Search All US Patents

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide a cleaning benefit and surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellency, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions and at least one oxidant selected from the group: alkaline metal salts and/or alkaline earth metal salts of hypochlorous acid, hypochlorous acid, solubilized chlorine, any source of free chlorine, acidic sodium chlorite, active chlorine generating compound and any combinations or mixtures thereof. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes with at least one oxidant in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide a cleaning benefit and surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellency, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions and at least one oxidant selected from the group: alkaline metal salts and/or alkaline earth metal salts of hypochlorous acid, hypochlorous acid, solubilized chlorine, any source of free chlorine, acidic sodium chlorite, active chlorine generating compound and any combinations or mixtures thereof. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes with at least one oxidant in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions where the one polyelectrolyte present in molar excess is added in the form of a first aqueous solution during a mixing step to a second aqueous solution comprising the oppositely charged polyelectrolyte present in molar deficiency. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20, including near stoichiometric R values approaching 1, being the ratio of charged groups present on the component polyelectrolytes employed.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide a cleaning benefit and surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions and at least one oxidant selected from the group: alkaline metal salts and/or alkaline earth metal salts of hypochlorous acid, hypochlorous acid, solubilized chlorine, any source of free chlorine, acidic sodium chlorite, active chlorine generating compound and any combinations or mixtures thereof. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes with at least one oxidant in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20.

The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions comprising polyelectrolyte complexes. The compositions include a water-soluble first polyelectrolyte bearing a net cationic charge or capable of developing a net cationic charge and a water-soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing a net anionic charge or capable of developing a net anionic charge. The total polyelectrolyte concentration of the first solution is at least 110 millimolar. The composition is free of coacervates, precipitates, latex particles, synthetic block copolymers, silicone copolymers, cross-linked poly(acrylic) and cross-linked water-soluble polyelectrolyte. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions where the one polyelectrolyte present in molar excess is added in the form of a first aqueous solution during a mixing step to a second aqueous solution comprising the oppositely charged polyelectrolyte present in molar deficiency. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20, including near stoichiometric R values approaching 1, being the ratio of charged groups present on the component polyelectrolytes employed.

This invention relates to systems, methods, and disinfecting compositions for spraying onto surfaces to be sanitized or disinfected. Methods may include providing an aqueous hypohalite disinfecting composition, and providing a spraying system that may include a hand-held spray nozzle through which the composition is sprayed during use, and a pump and associated tubing for conveying the composition to the hand-held spray nozzle. The tubing may be specifically selected to exhibit at least a 65% recovery (no more than 35% loss) of hypohalite after 24 hours of contact between the composition and the tubing. The method may further include conveying the composition from the reservoir to the spray nozzle, and spraying the composition through the nozzle, e.g., onto the target surface. A related system may include similar components. A dilute hypohalite disinfecting composition may be provided for use with the system and/or method. The system may allow interchangeable use of a quaternary amine disinfecting composition.

Briquet designs that facilitate close packing and improve burn efficiency are provided herein. Such designs can include scaled down briquet size and close packing shapes, which can include pyramidal shaped portions, such as rectangular pyramids and tetrahedron shapes, as well as oblate spheroid and hexoid shapes, to facilitate closer random packing when the briquets are randomly arranged in a pile when poured from a bag. Some briquet shapes can further include special surface features, such as flattened or rounded portions or depressions, such as dimples, that reduce volume without increasing the bulk density in order to further improve burn performance and efficiency.

A drain opening composition having superior ability to thoroughly and uniformly mix with the contents of a drain whereby any drainage constriction is attacked by the components of the composition to ensure free flow within the drain. The composition contains strong caustic in combination with an oxygen gas producing peroxy compound, particulate aluminum, potassium salts, a catalyst to promote the gas-forming reaction and a surfactant.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide a cleaning benefit and surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions and at least one oxidant selected from the group: alkaline metal salts and/or alkaline earth metal salts of hypochlorous acid, hypochlorous acid, solubilized chlorine, any source of free chlorine, acidic sodium chlorite, active chlorine generating compound and any combinations or mixtures thereof. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes with at least one oxidant in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20.

