convenience of use, or both.

[089] In one configuration, the container has an opening and is in a shape that the handling consumer can easily reach and pick up any of the capsules within the container. In another configuration, the container is in a form to serve as a dispenser and thus the consumer's hand can easily reach and pick up any of the capsules within the container. In yet another configuration, the container is in a form that serves as a dispenser, and thus the consumer's hand does not need to reach into the container to dispense the capsules. In another configuration of the present solution, the container is in a form that allows piling. In another embodiment of the present invention, the container comprises a chamber for each of the capsules.

[090] In another configuration, the container comprises a manually pumped dispenser to dispense the aforementioned controlled doses. Although larger controlled doses are provided in some configurations, the size of preferred controlled doses is less than about 5 ml (where "about X ml" means X + 0.25 ml), more preferably between about 2 and about 4ml. In one approach, the cleaning composition is added to a volume of external water by pumping a hand pump dispenser no more than 8 times, where the hand pump dispenser dispenses about 4 ml (maximum) or less per pump. In a particularly preferred approach, the manually pumped dispenser is pumped no more than 6 times, with the manually pumped dispenser dispensing about 3 ml or less per pump. The external water volume in these approaches is 69 liters, which is the standard water volume used in a wash load in a standard washing machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the numbers of pumps can be adjusted based on the volume of cleaning composition dispensed by pumping and/or by wash loads having greater or lesser water volume. As a general guide, in particularly preferred approaches, less than about 0.32 grams of the cleaning composition is dissolved per liter of external water, and more preferably less than about 0.26 grams of the cleaning composition is dissolved per liter of external water. external water.

[091] Said low dosage is permitted due to a surprisingly low use concentration requirement for the present cleaning composition, as well as a surprisingly low viscosity. This is a major improvement over efforts to provide pump-dispensable detergents, which require pumping significantly larger quantities of the detergents. Said previous efforts generally utilize a “condiment-type” dispenser in a much larger reservoir, making the container excessively heavy (when full), and generally difficult to handle. Thus, the configurations of the present invention do not satisfactorily meet the market needs for a cleaning composition that is effective at low dosages and has a low viscosity, thus allowing cost-effective manufacturing and use of the composition of the present invention. in a manually pumped dispenser that is small enough to be easily handled and used by a consumer.

[092] In an illustrative configuration, the volume of the container is less than about 1 liter, preferably less than about 0.75 liters. In one approach, the manually pumped distributor has an average circumference of a sidewall extension along its longitudinal axis of less than about 12 inches, more preferably less than about 10 inches, more preferably less than about 8 inches. This smaller circumference allows the container to be held in one hand and the pump operated with the same hand.

[093] An additional benefit linked to the pumpability of the washing composition of the present invention is the ability to easily locate stains during pre-treatment. For example, the cleaning composition of the present invention can be applied directly and precisely to the immediate vicinity of the stain in a more controlled manner than previously available, i.e., via pouring from the bottle or cap. Furthermore, there is a lower chance of creating a problem due to batteries, excessive spillage, etc.

[094] In another configuration, the container may comprise multiple chambers where at least one of the chambers contains the cleaning composition of the present invention, and at least one of the chambers is empty. For example, the container may be a bottle having two chambers where a consumer may place water in the empty chamber and then mix the water with some or all of the cleaning composition in another chamber for the purpose of diluting the cleaning composition IN SITU.

[095] The container can be made of any material depending on the intended use and other functional considerations. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, glass, plastic, wood, metal, alloy, fabric, porcelain, clay, polymer, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the container is made from a recyclable material. The container may also be of any shape suitable for consumer products. Examples of suitable shapes include, but are not limited to, jars, bottles, canisters, bags, boxes, etc. The container may comprise an opening with a lid, zipper, or other means for opening and closing the opening when necessary. The lid may optionally be a hinged lid, such as a “flip-top” lid. The container may optionally comprise a handle portion.

[096] In one configuration, the container includes a label, print, etc., with directions to follow one or more of the methods represented here.

[097] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for cleaning a non-textile surface. The method comprises dissolving the cleaning composition of the present invention in a volume of water to form a diluted aqueous cleaning composition, and applying the diluted aqueous cleaning composition to a non-textile surface to clean the surface. The cleaning composition can be dissolved by adding the cleaning composition of the present solution directly into a volume of water, by adding a water-soluble capsule containing the present solution composition into a volume of water, etc.. The amount of cleaning composition can be predetermined. Depending on the condition of a non-textile surface, the non-textile surface may be pretreated by directly applying the cleaning composition to a non-textile surface.

[098] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method comprising directly applying a first amount of the cleaning composition to a non-textile surface; dissolving a second amount of the cleaning composition of the present invention in a volume of water to form a dilute aqueous cleaning composition; and applying the diluted aqueous cleaning composition in a volume of water to form a diluted aqueous cleaning composition; and applying the diluted aqueous cleaning composition to a non-textile surface to clean the surface.

