WO2025048826A1

WO2025048826A1 - Disinfectant articles with improved aesthetic performance

Info

Publication number: WO2025048826A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/031758
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander J. HORKMAN; Kathleen C. Engelbrecht; Poonamben KAPADIA; Yolonda DICKSON; Kelly L. WOLFF
Original assignee: Kimberly Clark Worldwide Inc; Kimberly Clark Corp
Current assignee: Kimberly Clark Worldwide Inc; Kimberly Clark Corp
Priority date: 2023-08-31
Filing date: 2023-08-31
Publication date: 2025-03-06
Anticipated expiration: 2026-02-28
Also published as: CN121666167A

Abstract

Disclosed herein are antimicrobial compositions having improved antimicrobial efficacy and aesthetic performance, wherein the compositions include at least one polyquaternium polymer, an antimicrobial agent and an aesthetic enhancer. In specific embodiments, an antimicrobial composition comprises a quaternary ammonium salt comprises benzalkonium chloride, a first polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-6, an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol, and water.

Description

DISINFECTANT ARTICLES WITH IMPROVED AESTHETIC PERFORMANCE TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to disinfectant articles with improved antimicrobial efficacy, improved aesthetic performance, and long-lasting performance.

BACKGROUND

Since the onset of COVID-19 pandemic there has been an increased consumer need for products that can provide protection against not only the causative agent of COVID-19 (SARS- CoV-2), but all microorganisms that can affect human health. Like other microorganisms, SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted in the form of aerosol and from contact with fomites (i.e., inanimate objects). Therefore, it is crucial to interrupt the transmission chain of infectious disease through strict infection control tools.

A part of infection control is appropriate disinfection of surfaces. Disinfecting articles (e.g., substrates, such as wipes, cloths, sponges, etc.) are used to clean various surfaces in a variety of settings, including hospitals, medical offices, homes, commercial buildings, restaurants, and other publicly accessible facilities. Disinfecting articles may include a substrate impregnated with a disinfecting liquid composition that typically includes one or more active agents with antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and/or antiparasitic activity. Alternatively, a disinfecting liquid composition may be provided in a liquid container, such as a spray bottle. The disinfecting liquid composition can then be applied to a surface via transfer from an impregnated substrate or by spraying onto the surface in order to disinfect the surface.

While various disinfecting articles and disinfecting liquid compositions are available, they do not provide long-lasting protection against viruses and bacteria. Existing disinfecting articles and liquid compositions provide either a quick kill of viruses on a surface, which allows surfaces to be recontaminated shortly after application, or are only effective against bacteria and not viruses.

Quaternary ammonium salts, such as benzalkonium chloride, have broad spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, these compounds are skin irritants and considered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EP A) as toxicity category II (by oral and inhalation routes) and toxicity category III (by a dermal route). Accordingly, products containing benzalkonium chloride in concentrations greater than 1 wt.% can require special storage and labeling. By contrast, existing products containing less than 1 wt.% benzalkonium chloride are not antimicrobially effective for prolonged periods following application. Although antimicrobial efficacy is a chief concern for any disinfecting wipe, aesthetic considerations cannot be ignored. A disinfecting article should not leave streaks, discolorations, or other aesthetically objectionable residues following application. If a consumer is displeased with the appearance of a surface following application, a user is less likely to use the article in the first place.

There remains a need for improved disinfecting articles with low levels of quaternary ammonium salts that provide long-lasting antimicrobial protection. There remains a need for improved sanitizing articles that do not cause an aesthetically objectionable appearance on the surface following application. There remains a need for improved sanitizing articles that effectively transfer antimicrobial agents from the article to the intended surface.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are antimicrobial compositions having improved antimicrobial efficacy and aesthetic performance. In certain implementations, the compositions include at least two polyquaternium polymers and an antimicrobial agent. In certain implementations, the compositions include at least two polyquaternium polymers, an antimicrobial agent, and an aesthetic enhancer. In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition is loaded on a substrate, such as a wipe or sponge. In some implementations, the composition provides a visually pleasing appearance following application to a surface. In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition provides long-lasting antimicrobial protection to a surface contacted with the composition. In certain implementations, the antimicrobial composition provides enhanced released of antimicrobial agents from pulp fibers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to specific synthetic methods, specific components, or to particular compositions. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another implementation includes-, from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another implementation. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

“Eliminating” as used herein in the context of sanitizers refers to killing, eradicating, preventing the multiplication of, or otherwise inactivating a pathogen. Elimination may be assessed by the percentage of the pathogen that is eliminated. For example, a 3-log reduction of a pathogen indicates that 99.9% of the living pathogens have been eliminated. The extent of elimination may be measured according to the PAS 2424 Test Method

“Sanitizing” as used herein refers to the process of eliminating bacteria, optionally accompanied by the elimination of one or more other pathogens.

“Disinfecting” as used herein refers to the process of eliminating bacteria and viruses, optionally accompanied by the elimination of one or more other pathogens.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of’ and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal implementation. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific example or combination of examples of the disclosed methods.