The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions comprising polyelectrolyte complexes. The compositions include a water-soluble first polyelectrolyte bearing a net cationic charge or capable of developing a net cationic charge and a water-soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing a net anionic charge or capable of developing a net anionic charge. The total polyelectrolyte concentration of the first solution is at least 110 millimolar. The composition is free of coacervates, precipitates, latex particles, synthetic block copolymers, silicone copolymers, cross-linked poly(acrylic) and cross-linked water-soluble polyelectrolyte. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide a cleaning benefit and surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions and at least one oxidant selected from the group: alkaline metal salts and/or alkaline earth metal salts of hypochlorous acid, hypochlorous acid, solubilized chlorine, any source of free chlorine, acidic sodium chlorite, active chlorine generating compound and any combinations or mixtures thereof. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes with at least one oxidant in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20.

The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions comprising polyelectrolyte complexes. The compositions include a water-soluble first polyelectrolyte bearing a net cationic charge or capable of developing a net cationic charge and a water-soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing a net anionic charge or capable of developing a net anionic charge. The total polyelectrolyte concentration of the first solution is at least 110 millimolar. The composition is free of coacervates, precipitates, latex particles, synthetic block copolymers, silicone copolymers, cross-linked poly(acrylic) and cross-linked water-soluble polyelectrolyte. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions where the one polyelectrolyte present in molar excess is added in the form of a first aqueous solution during a mixing step to a second aqueous solution comprising the oppositely charged polyelectrolyte present in molar deficiency. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20, including near stoichiometric R values approaching 1, being the ratio of charged groups present on the component polyelectrolytes employed.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide a cleaning benefit and surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions and at least one oxidant selected from the group: alkaline metal salts and/or alkaline earth metal salts of hypochlorous acid, hypochlorous acid, solubilized chlorine, any source of free chlorine, acidic sodium chlorite, active chlorine generating compound and any combinations or mixtures thereof. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes with at least one oxidant in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20.

The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions comprising polyelectrolyte complexes. The compositions include a water-soluble first polyelectrolyte bearing a net cationic charge or capable of developing a net cationic charge and a water-soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing a net anionic charge or capable of developing a net anionic charge. The total polyelectrolyte concentration of the first solution is at least 110 millimolar. The composition is free of coacervates, precipitates, latex particles, synthetic block copolymers, silicone copolymers, cross-linked poly(acrylic) and cross-linked water-soluble polyelectrolyte. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface.

The invention relates to polymer-micelle complex. The polymer-micelle complexes include a positively charged micelle selected from the group consisting of a monomeric quaternary ammonium compound, a monomeric biguanide compound, and mixtures thereof. The positively charged micelle is electrostatically bound to a water-soluble polymer bearing a negative charge. The polymer does not comprise block copolymer, latex particles, polymer nanoparticles, cross-linked polymers, silicone copolymer, fluorosurfactant, or amphoteric copolymer. The compositions do not form a coacervate, and do not form a film when applied to a surface.

This invention relates to compositions and methods to provide an effervescent garbage disposal cleaner. The compositions are contained in a water-soluble film and include encapsulated technologies to isolate ingredients that are sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations, and are also prone to react with each other, which would result in comprising the overall product performance.

The invention relates to polymer-micelle complex. The polymer-micelle complexes include a positively charged micelle selected from the group consisting of a monomeric quaternary ammonium compound, a monomeric biguanide compound, and mixtures thereof. The positively charged micelle is electrostatically bound to a water-soluble polymer bearing a negative charge. The polymer does not comprise block copolymer, latex particles, polymer nanoparticles, cross-linked polymers, silicone copolymer, fluorosurfactant, or amphoteric copolymer. The compositions do not form a coacervate, and do not form a film when applied to a surface.