[099] In yet another configuration, the method for cleaning a non-textile surface, the method comprises applying an amount of the cleaning composition to a non-textile surface; and wash the non-textile surface with water. This method allows the consumer to clean the non-textile surface manually. For example, a consumer may spray or otherwise apply the cleaning composition of the present invention directly to the surface of a board or other non-textile surface, rub the surface with his hands, or rub it with a brush or other of mop, and then wash the surface with water. In another approach, the cleaning composition can be applied to a non-textile surface as a pre-treatment, with or without rubbing or rubbing. The non-textile surface is then later washed with water.

[100] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for washing in a washing machine. The method comprises dissolving the cleaning composition of the present invention in a volume of water to form a dilute aqueous cleaning composition; and contact the diluted aqueous cleaning composition with the washing machine to clean it. The cleaning composition can be dissolved by adding the cleaning composition of the present invention directly into a volume of water, by adding a water-soluble capsule containing the present cleaning composition into a volume of water, by adding the cleaning composition of the present invention in a container with detergent from a washing machine, etc. Furthermore, the washing machine may or may not have water in it before adding the cleaning composition to the water. The amount of the cleaning composition can be predetermined. Depending on the condition of the washing machine, the machine may be pretreated by directly applying the cleaning composition to the washing machine. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method comprising directly applying a first amount of the cleaning composition to the washing machine; dissolving a second amount of the cleaning composition of the present invention in a volume of water to form a dilute aqueous cleaning composition; and apply the diluted aqueous cleaning composition to the washing machine to clean these.

EXAMPLES

[101] This section represents the various illustrative configurations, with representative test results. Unless otherwise specified, data were derived using the test procedures illustrated in ASTM D4265.

[102] Tables 2 and 3 below list the ingredients of two illustrative cleaning compositions of the present invention. TABLE 2 Cleaning composition B* TABLE 3 Cleaning composition C*

[103] Depending on the water content in various ingredients, the total water concentration in the cleaning composition can be from about 10% to about 40% although much of the water content is not free water.

[104] Figure 2 shows the stain removal performance of composition D listed in Table 4, below, through a variety of dosage amounts for a variety of soils. Note that figure 2 includes the data used in figure 1 and some additional data. To produce the data, the ASTM D4265 test method was followed for each of the dosage amounts of composition D having a data point in the graphs of figure 2.

[105] Figure 3 shows the trend lines applied to some of the data in Figure 1. TABLE 4 Cleaning composition D

[106] Figure 4 illustrates an example of comparative cleaning effectiveness of a formulation of an experimental cleaning composition (ECC, hereinafter referred to as “experimental cleaning composition”) based on Composition A versus TIDE 2X (t2x) and liquid detergent focused. The “null” data were obtained from a run without any detergent. Each composition was used at a dose of 12.5 grams per 69 liters of water and the above-mentioned test method was used. The key for the relative X axis was shown in table 5. TABLE 5 Key for the abbreviations in figures 4-8

[107] As shown in Figure 4, the cleaning composition (LH) performed better than TIDE 2X in almost all tests.

[108] With reference to Figure 5, a comparative example was demonstrated in which 12.5 grams of the experimental cleaning composition used, but 60 grams of TIDE 2X were used. This is the “standard dose” for each composition to clean an average-sized washing machine load in a standard washing machine. As shown in figure 5, the cleaning effectiveness of the cleaning composition is similar to that of TIDE 2X, and even superior in many cases, although a much smaller amount of detergent was added to the washing machine.

[109] Figure 6 shows a graph of the results of pre-treatment using the experimental cleaning composition and pre-treatment using TIDE 2X. In this experiment, 3 drops of each of the detergents were added to the respective stains and allowed to absorb into the fabric. Then the following cleaning procedure was used to wash the fabrics, using the standard dose. This modified ASTM D4265 test mimics the pretreatment of a household behavior. As shown in Figure 5, the cleaning effectiveness of the cleaning composition was similar, and in many cases superior, to that of TIDE 2X.

[110] Figure 7 shows the relatively non-linear behavior between dosage and cleaning effectiveness for the experimental cleaning composition when used in accordance with the above-mentioned test procedure at 100°F. As a comparative example, figure 8 shows the behavior between dosage and cleaning effectiveness for TIDE 2X under identical conditions. It should be noted that at the significantly lower dosage ranges shown on the x-axis of Figure 7 (0 to about 15 grams), the cleaning efficacy of TIDE 2X exhibits a relatively linear relationship between dosage and cleaning efficacy.

