METHOD for SOFTENEING FABRICS VERFAHREN ZUM Weichspülen VON TEXTILIEN PROCEDE D’ADOUCISSEMENT DES TISSUS

(19) &

(11) EP 1 697 491 B1

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION

(45) Date of publication and mention (51) Int Cl.: of the grant of the patent: C11D 17/04 (2006.01) C11D 3/00 (2006.01) 12.11.2008 Bulletin 2008/46 (86) International application number: (21) Application number: 04820810.2 PCT/EP2004/013556

(22) Date of filing: 29.11.2004 (87) International publication number: WO 2005/063959 (14.07.2005 Gazette 2005/28)

(54) METHOD FOR SOFTENEING FABRICS VERFAHREN ZUM wEICHSPÜLEN VON TEXTILIEN PROCEDE D’ADOUCISSEMENT DES TISSUS

(84) Designated Contracting States: (72) Inventor: BRIGGS, Stephen L., AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR Unilever R & D Port Sunlight HU IE IS IT LI LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR Wirral, Merseyside CH63 3JW (GB) (30) Priority: 23.12.2003 GB 0329794 (74) Representative: Elliott, Peter William (43) Date of publication of application: Unilever Patent Group 06.09.2006 Bulletin 2006/36 Colworth House Sharnbrook (73) Proprietors: Bedford • Unilever PLC MK44 1LQ (GB) London Greater London EC4P 4BQ (GB) (56) References cited: Designated Contracting States: EP-A- 0 325 944 EP-A- 0 328 863 CY GB IE EP-A- 0 962 519 DE-A1- 3 832 017 • Unilever N.V. US-A- 3 947 971 US-A- 5 234 610 3013 AL Rotterdam (NL) US-A- 5 376 287 Designated Contracting States: AT BE BG CH CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GR HU IS IT LI LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK

Note: Within nine months of the publication of the mention of the grant of the European patent in the European Patent Bulletin, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to that patent, in accordance with the Implementing Regulations. Notice of opposition shall not be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent Convention). EP 1 697 491 B1

Printed by Jouve, 75001 PARIS (FR) EP 1 697 491 B1

Description

Field of the Invention

5 [0001] The present invention relates to a method of dispersing a fabric conditioning composition in a rinse liquid during hand-washing.

Background of the Intention and Prior Art

10 [0002] Fabric conditioning compositions for use in the laundry are typically added to the laundry process after the washing stage. Where the laundry process involves an automatic washing machine, the conditioning composition may need to be dosed either directly into the drum or via a dispensing tray. For hand-wash processes, the composition will be dosed into the hand-wash liquor. [0003] Independent of the type of process, the fabric conditioning composition must firstly be sufficiently dispersed 15 into the rinse liquor so that it can act on the fabrics being laundered. [0004] If the composition is inadequately dispersed, there is a significant risk that it will not be deposited evenly on the fabric but will instead deposit at excessive concentrations on small portions thereof which in turn may lead to spotting or staining. There is also the risk that the ingredients within the composition may not deposit at all and will instead remain in an undispersed state within the rinse liquor. 20 [0005] This is clearly undesirable to consumers. [0006] Dispersion of the composition may often not be fully complete before the composition is contacted with the fabrics to be treated. In the dispensing drawer of an automatic washing machine, this can manifest itself as a build up of a gel-like residue requiring the consumer to carry out additional undesirable cleaning of the drawer. [0007] Dispersion thus remains problematic for fabric conditioning compositions. 25 [0008] Various ways of addressing this problem have been found including placing a dosed amount of the fabric conditioning composition into a container, adding water and shaking or mixing to form a pre-dispersion which can then be added to the laundry cycle so as to disperse therein more easily. The drawback with this approach is that the consumer is burdoned with additional undesirable tasks and will typically be required to prepare such a pre-dispersion in advance of the laundry cycle. 30 [0009] It is thus remains desirable to provide a means for dispersing fabric conditioning compositions. [0010] Articles such as sponges are known for use with personal washing products. [0011] A scrubbing apparatus used for personal hygiene, commonly referred to as a polymer mesh puff, is often used in cleansing the skin. These polymer mesh puffs are typically manufactured from one or more pieces of synthetic open cell mesh which are bound together and manipulated into a plurality of random folds to form a generally rounded shape, 35 or puff. [0012] US 3,226,751 discloses a combination sponge and scouring device. The implement includes a soft and flexible cellular base section made of any suitable, flexible expanded plastic and scouring elements. [0013] US 3,414,928 discloses a combination sponge and scour. The device includes a cellular expanded plastic base, an unexpanded material secured to a portion of the surface of the base, and a plurality of scouring elements 40 secured to and supported by the unexpanded plastic material. [0014] WO 95/00116 discloses a system for cleaning the skin which comprises a diamond mesh sponge and a liquid cleansing and moisturising composition, which system is said to have excellent lather. [0015] US 3,634,901 discloses a combined cleaning and abrading or scouring utensil. [0016] US 4,980,943 discloses a cleaning glove. 45 [0017] US 5,465,452 discloses a first extended tubular scrim having a diamond mesh pattern used to construct a personal cleaning implement. [0018] US 4,154,542 is directed to a shower mitt which includes a mesh sheet of nylon net to provide a soap- retaining pocket. [0019] US 4,606,964 is directed to a bulked web composite which comprises a differentially tensioned reticulated web 50 of elastic material banded to at least one gatherable web. [0020] US 2,581,779 discloses a scouring pad said to have a greater ease of manipulation. [0021] US 3,103,031 discloses a composite scouring pad made by folding plastic fibres with metallic filaments into an open batt. [0022] US 2,817,865 discloses a sponge covered strand washcloth with soap pocket. The strands cross and are 55 interwoven. [0023] US 5,144,744 discloses a hand-held ball-like polymeric mesh sponge. It is a diamond-mesh polyethylene sponge obtained from a number of netting tubes stretched over supports, joined and bound together at the centre and then released from the supports.