Disclosed herein are disinfecting articles including an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate. The antimicrobial compositions include a quaternary ammonium salt in concentrations low enough that specialized handling and warnings are not necessary. In various implementations, the compositions provide effective, long-lasting antimicrobial activity while not leaving streaks or other visually objectionable residue following application. In some implementations, the composition synergistically eliminates pathogens relative to the expected additive effect of the individual components in the composition. In some implementations, the antimicrobial compositions eliminate pathogens more effectively than would be expected based on the concentration of the quaternary ammonium salt.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first poly quaternium species; c) a second polyquatemium species, different from the first polyquaternium species; and d) water.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes: a) a quaternary ammonium salt in an amount no greater than 0.99 wt.%; b) a first polyquatemium species; c) a second polyquaternium species, different from the first polyquaternium species; and d) water.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquatemium species; c) an aesthetic enhancer; and d) water.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquatemium species; c) a second polyquatemium species, different from the first polyquaternium species; d) an aesthetic enhancer; and e) water.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes: a) a quaternary ammonium salt in an amount no greater than 0.99 wt.%; b) a first polyquatemium species; c) an aesthetic enhancer; and d) water.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes: e) a quaternary ammonium salt in an amount no greater than 0.99 wt.%; f) a first polyquatemium species; g) a second polyquatemium species, different from the first polyquaternium species; h) an aesthetic enhancer; and i) water.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes: f) a quaternary ammonium salt in an amount no greater than 0.99 wt.%; g) a first poly quatemium species; h) a second polyquatemium species, different from the first polyquaternium species; i) an aesthetic enhancer; and j) water.

In some implementations, the quaternary ammonium salt can have the formula:

R^q1 x^q@

_Rq4— N-R^q2

R^q3 wherein R^ql, R^q2, R^q3, and R^q4 are independently selected from Ci-2oalkyl, Co-4alkaryl, and Co- 4alkheteroaryl, wherein any two or more of R^ql, R^q2, R^q3, and R^q4 can together with the nitrogen atom form ring, and X^q is an acceptable anion. Exemplary anions include chloride and bromide. In some implementations the anion is covalently bonded to one of R^ql, R^q2, R^q3, and R^q4 such as found in betaine compounds.

In certain implementations, R^q2, R^q3, and R^q4 are each independently selected from Ci- 4alkyl, and R^ql is C.6-2oalkyl or Ctwalkaryl. In some implementations, R^q3 and R^q4 are each methyl, R^q2 is C4-ioalkyl, and R^ql is C7-2oalkyl or Co-4alkaryl.

Exemplary quaternary ammonium salts include alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, alkyl dimethyl ethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, octyl decyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, dioctyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, ethylbenzyl alkonium chloride, ethyl benzethonium chloride, myristyl trimethyl ammonium chloride, methyl benzethonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide (CT AB), carnitine, dequalinium chloride, dofanium chloride, tetraethyl ammonium bromide (TEAB), domiphen bromide, octenidine dihydrochloride, cetrimide, benzododecinium bromide, benzoxonium chloride, choline, and denatonium. In some implementations, a combination of quaternary ammonium salts can be used.

In certain preferred implementations, the quaternary ammonium salt is benzalkonium chloride.

In certain implementations, the quaternary ammonium compound can be provided in the composition at concentrations less than 2.5 wt.%. In certain implementations, the quaternary ammonium compound can be provided in the composition at concentrations less than 1.5 wt.%. In certain implementations, the quaternary ammonium compound can be provided in the composition at concentrations less than 1 wt.%. In certain implementations, the quaternary ammonium salt is present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount from 1.0-2.5 wt.%, from 1.0-1.5 wt.%, from 0.50-0.99 wt.%, from 0.60-0.99 wt.%, from 0.70-0.99 wt.%, from 0.80- 0.99 wt.%, from 0.90-0.99 wt.%, from 0.90-0.95 wt.%, or from 0.95-0.99 wt.%, wherein the amount is calculated by the weight of the active ammonium cation. By way of example, a composition containing 1.9 wt.% of benzalkonium chloride will contain 0.95 wt.% of the active benzalkonium cation.

The antimicrobial composition may be formulated at a variety of pH levels. In some implementations, the antimicrobial compositions are formulated at a pH less than 7, for example the composition can have a pH from 1-5, from 1-4, from 1-3, from 1-2, from 2-5, from 2-4, from 2-3, or from 3-4.

The pH of the antimicrobial composition can be adjusted using a variety of acids, for example mineral acids and/or organic acids including carboxylic acids. In certain implementations the antimicrobial compositions can include one or more Ci-iocarboxylic acids, salts thereof, or combinations thereof. The skilled person understands that a given acid in a given solvent at a given pH/temperature will exist as an equilibrium mixture of the protonated acid and the deprotonated salt. Unless specified to the contrary, any reference to a particular acid is inclusive of the deprotonated/salt form.

In certain implementations the carboxylic acid can include one or more of acetic acid, adipic acid, benzene 1,3,5 tricarboxylic acid, chlorosuccinic acid, choline chloride, cis-aconitic acid, citramalic acid, citric acid, diglycolic acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, glutamic acid, glutaric acid, glyoxylic acid, humic acid, isocitric acid, ketomalonic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, oxalacetic acid, oxalic acid, phytic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, tartaric acid, tartronic acid, , tricarballylic acid, versene acids, 3-hydroxyglutaric acid, 2-hydroxypropane 1,3 dicarboxylic acid, glyceric acid, furan 2,5 dicarboxylic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyfuran-2,5 dicarboxylic acid, 3,4- dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2,5-dicarboxylic acid, 2-oxo-glutaric acid, dl-glyceric acid, or 2,5 furandicarboxylic acid.

In certain implementations, the antimicrobial composition can include one or more of citric acid, tartaric acid, maleic acid, succinic acid, oxalic acid, levulinic acid, adipic acid, glutaric acid, glycolic acid, glyoxylic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof. In certain implementations the carboxylic acid is citric acid.