[111] Figures 9-15 are graphical representations illustrating comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for various stains on cotton fabrics and/or a cotton/polyester 60 blend /40, using the pretreatment scheme detailed for figure 6, in relation to various external water temperatures. As shown, the experimental cleaning composition provides cleaning effectiveness comparable to that of TIDE 2X, and in many cases, cleaning effectiveness improves at lower temperatures.

[112] Figure 9 is a graph representing comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for blood, milk and carbon on cotton, with pretreatment.

[113] Figure 10 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for carbon black in olive oil on both fabrics, cotton (denoted by - C in the legend) and cotton-polyester (denoted by -CP in the legend), with pre-treatment.

[114] Figure 11 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for tallow powder on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics with pretreatment. .

[115] Figure 12 is a graph representing comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for grass on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics with pretreatment.

[116] Figure 13 is a graph representing comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for clay on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics with pretreatment.

[117] Figure 14 is a graph representing comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for makeup on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics with pretreatment.

[118] Figure 15 is a graph representing comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for tomato on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics with pretreatment.

[119] Figures 16 to 22 are graphical representations depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for various stains on cotton and/or cotton/polyester blends using a standard dose of each detergent, i.e. 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition per 69 liters of water and 60 grams of TIDE 2X per 69 liters of water, in relation to various external water temperatures. As shown, the experimental cleaning composition provides cleaning effectiveness comparable to that of TIDE 2X and, in many cases, cleaning effectiveness improves at lower temperatures.

[120] Figure 16 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for blood, milk and carbon on cotton, using a “standard dose” of 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load.

[121] Figure 17 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for carbon black in olive oil on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics using 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load.

[122] Figure 18 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for tallow powder on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics using 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load.

[123] Figure 19 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for grass on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics using 12.5 grams of the composition of experimental cleaning and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load.

[124] Figure 20 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for grain clay, on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics, using 12.5 grams of experimental cleaning composition and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load.

[125] Figure 21 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for makeup on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics using 12.5 grams of the composition. of experimental cleaning and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load.

[126] Figure 22 is a graph depicting comparative cleaning effectiveness versus temperature under identical conditions for the experimental cleaning composition and TIDE 2X for tomato on both cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics using 12.5 grams of the composition of experimental cleaning and 60 grams of TIDE 2X, respectively, per load.

[127] In yet another comparative example, Table 6 shows the relative cleaning effectiveness of a cleaning composition as represented in Table 1, compared to another brand conducted in the cleaning composition. It was surprisingly discovered that the super-concentrated formulation according to one embodiment of the present invention was able to outperform a brand conducted with 12 ml versus 44.3 ml of the known brand.

[128] The data in table 6 was derived according to the following parameters. The standards used were ASTM D4265 - “Standard Guide for Evaluating Stain Removal Performance in Home laudering” (modified); and ASTM E97 - “Standard Method for Directional Reflectance Factor 45 degree - 0 degree, of Opaque Specimens by Broad band Filter Reflectometry”.

[129] The products tested were: “Green Works h-e natural machine detergent LC#09-T0428” and a cleaning composition as represented in Table 1. The procedure was as follows.

[130] Artificially stained fabrics were purchased from Test Fabrics Inc.. Fabrics were selected to evaluate the good cross-section of polar and non-polar stains. Bleached unstained cotton scraps were included in a complete wash cycle to monitor anti-redeposition properties. A 50/50 motor oil/olive oil mixture was prepared and applied to the cotton and cotton rags and poly cotton for inclusion in all wash cycles.

[131] The “L, a, b and y” value of each of the types of soiled fabrics was determined with a Hunter 45/0 colorimeter using a UV filter, before cleaning.

[132] The flaps were then washed as follows. Three patches for each dirt were used with each detergent. The washing machine model was a maximum load one - Performa (model #PAVT92 0 AWW). The washing machine represented was: regular setting; 12 minutes; average water level; hot wash (33°C); and rinse cold. 8 ballasts (4 cotton/4 poly-cotton) of sheets from Test Fabrics Inc. were used. The hardness of the water was 125 ppm.

[133] The “L, a, b and Y” values of the cleaned tissue scraps were measured using a common UV filter colorimeter. Each of the three scraps from each stain was measured twice and then piled on top of each pile for further measurements, (per recommendation from Hunter lab, detailed in the bulletin, “Measuring Fabric Using the Lab Scan”). The first measurement was taken and then the flap was returned to 90° and the second measurement was taken. The 6 measurements were measured and recorded. The L, a and b values were then used to calculate the delta E, which is the change in the color of the stained fabric, according to the following equation.

[134] L1 - initial L value L2 - final L value a1 - initial a value a2 - final a value b1 - initial b value b2 - final b value TABLE 6

[135] Various configurations of a cleaning composition and potential packaging have been described that have provided surprisingly non-obvious and unexpected results, such as a generally positive cleaning efficacy profile over a range of dosages, as well as a low viscosity that enables a single manual pumping of the cleaning composition. Furthermore, the ability to package the composition in a manual pump that provides a wide number of charges per volume corresponding to a large yet unresolved market need for said product.

