阅读说明：本技术 用于全洗衣物洗涤软化的颗粒 (Granule for washing and softening of full laundry ) 是由 拉赞·凯沙夫·帕南迪科尔 J·A·曼克浩斯 L·V·约翰逊 于 2020-05-08 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明公开了一种用于向衣物制品提供软化有益效果的颗粒组合物。该组合物包含水溶性或水分散性载体、阳离子聚合物和脂肪胺。(A particulate composition for providing softening benefits to an article of clothing is disclosed. The composition comprises a water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier, a cationic polymer, and a fatty amine.)

1. A composition comprising a plurality of particles, the plurality of particles comprising:

25% to 94% by weight of a water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier;

0.5 to 10% by weight of a cationic polymer; and

10 to 45% by weight of a fatty amine having the structure

Wherein each R₁Independently selected from C₈-C₃₂Alkyl radical, C₈-C₃₂Substituted alkyl, C₆-C₃₂Aryl radical, C₅-C₃₂Substituted aryl, C₆-C₃₂Alkylaryl group, C₆-C₃₂A substituted alkylaryl group;

x isGroup orA group;

y is an alkylene group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms;

n is a nitrogen atom;

R₂independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl;

q is 0 or 1;

p is an integer of 1 to 3; and is

Wherein the plurality of particles comprises individual particles, wherein the individual particles each have a mass of 1mg to 1 g.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein

Each R₁Independently is C₁₀-C₂₂Alkyl or C₈-C₂₂A substituted alkyl group;

x is as describedA group;

y is an alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms; and is

R₂Independently is H or C₁-C₆An alkyl group;

q is 1; and is

p is 1.

3. The composition of claim 2, wherein each R is₁Independently is C₁₀-C₂₂Alkyl and R₂Is a methyl group.

4. The composition of claim 3, wherein the fatty amine has the structure

5. The composition of claim 1, wherein

R₁Is C₁₂-C₂₂An alkyl group;

x isA group;

y is an alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms;

R₂independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl groups;

q is 1; and is

p is 1 to 3.

6. The composition of claim 5, wherein the fatty amine has a structure selected from the group consisting of:

7. the composition of claim 1, wherein

R₁Is C₁₀-C₁₈An alkyl group;

y is an alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms;

R₂independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl groups;

q is 0; and is

p＝1-3。

8. The composition of claim 1, wherein the fatty amine is selected from the group consisting of: esters of bis- (2-hydroxypropyl) -methylamine, bis- (hydroxyethyl) -methylamine and triethanolamine with at least one fatty acid comprising C₁₂-C₂₂An alkyl chain; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-bis- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-tris (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -amine; stearamidopropyl dimethylamine; cocamidopropyl dimethylamine; behenamidopropyl dimethylamine; stearyl amine; distearyl amine; tristearyl amine; and N, N-distearyl N-methylamine.

9. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of particles further comprise a fatty acid, the molar ratio of the fatty amine to the fatty acid being from 1:3 to 3: 1.

10. The composition of claim 9, wherein the fatThe acid is selected from stearic acid, arylsulfonic acid, isopropylbenzenesulfonic acid, xylenesulfonic acid, toluenesulfonic acid, alkenylsuccinic acid, octylsuccinic acid, dodecenylsuccinic acid, C₁₂-C₁₈Fatty acids, oleic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, and combinations thereof.

11. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fatty amine is selected from the group consisting of dimethylamidopropyl stearamide, bis- (2-hydroxypropyl) -methylamine, bis- (hydroxyethyl) -isopropylamine and esters of triethanolamine with at least one fatty acid comprising C₁₂-C₂₂An alkyl chain; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-bis- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-tris (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -amine; and combinations thereof.

12. The composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cationic polymer is a cationic polysaccharide, preferably a polymeric quaternary ammonium salt of hydroxyethyl cellulose that has been reacted with an epoxide substituted with a trimethylammonium group.

13. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier is selected from the group consisting of:

formula H- (C)₂H₄O)_x-(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_y-(C₂H₄O)_zA polyalkylene polymer of-OH, wherein x is from 50 to 300, y is from 20 to 100, and z is from 10 to 200;

formula (C)₂H₄O)_q-C(O)O-(CH₂)_r-CH₃Wherein q is 20 to 200, and r is 10 to 30;

formula HO- (C)₂H₄O)_s-(CH₂)_t)-CH₃Wherein s is from 30 to 250 and t is from 10 to 30;

C8-C22 alkyl polyalkoxylates comprising more than 40 alkoxylate units;

polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 2000 to 15000;

EO/PO/EO block copolymers;

a PO/EO/PO block copolymer;

EO/PO block copolymers;

a PO/EO block copolymer;

polypropylene glycol;

an ethoxylated nonionic surfactant having a degree of ethoxylation greater than 30;

polyvinyl alcohol;

a polyalkylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 2000 to 15000;

and mixtures thereof.

14. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of particles further comprise from 5% to 25% by weight of a fatty acid, wherein the carrier is a water soluble polymer, wherein the cationic polymer is a cationic polysaccharide, wherein the plurality of particles have a melt initiation of from 25 ℃ to 120 ℃, and wherein the fatty amine, the cationic polymer, and the fatty acid are dispersed in the carrier.

15. A method for treating an article of clothing, the method comprising the steps of:

providing an article of clothing in a washing machine; and

contacting the article of clothing with the composition of any of the preceding claims during a wash sub-cycle of the washing machine.

Technical Field

A laundry detergent softening additive.

Background

Consumers continue to express interest in the following products: products that can simplify their process for washing laundry, products that help them reduce the time they spend handling soiled laundry, and products that help them achieve a high level of cleanliness and a high level of softness of their home laundry. Current cleaning and softening of laundry requires the consumer to dose two products into different compartments or sections of the washing machine, or dose one product into the washing machine and dose one product into the dryer.

There are three basic steps in washing fabrics: washing, rinsing and drying. The washing step typically uses water and a detergent composition comprising anionic surfactant together with other active agents which are compatible with the anionic surfactant in the unused product form and in the wash liquor formed during the washing step. After washing, rinsing the laundry one or more times is part of the rinsing step.

Currently, laundry softening is most commonly and practically achieved with a liquid softening composition (which is separate from the detergent composition) during the rinse step, or with a tablet releasably carrying a solid softening composition during the drying step. To apply the liquid softening composition to the laundry in the washing machine, the liquid softening composition is added to the laundry during the rinse step. The liquid softening composition may be added automatically to the rinse from a compartment which keeps the liquid softening composition separate from the wash composition. The compartment may be part of the agitator (if present) or another part of the washing machine which may be used to dispense the liquid softening composition into the drum. This is commonly referred to as full rinse softening. Full-rinse softening requires the consumer to dose detergent compositions and softening compositions to different locations in the washing machine, which is inconvenient. Laundry softening may also be achieved using a fabric softening sheet during the drying step. With any of these cleaning and softening methods, cleaning and softening are performed separately.

Consumers find it inconvenient to have to dispense multiple products to different locations, whether that location is part of the washing machine or distributed between the washing machine and the dryer. It is desirable for the consumer to be able to dose detergent compositions and softening compositions quantitatively to a single location.

Unfortunately, liquid detergent compositions tend to be incompatible with softening compositions. Liquid detergent compositions contain anionic surfactants to aid in cleaning laundry. Softening compositions typically comprise cationic surfactants to soften laundry. When mixed as a liquid in a single package, the anionic surfactant and the cationic surfactant can mix and form a solid precipitate. This leads to stability problems of the combination when packaged together in liquid form or in a wash liquor, and reduced cleaning performance compared to detergent compositions without the softening composition. This incompatibility problem is one of the reasons why detergent compositions and fabric softening compositions are dosed and applied separately from each other. Liquid fabric softening compositions packaged separately from detergent compositions may not be preferred by some consumers due to the inconvenience, perceived messiness and product texture associated with dosing the composition to a washing machine.