The antimicrobial compositions also include a mixture of at least two polyquatemium species. Polyquatemium is the International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients designation for a series of polycationic polymers. In certain implementations, at least one of the polyquaternium species is a poly(dimethyldiallylammonium chloride), either as a homopolymer or copolymer with one or more additional monomer units. In some implementations, at least one of the polyquaternium species a copolymer of dimethyldiallylammonium chloride and one or more of acrylic acid, acrylamide, methyl(meth)acrylate, vinyl imidazole, trimethylammonium methyl(meth)acrylate, quatemized dimethylaminoethyl (meth)acrylate, vinyl pyrrolidone, or a combination thereof of. In certain implementations, one of the polyquaternium species is poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) homopolymer, and the other polyquaternium poly (acrylic acid-co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride). In further implementations, the compositions include poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) homopolymer, poly(acrylic acid- co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride), and a poly(vinylpyrrolidone-co-quatemized dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate). In certain implementations, poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride) homopolymer and poly(acrylic acid-co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride) are the only polyquaternium species in the composition. In some implementations, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) homopolymer, poly(acrylic acid-co- diallyldimethylammonium chloride), and poly(vinylpyrrolidone-co-quatemized dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) are the only polyquaternium species in the composition.

In certain implementations, the first and second polyquaternium species are selected from polyquaternium-2, polyquaternium-4, polyquaternium-5, polyquatemium-6, polyquatemium-7, polyquaternium- 10, polyquatemium-11, polyquaternium- 12, polyquaternium- 13, polyquaternium- 14, polyquaternium- 15, polyquaternium- 16, polyquaternium-17, polyquaternium- 18, polyquaternium- 19, polyquatemium-20, polyquatemium-22, polyquaternium- 24, polyquatemium-28, polyquatemium-32, polyquaternium-37, polyquaternium-39, polyquatemium-42, polyquatemium-43, polyquaternium-44, polyquaternium-46, polyquatemium-47, polyquatemium-51, polyquaternium-53, polyquaternium-55, polyquatemium-57, polyquatemium-58, polyquatemium-59, polyquaternium-60, polyquatemium-63, polyquatemium-64, polyquaternium-65, and polyquaternium-68.

In certain implementations, the first polyquaternium species is polyquatemium-6. The antimicrobial compositions can include the first polyquaternium species, for example, polyquaternium-6, in an amount from 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

In certain implementations, the second polyquaternium species is polyquatemium-22. The antimicrobial compositions can include the second polyquaternium species, for example, polyquaternium- 22, in an amount from 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes polyquaternium-6, and polyquaternium-22, in a combined amount from 2-10 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 5-10 wt.% from 8-10 wt.%, from 7-9 wt.%, from 6-8 wt.%, from 5-7 wt.%, or from 4-6 wt.%. In some implementations no polyquatemiums apart from these two species are present in the antimicrobial composition.

In certain implementations, the antimicrobial compositions may include three different polyquaternium species. In some implementations, the first, second, and third polyquatemium species are selected from polyquatemium-2, polyquatemium-4, polyquatemium-5, polyquaternium-6, polyquaternium-7, polyquaternium- 10, polyquaternium-11, polyquatemium- 16, polyquatemium-22, polyquatemium-24, polyquaternium-28, polyquaternium-32, polyquaternium-37, polyquaternium-39, polyquaternium-42, polyquaternium-43, polyquaternium-44, polyquatemium-46, polyquatemium-47, polyquaternium-51, polyquaternium-53, polyquatemium-55, polyquatemium-57, polyquatemium-58, polyquatemium-59, polyquaternium-60, polyquaternium-63, polyquatemium-64, polyquaternium-65, and polyquatemium-68

In some implementations, the first polyquaternium and second polyquatemium species are as defined above, and the third polyquatemium species is polyquaternium- 11 or polyquaternium- 16. In certain implementations, the third polyquaternium species is polyquaternium- 11.

The antimicrobial compositions can include the third polyquaternium species, for example, polyquaternium- 11, in an amount from 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes polyquaternium-6, polyquaternium-11, and polyquatemium-22 in a combined amount from 2-12 wt.%, from 2-6 wt.%, from 5-12 wt.% from 8-12 wt.%, from 7-10 wt.%, from 6-8 wt.%, from 5-7 wt.%, or from 4-6 wt.%. In some implementations no polyquatemiums apart from polyquatemium-6, polyquaternium-11, and polyquatemium-22 are present in the antimicrobial composition.