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[0024] US 3,343,196 discloses a method for manufacturing a puff from an open cell mesh. [0025] US 4,190,550 is directed to a fibrous soap filled pad which when used as a bathing aid imparts a cleansing and mildly stimulating rubbing action to human skin. [0026] US 4,969,225 is directed to improved scrub brushes specifically made to contain a bar of soap for use for 5 bathing, cleansing and the like. [0027] Commercially available "polymeric mesh sponges" are sold by The Body Shop and Bynum Concepts, Inc. Other suppliers include Supremia Use in New Jersey, Sponge Factory Dominicana in the Dominican Republic and Integrated Marketing Group in Harrison, New York. [0028] Typically, in the prior art, washing implements as described above find their greatest utility in combination with 10 a liquid cleanser, since there is a need with liquid cleansers for the consumers to have an implement to grasp and with which to generate lather. [0029] Often, the liquid cleanser includes a moisturising ingredient in addition to a surfactant. The desire for an implement to generate lather in a washing system including a moisturising cleansing composition is often foremost within the contemplation of a consumer. Such a desire is mentioned in, for instance, WO 95/00116. 15 [0030] By contrast, it has been long established that, for rinse conditioning products such as fabric softening compositions, foaming is considered undesirable by consumers since foaming is associated only with a washing rather than a rinse conditioning step. [0031] Thus it is important to avoid foaming of the rinse conditioning composition.

20 Objects of the Invention

[0032] The present invention seeks to address one or more of the abovementioned problems and/or to provide one or more of the abovementioned benefits. [0033] Surprisingly, it has now been found that a permeable, preferably porous article provides an excellent dispersing 25 means for fabric conditioning compositions.

Statement of Invention

[0034] Thus, according to the present invention there is provided a method of dispersing a fabric conditioning com- 30 position having a viscosity, measured using a Haake Rotorisiometer with MV1 cup and Bob at 106s-1, of greater than 200mPaS, in a rinse liquid in a container used in a hand-washing laundry operation, the method comprising introducing said fabric conditioning composition onto or into a permeable article, submersing the article in the liquid and agitating the article so as to assist dispersion of the composition.

35 Detailed Description of the Invention

[0035] In the context of the present invention, the term "comprising" denotes that the feature (s) to which it refers is/are not exhaustive and further features may be present.

40 Permeable Article

[0036] The method of the invention comprises a permeable article. [0037] Preferably the article is porous and/or absorbent. More preferably the article is a sponge or meshed article. [0038] It is preferred that the article is compressible and it is particularly preferred that the article is resilient. 45 [0039] Although the invention works with permeable/porous articles which have little or no compressibility and/or resilience, it has been found that better dispersion can be achieved when the article is particularly compressible and/or flexible. [0040] It is believed that this is due to the article having greater freedom of relative movement between different parts and/or surfaces of the article enabling a greater shearing action to occur within the article and thus better dispersion to 50 be achieved. [0041] The average diameter of the uncompressed article is typically from 2cm to 20cm, more preferably from 3cm to 15cm, most preferably from 4cm to 10cm. [0042] The article can be prepared from readily available raw materials or with specially designed mesh materials. [0043] A suitable meshed article is preferably prepared from extruded tubular netting mesh which has been prepared 55 from special strong and flexible polymeric material. Extruded tubular netting mesh of this type, and particularly those prepared from polyethylene, have been used for the covering of meat and poultry and are readily available in industry. [0044] A polymeric meshed article preferably comprises a plurality of plys of an extruded tubular netting mesh prepared from a strong flexible polymer, preferably of the group consisting of addition polymers of olefin monomers, and polyamides