In view of these limitations, there is a continuing unaddressed need for a full wash fabric softening composition in solid form that can be dispensed by the consumer along with a laundry detergent to provide softening throughout the wash during the washing step.

Disclosure of Invention

A composition comprising a plurality of particles, the plurality of particles comprising:

25% to 94% by weight of a water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier;

0.5 to 10% by weight of a cationic polymer; and

8 to 45% by weight of a fatty amine having the structure

Wherein each R₁Independently selected from C₈-C₃₂Alkyl radical, C₈-C₃₂Substituted alkyl, C₆-C₃₂Aryl radical, C₅-C₃₂Substituted aryl, C₆-C₃₂Alkylaryl group, C₆-C₃₂A substituted alkylaryl group;

x isGroup orA group;

y is an alkylene group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms;

n is a nitrogen atom;

R₂independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl;

q is 0 or 1;

p is an integer of 1 to 3; and is

Wherein the plurality of particles comprises individual particles, wherein the individual particles each have a mass of about 1mg to about 1 g.

Detailed Description

The compositions described herein can provide a full wash fabric softening composition that is convenient for a consumer to dose into a washing machine. The full wash fabric softening composition may be provided in the form of a composition comprising a plurality of particles. The plurality of particles may be provided in a package separate from the package of the detergent composition. Having the softening composition as a plurality of particles in a package separate from the detergent composition package may be beneficial in that it allows the consumer to select the amount of softening composition regardless of the amount of detergent composition used. This can give the consumer the opportunity to tailor the amount of softening composition used, and thus the degree of softening benefit they achieve, which is a highly valuable consumer benefit.

Many consumers prefer granular products, especially dust-free granules. The consumer can easily dose the granular product from the packaging directly into the washing machine or into a dosing compartment on the washing machine. Alternatively, the consumer may dose from the package into a measuring cup, which optionally provides one or more dosing indicia, and then dose the particles into a dosing compartment on the washing machine or directly into the drum. For products in which a measuring cup is used, granular products tend to be cleaner than liquid products.

The plurality of particles of the fabric softening composition may comprise from about 25% to about 94% by weight of a water soluble or water dispersible carrier, from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of a cationic polymer, and from about 5% to about 45% by weight of a fatty amine. The individual particles comprising the plurality of particles may have a mass of about 1mg to about 1 g. The fatty amine and the cationic polymer may be dispersed in a carrier. The carrier carries the fatty amine and the cationic polymer into the washing machine. A plurality of particles is dissolved in the wash liquor. The cationic polymer deposits onto the fibers of the fabric and promotes deposition of the quaternary ammonium compound onto the fabric. Furthermore, fatty amines are deposited from the wash liquor onto the fibres of the fabric. The cationic polymer and fatty amine deposited on the fibers provide a soft feel to the consumer.

Optionally, the plurality of particles may further comprise a fatty acid. The fatty amine, cationic polymer, and fatty acid can be dispersed in a carrier.

Water-soluble or water-dispersible carriers

The plurality of particles can comprise a water-soluble carrier or a water-dispersible carrier. The fabric care benefit agent disperses into the wash liquor as the carrier dissolves or disperses.

The water soluble or water dispersible carrier can be a material that is soluble or dispersible in the wash liquor in a short period of time, for example less than about 10 minutes. The water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier may be selected from the group consisting of water-soluble inorganic alkali metal salts, water-soluble alkaline earth metal salts, water-soluble organic alkali metal salts, water-soluble organic alkaline earth metal salts, water-soluble carbohydrates, water-soluble silicates, water-soluble ureas, and any combination thereof.

The water soluble carrier may be a water soluble polymer. The water-soluble polymer can be selected from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), modified PVA; polyvinylpyrrolidone; PVA copolymers such as PVA/polyvinylpyrrolidone and PVA/polyvinylamine; partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate; polyalkylene oxides such as ethylene oxide; polyethylene glycol; (ii) acrylamide; acrylic acid; cellulose, alkyl celluloses such as methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, and propyl cellulose; a cellulose ether; cellulose esters; a cellulose amide; polyvinyl acetate; polycarboxylic acids and salts; a polyamino acid or peptide; a polyamide; polyacrylamide; maleic/acrylic acid copolymers; polysaccharides, including starch, modified starch; gelatin; an alginate; xyloglucans, other hemicellulose polysaccharides including xylan, glucuronoxylan, arabinoxylan, mannan, glucomannan and galactoglucomannan; natural gums such as pectin, xanthan gum, carrageenan, locust bean gum, gum arabic, tragacanth gum; and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the polymer comprises: polyacrylates, especially sulfonated polyacrylates and water soluble acrylate copolymers; and alkylhydroxycelluloses such as methylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, modified carboxymethylcellulose, dextrin, ethylcellulose, propylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, maltodextrin, polymethacrylates. In another embodiment, the water soluble polymer may be selected from PVA; a PVA copolymer; hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC); and mixtures thereof.

The water soluble carrier may be selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, modified polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol/polyvinyl amine, partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate, polyalkylene oxide, polyethylene glycol, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, alkyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, propyl cellulose, cellulose ether, cellulose ester, cellulose amide, polyvinyl acetate, polycarboxylic acids and salts, polyaminoacids or peptides, polyamides, polyacrylamide, maleic acid/acrylic acid copolymers, polysaccharides, starch, modified starch, gelatin, alginate, xyloglucan, hemicelluloses, xylan, glucuronoxylan, arabinoxylan, mannan, glucomannan, galactoglucomannan, natural gum, pectin, xanthan gum, carrageenan, Locust bean gum, gum arabic, gum tragacanth, polyacrylates, sulfonated polyacrylates, water-soluble acrylate copolymers, alkyl hydroxy celluloses, methyl celluloses, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, modified carboxymethyl celluloses, dextrins, ethyl celluloses, propyl celluloses, hydroxyethyl celluloses, hydroxypropyl methyl celluloses, maltodextrins, polymethacrylates, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, hydroxypropyl methyl celluloses, and mixtures thereof.

The water soluble carrier may be selected from the group consisting of polyethylene glycol, sodium acetate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, sodium silicate, polypropylene glycol polyoxyalkylene, polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester, polyethylene glycol ether, sodium sulfate, starch, and mixtures thereof.

The water soluble carrier may be polyethylene glycol (PEG). PEG may be a convenient material for preparing individual particles because when the particles have the mass ranges disclosed herein, PEG may have sufficient water solubility to dissolve during the wash cycle. In addition, PEG can be easily processed in melt form. The melting initiation temperature of PEG can vary depending on the molecular weight of PEG. The plurality of particles can comprise about 25% to about 94% by weight of PEG having a weight average molecular weight of about 2000 to about 13000. PEG is relatively low cost, can be formed in many different shapes and sizes, and dissolves well in water. PEG has a variety of weight average molecular weights. Suitable ranges for the weight average molecular weight of PEG include from about 2,000 to about 13,000, alternatively from about 4,000 to about 12,000, alternatively from about 4,000 to about 11,000, alternatively from about 5,000 to about 11,000, alternatively from about 6,000 to about 10,000, alternatively from about 7,000 to about 9,000, or combinations thereof. PEG is available from BASF, such as PLURIOL E8000 (which has a weight average molecular weight of 9000, even 8000 in the product name), or other PLURIOL products.

The plurality of particles can comprise about 25% to about 94% by weight of the plurality of PEG particles. Optionally, the particles can comprise from about 35% to about 94%, optionally from about 50% to about 94%, optionally combinations thereof and any integer percentage or range of integer percentages within any of the foregoing ranges, by weight of the plurality of particles, of PEG.