In certain implementations, the aesthetic enhancer in the antimicrobial composition is isocetyl alcohol, which is available commercially under the name CERAPHYL™ ICA from Ashland. It has a CAS Registry number of 36311-34-9. In some implementations the aesthetic enhancer is hexyldecanol, which is available under the name CERAPHYL™ HD from Ashland. It has a CAS Registry number of 2425-77-6. In some implementations, the aesthetic enhancer in the antimicrobial composition is lauryl lactate. In some implementations, the aesthetic enhancer in the antimicrobial composition is disodium cocoamphodiacetate, optionally in combination with propylene glycol. Disodium cocoamphodiacetate is available commercially under the name MACKAM 2C-75, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol is available under the name MACKAM 2C. In certain implementations the aesthetic enhancer is isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, or a combination thereof. In certain implementations the aesthetic enhancer is present in an amount from 0.05-3.0 wt.% (relative to the weight of the antimicrobial composition). In certain implementations the aesthetic enhancer is present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount from 0.05-1.0 wt.%, from 0.05-0.5 wt.%, from 0.05-0.2 wt.%, from 0.25-0.75 wt.%, from 0.25-1.0 wt.%, from 0.5-1.5 wt.%, from 1.0-2.0 wt.%, or from 1.5-2.5 wt.% (relative to the weight of the antimicrobial composition). In certain implementations the aesthetic enhancer in the antimicrobial composition is isocetyl alcohol or hexyldecanol, present in an amount from 0.05-0.15 wt.% (relative to the weight of the antimicrobial composition). In certain implementations the aesthetic enhancer in the antimicrobial composition is lauryl lactate, present in an amount from 0.25-0.75 wt.% (relative to the weight of the antimicrobial composition). In certain implementations the aesthetic enhancer present in the antimicrobial composition is disodium cocoamphodiacetate, present in an amount from 1.5-2.5 wt.% (relative to the weight of the antimicrobial composition).

In certain implementations, the antimicrobial composition can also include one or more alcohols, for example a mono-alcohol or a poly-alcohol (e.g., diol, triol, tetraol, etc). In some implementations the alcohol is a Ci-salcohol, a Ci-ealcohol, C2-ealcohol, or C2-4alcohol. Exemplary alcohols include methanol, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, sec-butanol, tertbutyl alcohol, isobutanol, pentanol, isoamyl alcohol, 2-methyl-l -butanol, neopentyl alcohol, 2- pentanol, 3-methyl-2-butanol, 3-pentanol, tert-amyl alcohol, 2-hexanol, 3-hexanol, 2-methyl-l- pentanol, 3 -methyl- 1 -pentanol, 4-methyl-l -pentanol, 2-methyl-2-pentanol, 3-methyl-2-pentanol, 4-methyl-2-pentanol, 2-methyl-3-pentanol, 3 -methyl- 3 -pentanol, 2,2-dimethyl-l-butanol, 2,3- dimethyl-1 -butanol, 1 ,4-butanediol, 3,3-dimethyl-l-butanol, pentanols, hexanols, and octanols.

The antimicrobial compositions may include the alcohol in an amount the antimicrobial composition comprises an alcohol, e.g., ethanol, in an amount from 1-40 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-20 wt.%, from 10-25 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%, from 25-40 wt.%, or from 30-50 wt.%. In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition does not include an alcohol.

In certain implementations, the antimicrobial composition will not include a separate or additional surfactant compound. In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes one or more surfactants. In some implementations, the surfactant includes a betaine. In certain implementations, the antimicrobial composition includes cocamidopropyl betaine, one or more sultaines such as cocamidopropyl hydroxyl sultaine and lauramidopropyl hydroxyl sultaine, one or more amphoacetates and amphodiacetates, such as disodium lauroamphodiacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, sodium cocoamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodipropionate, disodium lauroamphodipropionate, and combinations thereof. In certain implementations, the surfactant includes a polysorbate (a fatty acid ester of an ethoxylated sorbitan or isosorbide). In some implementations, the surfactant includes polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60, or polysorbate 80. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the aesthetic enhancer is not considered a surfactant.

The antimicrobial compositions may include one or more additional components, for example fragrances, viscosity modifiers, colorants, and the like.

The antimicrobial composition may be loaded onto a variety of substrates, for example a wipe, sponge, pod, or pouch. Suitable substrate materials include resin bonded, hydroentangled, thermally bonded, meltblown, needlepunched, or combination thereof. In certain implementations, the substrate is a wipe composed of pulp fibers (including cellulosic or wood pulp filbers), synthetic fibers, or a combination thereof. Exemplary synthetic fibers include rayon, nylon, orlon, polyester, or a combination thereof. In some implementations, the substrate is an article enclosing the antimicrobial compositions, e.g., a pod. In certain implementations, the substrate is a pod including polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl cellulose, polyethylene glycol, or a combination thereof. In certain implementations, the substrate is a polyvinyl chloride pod.

In certain implementations the substrate includes pulp fibers. In certain implementations the substrate includes cellulosic pulp fibers. In certain implementations the substrate includes wood pulp fibers.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial composition may be loaded onto a substrate in an amount that is at least 100 wt.%, at least 150 wt.%, at least 200 wt.%, at least 300 wt.%, at least 400 wt.%, at least 500 wt.%, at least 600 wt.%, at least 700 wt.%, at least 800 wt.%, at least 900 wt.%, or at least 1,000 wt.%, relative to the dry weight of the substrate. In certain implementations, the antimicrobial composition can be loaded onto the substrate in an amount from 100-1,000 wt.%, from 250-1,000 wt.%, from 500-1,000 wt.%, 100-750 wt.%, from 250- 750 wt.%, from 500-750 wt.%, from 100-500 wt.%, from 250-500 wt.%, or from 100-250 wt.%, relative to the dry weight of the substrate. In some implementations, the disinfecting compositions are not impregnated on a substrate. Such compositions are suitable for application to a surface using a spray bottle or similar apparatus.