The invention relates to polymer-micelle complex. The polymer-micelle complexes include a positively charged micelle selected from the group consisting of a monomeric quaternary ammonium compound, a monomeric biguanide compound, and mixtures thereof. The positively charged micelle is electrostatically bound to a water-soluble polymer bearing a negative charge. The polymer does not comprise block copolymer, latex particles, polymer nanoparticles, cross-linked polymers, silicone copolymer, fluorosurfactant, or amphoteric copolymer. The compositions do not form a coacervate, and do not form a film when applied to a surface.

The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions comprising polyelectrolyte complexes. The compositions include a water-soluble first polyelectrolyte bearing a net cationic charge or capable of developing a net cationic charge and a water-soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing a net anionic charge or capable of developing a net anionic charge. The total polyelectrolyte concentration of the first solution is at least 110 millimolar. The composition is free of coacervates, precipitates, latex particles, synthetic block copolymers, silicone copolymers, cross-linked poly(acrylic) and cross-linked water-soluble polyelectrolyte. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface.

The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions comprising polyelectrolyte complexes. The compositions include a water-soluble first polyelectrolyte bearing a net cationic charge or capable of developing a net cationic charge and a water-soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing a net anionic charge or capable of developing a net anionic charge. The total polyelectrolyte concentration of the first solution is at least 110 millimolar. The composition is free of coacervates, precipitates, latex particles, synthetic block copolymers, silicone copolymers, cross-linked poly(acrylic) and cross-linked water-soluble polyelectrolyte. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions where the one polyelectrolyte present in molar excess is added in the form of a first aqueous solution during a mixing step to a second aqueous solution comprising the oppositely charged polyelectrolyte present in molar deficiency. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20, including near stoichiometric R values approaching 1, being the ratio of charged groups present on the component polyelectrolytes employed.

The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions comprising polyelectrolyte complexes. The compositions include a water-soluble first polyelectrolyte bearing a net cationic charge or capable of developing a net cationic charge and a water-soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing a net anionic charge or capable of developing a net anionic charge. The total polyelectrolyte concentration of the first solution is at least 110 millimolar. The composition is free of coacervates, precipitates, latex particles, synthetic block copolymers, silicone copolymers, cross-linked poly(acrylic) and cross-linked water-soluble polyelectrolyte. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface.

A thickened oxidant composition is formulated to be easily and evenly applied to a vertical surface to provide consumer preferred cling to the vertical surface. The composition has a low relaxation constant. The composition is useful in cleaning toilet bowls and other hard surfaces. The composition can be applied in a stream, a spray, or an aerosol.

A litter composition comprising a substantially particulate primary absorbent material and a binding agent, the binding agent comprising approximately 0.01%-40% of the litter composition. In one embodiment, the primary absorbent material comprises silica gel and the binding agent comprises a galactomannan. In additional embodiments, the litter composition also includes at least one of the following components: fixing agent, colorant agent, anti-bacterial agent, fragrance and/or supplemental absorbent material.

An improved cleaning composition and method adapted to clean a variety of hard surfaces. The improved cleaning composition and method includes the use of a cationic biocide that includes biguanide compounds and/or quats.

An improved cleaning composition adapted to clean a variety of hard surfaces. The improved cleaning composition includes a cationic biocide that includes biguanide compounds and/or quats.

A composition is provided comprising two liquids which are separately maintained prior to forming an admixture during delivery to a surface to be treated, whereupon the admixture generates a foam sufficient for cleaning efficacy and stability. A first liquid preferably includes a hypohalite, or a hypohalite generating agent and a second liquid preferably includes a peroxygen agent. The first liquid is thickened to a specified rheology, resulting in the generation of a highly effective foam. As the two liquids are initially separated, the hypohalite generating agent can be maintained in an environment free of peroxygen agent and otherwise conducive to their cleaning activity and stability up to the time of use. When the two liquids are allowed to mix, for example, by simultaneously pouring into a drain, the hypohalite and peroxygen react to liberate oxygen gas. As foam generation occurs, the escaping gas contacts surfactant in the solution, and creates foam which expands to completely fill the drain pipe. The expanded foam contains an excess of the hypohalite, which acts to clean the drain.