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of polycarboxylic acids and polyamines. The plys of tubular netting mesh are typically folded upon itself numerous times to form a soft ball-like polymeric mesh sponge. [0045] Alternatively, the mesh can be formed by binding a piece of tubular mesh or a sheet of mesh about a centre- point with a piece of string, and then forming a series of random folds about this centre- point through various means of 5 manipulation. [0046] In general the cross-sectional dimensions of each ply will be small in relation to the length of the ply. [0047] The plys may be filaments. [0048] The ply may be elastomeric or non-elastomeric, but preferably the plys are elastomeric as this provides greater freedom of movement of plys relative to each other. 10 [0049] Preferably use of a large plurality of tiny plys offer substantial gripping surface area. Indeed, the user of the article will be enabled to thread his or her fingers through the plys. While the use of plys that have a very small diameter as compared to ply length is envisioned primarily, the use of larger plys may also be advantageous. [0050] The article is preferably substantially spherical with a plurality of floppy filaments radiating in a dense, bushy manner from a central core region. Generally, the plys will radiate outwardly in plural offset planes. 15 [0051] The preferably open cell structure of the mesh advantageously forms a structure which is highly resilient, resulting in a puff which retains its shape throughout use. [0052] In general, the diameter for the filaments will range from 0.25 to 3mm, preferably from 0.75 to 1.5mm. By "diameter" in this context is meant the maximum width or thickness in the case of a ribbon-like structure or the like, or the true diameter in the case of a rod-like structure. In general, the length of the filaments is preferably from 1cm to 20 10cm, especially from 2 to 5cm for non-crimped filaments and from 2 to 15cm, especially from 5 to 12cm for crimped filaments (measured with the filament straightened). Although the preferred shape for the implement is spherical, other shapes such as a flattened oval, a football or a figure are contemplated. [0053] The plys or filaments are preferably straight since this makes for a less "frilly" appearance, but they can also be curled or crimped. 25 [0054] Although the polymeric material of which the meshed article is made may be inherently mildly abrasive, it preferably does not incorporate abrasive particles or a scouring material. [0055] Thus, abrasives such as pumice, aluminium oxide, volcanic ash, and silica are preferably omitted. Likewise, the meshed article should not be ammonia- or oxygen- releasing and preferably does not include bleaching materials. [0056] A suitable sponge is an open-cell sponge which possesses an interconnected cell structure permitting limited 30 absorption and circulation of gases and fluids. Outer surface of the material may be continuous or porous and exhibits good physical durability. Because air can pass freely between its cells, sponge offers a high degree of compressibility and displays fast recovery upon release from compression. [0057] Examples of suitable sponges include both natural sponges such as sea sponges, e.g. silk, sea wool and yellow sponges and synthetic sponges, such as synthetic cellulosic sponges. 35 [0058] The system for use in the method of the invention excludes "personal washing" compositions, that is compositions designed specifically for washing of the skin of human beings. [0059] The system for use in the method of the invention comprises the permeable article in combination with a fabric conditioning composition.

40 Brief Description of the Drawings

[0060] The permeable article for use in the invention will now be described by way of reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

45 Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a permeable, meshed article;

Figure 2 shows the meshed article of Figure 1 together with a rope; and

Figure 3 shows netting material used in making the article of Fig’s 1 and 2. 50 Detailed Description of the Drawings

[0061] Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a representation of a polymeric hand held ball- like meshed article showing a rope handle 7 used in the present invention. The ease with which a cleaning polymeric mesh sponge can be held in 55 the hand for cleaning is shown in figure 2. A security band 13 holds the multi-layered netting mesh together to form the polymeric mesh sponge. The netting mesh that can be used in making the polymeric mesh sponge is illustrated in figure 3 wherein 21 represents the mesh in stretched position. The fine polymeric filaments used in making the netting are represented by 18 with 19 representing the spot bonding of the filaments to form the open mesh 20.

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[0062] Two netting tubes at 60 cm length each can be used to make a 7cm ball sponge. They can be bundled manually with a loop or rope to form a ball-like polymeric mesh sponge. Other designs such as rectangular gloves and washings implements made with the mesh material also work very well in the present invention system.

5 Fabric Conditioning Composition

Cationic Fabric Softener

[0063] The fabric conditioning composition will typically comprises a cationic softening material. The cationic softener 10 is preferably a quaternary ammonium fabric softening material. [0064] Particularly preferred quaternary ammonium fabric softening materials comprise two C12-28 alkyl or alkenyl groups connected to the nitrogen head group, preferably via at least one ester link. It is more preferred if the quaternary ammonium material has two ester links present. [0065] Preferably, the average chain length of the alkyl or alkenyl group is at least C14, more preferably at least C16. 15 Most preferably at least half of the chains have a length of C18. [0066] It is generally preferred if the alkyl or alkenyl chains are predominantly linear, although a degree of branching, especially mid-chain branching, is within the scope of the invention. [0067] The first group of cationic fabric softening compounds suitable for use in the invention is represented by formula (I): 20

30 1 wherein each R is independently selected from a C 5-35 alkyl or alkenyl group, R represents a C 1-4 alkyl, C 2-4 alkenyl or a C1-4 hydroxyalkyl group,

T is 35

n is 0 or a number selected from 1 to 4, m is 1, 2 or 3 and denotes the number of moieties to which it relates that 45 pend directly from the N atom, and X- is an anionic group, such as halides or alkyl sulphates, e.g. chloride, methyl sulphate or ethyl sulphate.