The water soluble carrier may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of: formula H- (C)₂H₄O)_x-(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_y-(C₂H₄O)_zA polyalkylene polymer of-OH wherein x is from about 50 to about 300, y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10 to about 200; formula (C)₂H₄O)_q-C(O)O-(CH₂)_r-CH₃Wherein q is from about 20 to about 200, and r is from about 10 to about 30; formula HO- (C)₂H₄O)_s-(CH₂)_t)-CH₃Wherein s is from about 30 to about 250, and t is from about 10 to about 30; and mixtures thereof. Formula H- (C)₂H₄O)_x-(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_y-(C₂H₄O)_zThe polyalkylene polymer of-OH can be a block copolymer or a random copolymer, wherein x is from about 50 to about 300, y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10 to about 200.

Water-soluble carriers may include: polyethylene glycol; formula H- (C)₂H₄O)_x-(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_y-(C₂H₄O)_zA polyalkylene polymer of-OH, wherein x is from about 50 to about 300; y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10 to about 200; formula (C)₂H₄O)_q-C(O)O-(CH₂)_r-CH₃Wherein q is from about 20 to about 200, and r is from about 10 to about 30; and formula HO- (C)₂H₄O)_s-(CH₂)_t)-CH₃Wherein s is from about 30 to about 250 and t is from about 10 to about 30.

The water soluble carrier may comprise from about 20% to about 80% by weight of the particle of the formula H- (C)₂H₄O)_x-(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_y-(C₂H₄O)_zA polyalkylene polymer of-OH, wherein x is from about 50 to about 300; y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10 to about 200.

The water soluble carrier may comprise from about 1% to about 20% by weight of the particle of formula (C)₂H₄O)_q-C(O)O-(CH₂)_r-CH₃Wherein q is from about 20 to about 200, and r is from about 10 to about 30.

The water soluble carrier may comprise from about 1% to about 10% by weight of the plurality of particles of the formula HO- (C)₂H₄O)_s-(CH₂)_t)-CH₃Wherein s is from about 30 to about 250 and t is from about 10 to about 30.

The water soluble carrier may be selected from: formula H- (C)₂H₄O)_x-(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_y-(C₂H₄O)_zA polyalkylene polymer of-OH wherein x is from about 50 to about 300, y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10 to about 200; formula (C)₂H₄O)_q-C(O)O-(CH₂)_r-CH₃Wherein q is from about 20 to about 200, and r is from about 10 to about 30; formula HO- (C)₂H₄O)_s-(CH₂)_t)-CH₃Wherein s is from about 30 to about 250, and t is from about 10 to about 30; a C8-C22 alkyl polyalkoxylate comprising more than about 40 alkoxylate units; polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of about 2000 to about 15000; EO/PO/EO block copolymers; a PO/EO/PO block copolymer; EO/PO block copolymers; a PO/EO block copolymer; polypropylene glycol; an ethoxylated nonionic surfactant having a degree of ethoxylation of greater than about 30; polyvinyl alcohol; a polyalkylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of about 2000 to about 15000; and mixtures thereof.

The plurality of particles of the fabric softening composition may comprise from about 25% to about 94% by weight of a water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier. Optionally, the plurality of particles of the fabric softening composition may comprise from about 30% to about 94% by weight, optionally from about 35% to about 85% by weight, optionally from about 35% to about 94% by weight of a water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier.

Aliphatic amines

The fatty amine may have the following structure:

wherein each R₁Independently selected from C₈-C₃₂Alkyl radical, C₈-C₃₂Substituted alkyl, C₆-C₃₂Aryl radical, C₅-C₃₂Substituted aryl, C₆-C₃₂Alkylaryl group, C₆-C₃₂A substituted alkylaryl group;

x is

Group or

A group;

y is an alkylene group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms; n is a nitrogen atom; r₂Independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl; q is 0 or 1; and p is an integer from 1 to 3.

Optionally, each R₁Independently is C₁₀-C₂₂Alkyl or C₈-C₂₂A substituted alkyl group;

x is

A group; y is an alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms; r₂Independently is H or C₁-C₆An alkyl group; q is 1;and p is 1.

Optionally, each R₁Independently is C₁₀-C₂₂Alkyl and R₂Is a methyl group

The fatty amine may have the following structure

Optionally, R₁Is C₁₂-C₂₂An alkyl group; x is

A group; y is an alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms; r₂Independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl groups; q is 1; and p is 1 to 3.

The fatty amine may have a structure selected from:

and

optionally, each R₁Independently is C₁₀-C₁₈An alkyl group; y is an alkylene radical having 2 to 4 carbon atoms, R₂Independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl groups, p is an integer from 1 to 3, and q is 0

Optionally, R₂Is a methyl or hydroxyethyl group;

the fatty amine may have a structure selected from:

the fatty amine may be selected from: fatty esters of bis- (2-hydroxypropyl) -methylamine, bis- (hydroxyethyl) -isopropylamine and triethanolamine with at least one fatty acid comprising C₁₂-C₂₂An alkyl chain; n, N-bis- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-tris (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -amine; stearamidopropyl dimethylamine; cocamidopropyl dimethylamine; behenamidopropyl dimethylamine; stearyl amine; distearyl amine; tristearyl amine; n, N-distearyl N-methylamine, and combinations thereof.

The plurality of particles of the fabric softening composition may comprise from about 5% to about 45% by weight of the fatty amine. Optionally, the plurality of particles of the fabric softening composition may comprise from about 8% to about 35% by weight, optionally from about 10% to about 35% by weight, optionally from about 12% to about 30% by weight, optionally from about 15% to about 25% by weight of the fatty amine. The fatty amine and the weight fraction of fatty amine in the plurality of particles can affect the dissolution time of the plurality of particles.

Fatty acids

The plurality of particles may further comprise a fatty acid. The fatty acid can be provided in a molar ratio of fatty amine to fatty acid of about 1:3 to about 3: 1.

The term fatty acid as used herein includes in its broadest sense fatty acids in either their unprotonated or protonated form. The fatty acids may include those containing 12 to 25, 13 to 22, or even 16 to 20 total carbon atoms and the fatty moiety containing 10 to 22, 12 to 18, or even 14 (cut) to 18 carbon atoms. Mixtures of fatty acids from different fat sources may be used.

The cis/trans ratio of the unsaturated fatty acids (C18:1 species) may be important, being at least 1:1, at least 3:1, 4:1 or even 9:1 or higher. Branched fatty acids such as isostearic acid are also suitable as they may be more stable to oxidation and the resulting color and odor quality degradation. The fatty acid can have an iodine value of 0 to 140, 50 to 120, or 85 to 105.

The plurality of particles may comprise from about 1% to about 40% by weight of fatty acids. The fatty acid may be selected from saturated fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids, and mixtures thereof. The fatty acids can be blends of saturated fatty acids, blends of unsaturated fatty acids, and mixtures thereof. The fatty acids may be substituted or unsubstituted. The fatty acid may be provided together with a quaternary ammonium compound. The fatty acid may have an iodine value of zero.

The fatty acid may be selected from the group consisting of stearic acid, palmitic acid, coconut oil, palm kernel oil, stearic palmitic acid blends, oleic acid, vegetable oils, partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, and mixtures thereof. The fatty acid is selected from stearic acid, arylsulfonic acid, isopropylbenzenesulfonic acid, xylenesulfonic acid, toluenesulfonic acid, alkenylsuccinic acid, octylsuccinic acid, dodecenylsuccinic acid, C₁₂-C₁₈Fatty acids, oleic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, and combinations thereof.

The fatty acid may be stearic acid CAS No. 57-11-4. The fatty acid may be palmitic acid CAS No. 57-10-3. The fatty acid may be a blend of stearic acid and coconut oil.

The fatty acid may be a C12 to C22 fatty acid. The C12 to C22 fatty acids may be of tallow or vegetable origin, may be saturated or unsaturated, and may be substituted or unsubstituted.

Without being bound by theory, fatty acids may be used as processing aids to uniformly mix the formulation components of the individual particles that make up the plurality of particles.