A composition is provided comprising two liquids which are separately maintained prior to forming an admixture during delivery to a surface to be treated, whereupon the admixture generates a foam sufficient for cleaning efficacy and stability. A first liquid preferably includes a hypohalite, or a hypohalite generating agent and a second liquid preferably includes a peroxygen agent. The first liquid is thickened to a specified rheology, resulting in the generation of a highly effective foam. As the two liquids are initially separated, the hypohalite generating agent can be maintained in an environment free of peroxygen agent and otherwise conducive to their cleaning activity and stability up to the time of use. When the two liquids are allowed to mix, for example, by simultaneously pouring into a drain, the hypohalite and peroxygen react to liberate oxygen gas. As foam generation occurs, the escaping gas contacts surfactant in the solution, and creates foam which expands to completely fill the drain pipe. The expanded foam contains an excess of the hypohalite, which acts to clean the drain.

A process is provided for the preparation of a compound having the structure of Formula I ##STR1## The process includes reacting a heterocyclic amine with a monoaldehyde or a dialdehyde in a pH range of from about 8 to 14 and then quaternizing the so-reacted heterocyclic amine with an alkylating agent at a pH of not less than about 2. The use of pH control substantially prevents formation of an undesirable protonated reaction intermediate.

Stain removing compositions which can be granular detergents, liquid detergents, granular stain removers, liquid stain removers, household cleaners, food industrial cleaners, and the like, containing proteolytic enzymes derived from bacterium No. 177, are effective low temperature (0.degree. C.-50.degree. C.) stain removers.

A composition is provided comprising two liquids which are separately maintained prior to forming an admixture during delivery to a surface to be treated, whereupon the admixture generates a foam sufficient for cleaning efficacy and stability. A first liquid preferably includes a hypohalite, or a hypohalite generating agent and a second liquid preferably includes a peroxygen agent. The first liquid is thickened to a specified rheology, resulting in the generation of a highly effective foam. As the two liquids are initially separated, the hypohalite generating agent can be maintained in an environment free of peroxygen agent and otherwise conducive to their cleaning activity and stability up to the time of use. When the two liquids are allowed to mix, for example, by simultaneously pouring into a drain, the hypohalite and peroxygen react to liberate oxygen gas. As foam generation occurs, the escaping gas contacts surfactant in the solution, and creates foam which expands to completely fill the drain pipe. The expanded foam contains an excess of the hypohalite, which acts to clean the drain.

An apparatus for surface cleaning is provided in which a first liquid, which includes an oxidizing agent, and a second liquid, which includes a builder or a chelating agent, are initially maintained separately. The apparatus is constructed to facilitate delivery of these two liquids such that they are combined to form an admixture during delivery to a surface to be treated. Either or both of the first and second liquids include a pH-adjusting agent, which is present in an amount such that when the liquids are so delivered, the resulting admixture is maintained at a pH sufficient for cleaning efficacy and stability of the oxidizing agent. The present invention also provides a composition produced by a process of maintaining the two above-mentioned liquids separately and forming an admixture thereof during delivery to a surface to be treated.

The invention provides a carpet cleaning composition and dispensing means which use foam producing surfactants, solvents, propellants, builders and water. Other adjuncts may be added, such as fragrances, dyes, and fabric softeners. The invention also provides a method for cleaning soiled fabrics having fibers containing soiling particles which comprises: (a) applying to said fibers an aqueous, solvent/surfactant admixture having a solvent with consistent evaporation rate in ambient air; (b) collapsing without abrasion said mixture into said fibers and emulsifying and segregating said soiling particles during a controlled residence time; and (c) evaporating said solvent so as to form said admixture into a foam, elevating said soiling particles substantially to the surface of said fibers.