The disinfecting compositions disclosed herein may be contacted with a surface in order to eliminate any existing pathogens, as well as prevent new pathogens from developing on the surface for at least 6 hours, at least 12 hours, at least 18 hours, or at least 24 hours. In certain implementations, the surface is an abiotic surface (i.e., not living tissue). In certain implementations, the abiotic surface maintains at least a 3-log reduction in bacteria (relative to the surface prior to contacting with the composition), for at least 1 hour, at least 2 hours, at least 4 hours, at least 8 hours, at least 12 hours, at least 18 hours, or at least 24 hours following application of the composition, in which no antimicrobial composition (according to the present disclosure or otherwise) is applied to the surface over the specified time period.

The disinfecting articles may be used to eliminate bacteria, fungi, virus, parasite, or combinations thereof. The disinfecting compositions may be used to eliminate gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, and combinations thereof. The disinfecting compositions may be used to eliminate viruses from a surface, including coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV2. In certain implementations, the disinfecting compositions provides at least a 3-log reduction, at least a 4-log reduction, or at least a 5-log reduction in pathogens on the surface to which the article is applied.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are for the purpose of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any manner whatsoever.

Example 1 - Antibacterial efficacy and aesthetic evaluation

The following compositions were prepared (all values except pH are wt.%):

1.9 wt.% benzalkonium chloride corresponds to 0.95 active agent.

Compositions 1 and 2 were compared against a formulation containing (0.95%) benzalkonium chloride and polyquatemium-6 as the sole polyquatemium species. Compositions 1 and 2 demonstrated enhanced antibacterial efficacy (when tested according to the PAS 2424 Test Method), film durability, and surface aesthetics relative to compositions containing a single polyquatemium species (surface aesthetics visually graded on a score of 1-3 for streakiness, pooling, evenness; the worst score being 3 and the best 1).

Example 2 - Antiviral efficacy

Antiviral efficacy was determined according to the following protocol: 100 pL of initial inoculum culture was inoculated with 5% fetal bovine serum in the 2 cm diameter circle and allowed to dry until visibly dry. The inoculated area was wiped back and forth twice with a wipe impregnated with a test composition for a total of 4 passes instruction over the 1” x 1” square area around the 2 cm diameter inoculation area. The composition was allowed to dry overnight. Control carriers were similarly prepared using hard water instead of antimicrobial composition.

A series of abrasions on the inoculum were preformed according to PAS 2424, section 9.2. The abrasion regime included dry abrasions, wet abrasions, and reinoculations. After each abrasion, 10 pL of the re-inoculation culture was pipetted onto the center of the inoculation area on the carrier and spread to within 0.5 cm from the edge of the inoculation area using a bent pipette tip. The inoculum was allowed to dry until visibly dry.

24 hours after the final abrasion, 100 pL of final inoculum culture was pipetted onto the center of the inoculation area on each carrier and spread to within 0.5 cm from the edge of the inoculation area on the carrier using a bent pipette tip. The carrier was allowed to sit uncovered for 5 minutes +/- 10 seconds, and then contacted with 1.0 mL of neutralizer. The inoculum and wipe area were scraped using a cell scraper and added to a Sephadex column prepared per ASTM E1482-12. The mixture was passed through the Sephadex column using a syringe plunger, and then subjected to a series of ten-fold dilutions, changing pipette tips with each dilution to avoid carryover of virus. The dilutions were inoculated into cell cultures and assayed for infectivity. Each neutralization control was challenged with low titer stock virus to determine the dilution(s) of test substance at which virucidal activity, if any, was retained. Dilutions that show virucidal activity were not considered in determining reduction of the virus by the test substance. A 100 pL aliquot of low titer stock virus (-100-5000 infectious units) was inoculated into each cell culture well and the indicator cell cultures was incubated along with the test, virus control and cytotoxicity control plates.

The cultures were incubated at 36-38°C in a humidified atmosphere of 5-7% CO2 in sterile disposable cell culture labware for approximately seven days. Cell cultures were scored for viral infectivity by microscopic observation of viral cytopathic effect (CPE). Viral titers are expressed as -logw of the 50 percent titration endpoint for infectivity (TCID50) or cytotoxicity (TCD50), respectively, as calculated by the method of Spearman Karber. The average log reduction was calculated using the average titer from the virus control carriers. Average Virus Control Logio TCID50 - Average Test Substance Logio TCID50 = Average Log Reduction.

The following compositions were evaluated (all values except pH are wt.%):

PQ = polyquaternium

Viral reduction is presented below:

A = Vaccinia virus, strain MVA ATCC VR-1508

B = Influenza A H1N1 [2009] virus ATCC VR-1682

C = Human Coronavirus, strain 229E [ATCC VR-740] Example 3 - Film durability

Film durability was evaluated by wiping a clean surface of known mass with the formulation listed below. The applied compositions were allowed to dry overnight, and then weighed. The treated surfaces were subjected to a wear regimen of 6 alternating dry and wet abrasions, according to EPA Protocol 01-1A. (Dry, Wet, Dry, Wet, Dry, Wet, with 15 minute delay after each dry abrasion and 30 minutes delay after each wet abrasion). The compositions were again weighed, and film loss was calculated using: [((Initial film weight - carrier weight) - (Post abrasion weight-carrier weight) )/(Initial film weight-carrier weight)] x 100. The following compositions were evaluated in this manner.

PQ = polyquaternium; n/a = unknown Example 4 - Aesthetic performance

Aesthetic performance was evaluated on a black laminate surface and stainless-steel surface. The test surface was cleaned with 70% isopropyl alcohol and allowed to dry. Antimicrobial compositions (loaded onto a wipe, 500% add-on) were applied to the surfaces using a single stroke and the surface was allowed to dry. The resulting dried surfaces were visually evaluated for streaks (1 = best performance, 2 = intermediate performance, 3 = worst performance).

