U.S. patent application number 10/134566 was filed with the patent office on 2003-05-29 for cleaning composition.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Clorox Company, a Delaware corporation. Invention is credited to Blum, Robert L., De Leo, Malcolm, Kilkenny, Andrew, Mitra, Shuman, Nelson, Shona L., Shaheen, Elias A..
Application Number | 20030100465 10/134566 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46204460 |
Filed Date | 2003-05-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030100465 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kilkenny, Andrew ; et
al. |
May 29, 2003 |
Cleaning composition
Abstract
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.
Inventors: |
Kilkenny, Andrew;
(Pleasanton, CA) ; Shaheen, Elias A.; (San Ramon,
CA) ; Blum, Robert L.; (Clayton, CA) ; Mitra,
Shuman; (Dublin, CA) ; De Leo, Malcolm;
(Castro Valley, CA) ; Nelson, Shona L.;
(Livermore, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
VICKERS, DANIELS & YOUNG
Suite 2000
50 Public Square
Cleveland
OH
44113-2235
US
|
Assignee: |
The Clorox Company, a Delaware
corporation
|
Family ID: |
46204460 |
Appl. No.: |
10/134566 |
Filed: |
April 26, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10134566 |
Apr 26, 2002 |
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09939383 |
Aug 24, 2001 |
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10134566 |
Apr 26, 2002 |
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09939179 |
Aug 24, 2001 |
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09939179 |
Aug 24, 2001 |
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09737641 |
Dec 14, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
510/384 ;
510/475; 510/480 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C11D 3/43 20130101; A01N
33/12 20130101; C11D 3/3746 20130101; C11D 3/48 20130101; A01N
33/12 20130101; A01N 47/44 20130101; C11D 3/37 20130101; A01N 47/44
20130101; C11D 3/3776 20130101; A01N 25/02 20130101; A01N 33/12
20130101; A01N 33/12 20130101; A01N 25/34 20130101; A01N 25/10
20130101; A01N 25/10 20130101; A01N 2300/00 20130101; A01N 25/30
20130101; A01N 25/30 20130101; A01N 25/02 20130101; A01N 25/34
20130101; A01N 2300/00 20130101; A01N 47/44 20130101; C11D 3/046
20130101; C11D 3/3749 20130101; A01N 33/12 20130101; C11D 1/62
20130101; A01N 25/30 20130101; A01N 25/30 20130101; A01N 47/44
20130101; A01N 33/12 20130101; C11D 3/323 20130101; C11D 1/835
20130101; C11D 1/662 20130101; C11D 3/3796 20130101; C11D 3/3773
20130101; C11D 17/049 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
510/384 ;
510/475; 510/480 |
International
Class: |
C11D 003/48 |
Claims
We claim:
1. An improved cleaning composition comprising a cationic biocide,
surfactant, and a polymer, said cationic biocide including a
compound selected from the group consisting of biguanide compound,
quaternary ammonium compound, and mixtures thereof.
2. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1, wherein
said surfactant includes a non-ionic surfactant.
3. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1, wherein
said surfactant includes a glycoside.
4. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1, wherein
said polymer is formulated to enhance the detergency of said
surfactant.
5. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1, wherein
said polymer includes a compound selected from the group consisting
of vinylpyrrolidone homo- and copolymers, acrylamide homo- and
copolymers, polyvinylalcohol and polyvinylacetate homo- and
copolymers, quatemary acrylate and methacrylate copolymers,
amphoteric acrylate and methacrylate homo- and copolymers, and
mixtures thereof.
6. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 5, wherein
said polymer includes a compound selected from the group consisting
of polyvinylpyrrolidone compound, quaternary acrylic copolymer, and
mixtures thereof.
7. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 6, wherein
said polyvinylpyrrolidone compound includes a copolymer of
vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate quaternized
with diethylsulfate.
8. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1, further
including a biocide release agent.
9. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 8, wherein
said biocide release agent having an ionic strength in said
improved cleaning composition of at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3
mol/l.
10. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1,
wherein said cationic biocide includes a biguanide compound.
11. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1,
wherein said cationic biocide includes a quaternary ammonium
compound.
12. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 10,
wherein said cationic biocide further includes a quaternary
ammonium compound.
13. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1,
further including a solvent.
14. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 13,
wherein said solvent includes two solvent compounds, one of said
solvent compounds has a boiling point less than about 150.degree.
C. and another solvent compound has a boiling point of at least
about 150.degree. C.
15. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1,
further including at least an effective amount of builder.
16. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1,
further including at least an effective amount of a second
surfactant.
17. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 1,
wherein said second surfactant includes a compound that increases
the wetting properties of said improved cleaning composition.
18. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 16,
wherein said second surfactant includes a fluorosurfactant.
19. An improved cleaning composition comprising a cationic biocide,
and a biocide release agent, said cationic biocide including a
compound selected from the group consisting of biguanide compound,
quaternary ammonium compound, and mixtures thereof, said biocide
release agent having an ionic strength in said improved cleaning
composition of at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
20. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 19,
further including a surfactant.
21. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 20,
wherein said surfactant includes a non-ionic surfactant.
22. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 21,
wherein said surfactant includes a glycoside.
23. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 22,
wherein said glycoside includes alkyl polyglycosides.
24. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 20,
further including a polymer.
25. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 24,
wherein said polymer is formulated to enhance the detergency of
said surfactant.
26. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 24,
wherein said polymer includes a compound selected from the group
consisting of vinylpyrrolidone homo- and copolymers, acrylamide
homo- and copolymers, polyvinylalcohol and polyvinylacetate homo-
and copolymers, quaternary acrylate and methacrylate copolymers,
amphoteric acrylate and methacrylate homo- and copolymers, and
mixtures thereof.
27. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 26,
wherein said polymer includes a compound selected from the group
consisting of polyvinylpyrrolidone compound, quaternary acrylic
copolymer, and mixtures thereof.
28. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 19,
wherein said cationic biocide includes a biguanide compound.
29. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 19,
wherein said cationic biocide includes a quaternary ammonium
compound.
30. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 28,
wherein said cationic biocide further includes a quaternary
ammonium compound.
31. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 19,
including a solvent.
32. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 31,
wherein said solvent includes two solvent compounds, one of said
solvent compounds has a boiling point less than about 150.degree.
C. and another solvent compound has a boiling point of at least
about 150.degree. C.
33. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 19,
including at least an effective amount of builder.
34. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 20,
further including at least an effective amount of a second
surfactant.
35. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 34,
wherein said second surfactant includes a compound that increases
the wetting properties of said improved cleaning composition.
36. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 34,
wherein said second surfactant includes a fluorosurfactant.
37. An improved cleaning composition comprising a cationic biocide,
and a dual boiling point solvent system, one of said solvent
compounds having a boiling point of less than about 150.degree. C.
and another solvent compound having a boiling point of at least
about 150.degree. C., said cationic biocide including a compound
selected from the group consisting of biguanide compound,
quaternary ammonium compound, and mixtures thereof.
38. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 37,
further including a biocide release agent, said biocide release
agent having an ionic strength in said improved cleaning
composition of at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
39. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 37,
further including a surfactant.
40. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 39,
wherein said surfactant includes a non-ionic surfactant.
41. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 40,
wherein said surfactant includes a glycoside.
42. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 41,
wherein said glycoside includes of alkyl polyglycosides.
43. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 39,
further including a polymer.
44. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 43,
wherein said polymer is formulated to enhance the detergency of
said surfactant.
45. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 43,
wherein said polymer includes a compound selected from the group
consisting of vinylpyrrolidone homo- and copolymers, acrylamide
homo- and copolymers, polyvinylalcohol and polyvinylacetate homo-
and copolymers, quatemary acrylate and methacrylate copolymers,
amphoteric acrylate and methacrylate homo- and copolymers, and
mixtures thereof.
46. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 45,
wherein said polymer includes a compound selected from the group
consisting of polyvinylpyrrolidone compound, quaternary acrylic
copolymer, and mixtures thereof.
47. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 37,
wherein said cationic biocide includes a biguanide compound.
48. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 37,
wherein said cationic biocide includes a quaternary ammonium
compound.
49. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 47,
wherein said cationic biocide further includes a quaternary
ammonium compound.
50. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 37,
further including at least an effective amount of builder.
51. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 39,
further including at least an effective amount of a second
surfactant.
52. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 51,
wherein said second surfactant includes a compound that increases
the wetting properties of said improved cleaning composition.
53. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 51,
wherein said second surfactant includes a fluorosurfactant.
54. A cleaning material having reduced biocide retention
comprising: a. an absorbent or adsorbent material including a
material selected from the group consisting of wood pulp, wood pulp
derivative, synthetic fibers, and mixtures thereof; and b. an
improved cleaning composition at least partially absorbed or
adsorbed on said absorbent or adsorbent material, said improved
cleaning composition including cationic biocide, surfactant, and a
biocide release agent, said cationic biocide including a compound
selected from the group consisting of biguanide compound,
quaternary ammonium compound, and mixtures thereof.
55. The cleaning material as defined in claim 54, wherein said
absorbent or adsorbent material is selected from the group
consisting of a cleaning wipe, a cleaning pad, a mop head, and
combinations thereof.
56. The cleaning material as defined in claim 54, further including
a polymer.
57. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 56,
wherein said polymer is formulated to enhance the detergency of
said surfactant.
58. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 56,
wherein said polymer includes a compound selected from the group
consisting of vinylpyrrolidone homo- and copolymers, acrylamide
homo- and copolymers, polyvinylalcohol and polyvinylacetate homo-
and copolymers, quaternary acrylate and methacrylate copolymers,
amphoteric acrylate and methacrylate homo- and copolymers, and
mixtures thereof.
59. The cleaning material as defined in claim 58, wherein said
polymer includes a compound selected from the group consisting of
polyvinylpyrrolidone compound, quaternary acrylic copolymer, and
mixtures thereof.
60. The cleaning material as defined in claim 54, wherein said
biocide release agent having an ionic strength in said improved
cleaning composition of at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
61. The cleaning material as defined in claim 54, wherein said
cationic biocide includes a biguanide compound.
62. The cleaning material as defined in claim 54, wherein said
cationic biocide includes a quaternary ammonium compound.
63. The cleaning material as defined in claim 61, wherein said
cationic biocide further includes a quaternary ammonium
compound.
64. The cleaning material as defined in claim 54, further including
a solvent system.
65. The cleaning material as defined in claim 64, further including
a dual boiling point solvent system, one of said solvent compounds
having a boiling point of less than about 150.degree. C. and
another solvent compound having a boiling point of at least about
150.degree. C.
66. The cleaning material as defined in claim 54, further including
at least an effective amount of builder.
67. The cleaning material as defined in claim 54, further including
at least an effective amount of a second surfactant.
68. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 67,
wherein said second surfactant includes a compound that increases
the wetting properties of said improved cleaning composition.
69. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 67,
wherein said second surfactant includes a fluorosurfactant.
70. A cleaning material having reduced biocide retention
comprising: a. an absorbent or adsorbent material including a
material selected from the group consisting of wood pulp, wood pulp
derivative, synthetic fibers, and mixtures thereof; and b. an
improved cleaning composition at least partially absorbed or
adsorbed on said absorbent or adsorbent material, said improved
cleaning composition including cationic biocide and surfactant,
said cationic biocide including a compound selected from the group
consisting of biguanide compound, quaternary ammonium compound, and
mixtures thereof.
71. The cleaning material as defined in claim 70, wherein said
absorbent or adsorbent material is selected from the group
consisting of a cleaning wipe, a cleaning pad, a mop head, and
combinations thereof.
72. The cleaning material as defined in claim 70, further including
a polymer.
73. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 72,
wherein said polymer is formulated to enhance the detergency of
said surfactant.
74. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 72,
wherein said polymer includes a compound selected from the group
consisting of vinylpyrrolidone homo- and copolymers, acrylamide
homo- and copolymers, polyvinylalcohol and polyvinylacetate homo-
and copolymers, quaternary acrylate and methacrylate copolymers,
amphoteric acrylate and methacrylate homo- and copolymers, and
mixtures thereof.
75. The cleaning material as defined in claim 74, wherein said
polymer includes a compound selected from the group consisting of
polyvinylpyrrolidone compound, quaternary acrylic copolymer, and
mixtures thereof.
76. The cleaning material as defined in claim 70, further including
a biocide release agent, said biocide release agent having an ionic
strength in said improved cleaning composition of at least about
5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
77. The cleaning material as defined in claim 70, wherein said
cationic biocide includes a biguanide compound.
78. The cleaning material as defined in claim 70, wherein said
cationic biocide includes a quaternary ammonium compound.
79. The cleaning material as defined in claim 77, wherein said
cationic biocide further includes a quaternary ammonium
compound.
80. The cleaning material as defined in claim 70, further including
a solvent system.
81. The cleaning material as defined in claim 80, further including
a dual boiling point solvent system, one of said solvent compounds
having a boiling point of less than about 150.degree. C. and
another solvent compound having a boiling point of at least about
150.degree. C.
82. The cleaning material as defined in claim 70, further including
at least an effective amount of builder.
83. The cleaning material as defined in claim 70, further including
at least an effective amount of a second surfactant.
84. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 83,
wherein said second surfactant includes a compound that increases
the wetting properties of said improved cleaning composition.
85. The improved cleaning composition as defined in claim 84,
wherein said second surfactant includes a fluorosurfactant.
86. A method for cleaning a hard surface comprising: a. providing
an absorbent or adsorbent material, said absorbent or adsorbent
material including a material selected from the group consisting of
wood pulp, wood pulp derivative, synthetic fibers, and mixtures
thereof; b. at least partially exposing said absorbent or adsorbent
material with an improved cleaning composition, said improved
cleaning composition including a cationic biocide, surfactant, and
biocide release agent, said cationic biocide including a compound
selected from the group consisting of biguanide compound,
quaternary ammonium compound and mixtures thereof, and; c.
contacting said hard surface with said absorbent or adsorbent
material and said improved cleaning composition.
87. The method as defined inn claim 86, wherein said step of
contacting at least partially disinfects, sanitizes, and/or
sterilizes said hard surface.
88. The method as defined in claims 86, wherein said absorbent or
adsorbent material is at least partially impregnated with said
improved cleaning composition prior to said absorbent or adsorbent
material contacting said hard surface.
89. The method as defined in claims 86, wherein said absorbent or
adsorbent material is selected from the group consisting of a
cleaning wipe, a cleaning pad, a mop head, and combinations
thereof.
90. The method as defined in claims 86, wherein said improved
cleaning composition further includes a polymer.
91. The method as defined in claim 90, wherein said polymer is
formulated to enhance the detergency of said surfactant.
92. The method as defined in claim 90, wherein said polymer
includes a compound selected from the group consisting of
vinylpyrrolidone homo- and copolymers, acrylamide homo- and
copolymers, polyvinylalcohol and polyvinylacetate homo- and
copolymers, quaternary acrylate and methacrylate copolymers,
amphoteric acrylate and methacrylate homo- and copolymers, and
mixtures thereof.
93. The method as defined in claim 92, wherein said polymer
includes a compound selected from the group consisting of
polyvinylpyrrolidone compound, quaternary acrylic copolymer, and
mixtures thereof.
94. The method as defined in claim 86, further including a
solvent.
95. The method as defined in claims 94, wherein said improved
cleaning composition includes a dual boiling point solvent
solution, one of said solvent compounds having a boiling point of
less than about 150.degree. C. and another solvent compound has a
boiling point of at least about 150.degree. C.
96. The method as defined in claims 86, wherein said improved
cleaning composition further includes at least an effective amount
of a second surfactant.
97. The method as defined in claim 96, wherein said second
surfactant includes a compound that increases the wetting
properties of said improved cleaning composition.
98. The method as defined in claim 97, wherein said second
surfactant includes a fluorosurfactant.
99. A method for cleaning a hard surface comprising: a. providing
an absorbent or adsorbent material, said absorbent or adsorbent
material including a material selected from the group consisting of
wood pulp, wood pulp derivative, synthetic fibers, and mixtures
thereof; b. at least partially exposing said absorbent or adsorbent
material with an improved cleaning composition, said improved
cleaning composition including a cationic biocide, and surfactant,
said cationic biocide including a compound selected from the group
consisting of biguanide compound, quaternary ammonium compound and
mixtures thereof, and; c. contacting said hard surface with said
absorbent or adsorbent material and said improved cleaning
composition.
100. The method as defined inn claim 99, wherein said step of
contacting at least partially disinfects, sanitizes, and/or
sterilizes said hard surface.
101. The method as defined in claims 99, wherein said absorbent or
adsorbent material is at least partially impregnated with said
improved cleaning composition prior to said absorbent or adsorbent
material contacting said hard surface.
102. The method as defined in claims 99, wherein said absorbent or
adsorbent material is selected from the group consisting of a
cleaning wipe, a cleaning pad, a mop head, and combinations
thereof.
103. The met hod as defined in claims 99, wherein said improved
cleaning composition further includes a polymer.
104. The method as defined in claim 103, wherein said polymer is
formulated to enhance the detergency of said surfactant.
105. The method as defined in claim 103, wherein said polymer
includes a compound selected from the group consisting of
vinylpyrrolidone homo- and copolymers, acrylamide homo- and
copolymers, polyvinylalcohol and polyvinylacetate homo- and
copolymers, quaternary acrylate and methacrylate copolymers,
amphoteric acrylate and methacrylate homo- and copolymers, and
mixtures thereof.
106. The method as defined in claim 105, wherein said polymer
includes a compound selected from the group consisting of
polyvinylpyrrolidone compound, quaternary acrylic copolymer, and
mixtures thereof.
107. The method as defined in claim 99, further including a
solvent.
108. The method as defined in claims 107, wherein said improved
cleaning composition includes a dual boiling point solvent
solution, one of said solvent compounds having a boiling point of
less than about 150.degree. C. and another solvent compound has a
boiling point of at least about 150.degree. C.
109. The method as defined in claims 99, wherein said improved
cleaning composition further includes at least an effective amount
of a second surfactant.
110. The method as defined in claim 109, wherein said second
surfactant includes a compound that increases the wetting
properties of said improved cleaning composition.
111. The method as defined in claim 110, wherein said second
surfactant includes a fluorosurfactant.
Description
[0001] The present invention is a continuation-in-part of
co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/939,383 filed Aug.
24, 2001 entitled "Bactericidal Cleaning Wipe," and is incorporated
herein by reference. The present invention is also a
continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/939,179 filed Aug. 24, 2001 entitled "Bactericidal Cleaning
Wipe," which in turn is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/737,641 filed Dec. 14, 2000 entitled
"Bactericidal Cleaning Wipe." U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/939,179 filed Aug. 24, 2001 and 09/737,641 filed Dec. 14, 2000
are incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] The present invention relates to an improved cleaning
composition that includes a cationic biocide. The cleaning
composition can be used alone, in combination with one or more
other cleaning compositions, and/or in combination towel, cloth,
rag, sponge, mop, squeegee, and the like.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Many types of cleaning compositions have been developed to
clean various types of products and/or surfaces. Some of these
cleaning compositions included one or more compounds to disinfect,
sanitize, and/or sterilize the product and/or surface. Acids and
alcohols have been traditionally added to cleaning solutions as the
principal biocide of the cleaning solution. The present invention
relates to an improved cleaning composition having that includes at
least one cationic biocides such as, but not limited to, biguanide
compounds and/or quaternary ammonium salts ("quats") as the
anti-microbial active. The cleaning composition can include other
traditional anti-microbial actives such as, but not limited to, one
or more acids and/or alcohols. The cleaning composition is
envisioned as being used in a wide variety of applications. As can
be appreciated, the additives in the cleaning composition that are
used in combination with the cationic biocide as the anti-microbial
active may vary depending on the particular application of the
cleaning composition.
[0004] Cleaning wipes are a relatively recent concept that has
gained wide public acceptance, especially in the area of infant
care products. Infant care wipes commonly include inverse emulsions
(i.e. water-in-liquid). Cleaning wipes have also included waxes to
polish and clean furniture and/or other metal, plastic and/or wood
surfaces. Cleaning wipes have further included soaps and/or
detergents to clean an individual's hands, countertops, floors,
appliances, and/or the like. Cleaning wipes have also included
ammonia to clean glass surfaces. Alcohol and various other biocides
have been included on cleaning wipes to disinfect a variety of
surfaces.
[0005] One type of biocide that has been used in cleaning wipes is
quats. Liquid cleaners applied to cleaning wipes typically include
relatively large amounts of quat. These cleaning wipes are
typically used on hard surfaces such as floors, countertops, glass
surfaces, sinks, toilets, appliances, and/or the like. Although
quats are excellent biocides, quats can cause skin irritation when
used in too high of concentrations. In addition, only about 50% of
the quat is released from the wipe when the wipe is applied to a
surface, thus added quat is included in the liquid cleaner to
ensure that the desired amount of quat transfers to the cleaned
surface. Other biocides such as biguanide compounds also have a low
release rate from the wipe. Since the quat and/or biguanide
compound is typically one of the higher cost components of the
cleaner, the larger quat and/or biguanide concentrations used in
the liquid cleaner translates into higher product costs. There have
been various attempts to develop liquid cleaners having improved
quat release from the cleaning wipes. Some cleaning formulations
use a high weight percentage of isopropyl alcohol to promote quat
release from the cleaning wipe. It has been observed that isopropyl
alcohol in amounts of over about 12% can improve the quat release
from the wipe. The use of isopropyl alcohol is also beneficial in
that the alcohol has its own antimicrobial properties and cost
substantially less than quats. Although the use of isopropyl
alcohol in the cleaning formulation improves quat release from the
wipe, a substantial amount of quat still remains on the cleaning
wipe after use. In addition, local, state and/or federal
governments have begun to promulgate regulations on the amount of
isopropyl alcohol that can be used in cleaners. Indeed, in
California, regulations have been proposed to regulate the use of
cleaners containing over 4-5 weight percent isopropyl alcohol. As a
result, cleaners having high concentrations of isopropyl alcohol
may be less preferred.
[0006] Quats also tend to leave residues and/or cause streaking
after being applied to various surfaces. The residue and streaking
problems are of great concern to consumers since the visual
appearance of the cleaned surface functions as a visual indicator
of the effectiveness of the cleaner. Consumers also judge the
cleaning effectiveness of the cleaner by touching the cleaned
surface. Sticky surfaces typically indicate to the consumer that
the surface has not been effectively cleaned. Cleaning formulations
that tend to leave residues and/or cause streaking tend to produce
a less shiny, thus a visually perceived less clean surface, and
further tend to leave a sticky surface. This is especially true
with mop and wet wipe applications, where such compositions are
left to dry on the surface without rinsing. As a result, the
consumer perceives that the cleaned surface has not be effectively
cleaned irrespective of the fact the surface may have been properly
cleaned and disinfected. Liquid cleaners having a high quat content
are also subject to various local, state and/or federal regulations
due to the toxicity of the quat in high concentrations.
[0007] Various types of biocides are also used to disinfect,
sanitize, and/or sterilize tools and/or equipment. Such biocides
are commonly used in the medical field. Biocides such as quats and
biguanide compounds have typically not been used because of their
cost. Typically alcohols are used as the disinfectant. However, the
use of alcohol has come under more federal, state and local
regulation, thus interest in the use of other biocides has gained
interest in recent years.
[0008] Biocides are also used to disinfect, sanitize, and/or
sterilize areas that have been exposed to infectious biological
agents (e.g. anthrax, small pox). Presently, biocides such as quats
and biguanide compounds have not been used for such
applications.