The invention provides a thickened aqueous abrasive scouring cleanser containing bleach which is capable of stably suspending abrasives, has excellent bleach half-life stability, little or no syneresis and maintains these advantages over extended times and at elevated temperatures. In one embodiment of the inventive cleansers is provided a hard surface abrasive scouring cleanser comprising: (a) a colloidal aluminum oxide thickener having average particle size, in dispersion, of no greater than about 1 micron; (b) an electrolyte/buffer to promote the environment in which the aluminum oxide and surfactant can associate to provide proper rheology; (c) at least one surfactant which can, in association with the aluminum oxide, provide proper rheology and cleaning; (d) a halogen bleach; and (e) a particulate abrasive having average particle size of about 1 to 400 microns to provide scouring action.

The invention provides a carpet cleaning composition and dispensing means which use foam producing surfactants, solvents, propellants, builders and water. Other adjuncts may be added, such as fragrances, dyes, and fabric softeners. The invention also provides a method for cleaning soiled fabrics having fibers containing soiling particles which comprises: (a) applying to said fibers an aqueous, solvent/surfactant admixture having a solvent with consistent evaporation rate in ambient air; (b) collapsing without abrasion said mixture into said fibers and emulsifying and segregating said soiling particles during a controlled residence time; and (c) evaporating said solvent so as to form said admixture into a foam, elevating said soiling particles substantially to the surface of said fibers; and compositions directed to the same.

A thickened hard surface abrasive cleanser is provided which may have high levels of silicates for superior cleaning, exhibits substantially no syneresis, and has a use-favorable rheology. The cleanser comprises, generally: (a) an alkali-metal silicate/borate anion thickener (b) an electrolyte/buffer (c) an anionic surfactant; and (d) a particulate abrasive. The composition of the invention is attained only on following a defined formulation protocol. Accordingly, a method is provided which yields the inventive composition. The composition may be formulated to a viscosity of between about 10,000 and 250,000 cP, and a yield value of between about 1 and 80 Pa.

A polymeric film material for the rinse release of wash additives comprises a blend of polyvinyl alcohol and an alkyl cellulose. A metalloid oxide cross-linking agent is present in an amount sufficient to sharply reduce the solubility rate of the film blend in an alkaline wash, yet allow dissolution in a less alkaline rinse. Optionally, a hydrophobic cationic species is included to further reduce the dissolution rate in the wash pH. The films remain intact during normal wash cycles and over a range of typical water temperatures, then rapidly dissolve in the rinse. The film can be used to microencapsulate an additive, or made into a water-soluble pouch, or as a soluble seal for a pouch or container.

An improved method for the production of a plasticizer-containing dry flowable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) resin blend capable of thermoplastic processing. The method provides for the incorporation of plasticizers in intimate contact with the PVA resin without heating, cooling, or extended drying steps. Specifically, PVA resin granules having an appropriately small particle size distribution are spray-coated with a liquid plasticizer medium, and then mixed with a dry, fine powder coating medium to produce a flowable, dry plasticized PVA blend. Additional components, such as antioxidants, dyes, and antiblocking agents, may also be incorporated into the finished product.

This invention relates to a storage and shipping system comprising corrugated containers which house plastic vessels or bottles used to hold fragranced liquid bleaches in which the shipping and storage containers are stacked on top of one another. In the stacks in all of the shipping and storage containers except for the topmost one, the plastic vessels will share some of the vertical component of the compression load caused by the shipping and storage container directly located above a given shipping and storage container. The compression load can cause stress-cracking in the vessels or bottles if strongly wetting surfactants are used to disperse the fragrances. Surprisingly, it has been found that such stress-cracking can be essentially mitigated when an agent for dispersing the fragrance is used which does not promote stress-cracking in said vessels or bottles by substantially not wetting the interior surface of said plastic, and does not decrease the surface tension below the critical surface tension of the plastic. An exemplary agent is sodium xylene sulfonate.

Liquid bleaching and coloring compositions are provided in which a polymeric matrix stably suspends pigment particles. A preferred composition includes an aqueous solution having sodium hypochlorite in an amount of from about 3.5 wt. % to about 6.2 wt. %, an anionic or nonionic surfactant in an amount of from about 0.02 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, a polymer in an amount of from about 0.4 wt. % to about 0.6 wt. %, and ultramarine blue particles in an amount of from about 0.1 wt. % to 0.2 wt. %, the ultramarine blue particles being stably suspended and dispersed in the aqueous solution via the polymer.