[136] Although various configurations have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented as an exemplary form only, and not as a limitation. Thus, the extent and scope of protection of a preferred embodiment shall not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above, but shall be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (21)

1. Cleaning composition, characterized by the fact that it comprises a surfactant system comprising: - a non-ionic surfactant present in an amount of 15 to 60% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; and an anionic surfactant present in an amount of 15 to 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; the surfactant system comprising inverted mycelia; - the total water present in an amount greater than 0 to less than or equal to 40% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; - a solvent system containing a polyalcohol, the solvent system being present in an amount of 1.5 to 55% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; and - an enzyme present in an amount greater than 0 to less than or equal to 15% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition; wherein the cleaning composition is in the form of a water-in-oil emulsion; the composition presents a constant cleaning effectiveness when said composition is added to 69 liters of external water, in an amount of 9 to 22 grams, with the constant cleaning effectiveness corresponding to the percentage of stain removal that varies from less than 10%, is measured using the ASTM D4265 test procedure. 2. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the solvent system additionally comprises methyl ester of a fatty acid present in an amount of 0% to 25% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. 3. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of 25 to 60% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. 4. Cleansing composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the enzyme includes a digestive enzyme, the digestive enzyme being present in an amount of 2 to 10% by weight. 5. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the composition is considered readily biodegradable in accordance with the OECD 301F biodegradability standard. 6. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it is contained in a controlled dose container. 7. Cleaning composition according to claim 6, characterized in that said container is configured to disperse between 2 and 5 ml of cleaning composition per dose. 8. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises an anionic polymer with dispersion property, the anionic polymer with dispersion property comprising at least one of a polyaspartic acid salt, a polyacrylic acid salt, and a poly-maleic acid salt. 9. Cleaning composition according to claim 8, characterized in that the biodegradable surfactant system comprises at least the anionic polymer with dispersion property, the anionic polymer with dispersion property being selected from a group consisting of: a polyaspartic acid salt, a polyacrylic acid salt, a polymaleic acid salt, cellulose and combinations thereof. 10. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the anionic surfactant includes a sodium salt, a potassium salt, an ammonium salt, and/or an alkyl ammonium salt of a fatty acid having from 8 to 24 carbon atoms. 11. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the solvent system further comprises a methyl ester of a fatty acid and at least one of a methyl ether of a polyalcohol and an alcohol. 12. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the surfactant system is biodegradable. 13. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it further comprises an anti-redeposition agent selected from a group consisting of poly-4-vinylpyridine-N oxide (PVnO); polyvinyl acetate, and combinations thereof. 14. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it further comprises a non-phosphate former in an amount greater than 0 to less than or equal to 15% by weight, wherein the non-phosphate former includes at least two of: ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), nitrile acetic acid, and sodium polyaspartate. 15. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the anionic surfactant includes a sulfonate of a secondary alkane and a mixture of sodium sulfonate of a fatty acid, with the sulfonate of a secondary alkane being present in an amount greater than 0% by weight to less than or equal to 20% by weight, and wherein the mixture of sodium sulfonate of a fatty acid is present in an amount of 10% by weight to 30% by weight. 16. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the nonionic surfactant includes one or more fatty alcohol ethoxylates and one or more ethoxylated fatty acid methyl esters, wherein the fatty alcohol ethoxylates are present in an amount of 13% to 38% by weight, and the ethoxylated fatty acid methyl ester is present in an amount greater than 0% by weight less than or equal to 20% by weight. 17. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the solvent system further comprises a combination of 1,3-propanediol and glycerin, with 1,3-propanediol being present in an amount greater than 0% by weight less than or equal to 5% by weight, and glycerin is present in an amount of 3% by weight to 11% by weight. 18. Cleaning composition according to claim 11, characterized in that the polyalcohol is present in an amount of 3 to 26% by weight, where the methyl ether of a polyalcohol is present in a greater amount than 0 to 10% by weight, where the methyl ester of a fatty acid is present in an amount of 0 to 25% by weight, and where the alcohol is present in an amount greater than 0 to less than or equal to 8% in weight. 19. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the biodegradable surfactant system comprises the non-ionic surfactant, the amphoteric surfactant, the anionic surfactant, and the anionic polymer with dispersion property. 20. Cleaning composition according to claim 19, characterized in that the weight ratio of the non-ionic surfactant and the amphoteric surfactant combined with the anionic surfactant and the combined anionic polymer is 1 to 4. 21. Cleaning composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the biodegradable surfactant system comprises at least the nonionic surfactant in combination with the anionic surfactant, the nonionic surfactant being present in an amount of 20 to 40 % by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.