[0009] In view of the present state of the art of cleaning
compositions, there is a demand for an improved cleaning
composition that can be used in a variety of applications to
disinfect, sanitize, and/or sterilize surfaces without leaving
undesired residues and/or streaking on the cleaned surface, without
one or more components overly absorbing and/or adsorbing into the
cleaned surface, and/or which cleaning composition is cost
effective to use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention is related to an improved cleaning
composition that includes a cationic biocide. The improved cleaning
composition is generally a liquid cleaner; however, the improved
cleaning composition may be in an aerosol, solid or semi-solid
form. The improved cleaning composition can be used by itself or
combined with other cleaning formulations. The improved cleaning
composition can be loaded onto an absorbent and/or absorbent
material, and/or can be used separately from an absorbent and/or
absorbent material. The absorbent and/or absorbent material
includes, but is not limited to, cleaning wipes, cloths, sponges
(e.g., cellulose, synthetic, etc.), paper towels, napkins, rags,
mop heads, cleaning pads, towels, brooms, other absorbent cleaning
tools, and/or the like. In one embodiment of the present invention,
the improved cleaning composition is applied to a surface to be
cleaned prior to exposing the improved cleaning composition to an
absorbent and/or adsorbent material. In such applications, the
improved cleaning composition is not pre-loaded onto an absorbent
and/or adsorbent material, but instead is applied by the user to a
surface to be cleaned and then wiped up by the absorbent and/or
adsorbent material. As can be appreciated, the absorbent and/or
adsorbent material can include some improved cleaning composition
prior to wiping the surface on which the improved cleaning
composition is pre-applied. In another and/or alternative
embodiment of the present invention, the improved cleaning
composition is pre-applied to the absorbent and/or absorbent
material for ease of use by the consumer. The improved cleaning
composition can be packaged to be used alone or in combination with
other cleaners and/or absorbent or adsorbent materials. The
improved cleaning composition is typically formulated to clean hard
surfaces such as, but not limited to, counter tops; however, the
improved cleaning composition has much broader applications and be
used as a clean glass cleaner; appliance cleaner; floor cleaner;
rug cleaner; area disinfect, sanitizer, and/or sterilizer; and/or
the like. As used herein, the term "hard surfaces" includes, but is
not limited to, bathroom surfaces (e.g., floor, tub, shower,
mirror, toilet, bidet, bathroom fixtures, etc.), kitchen surfaces
(e.g., counter tops, stove, oven, range, sink, refrigerator,
microwave, appliances, tables, chairs, cabinets, drawers, floors,
etc.), furniture surfaces (e.g., tables, chairs, sofas, love seats,
benches, beds, stools, armoires, chests, dressers, display
cabinets, clocks, buffet, shades, shutters, entertainment centers,
arm rails, lamps, banisters, libraries, cabinets, desks, doors,
shelves, couches, beds, carts, pianos, statues and other art,
mirrors, racks, fans, light fixtures, pool table, ping pong table,
soccer table, card table, etc.), statues, windows, window ledges,
tools, utility devices (e.g., telephones, radios, t.v., stereo
equipment, CD and DVD players, analog and digital sound devices,
palm computers, laptop computers, desktop and tower computers,
computer monitors, etc.), automobiles (e.g., interior and exterior
surfaces), bicycles, snowmobiles, motorcycles, off-road-vehicles,
yard equipment, farm equipment, washing equipment (e.g., power
washers, etc.), painting equipment (e.g., electric and air powered
painting equipment, etc.), medical and/or dental equipment, marine
equipment (e.g., sail boats, power boats, rafts, sail board, canoe,
row boats, etc.), toys, writing implements, watches, framed
pictures or paintings, books, and/or the like. The improved
cleaning composition can also be used in a variety of industrial
and institutional applications. As used herein, the terms
"industrial" and "institutional" shall mean the fields of use which
include, but are not limited to, contract (e.g., professional)
cleaning and disinfecting, retail facilities cleaning and
disinfecting, industrial/manufacturing facilities cleaning and
disinfecting, office cleaning and disinfecting services,
hotel/restaurant/entertainment cleaning and disinfecting, health
care (e.g., hospitals, urgent care facilities, clinics, nursing
homes, medical/dental offices, laboratories) facilities cleaning
and disinfecting, educational facilities cleaning and disinfecting,
recreational (e.g., arenas, coliseums, resorts, halls, stadiums,
cruise lines, arcades, convention centers, museums, theaters,
clubs, family entertainment complexes (e.g., indoor and/or
outdoor), marinas, parks) facilities cleaning and disinfecting,
food service facilities cleaning and disinfecting, governmental
facilities cleaning and disinfecting, public transportation
facilities (e.g., airports, airlines, cabs, buses, trains, subways,
boats, ports, and their associated properties) cleaning and
disinfecting. The improved cleaning composition can be in
concentrated form or unconcentrated form (e.g., ready to use form).
When the improved cleaning composition is not first impregnated on
an absorbent or adsorbent material, the improved cleaning
composition can be dispensed and/or sprayed as liquid from a
container, as an aerosol from an aerosol container, or as a
crystal, powder, paste, or otherwise semi-solid or solid form from
a container. The improved cleaning composition can be used as a
disinfectant, sanitizer, and/or sterilizer. As used herein, the
term "disinfect" shall mean the elimination of many or all
pathogenic microorganisms on surfaces with the exception of
bacterial endospores. As used herein, the term "sanitize" shall
mean the reduction of contaminants in the inanimate environment to
levels considered safe according to public health ordinance, or
that reduces the bacterial population by significant numbers where
public health requirements have not been established. An at least
99% reduction in bacterial population within a 24 hour time period
is deemed "significant." As used herein, the term "sterilize" shall
mean the substantially complete elimination or destruction of all
forms of microbial life and which is authorized under the
applicable regulatory laws to make legal claims as a "Sterilant" or
to have sterilizing properties or qualities.
[0011] In one aspect of the present invention, the absorbent and/or
absorbent material can be at least partially impregnated with the
improved cleaning composition. When the improved cleaning
composition is at least partially loaded or impregnated onto the
absorbent and/or absorbent material, the improved cleaning
composition is formulated to have a viscosity that allows such
loading. Typically, the viscosity of the improved cleaning
composition is less than about 1000 centipoise ("cps") when the
improved cleaning composition is at least partially loaded or
impregnated onto an absorbent and/or absorbent material. The
viscosity of the improved cleaning composition can be greater than
1000 cps when the improved cleaning composition is used separately
from an absorbent and/or absorbent material, and/or is not to be
preloaded onto an absorbent and/or absorbent material.
[0012] In another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the cleaning wipe onto which the improved cleaning
composition is loaded at least partially includes an absorbent
and/or adsorbent material. In one embodiment, the cleaning wipe
includes, but is not limited to, a woven and/or a nonwoven
material. In one aspect of this embodiment, the nonwoven material
includes, but is not limited to, nonwoven, fibrous sheet materials.
In another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the
nonwoven material includes, but is not limited to, meltblown,
coform, air-laid, spun bond, wet laid, bonded-carded web materials,
and/or hydroentangled (also known as spunlaced) materials. In still
another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the woven
material includes, but is not limited to, cotton fibers,
cotton/nylon blends and/or other textiles. In another and/or
alternative embodiment, the cleaning wipe includes a sponge and/or
sponge-like material. In one aspect of this embodiment, the sponge
and/or sponge-like material includes, but is not limited to,
regenerated cellulose and/or polyurethane foams. In still another
and/or alternative embodiment, the cleaning wipe includes, but is
not limited to, wood pulp, a blend of wood pulp, and/or synthetic
fibers. In one aspect of this embodiment, the synthetic fibers
include, but are not limited to, polyester, rayon, nylon,
polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or cellulose polymers. In still
another and/or alternative embodiment, the cleaning wipe includes a
binder. In yet another and/or alternative embodiment, the absorbent
and/or adsorbent material is part of a single or multiple layer
cleaning pad. The cleaning pad can be used individually and/or in
combination with a mop and/or other cleaning device. In one aspect
of this embodiment, the cleaning pad has an absorbent capacity,
when measured under a confining pressure of about 0.09 psi after
about 20 minutes, of at least about 1 g deionized water per gram of
the cleaning pad, typically at least about 5g deionized water per
gram of the cleaning pad, and more typically at least about 10 g
deionized water per gram of the cleaning pad. In another and/or
alternative aspect of this embodiment, the cleaning pad can have a
total fluid capacity (of deionized water) of at least about 100 g;
however, pads having a total fluid capacity of less than about 100g
are within the scope of the invention even though such cleaning
pads are typically not as well suited for cleaning large areas. In
still another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, there
can be an absorbent layer on and/or in the cleaning pad which
serves to retain fluid and soil absorbed by the cleaning pad during
use. The absorbent layer typically includes at least one layer, and
typically comprises multiple layers which are designed to provide
the cleaning pad with multiple planar surfaces. In still yet
another and/or alternative embodiment, cleaning wipe or cleaning
pad can include a superabsorbent material. As used herein, the term
"superabsorbent material" means any absorbent material having a g/g
capacity for water of at least about 15 g/g, when measured under a
confining pressure of about 0.3 psi. Representative superabsorbent
materials include, but are not limited to, water insoluble,
water-swellable superabsorbent gelling polymers. The superabsorbent
gelling polymers useful in the present invention can have a size,
shape and/or morphology varying over a wide range. These polymers
can be in the form of particles that do not have a large ratio of
greatest dimension to smallest dimension (e.g., granules, flakes,
pulverulents, inter-particle aggregates, interparticle crosslinked
aggregates, and the like), and/or the polymers can be in the form
of fibers, sheets, films, foams, laminates, and the like. The use
of superabsorbent gelling polymers in fibrous form provides the
benefit of providing enhanced retention of the superabsorbent
material, relative to particles, during the cleaning process.
Superabsorbent gelling polymers useful in the present invention
include, but are not limited to, a variety of water-insoluble, but
water-swellable polymers capable of absorbing large quantities of
fluids. Such polymeric materials are also commonly referred to as
"hydrocolloids", and can include, but are not limited to,
polysaccharides such as carboxymethyl starch, carboxymethyl
cellulose, and/or hydroxypropyl cellulose; nonionic types such as
polyvinyl alcohol, and/or polyvinyl ethers; cationic types such as
polyvinyl pyridine, polyvinyl morpholine, N, -imethylaminoethyl
and/or N, -diethylaminopropyl acrylates and/or methacrylates,
and/or the respective quaternary salts thereof. In one aspect of
this embodiment, the superabsorbent gelling polymers typically
include carboxyl groups. These polymers include, but are not
limited to, hydrolyzed starch-acrylonitrile graft copolymers,
partially neutralized hydrolyzed starch-acrylonitrile graft
copolymers, starch-acrylic acid graft copolymers, partially
neutralized starch-acrylic acid graft copolymers, saponified vinyl
acetate-acrylic ester copolymers, hydrolyzed acrylonitrile or
acrylamide copolymers, slightly network crosslinked polymers of any
of the foregoing copolymers, partially neutralized polyacrylic
acid, and/or slightly network crosslinked polymers of partially
neutralized polyacrylic acid. These polymers can be used either
solely or in the form of a mixture of two or more different
polymers. In another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment,
the polymer materials used in making the superabsorbent gelling
polymers typically are slightly network crosslinked polymers of
partially neutralized polyacrylic acids and starch derivatives
thereof. One nonlimiting example is hydrogel-forming absorbent
polymers that comprise from about 50 to about 95%, typically about
75%, neutralized, slightly network crosslinked, polyacrylic acid.
In still another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the
superabsorbent material can be or include polymeric, hydrophilic
absorbent foams that are obtained by polymerizing a high internal
phase water-in-oil emulsion (commonly referred to as HIPEs). These
foams are readily tailored to provide varying physical properties
(e.g., pore size, capillary suction, density, etc.) that affect
fluid handling ability. As such, these materials are particularly
useful, either alone or in combination with other such foams and/or
with fibrous structures, in providing the overall capacity required
by superabsorbent material. In still yet another and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, the absorbent layer comprises at least
about 5% by weight of the absorbent layer, typically at least about
15%, more typically at least about 20%, still more typically at
least about 25%. In a further embodiment, the cleaning wipe or
cleaning pad can include chemically stiffened cellulosic fibers. As
used herein, the term "chemically stiffened cellulosic fibers"
means cellulosic fibers that have been stiffened by chemical means
to increase the stiffness of the fibers under dry and/or aqueous
conditions. Such means can include, but is not limited to, the
addition of a chemical stiffening agent that coats and/or
impregnates the fibers. Such means can also and/or alternatively
include the stiffening of the fibers by altering the chemical
structure (e.g., crosslinking polymer chains). In one aspect of
this embodiment, where the fibers are at least partially used as
the absorbent and/or adsorbent layer (or a constituent component
thereof), the fibers can be combined with a thermoplastic material.
Upon melting, at least a portion of this thermoplastic material can
migrate to the intersections of the fibers, typically due to
interfiber capillary gradients. These intersections can become bond
sites for the thermoplastic material. When cooled, the
thermoplastic materials at these intersections solidify to form the
bond sites that can hold the matrix and/or web of fibers together
in each of the respective layers. This can be beneficial in
providing additional overall integrity to the cleaning pad or
cleaning wipe. Thermoplastic materials useful in the present
invention can be in any of a variety of forms including, but are
not limited to, particulates and/or fibers. Suitable thermoplastic
materials can be made from any then-noplastic polymer that can be
melted at temperatures that will not extensively damage the fibers
that comprise the primary web or matrix of each layer. Generally,
the melting point of the thermoplastic material will be less than
about 190.degree. C., and typically between about 75.degree. C. and
about 175.degree. C.; however, other temperature ranges can be
used. In any event, the melting point of the thermoplastic material
should be no lower than the temperature at which the thermally
bonded absorbent structures, when used in the cleaning pads or
cleaning wipes, are likely to be stored. In still a further and/or
alternative embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning wipes
and/or pads can have an attachment layer that allows the wipe
and/or pad to be connected to an implement's handle or the support
head of various implements. The attachment layer is used in those
embodiments where the absorbent and/or adsorbent layer is not
suitable for attaching the wipe and/or pad to the support head of
the handle. The attachment layer can also function as a mechanism
to inhibit or prevent fluid flow through the top surface (e.g., the
handle-contacting surface) of the cleaning wipe and/or pad, and/or
can provide enhanced integrity of the wipe and/or pad. In one
aspect of this embodiment, the attachment layer can consist of a
mono-layer or a multi-layer structure. In another and/or
alternative aspect of this embodiment, the attachment layer can
comprise a surface which is capable of being mechanically attached
to the handle's support head by use of a hook and loop system. In
one specific design, the attachment layer can comprise at least one
surface which is mechanically attachable to hooks that are affixed
to the bottom surface of the handle's support head. In a further
and/or alternative embodiment, the liquid loading capacity of the
cleaning wipe or pad is sufficient to retain the desired amount of
improved cleaning composition on the cleaning wipe or pad. In one
aspect of this embodiment, the liquid loading capacity of the
cleaning wipe or pad is at least about 10% of the dry weight of the
cleaning wipe or pad. In another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the liquid loading capacity of the cleaning wipe or pad
is about 50%-1000% of the dry weight of the cleaning wipe or pad.
This loading capacity is expressed as loading V.sub.2 to 10 times
the weight (or, more accurately, the mass) of the dry cleaning wipe
or pad. In still another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the liquid loading capacity of the cleaning wipe or pad
is about 200%-800% of the dry weight of the cleaning wipe or pad.
In yet another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the
liquid loading capacity of the cleaning wipe or pad is about
250%-500% of the dry weight of the cleaning wipe or pad. In still
yet another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the
liquid loading capacity of the cleaning wipe or pad is about
300%-450% of the dry weight of the cleaning wipe or pad. In still a
further and/or alternative embodiment, the improved cleaning
composition is impregnated, dosed, loaded, metered, and/or
otherwise dispensed onto the cleaning wipe or pad. The loading of
the cleaning wipe or pad can be accomplished in several ways
including, but not limited to, treating each individual wipe or pad
with a discrete amount of improved cleaning composition, mass
treating a continuous web of cleaning wipes with the improved
cleaning composition, soaking the entire web of cleaning wipes in
the improved cleaning composition, spraying the improved cleaning
composition in a stationary or moving web of cleaning wipes, and/or
impregnating a stack of individually cut and sized cleaning wipes
or pad in a container and/or a dispenser. In yet a further and/or
alternative embodiment, the cleaning wipe or pad has a density of
about 0.01-1,000 grams per square meter (referred to as "basis
weight"). In one aspect of this embodiment, the cleaning wipe or
pad has a density of about 25-120 grams/m.sup.2. In still yet a
further and/or alternative embodiment, the cleaning wipe or pad is
produced as a sheet or web which is cut, die-cut or otherwise sized
into the desired appropriate shape and size. In another and/or
alternative embodiment, the cleaning wipe or pad has a wet tensile
strength of at least about 25-250 Newton/m. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the cleaning wipe or pad has a wet tensile strength of
about 25-250 Newton/m. In another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the cleaning wipe or pad has a wet tensile strength of
about 75-170 Newton/m. Manufacturers of cleaning wipes that can be
used in the present invention include, but are not limited to,
Kimberly-Clark, E.I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company, Dexter,
American Nonwovens, James River, BBA Nonwoven, and PGI.
[0013] Specific, nonlimiting examples of cleaning wipes from these
manufacturers are disclosed in Bouchette et al., U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,781,974 and 4,615,937; Clark et al, U.S. Pat. No. 4,666,621;
Amundson et al., WO 98/03713; Cabell et al., U.S. Pat. No.
5,908,707; Mackey et al., WO 97/40814; Mackey et al., WO 96/14835;
and Moore, EP 750063, all of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
[0014] In another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the cleaning wipe or pad can be individually sealed with
a heat-sealable and/or glueable thermoplastic overwrap such as, but
not limited to, polyethylene, Mylar and the like. In one
embodiment, the cleaning wipes or pads are packaged as numerous,
individual sheets or pads which are at least partially, impregnated
with the improved cleaning composition of the present invention. In
another and/or alternative embodiment, the cleaning wipes are at
least partially formed as a continuous web during the manufacturing
process and loaded into a dispenser such as, but not limited to, a
canister with a closure or a tub with closure. The closure is at
least partially used to seal the loaded cleaning wipes from the
external environment and/or prevent premature volatilization of the
components of the improved cleaning composition. In one aspect of
this embodiment, the dispenser includes a plastic such as, but not
limited to, high density polyethylene, polypropylene,
polycarbonate, polyethylene pterethalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), and/or other rigid plastic. In another aspect and/or
alternative of this embodiment, the continuous web of cleaning
wipes is at least partially threaded through an opening in the top
of the dispenser. In still another and/or alternative aspect of
this embodiment, the dispenser includes a severing arrangement to
cut at least a portion of the cleaning wipe after being at least
partially removed from the dispenser. The severing arrangement can
include, but is not limited to, a knife blade, serrated edge,
and/or the like. In still yet another and/or alternative aspect of
this embodiment, the continuous web of cleaning wipes can be
scored, folded, segmented, and/or partially cut into uniform and/or
non-uniform sizes, and/or lengths. In a further and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, the cleaning wipes can be interleaved so
that the removal of one cleaning wipe advances the next in the
opening of the dispenser.
[0015] In yet another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, a kit is provided for cleaning which kit includes the
improved cleaning composition of the present invention. The kit can
have an assembly of one or more units, either packaged together or
separately. For example, the kit can include cleaning pads and/or
wipes, and a container of the improved cleaning composition. A
second example is a kit with cleaning pads and/or wipes, implement
and a container of the improved cleaning composition. A third
example is a kit with a refill (concentrated or unconcentrated), a
container of ready to use improved cleaning composition, and
cleaning pads and/or wipes that include a superabsorbent material.
In one embodiment, the implement that includes a cleaning pad
and/or wipe that includes a superabsorbent material, and when used
with the improved cleaning composition provides effective cleaning
and good particulate soil removal. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the cleaning pad and/or wipe is a disposable and/or
does not require rinsing. In another and/or alternative embodiment,
the cleaning pad and/or wipe is detachably mounted on the
implement. In one aspect of this embodiment, the cleaning pad
and/or wipe can be removed and replaced by another cleaning pad
and/or wipe. This is especially useful, when the cleaning pad
and/or wipe is excessively soiled. The cleaning pad and/or wipe can
be removed and replaced with a fresh cleaning pad and/or wipe. In
still another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the
implement includes a dosing device. The dosing device at least
partially delivers the improved cleaning composition to the surface
to be cleaned and/or applies at least a portion of the improved
cleaning composition on the cleaning pad and/or wipe. The dosing
device can be battery powered, electrically powered, or hand
powered. In still yet another and/or alternative embodiment, a
reservoir is provided that is designed to at least partially hold
the improved cleaning composition. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the reservoir is detachably mounted on the implement.
In another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the
reservoir is used in combination with a dosing device.
[0016] In yet another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition can be at least
partially loaded onto an absorbent and/or adsorbent material by a
user prior to cleaning. The absorbent and/or adsorbent material can
include cleaning wipes, sponges (e.g., cellulose, synthetic, etc.),
paper towels, napkins, cleaning pads, cloths, towels, rags, mop
heads, and/or the like. In such applications, the improved cleaning
composition is not preloaded or fully preloaded onto an absorbent
and/or adsorbent material, thus the cleaning composition is at
least partially applied by the user just prior to and/or during the
cleaning process. When the improved cleaning composition is used in
such application, the improved cleaning composition is typically
packaged in a separate container or receptacle from the absorbent
and/or adsorbent material. During the cleaning process, the
improved cleaning composition is applied to the absorbent and/or
adsorbent material. Additionally or alternatively, the cleaning
composition can be applied to the surface to be cleaned and the
absorbent and/or adsorbent material is used to pickup cleaning
composition off the surface to be cleaned and/or spread the
cleaning composition on the surface to be cleaned. The improved
cleaning composition can be applied automatically and/or manually
applied to the absorbent and/or adsorbent material and/or onto the
surface to be cleaned.
[0017] In still another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition can be applied to a
surface to be cleaned prior to exposing the improved cleaning
composition to an absorbent and/or adsorbent material. The
absorbent and/or adsorbent material can include cleaning wipes,
sponges (e.g., cellulose, synthetic, etc.), paper towels, napkins,
cleaning pads, cloths, towels, rags, mop heads, and/or the like. In
such applications, the improved cleaning composition is not
preloaded onto an absorbent and/or adsorbent material, but applied
by the user to a surface to be cleaned and then wiped up by the
absorbent and/or adsorbent material. The improved cleaning
composition can be applied automatically and/or manually applied to
the surface to be cleaned.
[0018] In still yet another and/or alternative aspect of the
present invention, the improved cleaning composition can be applied
and/or added to a surface and/or environment to be cleaned without
ever applying the cleaning composition to an absorbent and/or
adsorbent material. Examples of such uses of the improved cleaning
composition include, but are not limited to, air fresheners,
shampoos, hand lotions/cleaners, cleaners for cleaning internal
components of machinery and/or process lines, carpet fresheners,
carpet cleaners, cat litter, drain cleaners, toilet cleaners,
environment cleaners (e.g., is fumigation gas and/or fluid, liquid
spray, etc.), and/or the like.
[0019] In still another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition includes an effective
amount of biocide to obtain the desired disinfecting, sanitizing,
and/or sterilizing qualities of the improved cleaning composition.