Liquid bleaching and brightening compositions are provided in which a polymeric matrix stably suspends a fluorescent whitening agent, and, optionally, pigment particles. A particularly preferred composition includes an aqueous solution having sodium hypochlorite in an amount of from about 3.5 wt. % to about 6.2 wt. %, an anionic or nonionic surfactant in an amount of from about 0.03 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. %, a polymer in an amount of from about 0.3 wt. % to about 2.0 wt. %, a fluorescent whitening agent in an amount of from about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. %, and, if desired, ultramarine blue particles in an amount of from about 0.01 wt. % to 0.2 wt. %, the fluorescent whitening agent and ultramarine blue particles being stably suspended and dispersed in the aqueous solution via the polymer.

A polymeric film material for the rinse release of wash additives comprises a blend of polyvinyl alcohol and an alkyl cellulose. A metalloid oxide cross-linking agent is present in an amount sufficient to sharply reduce the solubility rate of the film blend in an alkaline wash, yet allow dissolution in a less alkaline rinse. Optionally, a hydrophobic cationic species is included to further reduce the dissolution rate in the wash pH. The films remain intact during normal wash cycles and over a range of typical water temperatures, then rapidly dissolve in the rinse. The film can be used to microencapsulate an additive, or made into a water-soluble pouch, or as a soluble seal for a pouch or container.

The invention provides, in one embodiment, an odor controlling animal litter comprising: (a) adsorbent or absorbent particles; and (b) an ammonia-controlling-effective amount of (i) pine oil and (ii) boric acid applied onto the particles. The litter can also include further adjuncts, such as fragrances, other antimicrobial additives, and the like.

This invention provides a stable, fragranced liquid hypochlorite bleach composition in which an immiscible or slightly miscible fragrance is stably dispersed in the bleach substantially without wetting the interior walls of the plastic container for the bleach. This lack of wetting is caused by using as a dispersant for the fragrance, a hydrotrope which does not wet the plastic but stably suspends the fragrance in the bleach.

Liquid bleaching and brightening compositions are provided in which a polymeric matrix stably suspends a fluorescent whitening agent, and, optionally, pigment particles. A particularly preferred composition includes an aqueous solution having sodium hypochlorite in an amount of from about 3.5 wt. % to about 6.2 wt. %, an anionic or nonionic surfactant in an amount of from about 0.03 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. %, polymer in an amount of from about 0.03 wt. % to about 2.0 wt. %, a fluorescent whitening agent in an amount of from about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. %, and, if desired, ultramarine blue particles in an amount of from about 0.01 wt. % to 0.2 wt. %, the fluorescent whitening agent and ultramarine blue particles being stably suspended and displaced in the aqueous solution via the polymer.

This invention relates to a storage and shipping system comprising corrugated containers which house plastic vessels or bottles used to hold fragranced liquid bleaches in which the shipping and storage containers are stacked on top of one another. In the stacks, in all of the shipping and storage containers except for the topmost one, the plastic vessels will share some of the vertical component of the compression load caused by the shipping and storage container directly located above a given shipping and storage container. In a further embodiment of the invention, the problem of surface wetting of blown polyethylene bottles by certain additives in liquid bleach is recognized and addressed. In another embodiment of the invention is provided a stable fragranced bleaching composition. In a still further embodiment of this invention is provided a homogeneous fragrance preblend and a method of making thereof.

A perhydrolysis system or activated oxidant system for in situ generation of peracid in aqueous solutions is disclosed including an esterase or lipase enzyme, a source of hydrogen peroxide, and a functionalized ester substrate having the structure ##STR1## wherein R is a substituent having at least one carbon atom and X is a functional moiety or group. Preferred substrates include glycerides, ethylene glycol derivatives and propylene glycol derivatives. The system is adapted for use in both high and low temperature wash conditions. In one embodiment, a lipase enzyme is employed with an insoluble substrate and an emulsifying agent. In another embodiment, an esterase and/or lipase enzyme, a glyceride substrate and hydrogen peroxide produce a peracid with active oxygen from a peracid of at least about 0.5 ppm. Bleaching processes and stain removal capabilities are also disclosed.