[0068] Especially preferred materials within this group are dialkenyl esters of triethanol ammonium methyl sulphate. Commercial examples include Tetranyl AHT-1 (di-hardened tallow ester of triethanol ammonium methyl sulphate 85% 50 active in 15% IPA), AT-1(di-oleic ester of triethanol ammonium methyl sulphate 90% active), L5/90 (palm ester of triethanol ammonium methyl sulphate 90% active), all ex Kao, triethanol ammonium methyl sulphate 90% active), all ex Kao, and Rewoquat WE15 (C 10-C20 and C16-C18 unsaturated fatty acid reaction products with triethanolamine dimethyl sulphate quaternised 90 % active), ex witco Corporation. [0069] The second group of cationic fabric softening compounds suitable for use in the invention is represented by 55 formula (II):

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1 wherein each R group is independently selected from C 1-4 alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or C 2-4 alkenyl groups; and wherein each 2 R group is independently selected from C8-28 alkyl or alkenyl groups; n is 0 or an integer from 1 to 5 and T and X are 15 as defined above. [0070] Preferred materials of this class such as 1,2 bis [tallowoyloxy]-3- trimethylammonium propane chloride and 1,2- bis[oleyloxy]-3-trimethylammonium propane chloride and their method of preparation are, for example, described in US 4137180 (Lever Brothers). [0071] A third group of cationic fabric softening compounds suitable for use in the invention is represented by formula 20 (III):

35 1 2 wherein each R group is independently selected from C 1-4 alkyl, or C2-4 alkenyl groups; and wherein each R group is - independently selected from C 8-28 alkyl or alkenyl groups; n is 0 or an integer from 1 to 5 and T and X are as defined above. [0072] A fourth group of cationic fabric softening compounds suitable for use in the invention is represented by formula (IV): 40

55 1 2 wherein each R group is independently selected from C 1-4 alkyl, or C2-4 alkenyl groups; and wherein each R group is independently selected from C8-28 alkyl or alkenyl groups; and X is as defined above.

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Iodine Value of the Parent Fatty Acyl group or Acid

[0073] The iodine value of the parent fatty acyl compound or acid from which the cationic softening material is formed is preferably from 0 to 140, more preferably from 0 to 100, most preferably from 0 to 60. 5 [0074] It is especially preferred that the iodine value of the parent compound is from 0 to 20, more preferably 0 to 9, most preferably 0 to 4, e.g. 2 or less or even 1.5 or less. Where the iodine value is 4 or less, the softening material provides excellent softening results and has improved resistance to oxidation and associated odour problems upon storage. [0075] When unsaturated hydrocarbyl chains are present, it is preferred that the cis: trans weight ratio of the material 10 is 50:50 or more, more preferably 60:40 or more, most preferably 70:30 or more, e.g. 85:15 or more. [0076] The iodine value of the parent fatty acid or acyl compound is measured according to the method set out in WO- A1-01/46513. [0077] The softening material is preferably present in an amount of from 1 to 60% by weight of the total composition, more preferably from 2 to 40%, most preferably from 3 to 30% by weight. 15 Fatty Acids

[0078] The composition preferably comprises a fatty acid. [0079] Preferred fatty acids include hardened tallow fatty acid (available under the tradename Pristerene, ex Uniqema). 20 [0080] The fatty acid is preferably present at a level from 0.1 to 15% by weight based on the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 0.3 to 10%, most preferably from 0.5 to 5%, e.g. 0.7 to 4% by weight.

Silicone

25 [0081] The composition may comprise a silicone. For instance, a suitable silicone comprises a cyclic polydi-(C 1-6)alkyl siloxane. [0082] Typical silicones of this class have the general formula RaSiO(4-a)/2 wherein each R is the same or different and is selected from hydrocarbon and hydroxyl groups, {aζ being from 0 to 3. In the bulk material, {aζ typically has an average value of from 1.85-2.2. 30 [0083] The silicone is preferably comprised of a homopolymer. Preferably the silicone is free of cross-linking. It is further preferred that the silicone is free of amine or amide linkages. [0084] It has been found that cyclic silicones deliver excellent faster drying characteristics to fabrics and are thus preferred to linear or generally linear silicones. [0085] A particularly preferred silicone comprises a cyclic polydimethyl-siloxane. 35 [0086] Suitable commercially available silicones include DC245 (polydimethylcyclopentasiloxane also known as D5), DC246 (polydimethylcyclohexasiloxane also known as D6), DC1184 (a pre-emulsified polydimethylpentasiloxane also known as L5) and DC347 (a pre-emulsified 100cSt PDMS fluid), all ex Dow Corning.

Silicone form 40 [0087] The silicone may be received and incorporated into the composition either directly as an oil or pre-emulsified. [0088] Pre-emulsification is typically required when the silicone is of a more viscous nature. [0089] Suitable emulsifiers include cationic emulsifiers, nonionic emulsifiers or mixtures thereof.