The improved cleaning composition includes one or more biocides to
achieve the desired disinfecting, sanitizing, and/or sterilizing
qualities of the improved cleaning composition. The improved
cleaning composition is typically formulated to partially or
completely kill microorganisms such as, but not limited to,
bacteria, fungi, molds, mildew, and/or viruses. The antimicrobial
efficacy of the improved cleaning composition can be tailored for a
particular household, industrial and/or institutional application,
and/or can be formulated to disinfect sanitize, and/or sterilize
surfaces in household, industrial and/or institutional
environments. In one embodiment, the biocide in the improved
cleaning composition is a cationic biocide. Such cationic biocide
includes, but not limited to, quats and/or biguanide compounds. In
another and/or alternative embodiment, the biocide in the improved
cleaning composition includes a cationic biocide and at least one
other type of biocide.
[0020] In still yet another aspect of the present invention, the
improved cleaning composition includes a cationic biocide that
includes one or more biguanide compounds. Biguanide compounds are
capable of imparting a broad spectrum antimicrobial and/or
germicidal properties to the improved cleaning composition.
Biguanide compounds have also been found to be less of an irritant
to skin than other types of biocides. The use of biguanide
compounds in the improved cleaning composition has further been
found to form less residue and exhibit less streaking on a cleaned
surface. In one aspect of this embodiment, the one or more
biguanide compounds that can be included in the improved cleaning
composition include, but are not limited to, compounds having the
following general formula: 1
[0021] wherein X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 are either a hydrogen or any
aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, aromatic, substituted aliphatic,
substituted aromatic, heteroaliphatic, heterocyclic, and/or
heteroaromatic compound. X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 can be the same or
different. Y.sub.1 and Y.sub.2 are any aliphatic, cycloaliphatic,
aromatic, substituted aliphatic, substituted aromatic,
heteroaliphatic, heterocyclic, and/or heteroaromatic compound.
Y.sub.1 and Y.sub.2 can be the same or different. M is an number
equal to or greater than 1.
[0022] Typically, M has an average value such that the molecular
weight biguanide compounds is about 1000-1400; however, the
molecular can be higher or lower. Generally M is about 2-20.
Z.sub.1 and Z.sub.2 are either a hydrogen or a salt. Z.sub.1 and
Z.sub.2 can be the same of different. In another and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, the above-mentioned organic materials
can be modified to include a thiol group in their structure so as
to allow for the bonding of the compound to a metallic substrate,
and/or may be derivatized with other functional groups to permit
direct immobilization on a non-metallic substrate. In still another
and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the above-mentioned
organic materials may also be suitably functionalized to
incorporate groups such as, but not limited to, hydroxy, amine,
halogen, epoxy, alkyl and/or alkoxy silyl functionalities to enable
direct immobilization to a surface. In yet another and/or
alternative aspect of this embodiment, the salt can include, but is
not limited to, salts with an inorganic acid such as, but not
limited to, hydrochloride, hydrofluoride, nitrate, sulfate and/or
phosphate, and/or salts with an organic acid such as, but not
limited to, carboxylic acid, acetate, benzoate, tartrate, adipate,
lactate, formate, maleate, glutamate, ascorbate, citrate,
gluconate, oxalate, succinate, pamoate, salicylate, isethionate,
succinamate, mono-diglycollate, dimethanesulfonate, di-isobutyrate,
and/or glucoheptonate. Specific examples of these compounds
include, but are not limited to, polyhexamethylene biguanide
hydrochloride, p-chlorophenyl biguanide; and 4-chlorobenzhydryl
biguanide. In still yet another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the biguanide compound includes, but is not limited to,
halogenated hexidine such as, but not limited to, chlorhexidine
(1,1'-hexamethylene-bis-5-(4-chlorophenyl biguanide) and its salts.
The salts include, but are not limited to, salts with an inorganic
acid, such as hydrochloride, hydrofluoride, nitrate, sulfate and/or
phosphate, and/or salts with an organic acid such as, but not
limited to, carboxylic acid, acetate, benzoate, tartrate, adipate,
lactate, formate, maleate, glutamate, ascorbate, citrate,
gluconate, oxalate, succinate, pamoate, salicylate, isethionate,
succinamate, mono-diglycollate, dimethanesulfonate, di-isobutyrate,
and/or glucoheptonate. Examples of salts of chlorhexidine include,
but are not limited to, chlorhexidine diphosphanilate,
chlorhexidine digluconate, chlorhexidine diacetate, chlorhexidine
dihydrochloride, chlorhexidine dichloride, chlorhexidine gluconate,
chlorhexidine dihydroiodide, chlorhexidine diperchlorate,
chlorhexidine dinitrate, chlorhexidine sulfate, chlorhexidine
sulfite, chlorhexidine thiosulfate, chlorhexidine di-acid
phosphate, chlorhexidine difluorophosphate, chlorhexidine
diformate, chlorhexidine dipropionate, chlorhexidine
di-iodobutyrate, chlorhexidine di-valerate, chlorhexidine
dicaproate, chlorhexidine malonate, chlorhexidine succinate,
chlorhexidine malate, chlorhexidine tartrate, chlorhexidine
dimonoglycolate, chlorhexidine monodiglycolate, chlorhexidine
dilactate, chlorhexidine di-alpha-hydroxyisobutyrate, chlorhexidine
diglucoheptonate, chlorhexidine di-isothionate, chlorhexidine
dibenzoate, chlorhexidine dicinnamate, chlorhexidine dimandelate,
chlorhexidine di-isophthalate, chlorhexidine di-2-hydroxynapthoate,
and chlorhexidine embonate. Additional examples of biguanide
compounds which can be used in the improved cleaning composition
are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,684,924; 2,990,425; 3,468,898;
4,022,834; 4,053,636; 4,198,392; 6,143,244; 6,143,281; and
6,153,568; EPC 24,031; and DE 1,964,196; DE 2,212,259; and DE
2,627,548, which are incorporated herein by reference. In another
and/or alternative embodiment, the biguanide compound content of
the improved cleaning composition can be greater than about 0.02
weight percent of the improved cleaning composition when the
biguanide compound functions as the primary biocide in the improved
cleaning composition. As can be appreciated, when other biocides
are included with the biguanide compound in the improved cleaning
composition, the biguanide compound content can be lower than about
0.02 weight percent of the improved cleaning composition. A
biguanide compound content of lower than about 0.02 weight percent,
when the biguanide compound functions as the primary biocide in the
improved cleaning composition, may not eliminate a majority of
common microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses, etc.) when exposed
to the improved cleaning composition. The upper limit of the
biguanide compound content of the improved cleaning composition can
be significantly greater than about 0.02 weight percent; however,
the biguanide compound content is typically limited by economic
cost considerations, local, state and/or federal regulatory
restrictions, formula solubility requirements, streaking and
residue properties of the improved cleaning composition, skin
irritation considerations, and/or the intended use of the improved
cleaning composition. Typically, the biguanide compound content of
the improved cleaning composition is no more than about 5 weight
percent. A biguanide compound content that exceeds about 5 weight
percent generally results in the final product having a prohibitive
cost since the biguanide compound is typically one of the higher
costing component of the improved cleaning composition. In
addition, a biguanide compound content exceeding about 5 weight
percent may be subject to strict local, state and/or federal
regulations due to the toxicity of the improved cleaning
composition. However, absent the cost and regulatory barriers, the
biguanide compound content can exceed about 5 weight percent when
the improved cleaning composition is used in applications which
require a high biguanide compound content. In this respect, the
biguanide compound content can be up to or exceed about 20 weight
percent of the cleaning composition. The concentration of the
biguanide compound in the improved cleaning composition may also
exceed about 5 weight percent when the improved cleaning
composition is in a concentrated form, thus intended to be diluted
prior to use. In one aspect of this embodiment, the biguanide
compound content of the improved cleaning composition is about
0.05-5 weight percent. In another aspect of this embodiment, the
biguanide compound content of the improved cleaning composition is
about 0.08-5 weight percent. In still another aspect of this
embodiment, the biguanide compound content of the improved cleaning
composition is about 0.1-2 weight percent. In yet another aspect of
this embodiment, the biguanide compound content of the improved
cleaning composition is about 0.1-1 weight percent. In still yet
another aspect of this embodiment, the biguanide compound content
of the improved cleaning composition is about 0.15-0.8 weight
percent. In a further aspect of this embodiment, the biguanide
compound content of the improved cleaning composition is about
0.175-0.6 weight percent. In yet a further aspect of this
embodiment, the biguanide compound content of the improved cleaning
composition is about 0.2-0.5 weight percent. In still a further
aspect of this embodiment, the biguanide compound content of the
improved cleaning composition is about 0.25-0.4 weight percent.
[0023] In yet another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition includes a cationic
biocide that includes one or more quats. The cationic biocide in
the improved cleaning composition can primarily include one or more
quats, and/or include one or more other cationic biocides in
combination with the one or more quats. Such other cationic
biocides include, but are not limited to, biguanide compounds.
Similar to biguanide compounds, quats are also capable of imparting
a broad spectrum antimicrobial or germicidal properties to the
improved cleaning composition. In another and/or alternative
embodiment, the general structure for the one or more quats that
can be included in the improved cleaning composition is: 2
[0024] wherein X is an anion such as, but not limited to, a halide,
acetate, nitrite, a lower alkosulfate, carbonate and/or an alkyl
carboxylate; and R.sub.1-R.sub.4 are straight chain, branched chain
and/or cyclic chain groups. R.sub.1-R.sub.4 can be the same or
different. In one aspect of this embodiment, one or more of the
quats included in the improved cleaning composition have at least
one higher molecular weight group and at least one lower molecular
weight group linked to a common, positively charged nitrogen atom.
The one or more higher molecular weight groups include, but are not
limited to, higher alkyl groups containing about 6-30 carbon atoms
that are branched, unbranched, saturated and/or unsaturated. The
one or more lower molecular weight groups include, but are not
limited to, 1-12 carbon atoms that are branched, unbranched,
saturated, and/or unsaturated. Specific lower molecular weight
substituents include, but are not limited to, alkyls of 1 to 4
carbon atoms (e.g., methyl and ethyl), alkyl ethers, hydroxyalkyls,
and/or benzyls. One or more of the higher and/or lower molecular
weight substituents can include, or can be replaced by, an aryl
moiety. Specific aryl moieties include, but are not limited to,
benzyl, ethyl benzyl and/or phenyl. In another and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, an electrically balancing anion
(counterion) is linked to the positively charged nitrogen atom.
Specific anions include, but are not limited to, bromide, sulfate,
iodide, alkycarboxylate, methosulfate, ethosulfate, phosphate,
carboxylic acid, or chloride. In still another and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, specific quats that can be used in the
cleaning formulation include, but are not limited to, alkyl
ammonium halides such as lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride and
dilauryl dimethyl ammonium chloride; alkyl aryl ammonium halides
such as octadecyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium bromide; ethyl dimethyl
stearyl ammonium chloride, trimethyl stearyl ammonium chloride,
trimethyl cetyl ammonium chloride, dimethyl ethyl lauryl ammonium
chloride, dimethyl propyl myristyl ammonium chloride, dinonyl
dimethyl ammonium chloride, didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride,
diundecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, didecyl dimethyl ammonium
chloride, dinonyly ethyl ammonium chloride, dimethyl ethyl benzyl
ammonium chloride, 3-(trimethyxyosilyl) propyldidecylmethyl
ammonium chloride, 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyloctadecycdimethyl
ammonium chloride, dimethyl dioctyl ammonium chloride, didecyl
dimethyl ammonium chloride, didodecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride,
dimethyl ditetradecyl ammonium chloride, dihexadecyl dimethyl
ammonium chloride, dimethyl dioctadecyl ammonium chloride, decyl
dimethyl octyl ammonium chloride, dimethyl dodecyloctyl ammonium
chloride, benzyl decyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, benzyl dimethyl
dodecyl ammonium chloride, benzyl dimethyl tetradecyl ammonium
chloride, decyl dimethyl (ethyl benzyl) ammonium chloride, decyl
dimethyl (dimethyl benzyl)-ammonium chloride, (chlorobenzyl)-decyl
dimethyl ammonium chloride, decyl-(dichlorobenzyl)-d- imethyl
ammonium chloride, benzyl didecyl methyl ammonium chloride, benzyl
didocyl methyl ammonium chloride, benzyl ditetradecyl methyl
ammonium chloride, benzyl dodecyl ethyl methyl ammonium chloride,
and/or the like. Some examples of commercially available quats that
can be included in the improved cleaning composition include, but
are not limited to, didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, available
as BTC 1010 from Stepan Chemical Co.; di(C6-C14)alkyl di(C1-4 alkyl
and/or hydroxyalkl) quaternary ammonium compounds such as BARDAC
2250 from Lonza, Inc.; FMB 210-15 from Huntington; Maquat 4450-E
from Mason; dialkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride available as BTC 818
from Lonza, Inc.; FMB 302 and Maquat 40 from Mason; alkyl dimethyl
benzyl ammonium chloride available as BTC 835 and BARQUAT MB-50
from Lonza, Inc.; FMB 451-5 and MC 1412 from Mason,
alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chlorides such as the commercially
available Barquat MB-50 from Lonza; N-(3-chloroallyl) hexaminium
chlorides such as Dowicide and Dowicil available from Dow;
benzethonium chloride such as Hyamine from Rohm & Haas;
methylbenzethonium chloride represented by Hyamine IOX supplied by
Rohm & Haas; and/or cetylpyridinium chloride such as Cepacol
chloride available from of Merrell Labs. Examples of dialkyl
quaternary compounds are di(C8-C12)dialkyl dimethyl ammonium
chloride such as didecyldimethylammonium chloride, and
dioctyldimethylammonium chloride (BARDAC 2050). Other cationic
antimicrobial actives that can be used in the improved cleaning
compositon include, but are not limited to,
diisobutylphenoxyethoxyethyl dimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride,
commercially available as Hyamine 1622 from Lonza. Some quats are
sold as mixtures of two or more different quats. Examples of these
commercially available quat mixtures include, but are not limited
to, twin chain blend/alkyl benzyl ammonium chloride compounds
available as BARDAC 205M, BARDAC 208M, BARQUAT 4250, and BARQUAT
4250Z from Lonza, Inc.; as BTC 885, BTC 888, BTC 2125M and BTC 2250
from Stepan Chemical Co.; as FMB 504 and FMB 504-8 from Huntington;
and as MQ 615M and MQ 624M from Mason. In another and/or
alternative embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning
composition is greater than about 0.04 weight percent of the
improved cleaning composition when the quat functions as the
primary biocide in the improved cleaning composition. As can be
appreciated, when other biocides are included with the one or more
quats in the improved cleaning composition, the quat content can be
lower than about 0.04 weight percent of the improved cleaning
composition. A quat content of lower than about 0.04 weight
percent, when the quat functions as the primary biocide in the
improved cleaning composition, may not eliminate a majority of
common microorganisms when exposed to the improved cleaning
composition. The upper limit to the quat content of the improved
cleaning composition can be significantly greater than about 0.04
weight percent; however, the quat content is typically limited by
economic cost considerations, local, state and/or federal
regulatory restrictions, formula solubility requirements, streaking
properties of the improved cleaning composition, skin irritation
considerations, and/or the intended use of the improved cleaning
composition. Typically, the quat content of the improved cleaning
composition is no more than about 5 weight percent. A quat content
that exceeds about 5 weight percent generally results in the final
product having a prohibitive cost since the quat is typically one
of the higher costing components of the improved cleaning
composition. In addition, a quat content exceeding about 5 weight
percent may be subject to strict local, state and/or federal
regulations due to the toxicity of the improved cleaning
composition. However, absent the cost and regulatory barriers, the
quat content can exceed about 5 weight percent when the improved
cleaning composition is used in applications which require a high
quat content. The concentration of the quat in the improved
cleaning composition may also exceed about 5 weight percent when
the improved cleaning composition is in a concentrated form, thus
intended to be diluted prior to use. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.05-5 weight percent. In another aspect of this
embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.08-5 weight percent. In still another aspect of this
embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.1-2 weight percent. In yet another aspect of this
embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.1-1 weight percent. In still yet another aspect of this
embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.15-0.8 weight percent. In a further aspect of this
embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.175-0.6 weight percent. In yet a further aspect of this
embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.2-0.5 weight percent. In still a further aspect of this
embodiment, the quat content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.25-0.4 weight percent. In still another embodiment, when
one or more quats are combined with one or more biguanide compounds
to function as the primary biocide in the improved cleaning
composition, the quat content is about 0.001-5 weight percent of
the improved cleaning composition and the biguanide compound
content is also about 0.001-5 weight percent of the improved
cleaning composition. The specific quantities of the quat and
biguanide compounds in the improved cleaning composition is
typically a function of economic cost considerations; local, state
and/or federal regulatory restrictions; formula solubility
requirements; streaking and residue properties of the improved
cleaning composition; skin irritation considerations; and/or the
intended use of the improved cleaning composition. In one specific
aspect of this embodiment, the biguanide compound content is
greater than the quat content in the improved cleaning composition.
In another specific aspect of this embodiment, the biguanide
compound content is less than the quat content in the improved
cleaning composition. In yet anther specific aspect of this
embodiment, the biguanide compound content is about equal to the
quat content in the improved cleaning composition.
[0025] In yet another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used in combination with one or more additional biocides used in
combination with the biguanide compound and/or quat. Such biocides
can include, but are not limited to, alcohols, peroxides, boric
acid and borates, chlorinated hydrocarbons, organometallics,
halogen-releasing compounds, mercury compounds, metallic salts,
pine oil, organic sulfur compounds, iodine compounds, silver
nitrate, quaternary phosphate compounds, and/or phenolics.
[0026] In still another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used in combination with an effective amount of one or more
surfactants. The inclusion of the surfactant in the improved
cleaning composition and/or used in combination with the improved
cleaning composition can improve the cleaning performance of the
improved cleaning composition (e.g., improve wetting properties of
the improved cleaning composition, stabilize components in the
improved cleaning composition, function as an emulsifying agent,
reduce filming and/or streaking, etc). A variety of surfactants can
be used in and/or use in combination with the improved cleaning
composition. Such surfactants include, but are not limited to,
nonionic, semi-polar, anionic, cationic, zwitterionic, and/or
amphoteric surfactants. Many of these surfactants are described in
McCutcheon's Emulsifiers and Detergents (1997), Kirk-Othmer,
Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, 3rd Ed., Volume 22, pp.
332-432 (Marcel-Dekker, 1983), and McCutcheon's Soaps and
Detergents (N. Amer. 1984), the contents of which are hereby
incorporated by reference. Typically the surfactant is partially or
fully soluble in water. In one embodiment, the surfactant includes,
but is not limited to, glycoside, glycols, ethylene oxide and mixed
ethylene oxide/propylene oxide adducts of alkylphenols, the
ethylene oxide and mixed ethylene oxide/propylene oxide adducts of
long chain alcohols or of fatty acids, mixed ethylene
oxide/propylene oxide block copolymers, esters of fatty acids and
hydrophilic alcohols, sorbitan monooleates, alkanolamides, soaps,
alkylbenzene sulfonates, olefin sulfonates, paraffin sulfonates,
propionic acid derivatives, alcohol and alcohol ether sulfates,
phosphate esters, amines, amine oxides, alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether
sulfates, sarcosinates, sulfoacetates, sulfosuccinates,
cocoamphocarboxy glycinate, salts of higher acyl esters of
isethionic acid, salts of higher acyl derivatives of taurine or
methyltaurine, phenol poly ether sulfates, higher acyl derivatives
of glycine and methylglycine, alkyl aryl polyether alcohols, salts
of higher alkyl substituted imadazolinium dicarboxylic acids,
ferchorics, tannics, naphthosulfonates, monochloracetics
anthraflavinics, hippurics, anthranilics, naphthoics, phthalics,
carboxylic acid salts, acrylic acids, phosphates, alkylamine
ethoxylates, ethylenediamine alkoxylates, betaines, sulfobetaines,
and/or imidazolines. In one aspect of this embodiment, the
surfactant includes, but is not limited to, lauryl sulfate,
laurylether sulfate, cocamidopropylbetaine, alkyl polyglycosides,
and/or amine oxides. In another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the surfactant includes an amine oxide. In still
another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the
surfactant includes an amine oxide having the general formula:
3
[0027] wherein R.sub.1 is a C.sub.6-30 alkyl, and R.sub.2 and
R.sub.3 are C.sub.1-6 alkyl or hydroxyalkyl. R.sub.2 and R.sub.3
can be the same of different. These amine oxides can be ethoxylated
and/or propoxylated. One specific amine oxide includes, but is not
limited to, alkyl di (hydroxy lower alkyl) amine oxides,
alkylamidopropyl di (lower alkyl) amine oxides, alkyl di (lower
alkyl) amine oxides, and/or alkylmorpholine oxides, wherein the
alkyl group has 5-25 carbons and can be branched, unbranched,
saturated, and/or unsaturated. Nonlimiting examples of amine oxides
include, but are not limited to, lauryl amine oxide sold under the
name Barlox 12 from Lonza. In yet another and/or alternative aspect
of this embodiment, the surfactant includes alkyl polyglycosides.
The alkyl polyglycosides in the improved cleaning composition at
least partially functions as a cleaning surfactant. The alkyl
polyglycosides has also been found to reduce the filming and/or
streaking of the improved cleaning composition on a variety of
surfaces. The alkyl polyglycosides is typically formed by reacting
a sugar with a higher alcohol in the presence of an acid catalyst,
or by reacting a sugar with a lower alcohol (e.g., methanol,
ethanol, propanol, butanol, etc.) to thereby provide a lower alkyl
glycoside, which is then reacted with a higher alcohol. The higher
alcohol generally has the formulation R.sub.1O(R.sub.2O).sub.XH;
wherein R.sub.1 represents a straight or branched alkyl, alkenyl,
or alkylphenyl group having from 2 to carbon atoms; R.sub.2
represents an alkylene group having from 2 to 20 carbon atoms; and
X is a mean value that is 0 to 10. Specific nonlimiting examples of
the higher alcohol having a straight or branched alkanol include,
but are not limited to, hexanol, heptanol, octanol, nonanol,
decanol, dodecanol, tridecanol, tetradecanol, pentadecanol,
hexadecanol, heptadecanol, octadecanol, methylpentanol,
methylhexanol, methylheptanol, methyloctanol, methyldecanol,
methylundecanol, methyltridecanol, methylheptadecanol,
ethylhexanol, ethyloctanol, ethyldecanol, ethyldodecanol,
2-heptanol, 2-nonanol, 2-undecanol, 2-tridecanol, 2-pentadecanol,
2-heptadecanol, 2-butyloctanol, 2-hexyloctanol, 2-octyloctanol,
2-hexyldecanol and/or 2-octyldecanol; alkenol such as, but not
limited to, hexenol, heptenol, octenol, nonenol, decenol,
undecenol, dodecenol, tridecenol, tetradecenol, pentadecenol,
hexadecenol, heptadecenol and/or octadecenol; and/or alkylphenols
such as, but not limited to, octylphenol and/or nonylphenol. These
alcohols or alkylphenols can be used either alone or in combination
with one another. Further, an alkylene oxide adduct of these
alcohols or alkylphenols can be used. The sugar used to form the
alkyl glycoside includes, but is not limited to, monosaccharides,
oligosaccharides, and/or polysaccharides. Nonlimiting examples of
the monosaccharides include, but are not limited to, aldoses such
as, but not limited to, allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose,
idose, galactose, talose, ribose, arabinose, xylose, and/or lyxose.
Nonlimiting examples of the oligosaccharides include, but are not
limited to, maltose, lactose, sucrose and/or maltotriose.