Cationic polymers

The plurality of particles may comprise a cationic polymer. The cationic polymer may provide the benefit of a deposition aid which aids in the deposition of the quaternary ammonium compound onto the fabric and possibly some other benefit agent contained in the particle.

The plurality of particles may comprise from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of the cationic polymer. Optionally, the plurality of particles may comprise from 0.5% to about 5% by weight of the cationic polymer, or even from about 1% to about 5% by weight, or even from about 2% to about 4% by weight of the cationic polymer, or even about 3% by weight of the cationic polymer. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the cleaning performance of the laundry detergent in the wash decreases with increasing cationic polymer content in the particles, and that acceptable cleaning performance of the detergent can be maintained within the above range.

The cationic polymer may have a cationic charge density in excess of about 0.05meq/g (meq meaning milliequivalents) to 23meq/g, preferably about 0.1meq/g to about 4meq/g, even more preferably about 0.1meq/g to about 2meq/g, and most preferably 0.1meq/g to about 1 meq/g.

The above-mentioned cationic charge density can be a pH of about 3 to about 9, optionally about 4 to about 9, at the pH of intended use.

The cationic charge density of a polymer refers to the ratio of the number of positive charges on the polymer to the molecular weight of the polymer. The charge density is calculated by dividing the net charge per repeat unit by the molecular weight of the repeat unit. The positive charge may be located on the polymer backbone and/or on the polymer side chains. The average molecular weight of such suitable cationic polymers may typically be between about 10,000 and about 1 million, or even between about 50,000 and about 5 million, or even between about 100,000 and about 3 million.

Non-limiting examples of cationic polymers are cationic or amphoteric polysaccharides, proteins, and synthetic polymers. Cationic polysaccharides include cationic cellulose derivatives, cationic guar derivatives, chitosan and its derivatives, and cationic starch. The cationic polysaccharide has a molecular weight of about 1,000 to about 2 million, preferably about 100,000 to about 800,000. Suitable cationic polysaccharides include cationic cellulose ethers, especially cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose and cationic hydroxypropyl cellulose. Especially preferred are cationic cellulose polymers with substituted anhydroglucose units, corresponding to the general structural formula:

wherein R is¹、R²、R³Each independently selected from H, CH₃、C_8-24Alkyl (straight-chain or branched),Or mixtures thereof;

R⁴is a compound of formula (I) in the formula (H),

n is from about 1 to about 10;

rx is selected from H, CH₃、C_8-24Alkyl (straight-chain or branched),Or mixtures thereof, wherein Z is a water-soluble anion, preferably chloride and/or bromide; r⁵Is H, CH₃、CH₂CH3, or mixtures thereof; r⁷Is CH₃、CH₂CH₃Phenyl, C_8-24Alkyl (linear or branched), or mixtures thereof; and is

R⁸And R⁹Each independently is CH₃、CH₂CH₃Phenyl, or mixtures thereof:

provided that R of each anhydroglucose unit¹、R²、R³At least one of the radicals isAnd each polymer has at least oneA group.

The charge density (defined by the number of cationic charges per 100 anhydroglucose units) of the cationic cellulose herein is preferably from about 0.5% to about 60%, more preferably from about 1% to about 20%, and most preferably from about 2% to about 10%.

The alkyl substitution on the anhydroglucose ring of the polymer ranges from about 0.01% to 5% per saccharide unit of the polymeric material, more preferably about 0.05% to 2% per glucose unit.

When added to water at room temperature, the cationic cellulose may undergo mild cross-linking with dialdehydes, such as glyoxyl, to prevent the formation of lumps, agglomerates, or other agglomerates.

Examples of cationic hydroxyalkyl celluloses include those having the INCI name Polyquaternium10, such as those sold under the tradenames UCARE Polymer JR 30M, JR 400, JR 125, LR 400, and LK 400, Polymer PK polymers; polyquaternium salts 67 such as those sold under the trade name SOFTCAT SK (TM), all sold by Dow Chemicals, Midlad MI; and polyquaternium 4, such as those sold under the trade names CELQUAT H200 and CELQUAT L-200 available from National Starch and Chemical Company (Bridgewater, NJ). Other suitable polysaccharides include the use of glycidyl groups C₁₂-C₂₂Alkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride quaternized hydroxyethyl cellulose or hydroxypropyl cellulose. Examples of such polysaccharides include polymers having the INCI name polyquaternium 24, such as those sold under the trade name QUATERNIUM LM 200 by Dow Chemicals of Midland, MI. Cationic starch refers to starch that has been chemically modified to provide a starch with a net positive charge in aqueous pH 3. Such chemical modifications include, but are not limited to, the addition of amino and/or ammonium groups to the starch molecule. Non-limiting examples of these ammonium groups may include substituents such as trimethyl hydroxypropylammonium chloride, dimethyl stearyl hydroxypropylammonium chloride, or dimethyl dodecyl hydroxypropylammonium chloride. The starch source prior to chemical modification may be selected from a variety of sources including tubers, legumes, cereals, and grains. Non-limiting examples of such sources of starch may include corn starch, wheat starch, rice starch, waxy corn starch, oat starch, tapioca starch, waxy barley starch, waxy rice starch, gluten rice starch, glutinous rice starch, amylopectin, potato starch, tapioca starch, oat starch, sago starch, sweet rice starch, or mixtures thereof. Non-limiting exemplary packages of cationic starchIncluding cationic corn starch, cationic tapioca starch, cationic potato starch, or mixtures thereof. The cationic starch may comprise amylase, amylopectin, or maltodextrin. The cationic starch may include one or more additional modifications. For example, such modifications may include crosslinking, stability reactions, phosphorylation, hydrolysis, crosslinking. The stabilization reactions may include alkylation and esterification. Cationic starches suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention are commercially available from Cerestar under the tradename C × BOND and from National Starch and Chemical Company under the tradename CATO 2A. The cationic galactomannan comprises cationic guar gum or cationic locust bean gum. Examples of cationic guar are quaternary ammonium derivatives of hydroxypropyl guar such as those sold under the tradenames JAGUAR C13 and JAGUAR Excel available from Rhodia, inc. (Cranbury, NJ) and those sold under the tradename N-HANCE available from Aqualon (Wilmington, DE).

Other suitable cationic polymers for use in the plurality of particles include polysaccharide polymers, cationic guar derivatives, quaternary nitrogen containing cellulose ethers, synthetic polymers, copolymers of etherified cellulose, guar and starch. When used, the cationic polymers herein are soluble in the composition used to form the particles, or are soluble in the complex coacervate phase in the particle-forming composition. Suitable cationic polymers are described in U.S. Pat. nos. 3,962,418; 3,958,581; and U.S. patent publication 2007/0207109a 1.