45 Silicone viscosity

[0090] The reference to the viscosity of the silicone denotes either the viscosity before emulsification when the silicone is provided as an emulsion for incorporation into the fabric conditioning composition or the viscosity of the silicone itself when provided as an oil for incorporation into the fabric conditioning composition. 50 [0091] The silicone preferably has a viscosity (as measured on a Brookfield RV4 viscometer at 25°C using spindle No.4 at 100 rpm) of from 1cSt to less than 10,000 cSt (centi-Stokes), preferably from 1cSt to 5,000cSt, more preferably from 2cSt to 1,000cSt and most preferably 2cSt to 100cSt. [0092] It has been found that drying time can be reduced using silicones having a viscosity of from 1 to 500,000 cSt. However, significantly improved results are obtained when the viscosity is from 1 to less than 10,000cSt. 55 [0093] The silicone is preferably present at a level of from 0.5 to 20%, more preferably from 1 to 12%, most preferably from 1 to 8% by weight of active ingredient, based on the total weight of the composition.

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Fatty Alcohol - co-active softener

[0094] Optionally and advantageously, one or more un-alkoxylated fatty alcohols are present in the composition. [0095] Preferred alcohols have a hydrocarbyl chain length of from 10 to 22 carbon atoms, more preferably 11 to 20 5 carbon atoms, most preferably 15 to 19 carbon atoms. [0096] The fatty alcohol may be saturated or unsaturated, though saturated fatty alcohols are preferred as these have been found to deliver greater benefits in terms of stability, especially low temperature stability. [0097] Suitable commercially available fatty alcohols include hardened tallow alcohol (available as Hydrenol S3, ex Sidobre Sinnova, and Laurex CS, ex Clariant). 10 [0098] The fatty alcohol content in the compositions is from 0 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.005 to 5% by weight, most preferably from 0.01 to 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. [0099] It is particularly preferred that a fatty alcohol is present if the composition is concentrated, that is if more than 8% by weight of the cationic softening agent is present in the composition.

15 Other co-active softeners

[0100] Co-active softeners for the cationic surfactant may also be incorporated in an amount from 0.01 to 20% by weight, more preferably 0.05 to 10%, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferred co- active softeners include fatty esters, and fatty N-oxides. 20 [0101] Preferred fatty esters include fatty monoesters, such as glycerol monostearate (hereinafter referred to as "GMS"). If GMS is present, then it is preferred that the level of GMS in the composition is from 0.01 to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. [0102] The co-active softener may also comprise an oily sugar derivative. Suitable oily sugar derivatives, their methods of manufacture and their preferred amounts are described in WO- A1-01/46361 on page 5 line 16 to page 11 line 20, the 25 disclosure of which is incorporated herein.

Nonionic surfactant

[0103] It is preferred that the compositions further comprise a nonionic surfactant. Typically these can be included for 30 the purpose of stabilising the compositions. [0104] Suitable nonionic surfactants include addition products of ethylene oxide and/or propylene oxide with fatty alcohols, fatty acids and fatty amines. [0105] Any of the alkoxylated materials of the particular type described hereinafter can be used as the nonionic surfactant. 35 [0106] Suitable surfactants are substantially water soluble surfactants of the general formula:

R-Y-(C2H4O)2- C2H4OH

where R is selected from the group consisting of primary, secondary and branched chain alkyl and/or acyl hydrocarbyl 40 groups; primary, secondary and branched chain alkenyl hydrocarbyl groups; and primary, secondary and branched chain alkenyl-substituted phenolic hydrocarbyl groups; the hydrocarbyl groups having a chain length of from 8 to about 25, preferably 10 to 20, e.g. 14 to 18 carbon atoms. [0107] In the general formula for the alkoxylated nonionic surfactant, Y is typically:

45 --O-- , --C(O)O-- , --C(O)N(R)-- or --C(O)N(R)R--

in which R has the meaning given above or can be hydrogen; and Z is preferably from 8 to 40, more preferably from 10 to 30, most preferably from 11 to 25, e.g. 12 to 22. [0108] The level of alkoxylation, Z, denotes the average number of alkoxy groups per molecule. 50 [0109] Preferably the nonionic surfactant has an HLB of from about 7 to about 20, more preferably from 10 to 18, e.g. 12 to 16. [0110] Examples of nonionic surfactants follow. In the examples, the integer defines the number of ethoxy (EO) groups in the molecule.

55 A. Straight-Chain, Primary Alcohol Alkoxylates

[0111] The deca-, undeca-, dodeca-, tetradeca-, and pentadecaethoxylates of n-hexadecanol, and n-octadecanol having an HLB within the range recited herein are useful viscosity/dispersibility modifiers in the context of this invention.

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Exemplary ethoxylated primary alcohols useful herein as the viscosity/dispersibility modifiers of the compositions are C18 EO(10); and C18 EO(11). The ethoxylates of mixed natural or synthetic alcohols in the "tallow" chain length range are also useful herein. Specific examples of such materials include tallow alcohol-EO(11), tallow alcohol-EO(18), and tallow alcohol-EO (25), coco alcohol-EO(10), coco alcohol-EO(15), coco alcohol-EO(20) and coco alcohol-EO (25). 5 B. Straight-Chain, Secondary Alcohol Alkoxylates

[0112] The deca-, undeca-, dodeca-, tetradeca-, pentadeca-, octadeca-, and nonadeca- ethoxylates of 3- hexadecanol, 2-octadecanol, 4-eicosanol, and 5-eicosanol having an HLB within the range recited herein are useful viscosity and/or 10 dispersibility modifiers in the context of this invention. Exemplary ethoxylated secondary alcohols useful herein as the viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of the compositions are: C16 EO(11); C20 EO(11); and C16 EO(14).