Nonlimiting examples of the polysaccharides include, but are not
limited to, hemicellulose, insulin, dextrin, dextran, xylan, starch
and/or hydrolyzed starch. Specific alkyl glycosides that can be
used, but are not limited to such formulation, are represented by
the following formula: R.sub.1O(R.sub.2O).sub.XH.sub.Y wherein
R.sub.1 is an alkyl, alkenyl, or alkylphenyl group having from 6 to
30 carbon atoms; R.sub.2 is an alkylene group having from 2 to 20
carbon atoms; H is a residual group originating from a reducing
sugar having 2 or 10 carbon atoms; X is a mean value that is 0 to
10; and Y is a mean value that is 1 to 10. The carbon groups can be
saturated or unsaturated. In one specific aspect, the alkyl
glycoside includes an alkyl group having 6-22 carbons. Typically,
the alkly group is linear. As can be appreciated, the alkly groups
can be branched. Nonlimiting examples of alkyl polyglycosides
include, but are not limited to, the APG series alkyl
polyglycosides from Cognis (e.g., Glucopon 325). In another and/or
alternative embodiment, the surfactant includes, but is not limited
to, an ethoxylated alcohol. One type of non-limiting ethoxylated
alcohol that can be used is Surfonic L series surfactants by
Huntsman. In still another and/or alternative embodiment, the
surfactant includes, but is not limited to, a fluorosurfactant.
Fluorosurfatants have been found to reduce the surface tension of
the components in the improved cleaning composition. The lowered
surface tension has been found to result in improved spreading
and/or wetting of the improved cleaning composition on a variety of
surfaces. In one aspect of this embodiment, the fluorosurfactant
facilities in lowering the surface tension of the improved cleaning
composition to less than about 40 dyne/cm, typically less than
about 30 dyne/cm, more typically less than about 25 dyne/cm, and
even more typically about 15-22 dyne/cm. In another and/or
alternative aspect of this embodiment, the fluorosurfactant in the
improved cleaning composition reduces the amount of filming and/or
streaking of the improved cleaning composition. The reduced the
amount of filming and/or streaking occurs with or without buffing
of the cleaned surface. In still another and/or alternative aspect
of this embodiment, the fluorosurfactant includes an ethoxylated
nonionic fluorosurfactant. Typically, the surfactant is partially
or fully soluble in water. One type of non-limiting ethoxylated
nonionic fluorosurfactant that can be used is Zonyl surfactants by
DuPont and/or Fluorads from 3M. In still yet another and/or
alternative aspect of this embodiment, the fluorosurfactant is used
in combination with a buffer to enhance the reduction of filming
and/or streaking of the improved cleaning composition. Non-limiting
examples of buffers that can be used in combination with the
fluorosurfactant include MEA, NH.sub.4HCO.sub.3, NH.sub.4OH,
NH.sub.4Carbamate, and/or SLS. In yet another and/or alternative
embodiment, the surfactant, when included in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition, is present in
an amount of at least about 0.001 weight percent of the improved
cleaning composition. The amount of surfactant present in and/or
used in combination with the improved cleaning composition is at
least partially controlled to reduce the raw material cost of the
improved cleaning composition and/or to restrict the dissolved
actives which can contribute to residues remaining when the
improved cleaning composition is applied to a surface. In one
aspect of this embodiment, the surfactant content in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about 0.01-10
weight percent. The concentration of the surfactant in and/or used
in combination with the improved cleaning composition may exceed 10
weight percent when the improved cleaning composition is in a
concentrated form. In another aspect of this embodiment, the
surfactant content in and/or used in combination with the improved
cleaning composition is about 0.01-5 weight percent. In still
another aspect of this embodiment, the surfactant content in and/or
used in combination with the improved cleaning composition is about
0.05-5 weight percent. In yet another aspect of this embodiment,
the surfactant content in and/or used in combination with the
improved cleaning composition is about 0.075-5 weight percent. In
still yet another aspect of this embodiment, the surfactant content
in and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition is about 0.05-3 weight percent. In a further aspect of
this embodiment, the surfactant content in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about 0.075-2
weight percent. In still a further aspect of this embodiment, the
surfactant content in and/or used in combination with the improved
cleaning composition is about 0.1-2 weight percent. In yet a
further aspect of this embodiment, the surfactant content in and/or
used in combination with the improved cleaning composition is about
0.15-1.5 weight percent. In still yet a further aspect of this
embodiment, the surfactant content in and/or used in combination
with the improved cleaning composition is about 0.2-1.5 weight
percent. In another aspect of this embodiment, the surfactant
content in and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition is about 0.2-1.25 weight percent. In yet another aspect
of this embodiment, the surfactant content in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about
0.5-1.25 weight percent. In still another aspect of this
embodiment, the surfactant content in and/or used in combination
with the improved cleaning composition is about 0.1-1 weight
percent. In still yet another aspect of this embodiment, the
surfactant content in and/or used in combination with the improved
cleaning composition is about 0.15-0.8 weight percent. In a further
aspect of this embodiment, the surfactant content in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about 0.2-0.4
weight percent. In yet a further aspect of this embodiment, the
surfactant content in and/or used in combination with the improved
cleaning composition is less than about 0.5 weight percent.
[0028] In yet another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used in combination with an effective amount of biocide release
agent. The biocide release agent is at least partially used to
increase the amount of cationic biocide released from an absorbent
and/or adsorbent material such as, but not limited to, wipes
materials, sponges (e.g., cellulose, synthetic, etc.), paper
towels, napkins, cleaning pads, cloths, towels, rags, mop heads,
and/or the like. The biocide release agent is also and/or
alternatively at least partially used to increase the amount of
cationic biocide released from an absorbent and/or adsorbent
material such as, but not limited to, fabric (e.g., clothing,
sheets and/or pillow cases, blankets, quilts, stuffed animals,
rugs, shoes, etc.), wood products (e.g., furniture, house
structures, food utensils, bowls, serving platters, etc.). The
biocide release agent can be included in the cleaning composition
and/or combined at a later time with at least a portion of the
improved cleaning composition. It has been found that a significant
amount of cationic biocide such as, but not limited to, biguanide
compounds and quats, are retained on an absorbent and/or adsorbent
material during use of the absorbent and/or adsorbent material
during cleaning. For instance, over about 60 percent of the
biguanide compounds content in a cleaning composition and over
about 50 percent of the quat content is typically retained on a
cleaning wipe after use of the cleaning wipe. Similar retain levels
of the cationic biocides occur on various other absorbent and
adsorbent materials. As a result, the cationic biocide content of
the prior cleaning solutions was typically increased to compensate
for this high retention phenomena. Consequently, the cationic
biocide content was typically at least doubled in prior cleaning
solutions to ensure that the desired amount of cationic biocide was
released from the cleaning wipe. In addition, when a cationic
biocide containing cleaning solution was used in conjunction with
sponges (e.g., cellulose, synthetic, etc.), paper towels, napkins,
cloths, towels, rags, mop heads, and the like, the cationic biocide
was also attracted to and retained by the sponges (e.g., cellulose,
synthetic, etc.), paper towels, napkins, cloths, towels, rags, mop
heads, and the like, thus removing the cationic biocide from the
surface to be cleaned thereby reducing the effectiveness of prior
cleaning solutions. It has been found that one source of this
retention is at least partially related to the cationic properties
of the cationic biocide and the anionic properties of the absorbent
and/or adsorbent material. Absorbent and/or adsorbent materials
such as, but not limited to, cleaning wipes, sponges (e.g.,
cellulose, synthetic, etc.), paper towels, napkins, cloths, towels,
rags, mop heads, and/or the like that include wood pulp, a blend of
wood pulp and/or synthetic fibers that are at least partially
derived from wood pulp, include several anionic species such as
carboxylate groups, ester groups and/or the like. These anionic
species tend to bond to the cationic biocide thereby resulting in
the cationic biocide being at least partially retained on the
cleaning wipe, sponges (e.g., cellulose, synthetic, etc.), paper
towels, napkins, cloths, towels, rags, mop heads, and the like. The
biocide release agent is at least partially formulated to mitigate
or prevent this bonding phenomena thereby enabling the improved
cleaning composition to include a lower cationic biocide content
without adversely affecting the cleaning properties and/or the
disinfecting, sanitizing, and/or sterilizing efficacy of the
improved cleaning composition when used in combination with an
absorbent and/or adsorbent material. The biocide release agent is
at least partially formulated to mitigate or prevent this bonding
phenomena thereby enabling the improved cleaning composition to
include a lower cationic biocide content without adversely
affecting the cleaning properties, and/or the disinfecting,
sanitizing, and/or sterilizing efficacy of the improved cleaning
composition. In one embodiment, the biocide release agent used with
and/or included in the improved cleaning composition includes a
cationic compound designed to at least partially compete with the
cationic biocide for the anionic species sites on an absorbent
and/or adsorbent material thereby causing increased biocide release
from the absorbent and/or adsorbent material during use of the
absorbent and/or adsorbent material. The biocide release agent at
least partially binds with the anionic species sites thereby
freeing the cationic biocide from the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material and allowing the cationic biocide to be freed from the
absorbent and/or adsorbent material. In another and/or alternative
embodiment, the biocide release agent is at least partially applied
to an absorbent and/or adsorbent material after the cationic
biocide has been applied to the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material. In one aspect of this embodiment, the improved cleaning
composition includes a biocide release agent to at least partially
compete with the cationic biocide for the anionic species sites on
an absorbent and/or adsorbent material to cause further cationic
biocide release from the absorbent and/or adsorbent. At some time
after the improved cleaning composition is applied to the absorbent
and/or adsorbent material, additional biocide release agent can be
applied to the absorbent and/or adsorbent material to cause further
increased biocide release from the absorbent and/or adsorbent. In
another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the improved
cleaning composition substantially does not include a biocide
release agent, but such biocide release agent can be applied at the
same or subsequent time as the application of the improved cleaning
composition that includes cationic biocide. In still another and/or
alternative embodiment, one or more biocide release agents used in
and/or with the improved cleaning composition are formulated to
have a higher affinity for the anionic species sites than the
cationic biocide such that the site competition between the
cationic biocide and such biocide release agent favors the biocide
release agent. In one aspect of this embodiment, the affinity of
one or more biocide release agents for the anionic species sites is
significantly greater than the affinity of the cationic biocide for
the anionic species sites thereby resulting in substantially
irreversible bonding of the biocide release agent with the anionic
species sites on the absorbent and/or adsorbent material. In yet
another and/or alternative embodiment, one or more biocide release
agents include a cationic salt. Salts are desirable biocide release
agents in that such compounds are generally inexpensive when
compared to many types of cationic biocides. A variety of different
salts can be used such as, but not limited to, monovalent salts,
divalent salts, organic salts, and the like. These salts include,
but are not limited to, acetates, acetylides, ammonium salts
(excluding quats), arsenates, astatides, azides, bihalide salts,
bicarbonates, bisulfides, borides, borohydrides, borohalides,
carconates, citrates, cyanates, cyanides, formates, germanates,
glycinates, halates, halides, hydrides, hydroselenides,
hydrosulphides, hydroxides, imides, metaniobates, metaantalates,
metavanadates, nitrates, nitrides, nitrites, oxides, perchlorates,
-phosphates, phosphonium salts, selenides, selenites, selenates,
sulphides, sulphates, ternary salts, tetraalkyl ammonium salts,
tellurides, thiocyanates, and/or vanadates. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the biocide release agent includes, but is not limited
to, potassium citrate, sodium citrate, sodium tartrate, potassium
tartrate, potassium lactate, sodium lactate, salicylate salts of
sodium and/or potassium, magnesium sulphate, sodium chloride,
ammonium chloride, and/or potassium chloride. In still yet another
and/or alternative embodiment, a sufficient amount of biocide
release agent is included in and/or used with the improved cleaning
composition that includes the cationic biocide to reduce the
cationic biocide retention on an absorbent and/or adsorbent
material (e.g., cleaning wipes, sponges (e.g., cellulose,
synthetic, etc.), paper towels, napkins, cloths, towels, rags, mop
heads, etc.) to less than about 50%. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 45%. In another aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 40%. In still another aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 35%. In yet another aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 30%. In still yet another aspect of
this embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or
is used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 25%. In a further aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 20%. In still a further aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 15%. In yet a further aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 10%. In still yet a further aspect of
this embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or
is used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 5%. In another aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 3%. In still another aspect of this
embodiment, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used with a sufficient amount of biocide release agent to reduce
the cationic biocide retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent
material to less than about 1%. In a further and/or alternative
embodiment, the biocide release agent is used with and/or is
present in the improved cleaning composition such that the biocide
release agent has an effective ionic strength to cause a desired
amount of cationic biocide to be released from the absorbent and/or
adsorbent material (e.g., cleaning wipes, sponges (e.g., cellulose,
synthetic, etc.), paper towels, napkins, cloths, towels, rags, mop
heads, etc.). In one aspect of this embodiment, the effective ionic
strength of the biocide release agent in the improved cleaning
composition and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition is at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l. It has been
found that an ionic strength of less than about 5.times.10.sup.-3
mol/l does not result in an appreciable increase in cationic
biocide release from the absorbent and/or adsorbent material. In
another aspect of this embodiment, the effective ionic strength of
the biocide release agent in the improved cleaning composition
and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning composition
is about 5.times.10.sup.3-18 mol/l. In still another aspect of this
embodiment, the effective ionic strength of the biocide release
agent in the improved cleaning composition and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is at least
about 1.times.10.sup.-2 mol/l. In yet another aspect of this
embodiment, the effective ionic strength of the biocide release
agent in the improved cleaning composition and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about
1.times.10.sup.-2-5 mol/l. In still yet another aspect of this
embodiment, the effective ionic strength of the biocide release
agent in the improved cleaning composition and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about
2.times.10.sup.-2-1 mol/l. In a further aspect of this embodiment,
the effective ionic strength of the biocide release agent in the
improved cleaning composition and/or used in combination with the
improved cleaning composition is about 3.times.10.sup.-2-0.4 mol/l.
In yet a further aspect of this embodiment, the effective ionic
strength of the biocide release agent in the improved cleaning
composition and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition is about 4.times.10.sup.-2-0.2 mol/l. The weight
percent of the biocide release agent in the improved cleaning
composition and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition to achieve a particular ionic strength in the improved
cleaning composition is at least partially a function of the
molecular weight of the biocide release agent and the ionic
strength of the biocide release agent. In yet a further and/or
alternative embodiment, the biocide release agent content of the
improved cleaning composition and/or the amount of biocide release
agent used in combination with the improved cleaning composition is
at least about 0.025 weight percent and can constitute up to about
90 weight percent. In one aspect of this embodiment, the biocide
release agent content of the improved cleaning composition and/or
amount of biocide release agent used in combination with the
improved cleaning composition is about 0.03-10 weight percent. In
another aspect of this embodiment, the biocide release agent
content of the improved cleaning composition and/or amount of
biocide release agent used in combination with the improved
cleaning composition is about 0.04-5 weight percent. In still
another aspect of this embodiment, the biocide release agent
content of the improved cleaning composition and/or amount of
biocide release agent used in combination with the improved
cleaning composition is about 0.08-3 weight percent. In yet another
aspect of this embodiment, the biocide release agent content of the
improved cleaning composition and/or amount of biocide release
agent used in combination with the improved cleaning composition is
about 0.1-2.5 weight percent. In still yet another aspect of this
embodiment, the biocide release agent content of the improved
cleaning composition and/or amount of biocide release agent used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about 0.2-2.5
weight percent. In a further aspect of this embodiment, the biocide
release agent content of the improved cleaning composition and/or
amount of biocide release agent used in combination with the
improved cleaning composition is about 0.5-2 weight percent. In
still a further aspect of this embodiment, the biocide release
agent content of the improved cleaning composition and/or amount of
biocide release agent used in combination with the improved
cleaning composition is about 0.75-1.8 weight percent.
[0029] In still another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used in combination with one or more builder detergents. The
builder detergent, when used, can increase the effectiveness of the
surfactant that is used in and/or used in combination with the
improved cleaning composition when a surfactant is included in
and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning composition.
The builder detergent can also function as a softener and/or a
sequestering and buffering agent when used in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition. A variety of
builder detergents can be used in and/or used in combination with
the improved cleaning composition. Such builder detergents include,
but are not limited to, phosphate-silicate compounds, zeolites,
alkali metal, ammonium and substituted ammonium polyacetates,
mono-, di-, and tri-alkali salts of nitrilotriacetic acid,
carboxylates, aluminosilicate materials, silicates,
polycarboxylates, zeolites, carbonates, phosphates, bicarbonates,
polyphosphates, amines, alkanolamines, aminopolycarboxylates,
polyhydroxysulfonates, starch derivatives, ethylenediamine
tetraacetate, and/or metal ion sequestrants (e.g.,
aminopolyphosphonates such as, but not limited to, ethylenediamine
tetramethylene phosphonic acid and diethylene triamine
pentamethylenephosphonic acid). In one embodiment, the builder
detergent includes polyacetate and/or polycarboxylate compounds. In
one aspect of this embodiment, the polyacetate and/or
polycarboxylate compounds include, but are not limited to, sodium,
potassium, lithium, ammonium, and substituted ammonium salts of
ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid, ethylenediamine triacetic acid,
ethylenediamine tetrapropionic acid, diethylenetriamine pentaacetic
acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, oxydisuccinic acid, iminodisuccinic
acid, mellitic acid, polyacrylic acid or polymethacrylic acid and
copolymers, benzene polycarboxylic acids, gluconic acid, sulfamic
acid, oxalic acid, phosphoric acid, phosphonic acid, organic
phosphonic acids, acetic acid, and citric acid. These builder
detergents can also exist either partially or totally in the
hydrogen ion form. In another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the builder detergent includes EDTA and/or EDTA salts.
When EDTA salts are included in the improved cleaning composition,
the EDTA salts can contribute to the release of the cationic
biocide from the absorbent and/or adsorbent material when the
improved cleaning composition is loaded on and/or is used in
combination with the absorbent and/or adsorbent material. The
cationic properties of the EDTA salts compete for the anionic
species sites on the absorbent and/or adsorbent material thereby
causing some cationic biocide to be released from the absorbent
and/or adsorbent material. Although the EDTA salts contribute to
some cationic biocide release when sufficient amounts of EDTA salts
are included in the improved cleaning composition, the amount of
cationic biocide release attributable to the EDTA salts is very
small due to the low ionic strength of the EDTA salts.
Consequently, EDTA salts in the improved cleaning composition are
not a substitute for the biocide release agent, and the absence of
a biocide release agent from the improved cleaning composition
results in little or no measurable reduction in cationic biocide
retention from the absorbent and/or adsorbent material. In one
specific aspect, the builder agent includes sodium and/or potassium
salts of EDTA. In still another and/or alternative embodiment, the
builder detergent includes substituted ammonium salts. In one
aspect of this embodiment, the substituted ammonium salts include,
but are not limited to, ammonium salts of methylamine,
dimethylamine, butylamine, butylenediamine, propylamine,
triethylamine, trimethylamine, monoethanolamine, diethanolamine,
triethanolamine, isopropanolamine, ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid
and/or propanolamine. In yet another and/or alternative embodiment,
the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is used in
combination with at least about 0.001 weight percent builder
detergent. In one aspect of this embodiment, the builder detergent
content in and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition is about 0.01-2 weight percent. The concentration of
the builder detergent in and/or used in combination with the
improved cleaning composition may exceed about 2 weight percent
when the improved cleaning composition is in a concentrated form.
In another aspect of this embodiment, the builder detergent content
in and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition is about 0.01-1 weight percent. In still another aspect
of this embodiment, the builder detergent content in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about
0.01-0.8 weight percent. In yet another aspect of this embodiment,
the builder detergent content in and/or used in combination with
the improved cleaning composition is about 0.05-0.75 weight
percent. In still yet another aspect of this embodiment, the
builder detergent content in and/or used in combination with the
improved cleaning composition is about 0.05-0.5 weight percent. In
a further aspect of this embodiment, the builder detergent content
in and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition is about 0.07-0.3 weight percent. In still a further
aspect of this embodiment, the builder detergent content in and/or
used in combination with the improved cleaning composition is about
0.09-0.25 weight percent.
[0030] In still another and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition can include and/or be
used in combination with one or more solvents. The solvent can be
used to dissolve various components in the improved cleaning
composition so as to form a substantially uniformly dispersed
mixture. In addition to the dispersion and solubilizing functions
of the solvent, the solvent can function as a cleaning agent to
help loosen and solubilize compounds such as greasy or oily soils
from surfaces, a residue inhibiting agent to help reduce residues
left behind on a cleaned surface, a detergent agent to assist in
the detergency of the improved cleaning composition, and/or a
disinfecting, sanitizing, and/or a sterilizing agent to help
eliminate various bacteria and/or viruses on a cleaned surface. The
solvent, when used, can be premixed with the other components of
the improved cleaning composition or be partially or fully added to
the improved cleaning composition after or simultaneously with use.
In one embodiment, the solvent is at least partially water soluble
and/or a dispersable organic solvent. In another and/or alternative
embodiment, the solvent rapidly volatilizes. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the solvent has a vapor pressure of at least about
0.001 mm Hg at about 25.degree. C. In another and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, the solvent volatilizes in no more than
about 5 minutes at ambient temperature (about 25.degree. C.) after
contact with a surface. In another and/or alternative embodiment,
the solvent volatilizes from a surface substantially without
leaving a residue. In still another and/or alternative embodiment,
the solvent includes, but is not limited to, C.sub.1-6 alkanols,
C.sub.1-6 diols, C.sub.1-10 alkyl ethers of alkylene glycols,
C.sub.3-24 alkylene glycol ethers; and discrete amounts of
polyalkylene glycols, short chain carboxylic acids, short chain
esters, isoparafinic hydrocarbons, mineral spirits, alkylaromatics,
terpenes, terpene derivatives, terpenoids, terpenoid derivatives,
formaldehyde, and/or pyrrolidones. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the alkanol includes, but is not limited to, methanol,
ethanol, -propanol, isopropanol, butanol, pentanol, and/or hexanol,
and their various positional isomers. In another and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, the diols include, but are not limited
to, methylene, ethylene, propylene and/or butylene glycols. In
still another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment,
alkylene glycol ether solvents include, but are not limited to,
ethylene glycol monopropyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether,
propylene glycol-propyl ether, propylene glycol monobutyl ether,
propylene glycol t-butyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl or
monopropyl or monobutyl ether, di- or tri-polypropylene glycol
methyl or ethyl or propyl or butyl ether, acetate and/or propionate
esters of glycol ethers. In yet another and/or alternative aspect
of this embodiment, the short chain carboxylic acids include, but
are not limited to, acetic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid and/or
propionic acid. In still yet another and/or alternative aspect of
this embodiment, the short chain esters include, but are not
limited to, glycol acetate, and/or cyclic or linear volatile
methylsiloxanes. In a further and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, water insoluble solvents such as isoparafinic
hydrocarbons, mineral spirits, alkylaromatics, terpenoids,
terpenoid derivatives, terpenes, and/or terpenes derivatives are
mixed with a water soluble solvent when included in the improved
cleaning composition. When one or more water insoluble solvents are
mixed with one or more water soluble solvents in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition, the weight
percentage of the water insoluble solvents in the improved cleaning
composition is generally less than about 10 weight percent,
typically less than about 5 weight percent, and more typically less
than about 1 weight percent of the improved cleaning composition.