One class of suitable cationic polymers includes those prepared by the polymerization of ethylenically unsaturated monomers using a suitable initiator or catalyst, such as those disclosed in WO 00/56849 and USPN 6,642,200. Suitable cationic polymers may be selected from synthetic polymers prepared by polymerization of one or more cationic monomers selected from the group consisting of N, N-dialkylaminoalkyl acrylates, N-dialkylaminoalkyl methacrylates, N-dialkylaminoalkylacrylamides, N-dialkylaminoalkyl methacrylamides, quaternized N, N-dialkylaminoalkyl acrylates, quaternized N, N-dialkylaminoalkyl methacrylates, and quaternized N, N-dialkylaminoalkyl monomersAcrylamide, quaternized N, N-dialkylaminoalkyl methacrylamide, methacrylamidopropyl-pentamethyl-1, 3-propen-2-ol ammonium dichloride, N, N ', N', N ", N" -heptamethyl-N "-3- (1-oxo-2-methyl-2-propenyl) aminopropyl-9-oxo-8-azodecane-1, 4, 10-triammonium trichloride, vinylamine and its derivatives, allylamine and its derivatives, vinylimidazole, quaternized vinylimidazole and diallyldialkylammonium chloride and combinations thereof, the second monomer being selected from acrylamide, N, N-dialkylacrylamide, methacrylamide, N, n-dialkyl methacrylamide, acrylic acid C₁-C₁₂Alkyl esters, acrylic acid C₁-C₁₂Hydroxyalkyl ester, polyalkylene glycol acrylate, and methacrylic acid C₁-C₁₂Alkyl esters, methacrylic acid C₁-C₁₂Hydroxyalkyl esters, polyalkylene glycol methacrylates, vinyl acetate, vinyl alcohol, vinyl formamide, vinyl acetamide, vinyl alkyl ethers, vinyl pyridine, vinyl pyrrolidone, vinyl imidazole, vinyl caprolactam and derivatives, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic acid, vinyl sulfonic acid, styrene sulfonic acid, acrylamidopropyl methane sulfonic Acid (AMPS) and salts thereof. The polymer may optionally be branched or crosslinked by the use of branching and crosslinking monomers. Branching and crosslinking monomers include ethylene glycol diacrylate, divinyl benzene and butadiene. Polyethyleneimines suitable for use herein are those sold by BASF AG (Ludwigshafen, Germany) under the trade name LUPASOL.

In another aspect, the cationic polymer may be selected from cationic polysaccharides, polyethylene imine and derivatives thereof, poly (acrylamide-co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride), poly (acrylamide-methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride), poly (acrylamide-co-N, N-dimethylaminoethyl acrylate) and quaternized derivatives thereof, poly (acrylamide-co-N, N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) and quaternized derivatives thereof, poly (hydroxyethyl acrylate-co-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate), poly (hydroxypropyl acrylate-co-methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride), poly (ethylene glycol-co-propylene glycol-methyl methacrylate), poly (ethylene glycol-co-propylene glycol) and poly (propylene glycol-co-propylene glycol) propylene glycol, poly (ethylene glycol-propylene glycol) and poly (propylene glycol) ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and poly (propylene glycol) ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and poly (ethylene glycol) propylene glycol, and poly (ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and poly (ethylene glycol) s) and poly (ethylene glycol, and poly (ethylene glycol) and poly (propylene glycol) and poly (ethylene glycol) s, Poly (acrylamide-co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride-co-acrylic acid), poly (acrylamide-methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride-co-acrylic acid), poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride), poly (vinylpyrrolidone-co-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate), poly (ethyl methacrylate-co-quaternized dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate), poly (ethyl methacrylate-co-oleyl methacrylate-co-diethylaminoethyl methacrylate), poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride-co-acrylic acid), poly (vinylpyrrolidone-co-quaternized vinylimidazole), and poly (acrylamide-co-methacrylamidopropylpentamethyl-1, 3-propen-2-ol ammonium dichloride), suitable cationic polymers include polyquaternium-1, polyquaternium-5, polyquaternium-6, polyquaternium-7, polyquaternium-8, polyquaternium-10, polyquaternium-11, polyquaternium-14, polyquaternium-22, polyquaternium-28, polyquaternium-30, polyquaternium-32, and polyquaternium-33, which are named according to "International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients".

In another aspect, the cationic polymer can include polyethyleneimine or polyethyleneimine derivatives. In another aspect, the cationic polymer can include an acrylic-based cationic polymer. In another aspect, the cationic polymer can include a cationic polyacrylamide. In another aspect, the cationic polymer can include a polymer comprising polyacrylamide and polymethacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium cations. In another aspect, the cationic polymer can include poly (acrylamide-N-dimethylaminoethylacrylate) and quaternized derivatives thereof. In this regard, the cationic polymers may be those sold under the trade name SEDIPUR from BTC Specialty Chemicals (BASF Group, Florham Park, N.J.). In another aspect, the cationic polymer can include poly (acrylamide-co-methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride). In another aspect, the cationic polymer may comprise a non-acrylamide based polymer, such as those sold under the trade name RHEOVIS CDE, available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals (BASF Group, Florham Park, n.j.), or as disclosed in USPA 2006/0252668.

In another aspect, the cationic polymer may be selected from cationic polysaccharides. In one aspect, the cationic polymer may be selected from the group consisting of cationic cellulose ethers, cationic galactomannans, cationic guars, cationic starches, and combinations thereof.

Another group of suitable cationic polymers may include alkylamine-epichlorohydrin polymers which are the reaction products of amines and oligoamines with epichlorohydrin, such as those polymers listed in, for example, USPN 6,642,200 and 6,551,986. Examples include dimethylamine-epichlorohydrin-ethylenediamine, available from Clariant (Basle, Switzerland) under the tradename CARTAFIX CB, CARTAFIX TSF.

Another group of suitable synthetic cationic polymers may include polyamidoamine-epichlorohydrin (PAE) resins of polyalkylene polyamines with polycarboxylic acids. The most commonly used PAE resins are the condensation products of diethylenetriamine reacted with adipic acid followed by reaction with epichlorohydrin. They are available from Hercules Inc (Wilmington DE) under the trade name KYMENE or BASF AG (Ludwigshafen, Germany) under the trade name lurein.

The cationic polymer may comprise anions that neutralize charge, such that the overall polymer is neutral at ambient conditions. Non-limiting examples of suitable counterions (in addition to anionic species generated during use) include chloride, bromide, sulfate, methylsulfate, sulfonate, methanesulfonate, carbonate, bicarbonate, formate, acetate, citrate, nitrate, and mixtures thereof.

The cationic polymer can have a weight average molecular weight of from about 500 daltons to about 5,000,000 daltons, or from about 1,000 daltons to about 2,000,000 daltons, or from about 5000 daltons to about 1,000,000 daltons, as determined by size exclusion chromatography relative to polyoxyethylene standards with RI detection. In one aspect, the cationic polymer can have a weight average molecular weight of about 100,000 daltons to about 800,000 daltons.

The cationic polymer may be provided in powder form. The cationic polymer may be provided in an anhydrous state.

DispersingAuxiliary agent

The particles may also comprise a dispersing aid. The dispersing aid may be a nonionic surfactant. The dispersing aid may be a branched isotridecanol with an average of 11 EO units. The dispersing aid may be SURFONIC TDA-11 available from Huntsman Corp (Salt Lake City, UT).

Antibacterial active ingredient

The particles may comprise or further comprise an antibacterial active ingredient. The antibacterial active ingredient may be 4, 4' -dichloro-2-hydroxydiphenyl ether (or hydroxydichlorodiphenyl ether). The antimicrobial agent may be TINOSAN HP100 available from BASF. The antibacterial active ingredient may have the following structure:

the particles may comprise from about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, or even from about 0.3% to about 0.7% by weight, or even from about 0.5% to about 0.6% by weight of the antimicrobial active ingredient. The particles may comprise from about 25% to about 99.9% by weight of a water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier and from about 0.1% to about 1% by weight of an antimicrobial active ingredient, and from about 0.1% to about 75% by weight of one or more optional components. The particles may comprise from about 88% to about 91% by weight of a water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier (e.g., polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000) and from about 0.1 to about 1% by weight of an antimicrobial active ingredient (e.g., 4' dichloro 2-hydroxydiphenyl ether). The particles may be free of one or more of cationic polymers, fatty amines and fatty acids.

Granules

Individual particles comprising the plurality of particles may have an individual mass of from about 1mg to about 1g, alternatively from about 5mg to about 500mg, alternatively from about 5mg to about 200mg, alternatively from about 10mg to about 100mg, alternatively from about 20mg to about 50mg, alternatively from about 35mg to about 45mg, alternatively about 38 mg. The smaller the individual particles, the faster they tend to dissolve in water. The individual particles comprising the plurality of particles may have a mass standard deviation of less than about 30mg, or less than about 15mg, or less than about 5mg, or about 3 mg. An average particle mass within the above range can provide a dispersion time in water that allows the particles to dissolve during a typical wash cycle. A standard deviation of mass within the above range provides a relatively uniform dispersion time in water. The plurality of particles may be substantially free of particles having a mass of less than 10 mg. This is feasible to limit the ability of the particles to propagate in air.