C. Alkyl Phenol Alkoxylates

15 [0113] As in the case of the alcohol alkoxylates, the hexa- to octadeca-ethoxylates of alkylated phenols, particularly monohydric alkylphenols, having an HLB within the range recited herein are useful as the viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of the instant compositions. The hexa- to octadeca-ethoxylates of p- tri-decylphenol, m-pentadecylphenol, and the like, are useful herein. Exemplary ethoxylated alkylphenols useful as the viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of the mixtures herein are: p-tridecylphenol EO(11) and p-pentadecylphenol EO(18). 20 [0114] As used herein and as generally recognized in the art, a phenylene group in the nonionic formula is the equivalent of an alkylene group containing from 2 to 4 carbon atoms. For present purposes, nonionics containing a phenylene group are considered to contain an equivalent number of carbon atoms calculated as the sum of the carbon atoms in the alkyl group plus about 3.3 carbon atoms for each phenylene group.

25 D. Olefinic Alkoxylates

[0115] The alkenyl alcohols, both primary and secondary, and alkenyl phenols corresponding to those disclosed immediately hereinabove can be ethoxylated to an HLB within the range recited herein and used as the viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of the instant compositions. 30 E. Branched Chain Alkoxylates

[0116] Branched chain primary and secondary alcohols which are available from the well- known "OXO" process can be ethoxylated and employed as the viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of compositions herein. 35 F. Polyol Based Surfactants

[0117] Suitable polyol based surfactants include sucrose esters such as sucrose monooleates, alkyl polyglucosides such as stearyl monoglucosides and stearyl triglucoside and alkyl polyglycerols. 40 [0118] The above nonionic surfactants are useful in the present compositions alone or in combination, and the term "nonionic surfactant" encompasses mixed nonionic surface active agents. [0119] The nonionic surfactant is preferably present in an amount of from 0.01 to 10%, more preferably 0.1 to 5%, most preferably 0.35 to 3.5%, e.g. 0.5 to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

45 Perfume

[0120] The compositions for use in the method of the invention preferably comprise one or more perfumes in order to provide an odour desirable to consumers. [0121] It is well known that perfume is typically provided as a mixture of components. Suitable components for use in 50 the perfume include those described in "Perfume and Flavor Chemicals (Aroma Chemicals) by Steffen Arctander, pub- lished by the author, 1969, Montclait, N.J. (US), reprinted 1 st April 1982 Library of Congress Catalog Number 75-91398, incorporated herein. [0122] Furthermore, it is preferred that the perfume comprises substantive perfume ingredients as described in US- A1-2003/0050220 paragraphs 60 to 72, incorporated herein. 55 [0123] The perfume is preferably present in an amount from 0.01 to 10% by weight, more preferably 0.05 to 5% by weight, most preferably 0.5 to 4.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

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Liquid Carrier

[0124] A liquid carrier is preferably employed in the instant compositions. The liquid carrier is at least partly water due to its low cost, relative availability, safety, and environmental compatibility. The level of water in the liquid carrier is mo re 5 than about 50%, preferably more than about 80%, more preferably more than about 85%, by weight of the carrier. The level of liquid carrier is greater than about 50%, preferably greater than about 65%, more preferably greater than about 70%. Mixtures of water and a low molecular weight, e.g. <100, organic solvent, e.g. a lower alcohol such as ethanol, propanol, isopropanol or butanol are useful as the carrier liquid. Low molecular weight alcohols including monohydric, dihydric (glycol, etc.) trihydric (glycerol, etc.), and polyhydric (polyols) alcohols are also suitable carriers for use in the 10 compositions for use in the method of the present invention.

Polymeric viscosity control agents

[0125] It is useful, though not essential, if the compositions comprise one or more polymeric viscosity control agents. 15 Suitable polymeric viscosity control agents include nonionic and cationic polymers, such as hydrophobically modified cellulose ethers (e.g. Natrosol Plus, ex Hercules), cationically modified starches (e.g. Softgel BDA and Softgel BD, both ex Avebe). A particularly preferred viscosity control agent is a copolymer of methacrylate and cationic acrylamide available under the tradename Flosoft 200 (ex SNF Floerger). [0126] Nonionic and/or cationic polymers are preferably present in an amount of 0.01 to 5wt%, more preferably 0.02 20 to 4wt%, based on the total weight of the composition.