The composition of Example A was further modified with the following add-in as indicated:

Example 5 - BZK release from pulp fibers

The ability of polyquaternium species to improve the release of active benzalkonium chloride from pulp fibers was evaluated using the following composition:

A control formulation included 1.9% BZK USP-NF in water.

Each formulation was added to Scott paper towels (pulp) at an add-on level of 400% (w/w). The base sheets were then placed in sealed glass jars and stored at 40°C for two weeks. Mass analysis confirmed no significant weight loss for any sheet. The formulations were then expressed from the wipes and assessed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HLPC) to determine the amount of BZK present in each formulation. The expressed tested formulation (Composition 7) contained 86.46% benzalkonium chloride relative to the starting formulation, while the expressed control formulation contained 20.57% benzalkonium chloride relative to the starting formulation. This data indicates the disclosed formulations, which include polyquaternium-6 and polyquaternium-22 (e.g., as in Composition 7), significantly increase release of active antimicrobial ingredient (e.g., BZK) from pulp fibers relative to control.

ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES

Various example implementations of the disclosure are described below for convenience. These implementations are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology.

Example 1. An antimicrobial composition comprising: (a) a quaternary ammonium salt; (b) a first polyquatemium species; (c) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol; and (d) water.

Example 2. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 1, wherein the quaternary ammonium salt comprises benzalkonium chloride.

Example 3. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 2, further comprising a second polyquatemium species, different from the first polyquatemium species.

Example 4. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 3, wherein the first and second polyquatemium species are selected from the group consisting of: polyquatemium-2, polyquatemium-4, polyquatemium-5, polyquatemium-6, polyquaternium-7, polyquatemium- 10, polyquaternium-11, polyquatemium- 16, polyquaternium- 22, polyquatemium-24, polyquatemium-28, polyquaternium-32, polyquaternium-37, polyquaternium-39, polyquatemium-42, polyquatemium-43, polyquaternium-44, polyquaternium-46, polyquatemium-47, polyquatemium-51, polyquaternium-53, polyquaternium-55, polyquatemium-57, polyquatemium-58, polyquatemium-59, polyquaternium-60, polyquatemium-63, polyquatemium-64, polyquaternium-65, and polyquaternium-68.

Example 5. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 1, wherein the first polyquatemium species is selected from the group consisting of: polyquaternium-2, polyquaternium-4, polyquaternium-5, polyquatemium-6, polyquatemium-7, and polyquatemium- 10.

Example 6. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 3, wherein the second polyquatemium species is selected from the group consisting of: polyquaternium-22, polyquatemium-24, polyquatemium-28, polyquaternium-32, polyquaternium-37, polyquatemium-39, polyquatemium-42, polyquaternium-43, polyquaternium-44, polyquatemium-46, polyquatemium-47, polyquaternium-51, polyquaternium-53, polyquatemium-55, polyquatemium-57, polyquatemium-58, polyquatemium-59, polyquaternium-60, polyquaternium-63, polyquatemium-64, polyquaternium-65, and polyquatemium-68.

Example 7. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 3, further comprising a third polyquaternium species selected from polyquaternium-11 and polyquaternium- 16.

Example 8. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 7, wherein the first polyquaternium species is polyquatemium-6.

Example 9. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 7, wherein the second polyquaternium species is polyquaternium- 22.

Example 10. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 3, wherein the first polyquaternium species is polyquaternium-6, and the second polyquaternium species is polyquaternium-22.

Example 11. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 10, further comprising a third polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium- 11.

Example 12. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 7, wherein the first polyquaternium species is polyquatemium-6, the second polyquaternium species is polyquaternium-22, and the third polyquaternium species is polyquaternium- 11.

Example 13. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: (a) a quaternary ammonium salt; (b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-6; (c) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol; (d) water; (e) optionally, a surfactant; and (f) optionally, a fragrance.

Example 14. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: (a) a quaternary ammonium salt; (b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-6; (c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-22; (d) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; (e) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol; (f) water; (g) optionally, a surfactant; and (h) optionally, a fragrance.

Example 15. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: (a) a quaternary ammonium salt; (b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-6; (c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-22; (d) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; (e) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol; (f) water; (g) optionally, a surfactant; and (h) optionally, a fragrance.

Example 16. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: (a) a quaternary ammonium salt; (b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-6; (c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-22; (d) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; (e) an alkyl alcohol; (f) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol (g) water; (h) optionally, a surfactant; and (i) optionally, a fragrance.

Example 17. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: (a) a quaternary ammonium salt; (b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-6; (c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-22; (d) a third polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium- 11 ; (e) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; (f) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol (g) water; (h) optionally, a surfactant; and (i) optionally, a fragrance.

Example 18. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: (a) a quaternary ammonium salt; (b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-6; (c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium-22; (d) a third polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium- 11 ; (e) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; (f) an alkyl alcohol; (g) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol (h) water; (i) optionally, a surfactant; and (j) optionally, a fragrance.

Example 19. The antimicrobial composition according to any of Examples 1 or 12-15, wherein the quaternary ammonium salt is present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount from 1.0-1.5 wt.%, 0.50-0.99 wt.%, from 0.60-0.99 wt.%, from 0.70-0.99 wt.%, from 0.80-0.99 wt.%, from 0.90-0.99 wt.%, from 0.90-0.95 wt.%, or from 0.95-0.99 wt.%, and the antimicrobial composition has a pH from 1-5, from 1-4, from 1-3, from 1-2, from 2-5, from 2-4, from 2-3, or from 3-4. Example 20. The antimicrobial composition according to any of Examples 1 or 13-18, comprising citric acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof.