As can be appreciated, the improved cleaning composition can be a
non aqueous cleaner wherein little, if any, water is included in
the improved cleaning composition. In such a formulation, weight
percentage of the water insoluble solvent can be greater than about
10 weight percent. In one specific aspect, the water insoluble
solvent includes, but is not limited to, tertiary alcohols,
hydrocarbons (e.g., alkanes), pine-oil, terpinoids, turpentine,
turpentine derivatives, terpenoid derivatives, terpinolenes,
limonenes, pinenes, terpene derivatives, benzyl alcohols, phenols,
and/or their homologues. Certain terpene derivatives that can be
used include, but are not limited to, d-limonene, Terpene EX,
dipentene and oc-pinene. In still a further and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, the pyrrolidones include, but are not
limited to, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-octyl-2-pyrrolidone and/or
N-dodecyl-2-pyrrolidone. In one particular formulation for the
improved cleaning composition, the one or more solvents include,
but are not limited to, -propanol, isopropanol, butanol, Dowanol
PnB, Dowanol DPnB, Dowanol PM, Dowanol PnP, Dowanol DB, acetone,
and/or Hexyl Cellosolve. In one particular improved cleaning
composition formulation, the one or more solvents include
isopropanol and/or Dowanol PnB. In still another embodiment, the
improved cleaning composition includes and/or is used in
combination with at least about 0.5 weight percent solvent when
solvent is included in the improved cleaning composition.
Typically, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
combined with at least about 0.5 weight percent solvent to avoid
solubility problems which can result from the combination of
various components of the improved cleaning composition. In one
aspect of this embodiment, the solvent content in and/or is
combined with the improved cleaning composition is about 0.5-70
weight percent. The concentration of the solvent in and/or is
combined with the improved cleaning composition may exceed about 70
weight percent when the improved cleaning composition is in a
concentrated form. In another aspect of this embodiment, the
solvent content in and/or combined with the improved cleaning
composition is about 0.5-30 weight percent. In still another aspect
of this embodiment, the solvent content in and/or combined with the
improved cleaning composition is about 0.5-10 weight percent. In
yet another aspect of this embodiment, the solvent content in
and/or combined with the improved cleaning composition is about
0.75-7 weight percent. In still yet another aspect of this
embodiment, the solvent content in and/or combined with the
improved cleaning composition is about 0.75-6 weight percent. In a
further aspect of this embodiment, the solvent content in and/or
combined with the improved cleaning composition is about 1-5 weight
percent. In still a further aspect of this embodiment, the solvent
content in and/or combined with the improved cleaning composition
is about 2-4 weight percent. In yet a further aspect of this
embodiment, the solvent content in and/or combined with the
improved cleaning composition is about 2.5-4 weight percent.
[0031] In still yet another and/or alternative aspect of the
present invention, the improved cleaning composition includes
and/or is used in combination with a high and a low boiling point
solvent. As defined herein, a high boiling point solvent is a
solvent having a boiling point of at least about 150.degree. C.
(302.degree. F.). As defined herein, a low boiling point solvent is
a solvent having a boiling point of less than about 150.degree. C.
(302.degree. F.). The high and low boiling point solvent is a
compound other than water. Other solvents, in addition to one
solvent from each category, may be included. In another and/or
alternative embodiment, the solvents having aboiling point less
than about 150.degree. C. include, but are not limited to,
methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, propanol, butyl alcohol, sec-butyl
alcohol, isobutyl alcohol, tert-butyl alcohol, pentyl alcohol,
tert-pentyl alcohol, 2-pentanol, 3-pentanol, neopentyl alcohol,
ethyleneglycol methylether, ethyleneglycol ethylether,
ethyleneglycol propylether, propyleneglycol methylether,
propyleneglycol ethylether, ethyleneglycol methyletheracetate,
and/or propyleneglycol methyletheracetate. In still another and/or
alternative embodiment, the solvents having a boiling point greater
than or equal to about 150.degree. C. include, but are not limited
to, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butanediol,
methylpropanediol, ethyleneglycol butylether, ethyleneglycol
hexylether, ethyleneglycol ethylhexylether, diethyleneglycol
methylether, diethyleneglycol ethylether, diethyleneglycol
propylether, diethyleneglycol butylether, propyleneglycol
propylether, propyleneglycol t-butylether, propyleneglycol
butylether, dipropyleneglycol methylether, dipropyleneglycol
ethylether, dipropyleneglycol propylether, dipropyleneglycol
t-butylether, dipropyleneglycol butylether, tripropyleneglycol
methylether, tripropyleneglycol butylether, ethyleneglycol
ethyletheracetate, propyleneglycol ethyletheracetate,
ethyleneglycol butyletheracetate, propyleneglycol
butyletheracetate, diethyleneglycol methyletheracetate,
dipropyleneglycol methyletheracetate, diethyleneglycol
ethyletheracetate, dipropyleneglycol ethyletheracetate,
diethyleneglycol butyletheracetate, dipropyleneglycol
butyletheracetate, and/or N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone. In yet another
and/or alternative embodiment, the amount of solvent in the dual
boiling point solvents used in and/or in combination with the
improved cleaning composition that have a boiling point of less
than about 1 50.degree. C. is generally equal to or greater than
the amount of solvent having a boiling point greater than or equal
to about 150.degree. C. In one aspect of this embodiment, the
amount of solvent having a boiling point less than about
150.degree. C. is about equal to the amount of solvent having a
boiling point greater than or equal to about 150.degree. C. In
another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the ratio of
solvent having a boiling point less than about 150.degree. C. to
the amount of solvent having a boiling point greater than or equal
to about 150.degree. C. is about 10-1:1, typically about 5-1:1,
more typically about 2-1:1, and even more typically about
1.5-1:1.
[0032] In still yet another and/or alternative aspect of the
present invention, the improved cleaning composition includes
and/or is used in combination with water. The water, when used, can
be premixed with the other components of the improved cleaning
composition or be partially or fully added to the improved cleaning
composition at the time of or prior to use. The water can include
tap water, filtered water, bottled water, spring water, distilled
water, deionized water, and/or industrial soft water. The amount of
water in and/or combined with the improved cleaning composition
depends on whether the improved cleaning composition is an aqueous
or nonaqueous composition. In one embodiment, the water used in
and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning composition
is deionized water and/or industrial soft water. The use of
deionized water and/or industrial soft water can reduce he amount
of residue formation and can limit the amount of undesirable metal
ions in and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition. In another and/or alternative embodiment, the improved
cleaning composition is an aqueous composition, and the water
constitutes at least a majority weight percent of the improved
cleaning composition. The amount of water in the improved cleaning
composition is typically less when the improved cleaning
composition is in a concentrated liquid or semi-liquid form, or in
a solid form. In one aspect of this embodiment, the water content
in the ready to use improved liquid cleaning composition is at
least about 70 weight percent. The term "ready to use" means the
improved cleaning composition does not need to be diluted or mixed
with water and/or other solvents prior to use, or the concentrated
improved cleaning composition has been diluted with water and/or
other solvents. In another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the water content in the ready to use improved liquid
cleaning composition is at least about 80 weight percent. In still
another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the water
content in the ready to use improved liquid cleaning composition is
at least about 90 weight percent. In yet another and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, the water content in the ready to use
improved cleaning composition is at least about 95 weight
percent.
[0033] In a further and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used in combination with one or more anti-dye transfer agents. When
the improved cleaning composition is used to clean and/or is used
in combination with other cleaners to clean fabrics that include
dyes (e.g., clothing, rugs, carpets, curtains, pillows, sheets
and/or pillowcases, blankets, etc.), the one or more anti-dye
transfer agents in the improved cleaning composition inhibit dry
transfer during the cleaning operation. One way of overcoming the
dye transfer problem is to at least partially complex or adsorb the
fugitive dyes before such dyes have the opportunity to become
attached to other articles. The anti-dry transfer agent is
formulated to provide anti-dye transfer and color protection
properties to the improved cleaning composition without adversely
affecting stain or soil removal properties and/or soil redeposition
properties of the improved cleaning composition. In one embodiment,
the anti-dye transfer agent can include, but is not limited to,
polyvinylpyrrolidone; quaternary polyvinylpyrridinium derivatives;
polyvinylimidazole; polyvinylpyridine oxide; copolymers of
polyvinylpyridine and polyvinylimidazole; vinyl imidazole homo- or
copolymer; polyamine oxide; vinylimidazole; vinylpyrrolidone;
vinylimidazole; vinylpyridine; dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate;
dimethylaminopropylmethacrylamide; poly(4-vinylpyridine-N-oxide);
copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone and vinylimidazole; copolymers of
polyvinylpyrrolidone and vinylimidazole; copolymers of
vinylpyrrolidone and polyvinylimidazole; copolymers vinylimidazole,
vinyloxazolidone and/or -vinylpyrrolidone; polymeric compounds
based on -vinylpyrrolidone and/or -vinylimidazole and/or
-vinyloxazolidone; vinyloxazolidone; and/or poly(vinylpyridine
betaines). Several of these anti-dye transfer agents which can be
included in and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,306,815 and
6,313,086, which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0034] In a further and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition includes and/or is
used in combination with one or more adjuncts. The adjuncts
include, but are not limited to, buffering and pH adjusting agents,
fragrances or perfumes, waxes, dyes and/or colorants, solubilizing
materials, stabilizers, thickeners, defoamers, hydrotropes, lotions
and/or mineral oils, enzymes, bleaching agents, cloud point
modifiers, preservatives, ion exchangers, alkalies, anticorrosion
materials, antiredeposition materials, optical brighteners,
chelating agents, enzymes, whiteners, brighteners, antistatic
agents, sudsing control agents, hydrotropes, bleach precursors,
soil removal agents, soil release agents, softening agents,
opacifiers, inert diluents, graying inhibitors, stabilizers, and/or
polymers. In one embodiment, the buffering and pH adjusting agents,
when used, include, but are not limited to, organic acids, mineral
acids, alkali metal and alkaline earth salts of silicate,
metasilicate, polysilicate, borate, carbonate, carbamate,
phosphate, polyphosphate, pyrophosphates, triphosphates,
tetraphosphates, ammonia, hydroxide, monoethanolamine,
monopropanolamine, diethanolamine, dipropanolamine,
triethanolamine, and/or 2-amino-2methylpropanol. The buffering
agent can be an active detergent in its own right, and/or can be a
low molecular weight, organic or inorganic material used for
maintaining the desired pH. The buffer can be alkaline, acidic or
neutral. Non-limiting examples of buffering agents include
nitrogen-containing materials (e.g., lysine; lower alcohol amines
like mono-, di-, and tri-ethanolamine; tri(hydroxymethyl) amino
methane; 2-amino-2-ethyl-1,3-propanediol;
2-amino-2-methyl-propanol; 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanol; disodium
glutamate; methyl diethanolarnide;
2-dimethylamino-2-methylpropanol; 1,3-bis(methylamine)-cyclohexane;
1,3-diamino-propanol N,N'-tetra-methyl-1,3-diamino-2-propanol;
N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)glycine; tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl glycine;
ammonium carbamate; citric acid; acetic acid; ammonia; alkali metal
carbonates; and/or alkali metal phosphates). For additional buffers
that can be used, see McCutcheon's EMULSIFIERS AND DETERGENTS,
North American Edition, 1997, McCutcheon Division, MC Publishing
Company which is incorporated herein by reference. In another
and/or alternative embodiment, the waxes, when used, include, but
are not limited to, camauba, beeswax, spermaceti, candelilla,
paraffin, lanolin, shellac, esparto, ouricuri, polyethylene wax,
chlorinated naphthalene wax, petrolatum, microcrystalline wax,
ceresine wax, ozokerite wax, and/or rezowax. In yet another and/or
alternative embodiment, the solubilizing materials, when used,
include, but are not limited to, hydrotropes (e.g., water soluble
salts of low molecular weight organic acids such as the sodium
and/or potassium salts of xylene sulfonic acid). In another and/or
alternative embodiment, the acids, when used, include, but are not
limited to, organic hydroxy acids, citric acids, keto acid, and the
like. In still another and/or alternative embodiment, thickeners,
when used, include, but are not limited to, polyacrylic acid,
xanthan gum, calcium carbonate, aluminum oxide, alginates, guar
gum, methyl, ethyl, clays, and/or propylhydroxycelluloses. In yet
another and/or alternative embodiment, defoamers, when used,
include, but are not limited to, silicones, aminosilicones,
silicone blends, and/or silicone/hydrocarbon blends. In still yet
another and/or alternative embodiment, lotions, when used, include,
but are not limited to, achlorophene and/or lanolin. In a further
and/or alternative embodiment, enzymes, when used, include, but are
not limited to, lipases, proteases, amylases, cellulases, and/or
peroxidases, and/or hydrotropes such as xylene sulfonates and/or
toluene sulfonates. In yet a further and/or alternative embodiment,
bleaching agents, when used, include, but are not limited to,
peracids, perborates, percarbonates, chlorine-generating substances
(e.g., chloroisocyanurates hypohalite sources), hydrogen peroxide,
and/or sources of hydrogen peroxide. In still a further and/or
alternative embodiment, preservatives, when used, include, but are
not limited to, mildewstat of bacteriostat, methyl, ethyl and
propyl parabens, short chain organic acids (e.g., acetic, lactic
and/or glycolic acids), bisguanidine compounds (e.g., Dantagard
and/or Glydant) and/or short chain alcohols (e.g., ethanol and/or
IPA). In one aspect of this embodiment, the mildewstat of
bacteriostat includes, but is not limited to, mildewstats
(including non-isothiazolone compounds) include Kathon GC, a
5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, Kathon ICP, a
2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, and a blend thereof, and Kathon 886,
a 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, all available from Rohm
and Haas Company; =Bronopol, a 2-bromo-2-nitropropane 1, 3diol,
from Boots Company Ltd.; Proxel CRL, a propyl-p-hydroxybenzoate,
from ICI PLC; Nipasol M, an o-phenyl-phenol, Na+salt, from Nipa
Laboratories Ltd.; Dowicide A, a 1,2-Benzoisothiazolin-3-one, from
Dow Chemical Co.; and Irgasan DP 200, a
2,4,4'-trichloro-2-hydroxydiphenylether, from Ciba-Geigy A.G. In
still yet a further and/or alternative embodiment, polymers, when
used, include, but are not limited to, polysaccharides,
polycarboxylates, polystyrenesulfonates, acrylate polymers,
polyethyleneimines, polyvinylpyrrolidones, methylvinyl ether,
polyvinyl alcohols, silicones, and/or polyethylene glycols. In one
aspect of this embodiment, the polymer, when used, is generally a
water soluble or dispersable polymer having a molecular weight of
generally below 2,000,000 daltons. In another and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, polysaccharide polymers include, but are
not limited to, substituted cellulose materials like
carboxymethylcellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose,
hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, succinoglycan and
naturally occurring polysaccharide polymers like xanthan gum, guar
gum, locust bean gum, tragacanth gum or derivatives thereof, sodium
casceinate, gelatin, cationic cellulose ether, and/or Polymer JR.
In still another and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment,
polycarboxylates include, but are not limited to, ethylene, simple
olefin, styrene, alphamethylstyrene, methyl, ethyl and C.sub.3-8
alkyl acrylates and methacrylates, isobornyl methacrylate,
acrylamide, hydroxyethyl acrylate and methacrylate, hydroxypropyl
acrylate and methacrylate, vinyl pyrrolidone, butadiene, isoprene,
vinyl halides such as vinyl chloride and vinylidine chloride, alkyl
maleates, alkyl fumarates, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid,
polycarboxylic acids, sulfonic acids, phosphoric acids, maleic
anhydride, ethylene and/or propylene. In yet another and/or
alternative aspect of this embodiment, polystyrenesulfonates
include, but are not limited to, Flexan 130, Versa TL-4, and/or
Versa TL501 from ALCO Corporation. In still another and/or
alternative aspect of this embodiment, acrylate polymers include,
but are not limited to, cationic acrylic water soluble polymers
that are copolymers of cationic quaternized acrylates,
methacrylates, acrylamides, and methacrylamides; and/or copolymers
of one 15- or more acidic monomers such as acrylic acid,
methacrylic acid or maleic anhydride with at least one other
ethylenically unsaturated monomer selected from a group of ethylene
and other simple olefin, styrene, alpha-methylstyrene, methyl,
ethyl and C.sub.3 to C.sub.8 alkyl acrylates and methacrylates,
isobornyl methacrylate, acrylamide, hydroxyethyl acrylate and
methacrylate, hydroxypropyl acrylate and methacrylate, vinyl
pyrrolidone, butadiene, isoprene, vinyl halides such as vinyl
chloride and vinylidine chloride, alkyl maleates, alkyl fumarates,
fumaric acid, maleic acid, itaconic acid, acetoacetoxy methacrylate
or other acetoacetate monomers, and/or divinyl or polyvinyl
monomers, such as glycol polyacrylates, allyl methacrylate, and
divinyl benzene. In a further and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, polyvinylpyrrolidone includes, but is not limited to,
copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone with one or more aklylenically
unsaturated monomers such as unsaturated dicarboxylic acids such as
maleic acid, chloromaleic acid, fumaric acid, itaconic acid,
citraconic acid, phenylmaleic acid, aconitic acid, acrylic acid,
methacrylic acid, vinylimidazole, vinylcaprolactam, butene,
hexadecene, and vinyl acetate. In addition, any of the esters and
amides of the unsaturated acids can be employed, for example,
methyl acrylate, ethylacrylate, acrylamide, methacryamide,
dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate, dimethylaminopropylmethacr-
ylamide, trimethylammoniumethylmethacrylate, and/or
trimethylammoniumpropylmethacrylamide. Other suitable alkylencially
unsaturated monomers include, but are not limited to, aromatic
monomers such as, but not limited to, styrene, sulphonated styrene,
alpha-methylstyrene, vinyltoluene, t-butylstyrene and others. In
one particular example, the polyvinylpyrrolidone includes a
copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate
quaternized with diethylsulfate (e.g., Gafquat HSi, HS-100, 440,
734, 755, 755N, and/or 755N-P by ISP Corp.). The inclusion of
polyvinylpyrrolidone enhances the cleaning effectiveness of the
cleaning surfactant in the improved cleaning composition without
adversely affecting the filming and streaking properties of the
improved cleaning composition. Typically, the polyvinylpyrrolidone
is a cationic polymer that is combined with a non-ionic surfactant;
however, other types of surfactants can be used in combination with
the polyvinylpyrrolidone. In yet a further and/or alternative
aspect of this embodiment, the silicones include, but are not
limited to, polysicoxanes. The inclusion of silicones in the
improved cleaning composition can facilitate in enhancing the ease
in which the improved cleaning composition can be spread over a
surface such as, but not limited to, a hard surface. The U increase
in ease of spreading can result in the ease in which the improved
cleaning composition applied over a surface to be cleaned. The
silicone can decrease the static coefficient of friction, thereby
resulting in the improved cleaning composition being spread easer
by a cleaning pad, wipe, mop, etc. In one particular example, the
silicone is a volatile silicone that evaporates upon drying without
leaving surface residue and/or a slippery surface. In another
and/or alternative particular example, a suspension polymer is used
in combination with the silicone in the improved cleaning
composition to suspend the silicone in the improved cleaning
composition. The suspension polymer typically has a high enough
yield stress to at least partially suspend the silicone in the
fluid improved cleaning composition. Non-limiting examples of
suspension polymers include polyacrylates (e.g., Carbopols from
B.F. Goodrich), hydrophobically modifies polyacrylates (e.g.,
Carbopol and/or Acrysols from Rohn & Haas), polyurethanes,
xanthan gum, and/or carboxymethyl cellulose (e.g., Methocels from
Dow Chemical). In still a further and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the corrosion inhibitors include, but are not limited
to, sodium silicate, sodium disilicate, and/or sodium metasilicate.
In still a further and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment,
the graying inhibitors include, but are not limited to,
carboxymethylcellulose, methylcellulose,
hydroxypropylmethyl-cellulose, polyacrylic acid, and/or copolymers
of acrylic and/or maleic acid. In another and/or alternative aspect
of this embodiment, the chelant includes, but are not limited to,
ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid (EDDS) or the alkali metal,
alkaline earth metal, ammonium, and/or substituted ammonium salts
thereof. In yet another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the suds suppressors include, but are not limited to,
silicones (e.g., alkylated polysiloxane) and/or silica-silicone
mixtures (e.g., silica aerogels, xerogels, hydrophobic silicas of
various types, etc.). In still another and/or alternative aspect of
this embodiment, the antiredeposition and soil suspension agents
include, but are not limited to, cellulose derivatives (e.g.,
methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose,
homopolymers of acrylic acid, copolymers of maleic acid and acrylic
acid, etc.). In still yet another and/or alternative aspect of this
embodiment, the optical brighteners include, but are not limited
to, disodium
4,4.sup.1-bis-(2-diethanolamino-4-anilino-s-triazin-6-ylamino)stilbene-2:-
2.sup.1 disulphonate, disodium
4,-4.sup.1-bis-(2-morpholino-4-anilino-s-tr-
iazin-6-ylaminostilbene-2:2.sup.1-disulphonate, disodium
4,41-bis-(2,4-di anilino-s-triazin-6-ylamino)
stilbene-2:2.sup.'-disulphonate, monosodium
4.sup.1,4.sup.11-bis-(2,4-dianilino-s-triazin-6ylamino)stilbene-2-sulphon-
ate, disodium
4,4.sup.1-bis-(2-anilino-4-(N-methyl-N-2-hydroxyethylamino)--
s-triazin-6-ylamino)stilbene-2,2.sup.1-disulphonate disodium
4,4.sup.1-bis-(4-phenyl-2,1,3-triazol-2-yl)-stilbene-2,2.sup.1
disulphonate, disodium
4,4.sup.1-bis(2-anilino-4-(1-methyl-2-hycroxyethyl-
amino)-s-triazin-6-ylamino)stilbene-2,2.sup.1disulphonate, and/or
sodium
2(stilbyl-4-(naphtho-1.sup.1,2.sup.1:4,5)-1,2,3-triazole-2.sup.11-sulphon-
ate. In a further and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the
soil release agents include, but are not limited to, copolymers or
terpolymers of terephthalic acid with ethylene glycol and/or
propylene glycol, ethoxylated/propoxylated polyamines, modified
polyesters (e.g., dimethyl terephtalate, dimethyl sulfoisophtalate,
ethylene glycol and 1-2 propane diol, etc.). In still a further
and/or alternative aspect of this embodiment, the polymer includes
vinylpyrrolidone homo- and copolymers, acrylamide homo- and
copolymers, polyvinylalcohol and polyvinylacetate homo- and
copolymers, quaternary acrylate and methacrylate copolymers, and/or
amphoteric acrylate and methacrylate homo- and copolymers. In one
specific example, the polmyer includes polyvinylpyrrolidone
compound, and/or quaternary acrylic copolymer. Other various
adjuncts that can be included in and/or used in combination with
the improved cleaning composition are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,306,815 and 6,313,086, which are incorporated herein by
reference.
[0035] In still a further and/or alternative aspect of the present
invention, the improved cleaning composition has a neutral or
alkaline pH. Various compounds (e.g., adjuncts, biocides, etc.) can
be added to and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition to control the pH of the improved cleaning composition.
In one embodiment, the pH of the cleaning composition is alkaline.
In one aspect of this embodiment, the pH of the improved cleaning
composition is between about 7-12. In another aspect of this
embodiment, the pH of the improved cleaning composition is between
about 7.2-10.5.
[0036] The principal object of the present invention is to provide
an improved cleaning composition having improved cleaning
attributes.
[0037] Another and/or alternative object of the present invention
is to provide an improved cleaning composition having improved
disinfecting, sanitizing, and/or sterilizing properties.
[0038] Yet another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition that can
be pre-loaded or post-loaded on an absorbent or absorbent
material.