The individual particles comprising the plurality of particles may have an average maximum cross-sectional dimension of from about 0.05mm to about 20mm, optionally from about 0.5mm to about 10mm, optionally from about 1mm to about 5 mm.

The individual particles may have any shape. The shape may include any basic three-dimensional shape such as a sphere, hemisphere, oblate spheroid, disc, plate, cone, truncated cone, prism, cylinder, pyramid, bar, cuboid, torus, or the like. The shape may be formed to resemble a recognizable shape such as a heart, star, rock, pretzel, "smiley face," or the like. The shape may include recognizable images such as icons and logos, including logos representing product brands. These shapes may be uniform shapes, a combination of different shapes, or substantially random shapes (such as pellets).

The individual particles may have an aspect ratio that is the ratio of the largest cross-sectional dimension of the particle to the longest dimension that is perpendicular to the largest cross-sectional dimension and entirely within the outer perimeter of the particle. The aspect ratio of the individual particles or the average aspect ratio of the plurality of particles may be from about 1:1 to about 1000:1, optionally from about 1:1 to about 100:1, optionally from about 1:1 to about 10:1, optionally from about 1:1 to about 2: 1.

A plurality of particles may be combined to form a dose for dosing into a washing machine or laundry tub. A single dose of the plurality of particles may comprise from about 1g to about 50g of particles, optionally from about 5g to about 50g, or from about 10g to about 45g, or from about 20g to about 40g, or a combination thereof and any whole number of grams or range of whole numbers of grams within any of the foregoing ranges.

The plurality of particles may comprise an antioxidant. Antioxidants can help promote the stability of the color and/or odor of the particles over time between manufacture and use. The plurality of particles may comprise from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of the antioxidant, optionally from about 0.001% to about 2% by weight of the antioxidant, optionally from about 0.01% to about 0.1% by weight of the antioxidant. The antioxidant can be butylated hydroxytoluene.

Method for treating an article of clothing

The plurality of particles disclosed herein enable the consumer to achieve softening through the wash, particularly through the wash sub-cycle. By providing softening via the wash sub-cycle, the consumer need only dose the detergent composition and particles into a single location, such as the wash basin, before or shortly after the washing machine is started. This may be more convenient for the consumer than using a liquid fabric enhancer that is separately dispensed into the wash basin after the wash sub-cycle is completed, for example before, during or between rinse cycles. The use of the automatic dispensing components of modern vertical and high efficiency machines can be inconvenient as it requires dispensing the fabric softening composition to a location where the detergent composition is not dispensed.

A method for treating an article of clothing may include the step of providing an article of clothing in a washing machine. The laundry article is contacted with a composition comprising a plurality of particles disclosed herein during a wash sub-cycle of a washing machine. The individual particles may be dissolved in water provided as part of the wash sub-cycle to form a liquid. The dissolution or dispersion of the individual particles may occur during the wash sub-cycle. Optionally, the method may further comprise the step of contacting the laundry article during a wash sub-cycle of a washing machine with a detergent composition comprising from about 3% to about 60%, optionally from about 3% to about 40%, by weight, of anionic surfactant. The anionic surfactant may be selected from the group consisting of sulfates, sulfonates, carboxylates, and mixtures thereof. Detergent compositions are distinct from granules. The detergent composition may optionally be provided separately from the particles. The detergent composition may be dispensed separately from the particles.

The washing machine has at least two basic sub-cycles within an operating cycle: a wash sub-cycle and a rinse sub-cycle. The wash sub-cycle of a washing machine is the cycle on the washing machine that begins when water is first added or partially added to fill the wash basin. The main purpose of the wash sub-cycle is to remove and/or loosen soil from the laundry articles and suspend the soil in the wash liquor. Typically, the wash liquid is drained at the end of the wash sub-cycle. The rinse sub-cycle of a washing machine occurs after the wash sub-cycle and has the primary purpose of rinsing soil and optionally some benefit agents brought to the wash sub-cycle by the laundry articles.

The method may optionally include the step of contacting the laundry article with a detergent composition comprising an anionic surfactant during a wash sub-cycle. Most consumers provide detergent compositions to the wash basin during the wash sub-cycle. The detergent composition may comprise anionic surfactants and optionally other benefit agents including, but not limited to, perfumes, bleaches, brighteners, shading dyes, enzymes, and the like. During the wash sub-cycle, the benefit agent provided with the detergent composition is contacted with or applied to a laundry article placed in the wash basin. Typically, the benefit agent of the detergent composition is dispersed in the wash liquor of water and benefit agent.

During the wash sub-cycle, the wash basin may be filled or at least partially filled with water. The individual particles may be dissolved or dispersed in water to form a wash liquor comprising the individual particle components. Optionally, if a detergent composition is used, the wash liquor may comprise the components of the detergent composition and the individual particles or dissolved individual particles. The plurality of particles may be placed in a wash basin of a washing machine prior to placing the article of clothing in the wash basin of the washing machine. After the article of clothing is placed in the wash basin of the washing machine, the plurality of particles may be placed in the wash basin of the washing machine. The plurality of particles may be placed in the wash basin before filling or partially filling the wash basin with water or after filling the wash basin with water has begun.

If the consumer uses the detergent composition to practice the method of treating a laundry article, the detergent composition and the plurality of particles may be provided from separate packages. For example, the detergent composition may be a liquid detergent composition provided from a bottle, pouch, water-soluble pouch, measuring cup, dosing ball or cartridge associated with a washing machine. The plurality of particles may be provided from individual packages, by way of non-limiting example, from cartons, bottles, water-soluble pouches, measuring cups, pouches, and the like. The plurality of particles may have the solid form detergent composition if the detergent composition is in a solid form such as a powder, a water-soluble fibrous substrate, a water-soluble sheet, a water-soluble film, a water-insoluble fibrous web carrying the solid detergent composition. For example, the plurality of particles can be provided from a container comprising a mixture of the solid detergent composition and the plurality of particles. Optionally, the plurality of particles can be provided by a pouch formed from a detergent composition which is a water-soluble fibrous substrate, a water-soluble sheet, a water-soluble film, a water-insoluble web carrying a solid detergent composition.

Preparation of Individual particles

For carriers that can be conveniently processed as a melt, a rotational molding process can be used. The mixture of molten carrier and other materials constituting the particles is prepared, for example, in a batch or continuous mixing process. A plurality of particles may be produced on a rotary former (e.g., Sandvik ROTOFORM3000) that feeds the molten mixture. Optionally, the individual particles may have a gaseous content. Such occlusions of gas (e.g., air) may help the particles dissolve more quickly in the wash. By way of non-limiting example, occlusion of the gas may be provided by injecting the gas into the molten precursor material and milling the mixture.

Melting initiation test method

The melt initiation was determined using the melt initiation test method described below. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was used to quantify the temperature at which onset of melting occurs during the peak melting transition of any given individual particle composition to be tested. Melt temperature measurements were made using a high quality DSC instrument with software and nitrogen purge capability, such as a DSC model Discovery by TA Instruments (TA Instruments inc./Waters Corporation, New Castle, Delaware, u.s.a.). A calibration check was performed using an indium standard sample. The DSC instrument was considered suitable for performing the test if the melting onset temperature of the indium standard was measured in the range of 156.3-157.3 ℃.