Example 21. The antimicrobial composition according to any of Examples 1 or 13-18, wherein the first polyquaternium species is present in an amount from 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

Example 22. The antimicrobial composition according to any of Examples 3 or 14-18, wherein the second polyquaternium species is present in an amount from 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

Example 23. The antimicrobial composition according to any of Examples 4 or 14-18, wherein the first polyquaternium species and second polyquaternium species are present in a combined amount from 1-10 wt.%, 5-10 wt.%, 5-7.5 wt.%, 7.5-10 wt.%, 6-8 wt.%, 8-10 wt.%, 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

Example 24. The antimicrobial composition according to any of Examples 7, 17, or 18, wherein the third polyquaternium species is present in an amount from 0.1-5 wt.%, from 0.1-1 wt.%, from 0.5-1.5 wt.%, from 0.75-1.25 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

Example 25. The antimicrobial composition according to any of Examples 1, 16, or 18, further comprising an alcohol, preferably ethanol.

Example 26. The antimicrobial composition according to any example, in particular Example 22, wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises an alcohol in an amount of 1-40 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-20 wt.%, from 10-25 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%, from 25-40 wt.%, or from 30-50 wt.%.

Example 27. The antimicrobial composition of any of Examples 1 or 13-18, comprising a polysorbate surfactant, preferably polysorbate 20.

Example 28. A disinfecting article, comprising the antimicrobial composition according to any of Examples 1-26, wherein the antimicrobial composition is loaded on the substrate in an amount from 100-1,000 wt.%, from 250-1,000 wt.%, from 500-1,000 wt.%, 100-750 wt.%, from 250-750 wt.%, from 500-750 wt.%, from 100-500 wt.%, from 250-500 wt.%, or from 100-250 wt.%, relative to the dry weight of the substrate.

Example 29. The disinfecting article according to any example, in particular Example 28, wherein the substrate is a wipe, sponge, pouch, or pod. Example 30. A method for providing long-lasting antimicrobial protection to an abiotic surface, the method comprising applying the antimicrobial composition or disinfecting article according to any preceding Example to the abiotic surface, wherein the composition provides at least a 3-log reduction in bacteria according to the PAS 2424 Test Method.

Example 31. The method according to any example, in particular Example 31, wherein the surface maintains at least a 3-log reduction in bacteria (relative to the surface prior to the application) for a period of at least 1 hour, at least 2 hours, at least 4 hours, at least 8 hours, at least 12 hours, at least 18 hours, or at least 24 hours following a single application of the composition.

The compositions and methods of the appended claims are not limited in scope by the specific compositions and methods described herein, which are intended as illustrations of a few aspects of the claims and any compositions and methods that are functionally equivalent are intended to fall within the scope of the claims. Various modifications of the compositions and methods in addition to those shown and described herein are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. Further, while only certain representative compositions and method steps disclosed herein are specifically described, other combinations of the compositions and method steps also are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims, even if not specifically recited. Thus, a combination of steps, elements, components, or constituents may be explicitly mentioned herein or less, however, other combinations of steps, elements, components, and constituents are included, even though not explicitly stated. The term “comprising” and variations thereof as used herein is used synonymously with the term “including” and variations thereof and are open, non-limiting terms. Although the terms “comprising” and “including” have been used herein to describe various implementations, the terms “consisting essentially of’ and “consisting of’ can be used in place of “comprising” and “including” to provide for more specific implementations and are also disclosed. Other than in the examples, or where otherwise noted, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood at the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, to be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding approaches.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An antimicrobial composition comprising: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquatemium species; c) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol; and d) water.

2. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 1, wherein the quaternary ammonium salt comprises benzalkonium chloride.

3. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 2, further comprising a second polyquatemium species, different from the first polyquatemium species.

4. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 3, wherein the first and second polyquatemium species are selected from the group consisting of: polyquaternium-2, polyquatemium-4, polyquatemium- 5, polyquatemium-6, polyquaternium-7, polyquatemium- 10, polyquatemium- 11, polyquatemium- 16, polyquatemium- 22, polyquatemium- 24, polyquatemium-28, polyquaternium-32, polyquaternium-37, polyquatemium-39, polyquatemium-42, polyquaternium-43, polyquaternium-44, polyquatemium-46, polyquatemium-47, polyquaternium-51, polyquaternium-53, polyquatemium-55, polyquatemium-57, polyquatemium-58, polyquatemium-59, polyquatemium-60, polyquatemium- 63, polyquaternium-64, polyquaternium-65, and polyquatemium-68.

5. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 1, wherein the first polyquatemium species is selected from the group consisting of: polyquaternium-2, polyquatemium-4, polyquatemium-5, polyquatemium-6, polyquaternium-7, and polyquatemium- 10.

6. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 3, wherein the second polyquatemium species is selected from the group consisting of: polyquaternium-22, polyquatemium- 24, polyquaternium-28, polyquaternium-32, polyquatemium-37, polyquatemium-39, polyquaternium-42, polyquaternium-43, polyquatemium-44, polyquatemium-46, polyquaternium-47, polyquaternium-51, polyquatemium-53, polyquatemium-55, polyquaternium-57, polyquatemium-58, polyquatemium-59, polyquatemium-60, polyquaternium-63, polyquaternium-64, polyquatemium-65, and polyquatemium- 68.

7. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 3, further comprising a third polyquatemium species selected from polyquatemium- 11 and polyquatemium- 16.

8. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 7, wherein the first polyquatemium species is polyquaternium-6.

9. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 7, wherein the second polyquatemium species is polyquatemium- 22.

10. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 3, wherein the first polyquatemium species is polyquaternium-6, and the second polyquatemium species is polyquatemium- 22.

11. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 10, further comprising a third polyquatemium species that is polyquatemium- 11.

12. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 7, wherein the first polyquatemium species is polyquaternium-6, the second polyquatemium species is polyquatemium- 22, and the third polyquatemium species is polyquaternium-11.

13. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquatemium species that is polyquatemium- 6; c) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol; d) water; e) optionally, a surfactant; and f) optionally, a fragrance.

14. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-6; c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-22; d) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; e) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol; f) water; g) optionally, a surfactant; and h) optionally, a fragrance.

15. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-6; c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-22; d) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; e) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol; f) water; g) optionally, a surfactant; and h) optionally, a fragrance.

16. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-6; c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-22; d) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; e) an alkyl alcohol; f) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol g) water; h) optionally, a surfactant; and i) optionally, a fragrance.

17. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-6; c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-22; d) a third polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium- 11 ; e) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; f) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol g) water; h) optionally, a surfactant; and i) optionally, a fragrance.

18. A disinfecting article comprising an antimicrobial composition impregnated on a substrate, wherein the antimicrobial composition consists essentially of: a) a quaternary ammonium salt; b) a first polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-6; c) a second polyquaternium species that is polyquatemium-22; d) a third polyquaternium species that is polyquaternium- 11 ; e) a carboxylic acid, salt thereof, or combination thereof; f) an alkyl alcohol; g) an aesthetic enhancer selected from isocetyl alcohol, hexyldecanol, lauryl lactate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate in combination with propylene glycol h) water; i) optionally, a surfactant; and j) optionally, a fragrance.

19. The antimicrobial composition according to any of claims 1 or 12-15, wherein the quaternary ammonium salt is present in the antimicrobial composition in an amount from 1.0-1.5 wt.%, 0.50-0.99 wt.%, from 0.60-0.99 wt.%, from 0.70-0.99 wt.%, from 0.80-0.99 wt.%, from 0.90-0.99 wt.%, from 0.90-0.95 wt.%, or from 0.95-0.99 wt.%, and the antimicrobial composition has a pH from 1-5, from 1-4, from 1-3, from 1-2, from 2-5, from 2-4, from 2-3, or from 3-4.

20. The antimicrobial composition according to any of claims 1 or 13-18, comprising citric acid, a salt thereof, or a combination thereof.

21. The antimicrobial composition according to any of claims 1 or 13-18, wherein the first polyquatemium species is present in an amount from 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

22. The antimicrobial composition according to any of claims 3 or 14-18, wherein the second polyquatemium species is present in an amount from 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

23. The antimicrobial composition according to any of claims 4 or 14-18, wherein the first polyquatemium species and second polyquatemium species are present in a combined amount from 1-10 wt.%, 5-10 wt.%, 5-7.5 wt.%, 7.5-10 wt.%, 6-8 wt.%, 8-10 wt.%, 1-5 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1-3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

24. The antimicrobial composition according to any of claims 7, 17, or 18, wherein the third polyquatemium species is present in an amount from 0.1-5 wt.%, from 0.1- 1 wt.%, from 0.5-1.5 wt.%, from 0.75-1.25 wt.%, from 1-2.5 wt.%, from 2.5-5 wt.%, from 1- 3 wt.%, from 2-5 wt.%, from 1-2 wt.%, from 2-3 wt.%, from 3-4 wt.%, or from 4-5 wt.%.

25. The antimicrobial composition according to any of claims 1, 16, or 18, further comprising an alcohol, preferably ethanol.

26. The antimicrobial composition according to claim 22, wherein the antimicrobial composition comprises an alcohol in an amount of 1-40 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-20 wt.%, from 10-25 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%, from 25-40 wt.%, or from 30-50 wt.%.

27. The antimicrobial composition of any of claims 1 or 13-18, comprising a polysorbate surfactant, preferably polysorbate 20.

28. A disinfecting article, comprising the antimicrobial composition according to any of claims 1-26, wherein the antimicrobial composition is loaded on the substrate in an amount from 100-1,000 wt.%, from 250-1,000 wt.%, from 500-1,000 wt.%, 100-750 wt.%, from 250-750 wt.%, from 500-750 wt.%, from 100-500 wt.%, from 250-500 wt.%, or from 100-250 wt.%, relative to the dry weight of the substrate.

29. The disinfecting article according to claim 28, wherein the substrate is a wipe, sponge, pouch, or pod.

30. A method for providing long-lasting antimicrobial protection to an abiotic surface, the method comprising applying the antimicrobial composition or disinfecting article according to any preceding claim to the abiotic surface, wherein the composition provides at least a 3-log reduction in bacteria according to the PAS 2424 Test Method.

31. The method according to claim 30, wherein the surface maintains at least a 3- log reduction in bacteria (relative to the surface prior to the application) for a period of at least 1 hour, at least 2 hours, at least 4 hours, at least 8 hours, at least 12 hours, at least 18 hours, or at least 24 hours following a single application of the composition.