[0039] Still another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition that
exhibits improved cationic biocidal release from an absorbent or
absorbent material.
[0040] Yet another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition that
includes a biguanide compound and/or quat as one of the principal
disinfecting, sanitizing, and/or sterilizing agents.
[0041] Still yet another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition having a
reduced solvent content.
[0042] Another and/or alternative object of the present invention
is to provide an improved cleaning composition having a reduced
toxicity without impairing the disinfecting, sanitizing, and/or
sterilizing attributes of the improved cleaning composition.
[0043] Yet another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition having a
reduced raw material cost.
[0044] Still another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition that
exhibits reduced streaking and/or filming.
[0045] A further and/or alternative object of the present invention
is to provide an improved cleaning composition that can be used to
disinfect, sanitize, and/or sterilize a variety of surfaces.
[0046] Still a further and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition that can
to formulated in a concentrated or ready to use form.
[0047] Still yet a further and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition that can
be used in conjunction with or separately from an absorbent or
adsorbent material.
[0048] Another and/or alternative object of the present invention
is to provide an improved cleaning composition that can be formed
as an aerosol, liquid, semi-liquid or solid form.
[0049] Still another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition that can
be used on hard surfaces.
[0050] Another and/or alternative object of the present invention
is to provide an improved cleaning composition can be used to clean
diningware.
[0051] Still yet another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition can be
used in pet litter.
[0052] Another and/or alternative object of the present invention
is to provide an improved cleaning composition can be used in
soaps, lotions, and/or shampoos.
[0053] Still another and/or alternative object of the present
invention is to provide an improved cleaning composition that is
alkaline.
[0054] These and other objects and advantages will become apparent
to those skilled in the art upon reading and following the
description of the invention taken together with the accompanied
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0055] Reference may now be made to the drawings, which illustrates
various attributes of the invention wherein;
[0056] FIG. 1 is a graphical illustration of the percentage of quat
recovered from the cleaning wipe as a function of the weight
percentage of several different type of salts in the improved
cleaning composition;
[0057] FIG. 2 is a graphical illustration of the percentage of
biguanide compound recovered from the cleaning wipe as a function
of the weight percentage of salt in the improved cleaning
composition; and
[0058] FIG. 3 is a graphical illustration of dermal irritation
scores of several improved cleaning compositions of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0059] The improved cleaning composition of the present invention
can be used independently from or in conjunction with an absorbent
and/or adsorbent material. For instance, the improved cleaning
composition is formulated to be used in conjunction with a cleaning
wipe, sponge (e.g., cellulose, synthetic, etc.), cleaning pad,
paper towel, napkin, cloth, towel, rag, mop head, squeegee, and/or
other cleaning device that includes an absorbent and/or adsorbent
material. The improved cleaning composition can be formulated to be
loaded onto and/or used in combination with an absorbent and/or
adsorbent material (e.g., cleaning wipe, cleaning pad, mop head,
cloth, towel, etc.) to clean hard surfaces. The improved cleaning
composition can also or alternatively be formulated to clean
fabrics (e.g., clothing, carpet, curtains, rugs, etc.). The
improved cleaning composition can also or alternatively be
formulated to disinfect and/or sanitize various areas and things
(e.g., rooms, pet litter, medical equipment, etc.) The improved
cleaning composition can also or alternatively be formulated for
use in personal hygiene products (e.g., hand cleaners, body
lotions, shampoos, hair conditioners, etc.).
I. Hard Surface Cleaners
[0060] The improved cleaning composition is particular applicable
for use with hard surfaces. Such surfaces include, but are not
limited to, windows, doors, counter tops, floor, sinks, toilets,
showers, kitchen appliances, and the like. When cleaning hard
surfaces, an important goal is to not only clean, disinfect,
sanitize, and/or sterilize the hard surface, but to also reduce
filming and streaking on the hard surface. It is also desirable for
the cleaned hard surface to not be sticky. The improved cleaning
composition is formulated to clean, disinfect, sanitize, and/or
sterilize hard surfaces, and to reduce filming and streaking on the
hard surface without leaving a sticky surface on the cleaned hard
surface.
[0061] The improved cleaning composition can be in concentrated
form or ready-to-use form. The improved cleaning composition can be
in gas, liquid, paste, gel, or solid form. The improved cleaning
composition can be dispensed from a liquid container, an aerosol
container, a container for holding crystals or a paste, and the
like. The improved cleaning composition can be preloaded onto an
absorbent and/or adsorbent material, and/or used in combination
with an absorbent and/or adsorbent material.
[0062] The basic components of the improved cleaning composition
for hard surfaces include:
[0063] (I) cationic biocide;
[0064] (ii) solvent and/or surfactant.
[0065] Additional components can be included in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition to add one or
more attributes to the improved cleaning composition and/or to
enhance the attributes of the improved cleaning composition.
[0066] A. The Cationic Biocide
[0067] The biocide in the improved cleaning composition includes a
cationic compound. The cationic biocide typically includes one or
more biguanide compounds and/or quats. Biguanide compounds are
desirable in that such compounds have a broad spectrum
antimicrobial or germicidal properties. The biguanide compounds are
also less irritating to skin, and produce less streaking and
residue when applied to a hard surface. As a result, the improved
cleaning composition feels drier after being applied resulting in
higher consumer satisfaction. A variety of different biguanide
compounds can be used in the improved cleaning composition. The
biguanide compounds that can be used in the improved cleaning
composition include, but are not limited to, compounds have the
following general formula: 4
[0068] where X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 are either a hydrogen or any
aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, aromatic, substituted aliphatic,
substituted aromatic, heteroaliphatic, heterocyclic, and/or
heteroaromatic compound. X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 can be the same or
different. Y.sub.1 and Y.sub.2 are any aliphatic, cycloaliphatic,
aromatic, substituted aliphatic, substituted aromatic,
heteroaliphatic, heterocyclic, and/or heteroaromatic compound.
Y.sub.1 and Y.sub.2 can be the same or different. M is an number
equal to or greater than 1. Typically, M has an average value such
that the molecular weight biguanide compounds is about 1000-1400;
however, the molecular can be higher or lower. Generally M is about
2-20. Z.sub.1 and Z.sub.2 are either a hydrogen or a salt. Z.sub.1
and Z.sub.2 can be the same of different. In addition or
alternatively, the biguanide compounds include, but are not limited
to, halogenated hexidine and its salts. One particular nonlimiting
biguanide compound that can be used in the improved cleaning
composition is Vantocil P. The biguanide compound content of the
improved cleaning composition is generally maintained at least
above 0.0005 weight percent, and more generally above about 0.02
weight percent and less than about 20 weight percent; however,
higher or lower biguanide compound contents can be used. Typically,
the biguanide compound content of the improved cleaning composition
is about 0.1-0.5 weight percent. The weight percentage range for
the biguanide compound in the improved cleaning composition is
selected to disinfect, sanitize, and/or sterilize most common
household, institutional, and industrial hard surfaces. Common
types of bacteria that are at least partially destroyed by
biguanide compounds in the improved cleaning composition include,
but are not limited to, Staphylococcus aureus (Staph), Kleb,
Salmonella choleraesuis (Salmonella), Pseudomonas aeruginosa,
Pserratia marcescens, Influenza A2, Candida albicans, Fusarium
solani, common viruses and/or fungi.
[0069] Quats, like biguanide compounds, have a broad spectrum
antimicrobial or germicidal properties. A variety of different
quats can be used in the improved cleaning composition. The general
structure for the one or more quats that can be included in the
improved cleaning composition is: 5
[0070] wherein X is an anion such as, but not limited to, a halide,
acetate, nitrite, a lower alkosulfate, carbonate and/or an alkyl
carboxylate; and R.sub.1-R.sub.4 are straight chain, branched chain
and/or cyclic chain groups. R.sub.1-R.sub.4 can be the same or
different. Nonlimiting types of quat that can be used in the
improved cleaning composition include an
alkyldimethylbenzylammonium quat, an
alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium quat and/or an
alkyldimethylammonium quat. Nonlimiting specific quat that can be
used in the improved cleaning composition is a combination of
alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride (C.sub.14-60%, C.sub.16-30%,
C.sub.12-5%, C.sub.18-5%) and alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium
chloride (C.sub.12-68%, C.sub.14-32%); alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium
chlorides such as the commercially available Barquat MB-50 from
Lonza; di(C6-C14)alkyl di(C1-4 alkyl and/or hydroxyalkl) quaternary
ammonium compounds such as Bardac 2050 and/or 2250 from Lonza,
(3-chloroallyl) hexaminium chlorides such as Dowicide and Dowicil
available from Dow; benzethonium chloride such as Hyamine from Rohm
& Haas, methylbenzethonium chloride represented by Hyamine IOX
supplied by Rohm & Haas, cetylpyridinium chloride such as
Cepacol chloride available from of Merrell Labs. This quat
combination is commercially available as Barquat 4250 and Barquat
4250Z by Lonza. When one or more quats are included in the improved
cleaning composition, the quat content of the improved cleaning
composition is typically maintained above about 0.0005 weight
percent and less than about 20 weight percent; however, higher or
lower quat contents can be used. Generally, the quat content of the
improved cleaning composition is less than or equal to the content
of the biguanide compound in the improved cleaning composition,
when biguanide compounds are included in the improved cleaning
composition; however, the quat content can be greater than the
biguanide compound content. The weight percentage range for the
quat in the improved cleaning composition is selected to disinfect,
sanitize, and/or sterilize most common household, institutional,
and industrial hard surfaces. Common types of bacteria that are at
least partially destroyed by the quat in the improved cleaning
composition include, but are not limited to, Staphylococcus aureus
(Staph), Kleb, Salmonella choleraesuis (Salmonella), Pseudomonas
aeruginosa, Pserratia marcescens, Influenza A2, Candida albicans,
Fusarium solani, common viruses and/or fungi.
[0071] B. The Solvent
[0072] The solvent used in and/or in combination with the improved
cleaning composition is selected to at least partially dissolve
into solution the biguanide compound, quat, and/or other organic
compounds in the improved cleaning composition. The use of certain
solvents can also improve the cleaning, biocidal and/or detergency
properties of the improved cleaning composition. Typically, the
solvent is water soluble and rapidly volatilizes substantially
without leaving a residue, causing streaking, and/or leaving a
sticky surface. The solvent also typically has a vapor pressure of
at least about 0.001 mm Hg at about 25.degree. C., and volatilizes
in no more than about 5 minutes at ambient temperature (about
25.degree. C.) after contact with a surface.
[0073] Generally, the one or more solvents include in and/or used
in combination with the improved cleaning composition include, but
are not limited to, C.sub.1-6 alkanols, C.sub.1-6 diols, C.sub.1-10
alkyl ethers of alkylene glycols, C.sub.3-24 alkylene glycol
ethers, and/or polyalkylene glycols. The solvent content of the
improved cleaning composition is generally maintained above about
0.1 weight percent and generally less than about 10 weight percent;
however, higher or lower solvent contents can be used. Typically,
the solvent content of the improved cleaning composition is about
0.5-5 weight percent. The lower solvent weight percentages are
especially desirable in jurisdictions wherein regulations require
solvent concentrations of less than about 4-10 weight percent in
the improved cleaning composition.
[0074] Various solvent combinations in the improved cleaning
composition can also facilitate in the reduction of filming and/or
streaking. One particular solvent combination that results in
reduced filming and/or streaking is a solvent combination that
includes a high and a low boiling point solvent combination. As can
be appreciated, the improved cleaning composition does not require
the use of such a solvent combination. In addition, when two of
more solvents are included in the improved cleaning composition,
all the solvents can be high or low boiling point solvents.
However, the present invention contemplates the added improvement
of using a high and a low boiling point solvent in the improved
cleaning composition. Solvents having a boiling point of less than
about 150.degree. C. that can be used in the improved cleaning
composition include, but are not limited to, methanol, ethanol,
isopropanol, propanol, butl alcohol, sec-butyl alcohol, isobutyl
alcohol, tert-butyl alcohol, pentyl alcohol, tert-pentyl alcohol,
2-pentanol, 3-pentanol, neopentyl alcohol, allyl, crotyl,
methylvinyl-carbinol, ethyl ether, -propyl ether, isopropyl ether,
-butyl ether, vinyl ether, allyl ether, ethyleneglycol methylether,
ethyleneglycol ethylether, ethyleneglycol propylether,
propyleneglycol methylether, propyleneglycol ethylether,
ethyleneglycol methyletheracetate, and/or propyleneglycol
methyletheracetate. Solvents having a boiling point greater than or
equal to about 150.degree. C. that can be used in the improved
cleaning composition include, but are not limited to, ethylene
glycol, propylene glycol, butanediol, methylpropanediol,
ethyleneglycol butylether, ethyleneglycol hexylether,
ethyleneglycol ethylhexylether, diethyleneglycol methylether,
diethyleneglycol ethylether, diethyleneglycol propylether,
diethyleneglycol butylether, propyleneglycol-propylether,
propyleneglycol t-butylether, propyleneglycol-butylether,
dipropyleneglycol methylether, dipropyleneglycol ethylether,
dipropyleneglycol-propylether, dipropyleneglycol t-butylether,
dipropyleneglycol-butylether, tripropyleneglycol methylether,
tripropyleneglycol-butylether, ethyleneglycol ethyletheracetate,
propyleneglycol ethyletheracetate, ethyleneglycol
butyletheracetate, propyleneglycol butyletheracetate,
diethyleneglycol methyletheracetate, dipropyleneglycol
methyletheracetate, diethyleneglycol ethyletheracetate,
dipropyleneglycol ethyletheracetate, diethyleneglycol
butyletheracetate, dipropyleneglycol butyletheracetate, and/or
N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone.
[0075] The amount of solvent in the dual boiling point solvents
having a boiling point less than about 150.degree. C. is generally
equal to or greater than the solvent having a boiling point greater
than or equal to about 150.degree. C.
[0076] C. The Surfactant
[0077] The surfactant used in and/or in combination with the
improved cleaning composition is selected to improve the cleaning
performance of the improved cleaning composition. The surfactant
can also reduce the amount of perceived filming and/or streaking of
the improved cleaning composition. The surfactant also can provide
detergency to the improved cleaning composition to facilitate in
the removal of soil from the hard surface. The surfactant also can
reduce the amount of redeposition of soils onto the hard
surface.
[0078] Generally the surfactant includes, but is not limited to, at
least one lauryl sulfate, laurylether sulfate,
cocamidopropylbetaine, alkyl polyglycoside, ethoxylated alcohol,
fluorosurfactant, and/or amine oxide. In one particular
formulation, the surfactant in and/or used in combination with the
improved cleaning composition includes alkyl polyglycosides,
ethoxylated alcohol, fluorosurfactant and/or amine oxides. One
particular not limiting example of alkyl polyglycosides,
ethoxylated alcohol, fluorosurfactant and/or amine oxides that can
be included in the improved cleaning composition are amine oxides
sold under the brand Barlox by Lonza, alkyl polyglycosides sold
under the brand APG by Cognis, ethoxylated alcohol sold under the
Surfonic by Huntsman, and/or fluorosurfactant sold under the brand
Zonyl by DuPont. The surfactant content in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is generally at
least about 0.001 weight percent of the improved cleaning
composition, typically at least about 0.05 weight percent and less
than about 10 weight percent of the improved cleaning composition,
and more typically about 0.06-2 weight percent of the improved
cleaning composition.
[0079] D. The Absorbent and/or Adsorbent Material
[0080] The improved cleaning composition, when used to clean hard
surfaces, is generally used in conjunction with one or more
absorbent and/or adsorbent materials. The improved cleaning
composition can be sprayed and/or poured onto a hard surface to be
cleaned and an absorbent and/or adsorbent material such as, but not
limited to, a sponge, mop head, cloth, towel, and the like is then
used to spread the improved cleaning composition on the hard
surface and/or clean the hard surface. Additionally or
alternatively, the improved cleaning composition is at least
partially loaded on the absorbent and/or adsorbent material prior
to the absorbent and/or adsorbent material at least partially
applying the improved cleaning composition onto the hard surface
and/or cleaning the hard surface.
[0081] The present invention also contemplates the pre-loading of
the improved cleaning composition on a cleaning pad and/or cleaning
wipe. The cleaning pad or cleaning wipe typically includes wood
pulp and/or wood pulp derivatives; however, this is not required.
The improved cleaning composition on the cleaning pad or cleaning
wipe is typically in a ready to use liquid form; however, the
improved cleaning composition can be in a concentrate in liquid,
semi-liquid or solid form on the cleaning pad or cleaning wipe.
Typically, the cleaning wipe has at least one layer of nonwoven
material. The cleaning pad can also included one or more layers of
nonwoven material. Nonlimiting examples of commercially available
cleaning wipes that can be used include DuPont 8838, Dexter ZA,
Dexter 10180, Dexter M10201, Dexter 8589, Ft. James 836, and
Concert STD60LN. All of these cleaning wipes include a blend of
polyester and wood pulp. Dexter M10201 also includes rayon, a wood
pulp derivative. The cleaning pad or cleaning wipe can be used
by-it-self and/or in combination with another device such as, but
not limited to, a mop. The cleaning pad typically has an absorbent
capacity, when measured under a confining pressure of 0.09 psi
after 20 minutes, of at least about 1 g deionized water per g of
the cleaning pad. The cleaning pad will also typically have a total
fluid capacity (of deionized water) of at least about 100 g.
However, the absorbency and/or fluid capacity of the cleaning pad
can vary depending on the desired use of the cleaning pad. The
cleaning wipe can have the same or different amount of
absorbency.
[0082] The cleaning wipe or pad can contain a superabsorbent
material to enhance the absorbency and/or fluid capacity of the
cleaning pad or cleaning wipe. When superabsorbent material is
included in the cleaning pad or cleaning wipe, the cleaning pad or
cleaning wipe will typically comprise at least about 1% by weight
of the cleaning pad or cleaning wipe, and more typically at least
about 5%.
[0083] The cleaning pad or cleaning wipe can also include materials
to stiffen the cleaning pad or cleaning wipe. Such materials
include, but are not limited to, chemically stiffened cellulosic
fibers.
[0084] The cleaning pad or cleaning wipe can also include a
thermoplastic material to at least partially bind together the
adsorbent and/or adsorbent fibers in the cleaning pad or cleaning
wipe. The thermoplastic material can also enhance the integrity of
the cleaning pad or cleaning wipe.
[0085] The loading ratio of the improved cleaning composition onto
the cleaning wipe or cleaning pad can be about 2-5:1, and typically
about 3-4:1; however, other loading rations can be used. The
improved cleaning composition can be loaded onto the cleaning wipe
and/or cleaning pad in any number of manufacturing methods.
Typically, the cleaning wipe or cleaning pad is soaked in the
improved cleaning composition for a period of time until the
desired amount of loading is achieved.
[0086] The cleaning pad or cleaning wipe can also have an
attachment layer that allows the cleaning pad or cleaning wipe to
be connected to and/or disconnected from an implement's handle or
the support head or an implement (e.g., mop, broom, etc.). The
attachment layer can also function to prevent fluid flow through
the top surface (e.g., the handle-contacting surface) of the
cleaning pad or cleaning wipe, and/or can further provide enhanced
integrity for the cleaning pad or cleaning wipe.
[0087] The cleaning pad or cleaning wipe can also be part of a
cleaning kit. The kit can have an assembly of one or more units,
either packaged together or separately. The kit can comprise an
implement containing a cleaning pad or cleaning wipe that may or
may not include a superabsorbent material, and the improved
cleaning composition. The cleaning pad or cleaning wipe can be
detachably mounted on the implement so that the cleaning pad or
cleaning wipe can be removed and/or replaced with a fresh clean pad
or cleaning wipe. The implement can also include a dosing device
that delivers the improved cleaning composition on the cleaning pad
or cleaning wipe and/or on the hard surface to be cleaned. The
dosing device can be battery powered, electrically powered, or hand
powered. The implement can also have a reservoir that contains the
improved cleaning composition. The reservoir can be refillable or
contain a non-refillable amount of improved cleaning composition.
The reservoir can also be detachably mounted on the implement to
allow for easy refilling or replacing with a filled reservoir.
[0088] E. Water
[0089] The improved cleaning composition typically includes water.
When the improved cleaning composition is a liquid, water based,
ready-to-use cleaner, the water content of the improved cleaning
composition is generally over 50 weight percent of the improved
cleaning composition. Typically, the liquid ready-to-use improved
cleaning composition includes at least about 80 weight percent
water; however, higher or lower water contents can be used. When
the improved cleaning composition is a liquid, non-water based,
ready-to-use cleaner, the water content of the improved cleaning
composition is generally less than about 30 weight percent of the
improved cleaning composition, and typically less than about 15
weight percent of the improved cleaning composition. The water used
in the improved cleaning composition is typically deionized water
and/or industrial soft water so as to reduce residue formation and
limit the amount of undesirable metal ions in the improved cleaning
composition; however, other types of water can be used (e.g., tap
water, spring water, filtered water, etc.).
[0090] F. Biocide Release Agent
[0091] When the improved cleaning composition is loaded onto an
absorbent or adsorbent material, and/or is to be used with an
absorbent or adsorbent material, a biocide release agent is
typically included in and/or used with the improved cleaning
composition to improve the release of the biguanide compound, quat,
and/or other cationic biocides in the improved cleaning composition
from the absorbent and/or adsorbent material. The biocide release
agent used in the improved cleaning composition typically includes
a cationic compound designed to compete with the cationic biocide
(e.g., biguanide compound, quat, etc.) for anionic species sites on
the absorbent and/or adsorbent material (e.g., sponges (e.g.,
cellulose, synthetic, etc.), paper towels, cleaning pads, cleaning
wipes, napkins, cloths, towels, rags, mop heads, squeegee). The
cationic biocide release agent typically includes a cationic salt.
Generally, a commonly available salt is used so as to minimize the
raw material cost of the improved cleaning composition. In
addition, a salt having a relatively high ionic strength per mole
of salt is selected to minimize the amount of salt needed in the
improved cleaning composition so as to also minimizing the raw
material cost of the improved cleaning composition. Nonlimiting
examples of salts that can be used as a biocide release agent in
and/or in combination with the improved cleaning composition
include potassium citrate, sodium citrate, magnesium sulphate,
sodium chloride, ammonium chloride, and/or potassium chloride.
Generally, the one or more salts are added to and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition in an amount to
cause over about 50% of the cationic biocide to be released from
the an absorbent or adsorbent material when used to clean a hard
surface. Generally, the ionic strength of the one or more salts
that make up the biocide release agent used in and/or used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition is about
1.times.10.sup.-2-2 mol/l, and the weight percent of the salt used
in and/or in combination with the improved cleaning composition is
about 0.04-5 weight percent.
[0092] G. Additional Anti-Microbial Compound
[0093] One or more additional anti-microbial compounds can be
included in and/or used in combination with the improved cleaning
composition to enhance the biocidal efficacy of the improved
cleaning composition. Such anti-microbial compounds include, but
are not limited to, diisobutylphenoxyethoxyethyl dimethylbenzyl
ammonium chloride, commercially available as Hyamine 1622 from
Lonza. Other anti-microbial compounds include, but are not limited
to, alcohols, peroxides, boric acid and borates, chlorinated
hydrocarbons, organometallics, halogen-releasing compounds, mercury
compounds, metallic salts, pine oil, essential oils, organic sulfur
compounds, iodine compounds, silver nitrate and other silver
compounds, quaternary phosphate compounds, and/or phenolics.