The plurality of particles of the test composition are examined to identify individual particles comprising the first set of particles versus those particles comprising the second set of particles, as well as those particles comprising any additional sets of numbers that may be present. Methods of inspecting a plurality of particles to achieve such group identification can include a variety of methods, including by visual inspection and comparison of individual particles, inspection and comparison of individual particles based on chemical composition, and by chemical testing to determine whether fatty amines, cationic polymers, or fatty acids are present in individual particles. The test composition will be tested on a group basis (i.e., by physically separating the individual particles according to their groups, thereby forming an internally uniform sample, wherein each sample comprises a single group of individual particles). These samples were used to test a single set of particles for each group separate from the other groups of particles. Measurements are reported for each group of particles in the individual particles separately (i.e., on a group basis).

Homogeneous test samples are prepared by obtaining at least 5g of individual particles, followed by comminution by grinding into powder using an analytical grinding device such as an IKA basic analytical grinder model A11B S1 (IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG, Staufen im Breisgau, Germany). The milled sample was then screened through a clean stainless steel screen with a mesh size opening nominally 1mm in diameter (e.g., 18 mesh size). For each sample to be tested, at least two parallel test samples were ground and measured independently. A sample of the ground material weighing about 5mg was placed on the bottom of a sealed aluminum DSC sample pan and the sample was spread to cover the bottom of the pan. The sealed aluminum lid was placed on the sample pan and the lid was closed with a sample packing press to prevent evaporation or weight loss during the measurement. DSC measurements were made relative to a reference standard. An empty aluminum DSC sample pan was used as a reference standard to measure the change in thermal adsorption of the pan containing the sample relative to an empty reference pan.

The DSC instrument was set up to analyze samples using the following cycle configuration options: the sample purge gas was nitrogen set at 50 mL/min; the sampling interval is set to 0.1 s/point; the equilibrium was set at-20.00 ℃; the isothermal hold was set to 1 minute. Data was collected during a single heating cycle using the following settings: the temperature is increased to 90.00 ℃ per minute when the temperature is set to 10.00 ℃/min; and the isothermal hold was set to 90.00 ℃ for 1 minute. The sealed sample tray containing the parallel test samples was carefully loaded into the instrument, which was an empty reference tray. A DSC analysis cycle as specified above was performed and the output data evaluated. Data obtained during a DSC heating cycle are typically plotted with temperature (c) on the X-axis and heat flow (W/g) normalized to sample weight on the Y-axis, such that the melting points appear as downward (endothermic) peaks as they absorb energy.

The melting transition onset temperature is the temperature at which a deviation from the baseline previously established for the melting temperature of interest is first observed. The peak melting temperature is the specific temperature at which the maximum differential energy needs to be observed during a given DSC heating cycle to transition the sample from the solid phase to the molten phase. For the purposes of the present invention, the melting onset temperature is defined as the melting transition onset temperature of the peak melting temperature. Further general information on DSC techniques can be found in the industry standard method ASTM D3418-03-determination of the transition temperature of polymers by DSC.

Using DSC instrument software, two points were manually defined as "start and stop integration" baseline limits. The two points selected are on the baseline plateau to the left and right of the detected melting transition peak, respectively. This defined region is then used to determine the peak temperature (T), which can be used to report the peak melting temperature. The melting onset temperature of the peak melting temperature was then determined with the instrument software.

The reported melt initiation temperature is the average result (. degree. C.) of parallel test samples from the set of particles.

Particle dissolution and coefficient of friction test

Particle samples were prepared to determine the dissolution time of the particles in water. The samples were prepared by providing polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000 in a glass jar and melting the cup material overnight in an oven at a temperature of 80C. A high speed mixing Cup (Max 100 SPEEDMIX Cup) of fatty amine and fatty acid (if used) was placed in the same oven for four hours to melt. After melting, the contents of the 100 SPEEDMIX cup were thoroughly mixed by vortexing the contents. Molten polyethylene glycol is then added to the high speed mixing cup. The cationic polymer (if used) is then added to the high speed mixing cup. The high speed mixing cup of material was placed in the SPEEDMIXER DAC 150 FVC-K (FLAK TEK Inc.) at 3500 rpm for 60 seconds. The mixture was then immediately poured onto a rubber mold, which was initially at room temperature, and spread into a recess in the rubber mold with a spatula. The mixture hardens in the recesses of the rubber mold to form granules. The hardened granules are removed from the rubber mold. The mold was shaped as a flat hemisphere with a diameter of 5.0mm and a height of 2.5. The particle dissolution time test was performed as follows. 500mL of 25C, 137 parts per million hardness were placed in a 600mL beaker. A41 mm by 8mm stir bar was placed in a beaker. The beaker was then placed on a stir plate and stirred at 400 rpm. 0.6g of TIDE FREE detergent (available from THE PROCTOR & GABLE COMPANY) was added and mixed for 30 seconds. Five granules (each having a mass of 38mg +/-3 mg) were added simultaneously to the beaker and a timer was started. The time for the mixture to reach a stable visual appearance was determined by visual observation and recorded as the granule dissolution time.

For reference, particles composed of 100% by weight of polyethylene glycol having a 9000 weight average molecular weight had a particle dissolution time of 11 minutes. Further, as a reference, particles consisting of 100% stearamidopropyl dimethylamine did not achieve a stable visual appearance after more than 60 minutes.

Table 1 lists the particle dissolution times for various prepared particle samples. A particle dissolution time reported as greater than some time indicates that a stable visual appearance was not achieved during that time.

Table 1: comprises a detergent composition and a detergent composition prepared from the following components in percentage by weight Dissolution time of particles in a solution of an ionic polymer and the balance polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000：

¹SURFONIC TDA-11 branched isotridecanol having an average of 11 EO units, available from Huntsman Corp (Salt Lake City, UT).

²Cationic hydroxyethylcellulose having a weight average molecular weight of 400kDa, a charge density of 0.18, and an average weight percent of nitrogen/anhydroglucose repeat units of 0.28% (Polymer PK, from Dow Chemical).

As shown in table 1, the inclusion of fatty acids in the granules tends to reduce the granule dissolution time. Short dissolution times can provide the benefit of complete particle dissolution during the treatment or wash cycle, such that there is no residue of the particles at the end of the treatment or wash cycle. In addition, the short dissolution time may also provide the benefit of releasing the one or more fabric softening actives completely into the wash liquor so that they may be deposited onto the laundry being treated.

Table 2 lists the particle dissolution times for various prepared particle samples.

Table 2: comprises a detergent composition and a detergent composition prepared from the following components in percentage by weight ¹3% by weight of a cationic polymer and 67% by weight of polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000 Dissolution time of particles in the solution of (1): the second and ninth rows (counting the head row) are duplicates of the results listed in Table 1。

¹Cationic hydroxyethylcellulose having a weight average molecular weight of 400kDa, a charge density of 0.18, and an average weight percent of nitrogen/anhydroglucose repeat units of 0.28% (Polymer PK, from Dow Chemical).

²SURFONIC TDA-11 branched isotridecanol having an average of 11 EO units, available from Huntsman Corp (Salt Lake City, UT).

³Ethoxylated sorbitol capped with an alkyl group of 12 carbon atoms.

⁴Polyethyleneimine with a molecular weight of 600, with 10 moles of ethoxylate per nitrogen.

⁵C12-15 alcohol ethoxylated with 9 moles of EO, available from Shell Chemicals (Houston, TX).

As shown in table 2, the inclusion of a liquid dispersing aid tends to reduce particle dissolution time, with short dissolution times providing the benefits as described above with respect to table 1.