Antifoaming Agent

[0127] It is particularly preferred that the composition comprises an antifoaming agent. 25 [0128] The antifoaming agent is preferably present at a level of from 0.001 to 5% by weight, more preferably 0.002 to 3% by weight, most preferably 0.003 to 1% by weight, e.g. 0.004 to 0.7% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. [0129] A typical antifoaming agent suitable for use in the composition is DOW CORNING® 1520 Silicone antifoam (a 20% active silicone emulsion). 30 Further Optional Ingredients

[0130] Other optional nonionic softeners, bactericides, soil-releases agents may also be incorporated in the compositions for use in the method of the invention. 35 [0131] The compositions may also contain one or more optional ingredients conventionally included in fabric conditioning compositionssuch aspH buffering agents, perfumecarriers, fluorescers, colourants, hydrotropes,antiredeposition agents, polyelectrolytes, enzymes, optical brightening agents, pearlescers, anti-shrinking agents, anti-wrinkle agents, anti-spotting agents, antioxidants, sunscreens, anti-corrosion agents, drape imparting agents, dye fixatives, seques- trants, preservatives, anti-static agents, ironing aids and dyes. 40 Product Form

[0132] The fabric conditioning compositionmay be a liquid, such asan aqueous liquid, preferably an aqueous dispersion of the cationic softening material, a soft solid such as a gel, cream or paste, or a solid such as a granular material. 45 Preferably the product is a liquid or soft solid. [0133] The invention is especially useful for very high viscosity compositions since these are often much harder to disperse than low viscosity compositions. The composition has a viscosity as measured using a Haake Rotoviscometer with MV1 cup and Bob at 106s-1 of greater than 200mPaS, preferably greater than 400mPaS, more preferably greater than 500mPaS, e.g. greater than 600mPaS. Conventional liquid fabric conditioning compositions have a viscosity of 50 from 20-150mPaS.

Product Use

[0134] The composition is used in a hand-washing laundry operation. It is particularly preferred that the present 55 invention is used in a hand-washing operation where the fabrics are laundered by hand in a receptacle such as, for example, a bucket, sink, bath or other suitably sized container. [0135] The system of the invention may, for instance, be sold in the form of a pack or kit. [0136] The meshed article can thus be packaged together with a separate fabric conditioning composition such that

10 EP 1 697 491 B1

none of the composition is impregnated or otherwise initially incorporated onto or into the implement. Of course, it is envisaged that the fabric conditioning composition can be, in use, dosed either onto and/or into the meshed article and then placed in the wash/rinse liquor and dispersed or dosed directly into the wash/rinse liquor and then the meshed article is introduced into the liquor and used to disperse the composition or a combination of the above. 5 [0137] It is also envisaged that the kit may be supplied to the consumer with the permeable article pre-dosed with a fabric conditioning composition. Thus, at least initially, the consumer is not required to dose the permeable article with the fabric conditioning composition.

Examples 10 [0138] The invention will now be illustrated by the following nonlimiting examples. Further modifications will be apparent to the person skilled in the art. [0139] All values are % by weight of the active ingredient unless stated otherwise. [0140] The following fabric conditioning composition was prepared by melting together the quat, fatty acid, and lecithin, 15 adding this mixture to heated water, milling the mixture and then allowing it to cool. During cooling the citric acid, calcium chloride, perfume and minors were added.

Table 1 Ingredient wt% 20 Quat(1) 14.10 Fatty acid (2) 1.20 Lecithin (3) 2.00 25 Calcium chloride (4) 0.06 Citric acid 0.025 Perfume 1.02 Water + minors To 100 30 (1) ARQUAD 2HT-75E (ex Akzo) (2) PRISTERINE 4916 (ex Uniqema) 35 (3) ALCOLEC Z7 (ex American Lecithin Company) (4) Dosed at a concentration of 10%

40 [0141] The viscosity of the resulting product was greater than 8000 mPas measured at 106s-1 using a Rotoviscometer and MV1 cup and bob. [0142] A comparative product (sample A) was prepared by placing 3.5g/ 5l of the composition onto hands, submersing hands in 51 water and then rubbing together for 30 seconds. [0143] A dispersion for use in the method the invention (sample B) was made using a meshed article by dispersing 45 3.5g/51 of the composition onto and into the meshed article and then submersing the meshed article into 51 water and agitating the meshed article for 30 seconds. [0144] The dispersion was then visually assessed by a test panel of 4 people on a scale of 0 to 5 wherein 0 represents full dispersion and 5 represents extremely poor dispersion. [0145] The results are given in the following table: 50 Table 2 Panellist Sample A Sample B 13.50.5 55 25 1 34.50.5

11 EP 1 697 491 B1

(continued) Panellist Sample A Sample B 44.50.5 5

Claims

1. A method of dispersing a fabric conditioning composition having a viscosity, measured using a Haake Rotorisiometer 10 with MV1 cup and Bob at 106s-1, of greater than 200mPaS, in a rinse liquid in a container used in a hand-washing laundry operation, the method comprising introducing said fabric conditioning composition onto or into a permeable article, submersing the article in the liquid and agitating the article so as to assist dispersion of the composition.

2. A method of dispersing a fabric conditioning composition in which the viscosity of the fabric conditioning composition 15 measured using a Haake Rotorisiometer with MV1 cup and Bob at 106s-1, is greater than 400mPaS.

3. A method of dispersing a fabric conditioning composition as claimed in Claim 2 in which the viscosity of the fabric conditioning composition measured using a Haake Rotorisiometer with MV1 cup and Bob at 106s -1, is greater than 500mPaS. 20 4. A method of dispersing a fabric conditioning composition as claimed in Claim 3 in which the viscosity of the fabric conditioning composition measured using a Haake Rotorisiometer with MV1 cup and Bob at 106s -1, is greater than 600mPaS.