[0094] H. Polymer
[0095] Various types of polymers can also be included in and/or
used in combination with the improved cleaning composition. These
polymers are typically added to the improved cleaning composition
to enhance the detergency of the improved cleaning composition,
improved wetting of the improved cleaning composition, and/or
reduce filming and/or streaking of the improved cleaning
composition. The polymers, when used, include, but are not limited
to, polysaccharides, polycarboxylates, polystyrenesulfonates,
acrylate polymers, polyethyleneimines, polyvinylpyrrolidones,
polymethylvinyl ether, polyvinyl alcohols, silicones, polyethylene
glycols, and/or copolymers thereof Polymers that have improved the
detergency of the improved cleaning composition include, but are
not limited to a copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone and
dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate quaternized with diethylsulfate
(e.g., Gafquat HSi, HS-100, 440, 734, 755, 755N, and/or 755N-P by
ISP Corp.), and/or quaternary acrylic copolymer (e.g., Syntran
Hx52-1-1 (Interpolymer)). The inclusion of these polymers has been
found to enhance the cleaning effectiveness of the cleaning
surfactant (e.g., alkylpolyglucosides, etc.) in the improved
cleaning composition without significantly adversely affecting the
filming and streaking properties of the improved cleaning
composition.
[0096] I. Buffer/Builder
[0097] A builder detergent can be included in and/or be used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition. The builder
detergent, when used, typically increases the detergency
effectiveness of the surfactant in the improved cleaning
composition. The builder detergent can also or alternatively
function as a softener, a sequestering, and/or buffering agent in
the improved cleaning composition. A variety of builder detergents
can be used in the improved cleaning composition.
[0098] J. Additional Adjuvants
[0099] The improved cleaning composition can includes and/or be
used in combination with one or more additional adjuncts. The
adjuncts include, but are not limited to, fragrances or perfumes,
waxes, dyes and/or colorants, solubilizing materials, stabilizers,
thickeners, defoamers, hydrotropes, lotions and/or mineral oils,
enzymes, bleaching agents, cloud point modifiers, and/or
preservatives.
[0100] A general formulation of the improved cleaning composition
in weight percent for hard surface cleaning is as follows:
1 Cationic Biocide 0.02-20% Surfactant at least about 0.01% Water
less than about 99.95%
[0101] Several specific, nonlimiting, examples of the improved
cleaning composition in weight percent are as follows:
EXAMPLE 1
[0102]
2 Cationic Biocide 0.02-10% Solvent 0-99% Surfactant 0.001-10%
Builder detergent 0-10% Polymer 0-20% Biocide release agent 0-10%
Water 0-99.95%
EXAMPLE 2
[0103]
3 Cationic Biocide 0.02-5% Solvent 0-20% Surfactant 0.001-5%
Builder detergent 0-2% Polymer 0-10% Biocide release agent 0-5%
Water at least 68%
EXAMPLE 3
[0104]
4 Cationic Biocide 0.05-5% Solvent 0.5-70% Surfactant 0.001-5%
Builder detergent 0.001-2% Polymer 0-5% Biocide release agent
0.03-10% Water at least 10%
EXAMPLE 4
[0105]
5 Cationic Biocide 0.04-2% Solvent 0.04-10% Surfactant 0.01-5%
Builder detergent 0-2% Polymer 0.01-2% Biocide release agent 0-2.5%
Water at least 78.5%
EXAMPLE 5
[0106]
6 Cationic Biocide 0.1-2% Solvent 2-30% Surfactant 0.05-3% Builder
detergent 0.01-2% Polymer 0.1-1% Biocide release agent 0.08-3%
Water at least 60%
EXAMPLE 6
[0107]
7 Cationic Biocide 0.1-2% Solvent 0.1-5% Surfactant 0.1-4% Builder
detergent 0-1% Polymer 0.1-1% Biocide release agent 0-2% Water at
least 86%
EXAMPLE 7
[0108]
8 Cationic Biocide 0.3-0.4% Solvent 3.5-5% Surfactant 0.2-0.4%
Builder detergent 0.09-0.15% Polymer 0.1-1% Biocide release agent
0.09-1.1% Fragrance 0-1% Water at least 90%
EXAMPLE 8
[0109]
9 Cationic Biocide 0.15-0.8% Solvent 2-10% Surfactant 0.075-2%
Builder detergent 0.01-0.8% Polymer 0.1-1% Biocide release agent
0.1-2.5% Water at least 80%
EXAMPLE 9
[0110]
10 Cationic Biocide 0.1-1% Solvent 0.1-5% Surfactant 0.1-4% Builder
detergent 0-1% Polymer 0.1-1% Biocide release agent 0-2% Water at
least 87%
EXAMPLE 10
[0111]
11 Cationic Biocide 0.2-0.5% Solvent 2.75-8% Surfactant 0.15-0.8%
Builder detergent 0.05-0.5% Polymer 0.1-1% Biocide release agent
0.5-2% Water at least 85%
EXAMPLE 11
[0112]
12 Vantocil P 0.1-0.5% Isopropanol 1.5-5% PnB (glycol ether) 0.5-2%
APG 325 0.25-1.5% Ammonium Chloride 0-1% Dipotassium EDTA 0-0.5%
Gafquat 440 0-0.8% Fragrance 0-1% Water at least 89.5%
EXAMPLE 12
[0113]
13 Vantocil P 0.15-0.4% Isopropanol 1.75-4% PnB (glycol ether)
0.5-1.5% APG 325 0.25-1% Ammonium Chloride 0.05-1% Dipotassium EDTA
0-0.3% Gafquat 440 0.1-0.8% Fragrance Oil 0-1% Water at least
90.8%
EXAMPLE 13
[0114]
14 Cationic Biocide 0.25-0.4% Solvent 2.75-5% Surfactant 0.2-0.4%
Builder detergent 0.075-0.25% Gafquat 440 0.1-0.8% Biocide release
agent 0.75-1.8% Water at least 85%
EXAMPLE 14
[0115]
15 Vantocil P 0.3-0.5% Isopropanol 3-5% Lauryl Dimethyl 0.2-0.4%
Amine Oxide Sodium Citrate 0.9-1.1% DiPotassium EDTA 0.09-0.15%
Gafquat 440 0.1-0.8% Fragrance 0-1% Water at least 90%
EXAMPLE 15
[0116]
16 Barquat 4250Z/Vantocil P 0.3-0.4% Isopropanol 3.5-5% Lauryl
Dimethyl 0.2-0.4% Amine Oxide Disodium EDTA 0.09-0.15% Gafquat 440
0-0.8% Potassium Citrate 0.9-1.1% Water at least 90%
EXAMPLE 16
[0117]
17 BTC 2250/Vantocil P 0.3-0.4% Isopropanol 3.5-5% Lauryl Dimethyl
0.2-0.4% Amine Oxide DiPotassium EDTA 0.09-0.15% Gafquat 440 0-0.8%
Sodium Citrate 0.9-1.1% Water at least 90%
EXAMPLE 17
[0118]
18 BTC 2250 0.05-0.4% Vantocil P 0.05-0.4% Isopropanol 0.1-5% PnB
(glycol ether) 0-2% APG 325 0-2% Lauryl Dimethyl 0-1% Amine Oxide
DiPotassium EDTA 0-0.5% Gafquat 440 0-0.8% Sodium Citrate 0.2-2%
Water at least 90%
EXAMPLE 18
[0119]
19 Vantocil P 0.1-0.4% Isopropanol 1.5-4% Lauryl Dimethyl 0-1%
Amine Oxide PnB (glycol ether) 1-2% Ammonium Chloride 0.05-0.4%
DiPotassium EDTA 0.3-0.5% Gafquat 440 0-0.8% Fragrance 0-1% Water
at least 90%
EXAMPLE 19
[0120]
20 Vantocil P 0.05-0.6% Isopropanol 1-3% Dowanol PnP 0.5-2% Lauryl
Dimethyl 0-1% Amine Oxide PnB (glycol ether) 0-2% APG 325 0.05-1%
DiPotassium EDTA 0-0.5% Gafquat 440 0.05-0.5% Ammonium Chloride
0-0.4% Fragrance 0-0.5% Water at least 92%
EXAMPLE 20
[0121]
21 Vantocil P 0.05-0.5% Isopropanol 1-3% Dowanol PnP 0.75-1.5%
Lauryl Dimethyl 0-1% Amine Oxide PnB (glycol ether) 0-1% APG 325
0.1-0.5% DiPotassium EDTA 0-0.5% Gafquat 440 0.05-0.4% Ammonium
Chloride 0-0.4% Fragrance 0-0.5% Water at least 94%
[0122] Several specific, nonlimiting examples of the improved
cleaning composition loaded onto a cleaning wipe in weight
percentage of the loaded cleaning wipe are as follows:
EXAMPLE 21
[0123]
22 Cationic Biocide 0.01-4.167% Solvent 0.01-16.67% Surfactant
0-4.167% Builder detergent 0-1.67% Polymer 0-8.33% Biocide release
agent up to 4.167% Water at least 34% Dry cleaning wipe 16.7-50%
Loading ratio 1-5:1
[0124] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 22
[0125]
23 Cationic Biocide 0.025-4.167% Solvent 0.25-58.3% Surfactant
0.0005-4.167% Builder detergent 0.0005-1.67% Polymer 0-4.167%
Biocide release agent 0.015-8.33% Water at least 5% Dry cleaning
wipe 16.7-50% Loading ratio 1-5:1
[0126] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 23
[0127]
24 Cationic Biocide 0.067-0.8% Solvent 0.067-4% Surfactant 0-3.2%
Builder detergent 0-0.8% Polymer 0-2.083% Biocide release agent up
to 1.6% Water at least 58% Dry cleaning wipe 20-33% Loading ratio
2-4:1
[0128] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 2.times.10.sup.-2 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 24
[0129]
25 Cationic Biocide 0.1-0.64% Solvent 1.3-8% Surfactant 0.05-1.6%
Builder detergent 0.0067-0.64% Polymer 0.01-2.083% Biocide release
agent 0.067-2% Water at least 53% Dry cleaning wipe 20-33% Loading
ratio 2-4:1
[0130] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 2.times.10.sup.-1 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 25
[0131]
26 Vantocil P 0.117-0.4% Isopropanol 1.36-4% PnB (glycol ether)
0.389-1.5% APG 325 0.194-1% Ammonium Chloride 0.0389-1% Dipotassium
EDTA 0-0.3% Gafquat 440 0-2.083% Fragrance Oil 0-1% Water at least
70.6% DuPont 8838 (wipe) 20-22.2% Loading ratio 3.5-4:1
[0132] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-25.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 26
[0133]
27 Vantocil P 0.23-0.32% Isopropanol 2.7-4% Barlox 12 0.155-0.32%
Potassium Citrate 0.7-0.88% Disodium EDTA 0.07-0.12% Gafquat 440
0.02-1.042% Fragrance 0-1% Water at least 70% DuPont 8838 20-22.2%
Loading ratio 3.5-4:1
[0134] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 27
[0135]
28 Vantocil P 0.25-0.45% Isopropanol 2.7-5% Barlox 12 0.15-0.35%
Potassium Citrate 0.05-0.9% Disodium EDTA 0.05-0.15% Gafquat 440
0.02-1.042% Fragrance 0.01-0.5% Water at least 70% DuPont 8838
20-22.2% Loading ratio 3.5-4:1 pH Alkaline
[0136] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 28
[0137]
29 Vantocil P 0.15-0.4% Isopropanol 2.5-4% PnB (glycol ether)
0.05-2% Surfonic L108 0.2-0.5% Zonyl FSO 0-1% Ammonium Chloride
0.05-0.8% Dipotassium EDTA 0.07-0.12% Gafquat 440 0.02-1.042%
Fragrance 0-2% Water at least 70% DuPont 8838 20-22.2% Loading
ratio 3.5-4:1 pH Alkaline
[0138] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 29
[0139]
30 Vantocil P 0.1-0.5% Isopropanol 1.3-4% PnB (glycol ether)
0.35-1.5% Surfactant 0.15-1% Ammonium Chloride 0.03-1% Dipotassium
EDTA 0-0.3% Gafquat 440 0-1.042% Fragrance 0-1% Water at least
70.6% DuPont 8838 (wipe) 15-30% Loading ratio 3-5:1 pH Alkaline
[0140] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 30
[0141]
31 Barquat 4250 Z/Vantocil P 0.23-0.32% Isopropanol 2.7-4% Barlox
12 0.155-0.32% Disodium EDTA 0.07-0.12% Gafquat 440 0-1.042%
Potassium Citrate 0.1-0.88% Water at least 70% DuPont 8838 20-22.2%
Loading ratio 3.5-4:1 pH Alkaline
[0142] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 31
[0143]
32 Vantocil P 0.038-0.48% Isopropanol 0.77-2.4% Dowanol PnP
0.38-1.6% Lauryl Dimethyl 0-0.8% Amine Oxide PnB (glycol ether)
0-1.6% APG 325 0.038-0.8% DiPotassium EDTA 0-0.4% Gafquat 440
0.038-0.4% Ammonium Chloride 0-0.32% Fragrance 0-0.4% Water at
least 70% DuPont 8838 20-22.2% Loading ratio 3.5-4:1 pH
Alkaline
[0144] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 32
[0145]
33 Vantocil P 0.038-0.4% Isopropanol 0.77-2.4% Dowanol PnP
0.577-1.2% Lauryl Dimethyl 0-0.8% Amine Oxide PnB (glycol ether)
0-0.8% APG 325 0.077-0.4% DiPotassium EDTA 0-0.4% Gafquat 440
0.038-0.32% Ammonium Chloride 0-0.32% Fragrance 0-0.4% Water at
least 70% DuPont 8838 20-22.2% Loading ratio 3.5-4:1 pH
Alkaline
[0146] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
[0147] When a biocide release agent is used in and/or is used in
combination with the improved cleaning composition, the biocide
release agent positively affects the release of cationic biocide
from an absorbent and/or adsorbent material. As illustrated in
Table 1, and in FIG. 1, the increase in salt content (e.g., biocide
release agent) in the improved cleaning composition results in a
decreased quat retention on the absorbent and/or adsorbent material
(e.g. cleaning wipe) and an increase in quat recovery. Similar
results were obtained when biguanide compounds were included in the
improved cleaning composition as illustrated in Table 2 and in FIG.
2.
[0148] In obtaining the results set forth in Table 2, the improved
cleaning composition that included quat and was loaded on a
cleaning wipe, and several trials were conducted using two types of
cleaning wipes and five different types of biocide release agent.
The quat used in the improved cleaning composition was BARQUAT
4250Z by Lonza. The improved cleaning composition included about
0.29 weight percent biocide, about 0.3 weight percent amine oxide,
about 0.1 weight percent sodium EDTA, 4.9 weight percent
isopropanol, and the balance water. Each cleaning wipe had a
loading ratio of improved cleaning composition to cleaning wipe of
about 3.75:1.
34TABLE 1 Quat Bactericidal Wipe Effective of Salts on Quat
Released (Quat level = 0.29%) % Quat % Quat % Quat % Quat % Quat
Recovery with Recovery with Recovery with Recovery with Recovery
with K-Citrate KCl Na-Citrate MgSO.sub.4 NH.sub.4Cl % Salt (DuPont
8838) (DuPont 8838) (DuPont 8838) (DuPont 8838) (Dexter ZA) 0 52 51
0.00304 67.4 0.00595 73.1 0.1013 57 60 59 71 75.9 0.304 75 69 73 79
82.1 0.697 88 77 90 91 82.4 1.0 98 86 89 96 96.3
[0149] The improved cleaning composition that included biguanide
compounds and was also loaded on a cleaning wipe, and a single
trial was conducted using Dexter 8589 for the cleaning wipe and
Vantocil P (PHMB) by Avecia for the biguanide compound. The
improved cleaning composition included about 0.3 weight percent
biguanide compound, about 0.5 weight percent APG, 2.6 weight
percent isopropanol, about 1 weight percent Dowanol PnB, and the
balance water. The cleaning wipe had a loading ratio of improved
cleaning composition to cleaning wipe of about 3.75:1. The results
of the test are illustrated in Table 2.
35TABLE 2 Biguanide Bactericidal Wipe Effective of Salts on
Biguanide Compound Released (Biguanide Compound level = 0.3%) %
Biguanide Compound % Salt Release with NH.sub.4Cl (Dexter 8589) 0
35.9 0.1 42.7 0.3 46 0.4 59.1 0.5 62 0.6 68 0.7 77 0.8 88 0.9
92
[0150] As illustrated in Tables 1 and 2, the quat and biguanide
compound retention on the cleaning wipe is about 50% and 64%
respectively when the biocide release agent was not included in the
improved cleaning composition. The results in Tables 1 and 2
illustrate that the quat and biguanide compound retention is
substantially reduced by increasing the concentration of biocide
release agent in the improved cleaning composition. The variances
in measured quat and biguanide compound retention are believed to
be due to the type of cleaning wipe used, the ionic strength of the
biocide release agent, and/or the chemical structure of the quat or
biguanide compound. In every test, the inclusion of the biocide
release agent in the improved cleaning composition resulted in an
increased quat and biguanide compound release from the cleaning
wipe. FIG. 1 graphically illustrates the quat retention on a DuPont
8838 cleaning wipe as a function of the biocide release agent
content of the improved cleaning composition. FIG. 2 graphically
illustrates the biguanide compound retention on a Dexter 8589
cleaning wipe as a function of the biocide release agent content of
the improved cleaning composition.
[0151] Another set of tests were conducted to determine if there
was any effect on the quat release levels from the cleaning wipe as
a function of the type of cleaning wipe. The results of these tests
are illustrated in Table 3. The cationic biocide used in the
improved cleaning composition illustrated in Table 3 was BARQUAT
4250Z by Lonza. The improved cleaning composition included about
0.29 weight percent cationic biocide, about 0.3 weight percent
amine oxide, about 0.1 weight percent sodium EDTA, about 4.9 weight
percent isopropanol, and the balance water. The biocide release
agent used was potassium citrate. Two concentrations of potassium
citrate were used in the improved cleaning composition. The
cleaning wipe was DuPont 8838 having a loading ratio of improved
cleaning composition to cleaning wipe of about 3.75:1.
36TABLE 3 Effect of Different Cleaning Wipes on Quat Released using
K Citrate Cleaning Wipe % Quat Released Dexter 10180 (0.24% K
Citrate) 78 Dexter M10201 (0.24% K Citrate) 93 Dexter ZA (0.24% K
Citrate) 83 Dexter 10180 (0.79% K Citrate) 100 Dexter M10201 (0.79%
K Citrate) 100 Dexter ZA (0.79% K Citrate) 100
[0152] The test results in Table 3 reveal that an increase in quat
release from the cleaning wipe occurred regardless of the type of
wood pulp containing cleaning wipe. Similar results were observed
from cleaning compositions containing biguanide compounds. In
addition, the test results confirmed that increased biocide release
agent concentrations in the improved cleaning composition resulted
in decreased quat and biguanide compound retention on the wipe.
[0153] Another set of tests were conducted to determine if there
was any affect on the amount of quat or biguanide compound release
as a function of the amount of quat or biguanide compound in the
improved cleaning composition. The results of these tests are
illustrated in Table 4. The cationic biocide used in the improved
cleaning composition illustrated in Table 4 was BARQUAT 4250Z by
Lonza. The improved cleaning composition included about 0.3 weight
percent amine oxide, about 1 weight percent potassium citrate,
about 0.1 weight percent sodium EDTA, about 4.9 weight percent
isopropanol, and the balance water. The cleaning wipe was DuPont
8838 having a loading ratio of improved cleaning composition to
cleaning wipe of about 3.75:1.
37TABLE 4 Effect of different quat levels on quat released (K
citrate = 1.0%) % Quat in Improved cleaning composition % K-citrate
= 1.0% 0 N/A 0.507 100% 0.101 99.6% 0.203 95.8% 0.279 94.2% 0.367
95.2%
[0154] The results in Table 4 indicate that the amount of quat
compound released from the cleaning wipe is not adversely affected
by the amount of quat in the improved cleaning composition. Similar
results were observed from cleaning compositions containing
biguanide compounds.
[0155] Several tests were also conducted to determine whether the
biocide release agent in the cleaning agent adversely affected the
bactericidal efficacy of the improved cleaning composition
containing quat and/or biguanide compound. In each test conducted,
the biocide release agent did not adversely affect the bactericidal
efficacy of the improved cleaning composition. In addition, it was
found that the biocide release agent alone had little or no
bactericidal efficacy.
[0156] Micro efficacy data was also obtained for an improved
cleaning composition containing a quat and an improved cleaning
composition containing a biguanide compound. These two formulations
were compared to Lysol cleaner and Mr. Clean, both commercially
available products. The results are set forth in Table 5.
38TABLE 5 MICRO EFFICACY DATA 30 Seconds Sanitizer 4 Minutes Log
Reduction Disinfection Log Reduction Staph Kleb Staph Pseudomonas
Salmonella Influenza A2 Clorox B 99.9% 99.9% 99.999% 99.999%
99.999% 99.999% Clorox Q 99.9% 99.9% 99.999% 99.999% 99.999%
99.999% Mr. Clean* -- -- -- -- 99.999% -- Lysol* 99.9% 99.9%
99.999% 99.999% 99.999% 99.999% *The time period for Mr. Clean and
Lysol was tested at 10 minutes.
[0157] The Clorox B formula is an improved cleaning composition
that includes about 0.3 weight percent Vantocil P. The Clorox Q
formula is an improved cleaning composition that includes about 0.4
weight percent BARQUAT 4250Z. The general formulations of Clorox B'
and Clorox Q' and the specific formulations of Clorox B and Clorox
Q are set forth below:
39 Clorox B' Clorox Q' Vantocil P 0.25-0.35% Bardac 4250 0.3-0.5%
APG 0.4-0.6% Barlox 12 0.2-0.4% Isopropanol 2-3% Isopropanol
4.2-5.5% PnB 0.8-1.2% DiNa EDTA 0.05-0.2% Ammonium Chloride
0.1-0.5% Potassium Citrate 0.08-0.5% Fragrance 0.1-0.2% Fragrance
0.1-0.2% Water Balance Water Balance DuPont 8838 20-22.2% DuPont
8838 20-22.2% Loading ratio 3.5-4:1 Loading ratio 3.5-4:1 Clorox B
Clorox Q Vantocil P 0.3% Bardac 4250 0.37% APG 0.5% Barlox 12 0.29%
Isopropanol 2.6% Isopropanol 4.8% PnB 1% DiNa EDTA 0.1% Ammonium
Chloride 0.1% Potassium Citrate 0.1% Fragrance 0.15% Fragrance
0.15% Water Balance Water Balance DuPont 8838 21.05% DuPont 8838
21.05% Loading ratio 3.75:1 Loading ratio 3.75:1
[0158] As illustrated in Table 5, both Clorox formulas exhibit
excellent micro efficacy properties. The micro efficacy properties
where as good as or better than the tested commercially available
products.
[0159] Tests were also conducted to determine the cleaning
effectiveness of the improved cleaning composition. Two different
sets of data were collected for determining the cleaning
effectiveness of the improved cleaning composition, namely filming
and streaking data, and soil removal data. Two different Clorox
formulations were used when testing the soil removal effectiveness
of the formulations, and three Clorox formulations were used when
testing the filming and streaking properties of the formulations.
These formulations were also successfully used on a variety of
absorbent and/or adsorbent materials (e.g. wipes, mop heads,
sponges, towels, etc.). Clorox Q and Q1 are quat containing
formulations. Clorox B is a biguanide compound containing
formulation. In each test, the Clorox formulations were compared to
Mr. Clean and Lysol cleaners. The test results of these data sets
are shown in Tables 6 and 7.