To evaluate the efficacy of various fatty amines for delivering fabric softening benefits, a series of tests listed in table 3 were performed. A North America Kenmore 600 series top loading washing machine was used. Each machine was set to run a normal single cycle, including a 12 minute wash agitation period and 1 three minute rinse. The hardness of the water used was 137ppm, and the washing temperature was 25 ℃ and the rinsing temperature was 15.5 ℃. The water volume for each step was 64 liters. The total fabric weight was 3.6kg (which included 10 test fabric towels terry cloth, about 1.3kg of 100% cotton T-shirt, about 800g of 100% cotton towel, and about 300g of 50/50 polyester cotton T-shirt sheet). The detergent used was a fragrance-free TIDE organic Screen liquid (manufactured by The Procter & Gamble Company). 81g of detergent was dosed into the washing water, and the washing water was filled in. After addition of the detergent, 30.8g of the granules to be evaluated were also added, followed by the addition of the fabric. After the addition of water was complete, the machine entered a stirring period. Thereafter, washing agitation is performed (normal setting), and a rinsing step is performed (together with the corresponding spin cycle). After the washing process is completed, the fabric is removed. The test fabrics were mechanically dried in a Kenmore dryer for 50 minutes at a cotton/high setting. The test fabrics were then allowed to equilibrate in a control room at 70F/50% relative humidity for 24 hours. After the test fabric terry cloth had been balanced, the coefficient of friction of each terry cloth was evaluated. The coefficient of dynamic friction was measured using a Thwing Albert friction/peel tester FP-2250 by attaching a sample cut from terry cloth to a slide plate and dragging the slide plate over a portion of the remaining terry cloth at a fixed rate. The softness benefit reported in table 3 is a reduction in the coefficient of friction relative to the detergent only control. The greater the softness benefit, the lower the coefficient of friction of the fabric, compared to the detergent only control. The average of 10 terry cloths washed in the respective products is reported in table 3.

Table 3: prepared from fatty amine, fatty acid, cationic polymer and the mixture with weight-average molecular weight of 9000 Softness benefits provided by particles composed of polyethylene glycol (PEG)：

¹Cationic hydroxyethylcellulose having a weight average molecular weight of 400kDa, a charge density of 0.18, and an average weight percent of nitrogen/anhydroglucose repeat units of 0.28% (Polymer PK, from Dow Chemical).

As shown in table 3, each composition evaluated provides softness benefits compared to the detergent only control.

Combination of

Examples are as follows:

A. a composition comprising a plurality of particles, the plurality of particles comprising:

from about 25% to about 94% by weight of a water-soluble or water-dispersible carrier;

from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of a cationic polymer; and

from about 5% to about 45% by weight of a fatty amine having the structure

Wherein each R₁Independently selected from C₈-C₃₂Alkyl radical, C₈-C₃₂Substituted alkyl, C₆-C₃₂Aryl radical, C₅-C₃₂Substituted aryl, C₆-C₃₂Alkylaryl group, C₆-C₃₂A substituted alkylaryl group;

x isGroup orA group;

y is an alkylene group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms;

n is a nitrogen atom;

R₂independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl;

q is 0 or 1;

p is an integer of 1 to 3; and is

Wherein the plurality of particles comprises individual particles, wherein the individual particles each have a mass of about 1mg to about 1 g.

B. The composition of paragraph a, wherein

Each R₁Independently is C₁₀-C₂₂Alkyl or C₈-C₂₂A substituted alkyl group;

x is as describedA group;

y is an alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms; and is

R₂Independently is H or C₁-C₆An alkyl group;

q is 1; and is

p is 1.

C. The composition of paragraph B, wherein each R is₁Independently is C₁₀-C₂₂Alkyl and R₂Is a methyl group.

D. The composition of paragraph C, wherein the fatty amine has the structure

E. The composition of paragraph a, wherein

Y is an alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms;

R₂independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl groups;

q is 1; and is

p is 1 to 3.

F. The composition of paragraph E, wherein the fatty amine has a structure selected from the group consisting of:

G. the composition of paragraph a, wherein

R₁Is C₁₀-C₁₈An alkyl group;

y is an alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms;

R₂independently selected from H, C₁-C₆Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl and polyhydroxyalkyl groups;

q is 0; and is

p＝1-3。

H. The composition of paragraph a, wherein the fatty amine is selected from the group consisting of: esters of bis- (2-hydroxypropyl) -methylamine, bis- (hydroxyethyl) -methylamine and triethanolamine with at least one fatty acid comprising C₁₂-C₂₂An alkyl chain; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-bis- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-tris (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -amine; stearamidopropyl dimethylamine; cocamidopropyl dimethylamine; behenamidopropyl dimethylamine; stearyl amine; distearyl amine; tristearyl amine; and N, N-distearyl N-methylamine.

I. The composition of any of paragraphs a through H, wherein the plurality of particles further comprise a fatty acid, and the molar ratio of the fatty amine to the fatty acid is from about 1:3 to about 3: 1.

J. The composition of any of paragraphs I, wherein the fatty acid is selected from stearic acid, arylsulfonic acid, isopropylbenzenesulfonic acid, xylenesulfonic acid, toluenesulfonic acid, alkenylsuccinic acid, octylsuccinic acid, dodecenylsuccinic acid, C₁₂-C₁₈Fatty acids, oleic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, and combinations thereof.

K. The composition of any of paragraphs a through J, wherein the fatty amine is selected from the group consisting of dimethylamidopropyl stearamide, bis- (2-hydroxypropyl) -methylamine, bis- (hydroxyethyl) -isopropylamine, and esters of triethanolamine with at least one fatty acid comprising C₁₂-C₂₂An alkyl chain; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-bis- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-methylamine; n, N-bis (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N-hydroxyethylamine; n- (stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl)-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-dimethylamine; n- (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -N, N-hydroxyethylamine; n, N-tris (stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) -amine; and combinations thereof.

L. the composition of any of paragraphs a through K, wherein the cationic polymer is a cationic polysaccharide.

M. the composition of paragraph L, wherein the cationic polysaccharide is a polymeric quaternary ammonium salt of hydroxyethyl cellulose that has been reacted with an epoxide substituted with a trimethylammonium group.

N. the composition of any of paragraphs a through M, wherein the particles further comprise a dispersing aid.

O. the composition of any of paragraphs a through N, wherein the fatty amine and the cationic polymer are dispersed in the carrier.

P. the composition of any of paragraphs a through O, wherein the carrier is a water-soluble polymer.

A composition according to any of paragraphs a to P, wherein the carrier is selected from the group consisting of:

formula H- (C)₂H₄O)_x-(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_y-(C₂H₄O)_zA polyalkylene polymer of-OH wherein x is from about 50 to about 300, y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10 to about 200;

formula (C)₂H₄O)_q-C(O)O-(CH₂)_r-CH₃Wherein q is from about 20 to about 200, and r is from about 10 to about 30;

formula HO- (C)₂H₄O)_s-(CH₂)_t)-CH₃Wherein s is from about 30 to about 250, and t is from about 10 to about 30;

a C8-C22 alkyl polyalkoxylate comprising more than about 40 alkoxylate units;

polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of about 2000 to about 15000;

EO/PO/EO block copolymers;

a PO/EO/PO block copolymer;

EO/PO block copolymers;

a PO/EO block copolymer;

polypropylene glycol;

an ethoxylated nonionic surfactant having a degree of ethoxylation of greater than about 30;

polyvinyl alcohol;

a polyalkylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of about 2000 to about 15000;

and mixtures thereof.

R. the composition of any of paragraphs a through Q, wherein the plurality of particles further comprise from about 5% to about 25% by weight of a fatty acid, wherein the carrier is a water-soluble polymer, wherein the cationic polymer is a cationic polysaccharide, wherein the plurality of particles have a melt initiation of from about 25 ℃ to about 120 ℃, and wherein the fatty amine, the cationic polymer, and the fatty acid are dispersed in the carrier.

S. the composition of any of paragraphs a to R, wherein the plurality of particles comprises from about 8% to about 45% by weight of the fatty amine, preferably from about 10% to about 45% by weight of the fatty amine.

A method for treating an article of clothing, the method comprising the steps of:

providing an article of clothing in a washing machine; and

contacting the article of clothing with the composition according to any of paragraphs a to S during a wash sub-cycle of the washing machine.

U. the method according to paragraph T, further comprising the step of contacting the laundry article during a wash sub-cycle of the washing machine with a detergent composition comprising from about 3% to about 60% by weight of an anionic surfactant.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".