25 5. A method of dispersing a fabric conditioning composition as claimed in any preceding claim in which the permeable article is an open-cell sponge or meshed article.

6. A method of dispersing a fabric conditioning composition as claimed in Claim 5 in which the meshed article is prepared from extruded tubular netting mesh. 30

Patentansprüche

1. Verfahren zum Dispergieren einer Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung mit einer Viskosität, gemessen 35 unter Verwendung eines Haake-Rotorisiometers mit MV1-Becher und Bob bei 106 s-1, von größer als 200 mPaS in einer Spülflüssigkeit in einem Behälter, der bei einem Wäschehandwaschvorgang verwendet wird, wobei das Verfahren umfasst Einführen der Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung auf oder in einen permeablen Gegenstand, Untertauchen des Gegenstandes in der Flüssigkeit und Bewegen des Gegenstandes, um so eine Dispersion der Zusammensetzung zu unterstützen. 40 2. Verfahren zum Dispergieren einer Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung, bei dem die Viskosität der Ge- webe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung, gemessen unter Verwendung eines Haake- Rotorisiometers mit MV1- Becher und Bob bei 106 s-1, größer als 400 mPaS ist.

45 3. Verfahren zum Dispergieren einer Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung nach Anspruch 1, bei dem die Viskosität der Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung, gemessen unter Verwendung eines Haake-Rotori- siometers mit MV1-Becher und Bob bei 106 s-1, größer als 500 mPaS ist.

4. Verfahren zum Dispergieren einer Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung nach Anspruch 3, bei dem die 50 Viskosität der Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung, gemessen unter Verwendung eines Haake-Rotori- siometers mit MV1-Becher und Bob bei 106 s-1, größer als 600 mPaS ist.

5. Verfahren zum Dispergieren einer Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei der permeable Gegenstand ein offenzelliger Schwamm oder maschiger Gegenstand ist. 55 6. Verfahren zum Dispergieren einer Gewebe konditionierenden Zusammensetzung nach Anspruch 5, wobei der maschige Gegenstand aus extrudiertem schlauchförmigem Netzmaschengewebe hergestellt ist.

12 EP 1 697 491 B1

Revendications

1. Méthode de dispersion d’une composition de conditionnement de tissu présentant une viscosité supérieure à 200mPaS telle qu’elle est mesurée en utilisant un viscosimètre rotatif Haake à disque et à godet MV1 à 106s-1, 5 dans un liquide de rinçage dans un récipient utilisé pour une opération de lavage de linge à la main, la méthode comprenant les étapes consistant à introduire ladite composition de conditionnement de tissu sur ou dans un article perméable, immerger l’article dans le liquide et agiter l’article de manière à encourager la dispersion de la composition.

10 2. Méthode de dispersion d’une composition de conditionnement de tissu selon la revendication 1, dans laquelle la viscosité de la composition de conditionnement de tissu telle qu’elle est mesurée en utilisant un viscosimètre rotatif Haake à disque et à godet MV1 à 106s-1, est supérieure à 400mPaS.

3. Méthode de dispersion d’une composition de conditionnement de tissu selon la revendication 2, dans laquelle la 15 viscosité de la composition de conditionnement de tissu telle qu’elle est mesurée en utilisant un viscosimètre rotatif Haake à disque et à godet MV1 à 106s-1, est supérieure à 500mPaS.

4. Méthode de dispersion d’une composition de conditionnement de tissu selon la revendication 3, dans laquelle la viscosité de la composition de conditionnement de tissu telle qu’elle est mesurée en utilisant un viscosimètre rotatif 20 Haake à disque et à godet MV1 à 106s-1, est supérieure à 600mPas.

5. Méthode de dispersion d’une composition de conditionnement de tissu selon l’une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l’article perméable est une éponge à alvéoles ouverts ou un article à mailles.

25 6. Méthode de dispersion d’une composition de conditionnement de tissu selon la revendication 5, dans laquelle l’article à mailles est préparé à partir d’un filet tubulaire extrudé.

13 EP 1 697 491 B1

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REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of references cited by the applicant is for the reader’s convenience only. It does not form part of the European patent document. Even though great care has been taken in compiling the references, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and the EPO disclaims all liability in this regard.

Patent documents cited in the description

• US 3226751 A [0012] • US 2817865 A [0022] • US 3414928 A [0013] • US 5144744 A [0023] • WO 9500116 A [0014] [0029] • US 3343196 A [0024] • US 3634901 A [0015] • US 4190550 A [0025] • US 4980943 A [0016] • US 4969225 A [0026] • US 5465452 A [0017] • US 4137180 A [0070] • US 4154542 A [0018] • WO 0146513 A1 [0076] • US 4606964 A [0019] • WO 0146361 A1 [0102] • US 2581779 A [0020] • US 20030050220 A1 [0122] • US 3103031 A [0021]

Non-patent literature cited in the description

• STEFFEN ARCTANDER. Perfume and Flavor Chemicals (Aroma Chemicals. 1969 [0121]