A perhydrolysis system or activated oxidant system for in situ generation of peracid in aqueous solutions is disclosed including a protease enzyme, a source of hydrogen peroxide and an ester substrate having the general structure ##STR1## where R and R' are alkyl groups unsubstituted or substituted with at least one functional group. Preferred substrates are defined which are preferably chemically non-perhydrolyzable. Processes for bleaching and peracid production are also disclosed.

The invention provides a thickened aqueous abrasive scouring cleanser containing bleach which is capable of stably suspending abrasives, has excellent shelf stability for a commercially feasible product with substantially no syneresis, does not require shaking before use, and maintains these advantages over extended times and at elevated temperatures. The inventive cleansers comprise generally the following ingredients: (a) hydrated aluminum oxide; (b) an electrolyte/buffer; (c) at least one surfactant; (d) a bleach; and (e) a particulate abrasive.

Polymer compositions are provided which may be cast as thin, self-supporting films, useful in forming sealed envelopes or pouches containing granulated pulverulent or non-aqueous liquid materials. The cast films comprise a polymeric matrix, having at least about 50 weight percent polyvinyl alcohol, and a plurality of microdomains dispersed throughout the polymeric matrix. The films have good resistance to breakage at low temperatures and low relative humidities.

A dry bleaching composition, particularly useful for low temperature applications, is provided in which generation of hypochlorite by reaction between a peroxygen bleaching agent and a chloride salt is promoted by an aromatic diol or oxidized aromatic diol activator. Preferred activators are in ester form and provide hypochlorite generation at levels of less than about 20 ppm for at least about the first two minutes following dissolution of the compositions in aqueous solution, but rising to effective bleaching levels within a reasonable time thereafter. The initially low hypochlorite level assists in the functioning of laundry additives, such as fabric brighteners.

The present invention relates to aqueous compositions of associative polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), optionally containing surfactants, biocidal agents and/or oxidants, which can provide surface protection to treated articles including reduced soiling tendency, reduced cleaning effort and improved soil repellancy, as well as providing bacteriostatic properties to treated surfaces that thereby gain resistance to water, environmental exposure and microbial challenge. Treatment means and compositions are provided that employ associative polyelectrolyte complexes formed by combining a water soluble cationic first polyelectrolyte with a water soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing groups of opposite charge to the first polyelectrolyte under suitable mixing conditions where the one polyelectrolyte present in molar excess is added in the form of a first aqueous solution during a mixing step to a second aqueous solution comprising the oppositely charged polyelectrolyte present in molar deficiency. Also provided are means to form stable associative polyelectrolyte complexes in aqueous solutions having R values from about 0.10 to 20, including near stoichiometric R values approaching 1, being the ratio of charged groups present on the component polyelectrolytes employed.

A trigger dispenser device (1) envisages a secondary liquid aspiration duct (50) in communication with the dispenser duct, and a primary liquid aspiration duct (8) in communication with the container, off-axis with each other. Between these, a joining compartment (64) is provided communicating upstream with the primary liquid aspiration duct (8) and communicating downstream with the secondary liquid aspiration duct (50) to form the fluidic connection between them. In particular, the container (C) is of the type with built-in suction pipe.

The invention provides an aqueous, hard surface cleaner with significantly improved residue removal and substantially reduced filming/streaking, said cleaner comprising: (a) an effective amount of a solvent selected from C.sub.1-6 alkanol, C.sub.3-24 alkylene glycol ether, and mixtures thereof; (b) an effective amount of at least one nonionic surfactant; (c) an effective amount of a buffering system which comprises a nitrogenous buffer selected from the group consisting of: ammonium or alkaline earth carbamates, guanidine derivatives, alkoxylalkylamines and alkyleneamines; and (d) the remainder as substantially all water.