40TABLE 6 SOIL REMOVAL DATA Formula Sanders & Lambert Bathroom
Soil Kitchen Grease Clorox Q 2306.7 56 551.6 Clorox B 2391.3 120
692.5 Mr. Clean 2615 314.5 607.2 Lysol 1845.4 27.9 527.4 Sanders
& Lambert (Industry based soil) Bathroom Soil (Industry based
soil ASTM D5343-93) Kitchen Grease (Industry CSMA Based soil
DCC-12)
[0160]
41TABLE 7 FILMING AND STREAKING DATA Formula F&S Score Clorox Q
5.09 Lysol 5.14 Clorox B 2.8 Mr. Clean 7.17 Clorox Q1 5.16 * Lower
is better, less perceivable residue.
[0161] As illustrated in Table 6, both Clorox formulations
effectively removed a variety of different soils from a hard
surface. The number values in Table 6 represent the area under a
curve. The larger the area under the curve, the cleaner the surface
that was cleaned. In other words, the higher the number, the better
the cleaning. Both Clorox formulations out performed the Lysol
cleaner in each soil test. Both Clorox formulations also cleaned
the Sanders & Lambert soil and kitchen grease soil as well as
or better than Mr. Clean. Mr. Clean had better cleaning results for
the bathroom soil. In each test, Clorox B slightly outperformed
Clorox Q except in the bathroom soil test where Clorox B was
significantly better than Clorox Q. Although Mr. Clean performed
slightly better than the Clorox formulations in certain soil tests,
Mr. Clean did not effectively sanitize or sterilize the cleaned
surface as illustrated in Table 5. Therefore, the results in Table
6 illustrate that the Clorox formulations are a significant
improvement over prior cleaning compositions in that the Clorox
formulations effective clean a variety of soils and also sanitize
or sterilize such cleaned surface. Neither Mr. Clean or Lysol
exhibit such properties.
[0162] The Clorox formulations also exhibited excellent filming and
streaking characteristics. Clorox B had the best filming and
streaking characteristics. Clorox Q and Q1 had filming and
streaking characteristics that were similar to Lysol. Mr. Clean
exhibited by far the most filming and streaking of the cleaners
tested. The significantly reduced filming and streaking of Clorox B
is believed to be the result of the special combination of
biguanide compound and surfactant, or biguanide compound,
surfactant and solvent in the improved cleaning composition. The
specific biguanide compound used in Clorox B was Vantocil P;
however, it is believed that other biguanide compounds will produce
similar results. The surfactant used in Clorox B was a
polyglucoside, specifically an aklypolyglucoside. The solvent
included a lower alcohol and PnB. The combination of a quat with a
polyglucoside, lower alcohol and PnB was also tested in Clorox Q1,
but did not yield a F&S score that was nearly as low as the
biguanide compound formulation of Clorox B. The general formulation
for Clorox Q1 is set forth as follows:
42 Clorox Q1 BarQuat 205M 0.15-0.3% APG 0.4-0.6% Isopropanol 2-3%
PnB 0.8-1.2% Ammonium 0.1-0.5% Chloride Fragrance 0.1-0.2% Water
Balance DuPont 8838 20-22.2% Loading ratio 3.5-4:1
[0163] Another set of tests were conducted to ascertain the dermal
irritancy of the improved cleaning compositions. Three Clorox
formations were used. These formulations were also successfully
used on a variety of absorbent and/or adsorbent materials (e.g.
wipes, mop heads, sponges, towels, etc.). Clorox Q and Q2 include
about 0.2 weight percent quat and Clorox B included about 0.3
weight percent biguanide compound. The general formulation for
Clorox Q2' and the specific formulation of Clorox Q2 are set forth
as follows:
43 Clorox Q2' Clorox Q2 BarQuat 205M 0.15-0.3% BarQuat 205M 0.2%
Surfonic L108 0.3-0.5% Surfonic L108 0.35% Zonyl FSO 0.01-0.5%
Zonyl FSO 0.04% Isopropanol 2-3.5% Isopropanol 2.6% PnB 0.8-1.4%
PnB 1% DiK EDTA 0.06-1.5% DiK EDTA 0.1% Ammonium 0.08-0.5% Ammonium
0.1% Chloride Chloride Fragrance 0.1-0.2% Fragrance 0.15% Water
Balance Water Balance DuPont 8838 20-22.2% DuPont 8838 21.05%
Loading ratio 3.5-4:1 Loading ratio 3.75:1
[0164] The results of these tests are tabulated in Table 8 and
illustrated in FIG. 3.
44TABLE 8 MEAN DERMAL IRRITATION Formula 4 hours 24 hours 48 hours
72 hours 96 hours days Clorox 2.8 0.8 0.6 1.8 1.9 2.0 Q Clorox 0.7
1.7 2.3 3.3 4.0 2.0 Q2 Clorox 0 0.3 0.5 0.5 0.7 0 B
[0165] The test results reveal that Clorox B, which included a
higher concentration of biguanide compound than the concentration
of quat in Clorox Q and Q2, exhibited lower mean dermal irritation
scores that the two quat containing formulations. These
unanticipated results reveal that the biguanide compound containing
formulations induce significantly less dermal irritation without
compromising the cleaning and sanitizing or sterilizing properties
of the improved cleaning composition. As a result, the biguanide
compound containing formulations can be used in a wider range of
applications, especially where skin irritation is of concern.
[0166] Several formulations for the improved cleaning composition
were tested to determine the benefit of adding a polymer to the
improved cleaning composition. These formulations were successfully
used on a variety of absorbent and/or adsorbent materials (e.g.
wipes, mop heads, sponges, towels, etc.). The polymer used in this
series of tests was Gafquat 440. The tests revealed that the
improved cleaning composition that included a polymer resulted in
improved detergency. The formulations of the improved cleaning
composition and the Sanders & Lambert scores are set fort in
Table 9.
45TABLE 9 GAFQUAT ADDITION Clorox Composition A B C D E F Glucopon
325 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 Isopropanol 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
2.00 2.00 Dowanol PnP 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 Gafquat 440
0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0 Zonyl FSO 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04
Barquat 205M 0 0.02 0.02 0.035 0.035 0.035 Vantocil P 0.10 0.05
0.10 0.10 0.05 0.05 Fragrance 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 Balance
water Score 2160 2165 2166 2155 2152 1790 Glucopon 325 (Cognis)
-alkylpolyglucoside Dowanol PnP (Dow Chemical) - propyleneglycol
-propylether Gafquat 440 (ISP Corp.) - copolymer of
vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate quaternized
with diethylsulfate. Zonyl FSO (DuPont) - fluorochemical Barquat
205M (Lonza) - alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride Vantocil P
(Avecia) - poly(hexamethylene biguanide) hydrochloride *Higher
scores mean better cleaning
[0167] The results of the Sanders & Lambert test reveal that
the addition of Gafquat 440 to the improved cleaning composition
significantly improved the cleaning performance of the improved
cleaning composition. Further testing revealed a noticeable
detergency performance increase in the improved cleaning
composition when the improved cleaning composition included at
least about 0.02 weight percent Gafquat. Gafquat contents as high
as 10 weight percent also produced improved the cleaning
performance of the improved cleaning composition. Concentrations
that exceeded about 10 weight percent resulted in increased filming
and streaking of the improved cleaning composition. Testing also
revealed that the combination of Gafquat and APG resulted in
improved detergency. APG, a surfactant, provided detergency to the
improved cleaning composition without the inclusion of the Gafquat.
However, the detergency of the improved cleaning composition was
significantly enhanced when Gafquat was added in combination with
APG to the improved cleaning composition. Similar improvements in
detergency were also realized by the inclusion of other polymers in
the improved cleaning composition. Several of these polymers are
identified in Tables 10 and 11. Generally, the weight percent of
APG in the improved cleaning composition is about 0.02-5%.
[0168] Additional tests were conducted to compare the use of
various types of polymers in combination with detergency
surfactants such as APG. These formulations were also successfully
used on a variety of absorbent and/or adsorbent materials (e.g.
wipes, mop heads, sponges, towels, etc.). The test results are set
forth in Table 10.
46TABLE 10 VARIOUS POLYMER ADDITIONS Clorox Composition G H I J K L
M Glucopon 325 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 Isopropanol 2.00
2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 Dowanol PnP 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
1.00 1.00 Zonyl FSO 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 Barquat 205M 0.04 0.04
0.04 0.04 0.04 Vantocil P 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.02 0.10
Fragrance 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 Gafquat 440 0.10 0.05
0.06 Gafquat 755 0.20 Mirapol 550 0.20 Mirapol A-15 0.20 Balance
water Score 2075 1926 2166 1938 2037 1842 1979 Glucopon 325
(Cognis) -alkylpolyglucoside Dowanol PnP (Dow Chemical) -
propyleneglycol -propylether Zonyl FSO (DuPont) - fluorochemical
Barquat 205M (Lonza) - alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride
Vantocil P (Avecia) - poly(hexamethylene biguanide) hydrochloride
Gafquat 440 (ISP Corp.) - copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone and
dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate quaternized with diethylsulfate.
Gafquat 755 (ISP Corp.) Mirapol 550 (Rhone-Poulenc) Mirapol A-15
(Rhone-Poluenc)
[0169] The results from Table 10 reveal that polymers other than
Gafquat effectively work in combination with detergency surfactants
to significantly improved the detergency of the improved cleaning
composition. The results in Table 10 also reveal that the addition
of a fluorosurfactant such as Zonyl FSO can also improve the
detergency of the improved cleaning composition. As shown in
Formulation L, the improved cleaning composition is absent polymer
and fluorosurfactant. The Sanders & Lambert score for
Formulation L was the lowest of the test formulations. An increase
in the Sanders & Lambert score was obtained by adding a polymer
to the improved cleaning composition as shown in Formulation M. The
inclusion of fluorosurfactant in several of the formulations
resulted in a significant increase in the Sanders & Lambert
score.
[0170] Table 11 illustrates several formulations for the improved
cleaning composition that were used in combination with a cleaning
wipe and other types of absorbent and/or adsorbent materials, and
which provided effective contact disinfection on hard surfaces such
as tiles. These formulations also resulted in effective detergency
of the improved cleaning composition.
47TABLE 11 MORE POLYMER ADDITIONS Clorox Composition N O P Q R S T
U V Glucopon 325 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Isopropanol 2.60 2.60 2.60 2.60 2.60 2.60 2.60 2.60 2.60 Dowanol
PnP 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 Vantocil P 0.30
0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 Ammonium chloride 0.10 0.10
0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 Defoamer 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05
0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 Fragrance 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15
0.15 0.15 0.15 Airvol 24-203 1.00 Aquamere H-1212 1.00 Cyanamer
-100L 1.00 Diaformer Z-712 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 PVP-K90 1.00 Syntran
HX52-1-1 1.00 Balance water Glucopon 325 (Cognis)
-alkylpolyglucoside Dowanol PnP (Dow Chemical) - propyleneglycol
-propylether Vantocil P (Avecia) - poly(hexamethylene biguanide)
hydrochloride Airvol 24-203 (Air Products) - polyvinylalcohol
Aquamere H-1212 (Hydromer) - PVP/Polyurethane Cyanamer N-100L
(Cytec Industries) - polyacrylamide Diaformer Z-712 (Clariant) -
methacryloylethyl-oxide/methacrylates copolymer PVP-K90 (VWR
Scientific) - polyvinylpyrrolidone Syntran HX52-1-1 (Interpolymer)
- quaternary acrylic copolymer
[0171] The test results from Table 11 reveal that various types of
polymers can be effectively used in the improved cleaning
composition without adversely affecting the biocidal efficacy of
the improved cleaning composition. The formulations in Table 11
also resulted in an improved cleaning composition that had improved
detergency and/or reduced filming and streaking.
[0172] The improved cleaning composition can include a variety of
surfactants and/or builders. Several formulations which incorporate
the use of a few of these surfactants and/or builders are set forth
in Table 12.
48TABLE 12 VARIOUS SURFACTANTS /BUILDERS Clorox Composition W X Y Z
A1 Glucopon 325 0.02 Neodol 91-8 0.02 Barlox 12 0.02 Dowanol PM
2.00 2.00 2.00 2 00 2.00 Dowanol DB 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Gafquat 440 0.02 0.02 0.02 Chlorhexidine 0.02 0.02 0.02 Vantocil P
0.02 0.02 DMAMP 80 0.05 Diammonium EDTA 1.00 Balance water Glucopon
325 (Cognis) -alkylpolyglucoside Neodol 91-8 (Shell Chemical) -
alkylethoxylate Barlox 12 (Lonza) - amineoxide Dowanol PM (Dow
Chemical) - propyleneglycol methylether Dowanol DB (Dow Chemical) -
diethyleneglycol butylether Gafquat 440 (ISP Corp.) - copolymer of
vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate quaternized
with diethylsulfate. Chlorhexidine (Aldrich Chemical) Vantocil P
(Avecia) - poly(hexamethylene biguanide) hydrochloride DMAMP-80
(Angus Company) - 2-dimethylamino-2-methyl-1-propanol Diammonium
EDTA (Aldrich Chemical)
[0173] The formulations of the improved cleaning composition set
forth in Table 12 produced compositions stable compositions which
had effective detergency and reduced filming and streaking. These
formulations were successfully used on a variety of absorbent
and/or adsorbent materials (e.g. wipes, mop heads, sponges, towels,
etc.).
[0174] Several formulations of the improved cleaning composition
were tested to illustrate the improved cleaning performance when
using a dual boiling point solvent system in the improved cleaning
composition. These formulations were successfully used on a variety
of absorbent and/or adsorbent materials (e.g. wipes, mop heads,
sponges, towels, etc.). The results of these tests are set forth in
Tables 13 and 14.
49TABLE 13 DUAL SOLVENT CLEANING PERFORMANCE Clorox Composition B1
C1 D1 E1 F1 G1 Glucopon 325 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Isopropanol 1.00 0.50 Ethanol 0.50 Dowanol PM 0.50 Dowanol PnP 0.50
Dowanol DPnB 0.50 0.50 Dowanol DB 0.50 0.50 Gafquat 440 0.20 0.20
0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 Vantocil P 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Balance water Relative 1 1 4 2 4 3 Performance on Sanders &
Lambert Glucopon 325 (Cognis) -alkylpolyglucoside Dowanol PM (Dow
Chemical) - propyleneglycol methylether Dowanol PnP (Dow Chemical)
- propyleneglycol n-propylether Dowanol DPnB (Dow Chemical) -
dipropyleneglycol n-butylether Dowanol DB (Dow Chemical) -
diethyleneglycol butylether Gafquat 440 (ISP Corp.) - copolymer of
vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate quaternized
with diethylsulfate. Vantocil P (Avecia) - poly(hexamethylene
biguanide) hydrochloride *Performance - 1 indicates best
performance and 4 indicates worst performance.
[0175] The formulations of the improved cleaning composition set
forth Table 13 illustrate the improved cleaning performance of the
improved cleaning composition when a dual boiling point solvent
system is included in the improved cleaning composition. The
formulations set forth in Table 14 illustrate the reduced filming
and streaking of the improved cleaning composition when a dual
boiling point solvent system is included in the improved cleaning
composition.
50TABLE 14 DUAL SOLVENT FILMING/STREAKING PERFORMANCE Lemon Citrus
Scent Scent Lysol Lysol Dis- Disinfec- infec- tant Anti- tant All
bacterial Purpose Kitchen Composition H1 I1 J1 K1 L1 Cleaner
Cleaner Glucopon 325 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 Isopropanol 0.50 0.50
1.00 Dowanol PM 0.50 Dowanol PnP 0.50 0.50 Dowanol DB 0.50 0.50
Gafquat 440 0.20 0 0.20 0.20 0.20 Vantocil P 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
0.10 Balance water Filming/ 5 5 5 10 10 10 7 Streaking Glucopon 325
(Cognis) -alkylpolyglucoside Dowanol PM (Dow Chemical) -
propyleneglycol methylether Dowanol PnP (Dow Chemical) -
propyleneglycol n-propylether Dowanol DB (Dow Chemical) -
diethyleneglycol butylether Gafquat 440 (ISP Corp.) - copolymer of
vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate quaternized
with diethylsulfate. Vantocil P (Avecia) - poly(hexamethylene
biguanide) hydrochloride *Filming/streaking scores of 10 indicate
worse filming/streaking than lower scores.
[0176] The formulations of the improved cleaning composition
illustrated in Table 14 were compared to two different Lysol
products. All of the tested formulations were applied to black
tile, and tested for filming/streaking using an absorbent pad.
These formulations were successfully used on a variety of absorbent
and/or adsorbent materials (e.g. wipes, mop heads, sponges, towels,
etc.). The results of the test reveal the benefit of using a dual
solvent system in the improved cleaning composition, with or
without polymer.
II. Other Types of Cleaners
[0177] The improved cleaning composition is particularly applicable
for use with hard surfaces; however, the improved cleaning
composition can be formulated for use in other types of cleaners.
As can be appreciated, the various applications for the improved
cleaning composition include, but are not limited to, domestic and
industrial applications. Several applications include, but are not
limited to, power wash solutions, deck cleaners; vehicle cleaners,
house siding cleaners; fire arm cleaners; and the like. Depending
on the particular application for the improved cleaning
composition, the cleaning composition can be formulated to
disinfect, sanitize, and/or sterilize. As can be appreciated, the
improved cleaning composition can be used in many other types of
applications that require cleaning, and disinfecting, sanitizing,
and/or sterilizing of a surface.
[0178] As with hard surface formulations, the improved cleaning
composition can be in concentrated form or ready-to-use form. The
improved cleaning composition can be in gas, liquid, paste, gel, or
solid form. The improved cleaning composition can be dispensed from
a liquid container, an aerosol container, a container for holding
crystals or a paste, and the like. The improved cleaning
composition can be preloaded onto an absorbent and/or adsorbent
material.
[0179] The basic components of the improved cleaning composition
when used other applications include:
[0180] (I) cationic biocide; and,
[0181] (ii) surfactant and/or biocide release agent.
[0182] The cationic biocide, surfactant, and/or biocide release
agent used in the improved cleaning composition can be the same or
similar compounds used in the improved cleaning composition for
hard surfaces. The cationic biocide (e.g., biguanide compound,
quat, etc.) in the improved cleaning composition is used at least
in part to enhance the disinfecting, sanitizing, and/or sterilizing
attributes of the improved cleaning composition. The biocide
release agent in the improved cleaning composition is used at least
in part to reduce or prevent the retention of the cationic biocide
on an absorbent and/or adsorbent surface.
[0183] The improved cleaning composition can also include buffering
and pH adjusting agents, fragrances or perfumes, waxes, dyes and/or
colorants, solubilizing materials, stabilizers, thickeners,
defoamers, hydrotropes, lotions and/or mineral oils, enzymes,
bleaching agents, cloud point modifiers, preservatives, ion
exchangers, alkalies, anticorrosion materials, antiredeposition
materials, optical brighteners, chelating agents, enzymes,
whiteners, brighteners, antistatic agents, sudsing control agents,
hydrotropes, bleach precursors, soil removal agents, anti-dye
transfer agents, soil release agents, softening agents, opacifiers,
inert diluents, graying inhibitors, stabilizers, and/or
polymers.
[0184] A one general formulation of the improved cleaning
composition in weight percent is as follows:
51 Cationic Biocide 0.02-20% Biocide Release Agent 0.025-90% Water
less than about 99.95%
[0185] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
[0186] Another general formulation of the improved cleaning
composition in weight percent is as follows:
52 Cationic Biocide 0.02-20% Surfactant 0.05-99% Water less than
about 99.95%
[0187] Several specific, nonlimiting, examples of the improved
cleaning composition in weight percent are as follows.
EXAMPLE 33
[0188]
53 Biocide 0.02-10% Biocide release agent 0.03-10% Builder/solvent/
0-99% Surfactant Water 0-99.95%
[0189] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 34
[0190]
54 Biocide 0.05-5% Biocide release agent 0.03-10% Builder/solvent/
0.001-75% Surfactant Water at least 10%
[0191] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 35
[0192]
55 Biocide 0.02-5% Biocide release agent 0.03-5% Builder/solvent/
0-27% Surfactant Water at least 60%
[0193] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 5.times.10.sup.-3 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 36
[0194]
56 Biocide 0.1-2% Biocide release agent 0.08-3% Builder/solvent/
0.015-35% Surfactant Water at least 60%
[0195] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 1.times.10.sup.-2 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 37
[0196]
57 Biocide 0.04-2% Biocide release agent 0.05-2.5% Builder/solvent/
0.05-17% Surfactant Water at least 78.5%
[0197] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
at least about 1.times.10.sup.-2 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 38
[0198]
58 Biocide 0.15-0.8% Biocide release agent 0.1-2.5%
Builder/solvent/ 0.085-12.8% Surfactant Water at least 80%
[0199] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
about 2.times.10.sup.-2-1 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 39
[0200]
59 Biocide 0.1-2% Biocide release agent 0.1-2% Builder/solvent/
0.2-10% Surfactant Water at least 86%
[0201] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
about 2.times.10.sup.-2-1 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 40
[0202]
60 Biocide 0.2-0.5% Biocide release agent 0.5-2% Builder/solvent/
2.95-9.3% Surfactant Water at least 85%
[0203] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
about 3.times.10.sup.-2-0.4 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 41
[0204]
61 Biocide 0.1-1% Biocide release agent 0.1-2% Builder/solvent/
2-10% Surfactant Water at least 87%
[0205] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
about 3.times.10.sup.-2-0.4 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 42
[0206]
62 Biocide 0.25-0.4% Biocide release agent 0.75-1.8%
Builder/solvent/ 3.07-5.65% Surfactant Water at least 85%
[0207] wherein the ionic strength of the biocide release agent is
about 4.times.10.sup.-2-0.2 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 43
[0208]
63 Biocide 0.02-10% Builder/solvent/ 0-99% Surfactant/biocide
release agent Water 0-99.95%
EXAMPLE 44
[0209]
64 Biocide 0.05-5% Builder/solvent/ 0.001-75% Surfactant/biocide
release agent Water at least 10%
EXAMPLE 45
[0210]
65 Biocide 0.02-5% Builder/solvent/ 0-27% Surfactant/biocide
release agent Water at least 60%
EXAMPLE 46
[0211]
66 Biocide 0.1-2% Builder/solvent/ 0.015-35% Surfactant/biocide
release agent Water at least 60%
EXAMPLE 47
[0212]
67 Biocide 0.04-2% Builder/solvent/ 0.05-17% Surfactant/biocide
release agent Water at least 78.5%
EXAMPLE 48
[0213]
68 BARQUAT 4250Z 0.3-0.4% Potassium Citrate 0.09-1.1% Disodium EDTA
0.09-0.15% Isopropanol 0-5% Lauryl Dimethyl 0.2-0.4% Amine Oxide
Fragrance 0-1% Water at least 90%
[0214] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 49
[0215]
69 Vantocil P 0.1-0.5% Isopropanol 0-5% PnB (glycol ether) 0.5-2%
Surfactant 0-1.5% Ammonium Chloride 0.05-1% Dipotassium EDTA 0-0.5%
Fragrance 0-1% Water at least 89.5%
[0216] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.5.times.10.sup.-2-5.times.10.sup.-2
mol/l.
EXAMPLE 50
[0217]
70 BTC 2250 0.3-0.4% Sodium Citrate 0.9-1.1% DiPotassium EDTA
0-0.15% Isopropanol 0-5% Lauryl Dimethyl 0.2-0.4% Amine Oxide Water
at least 90%
[0218] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about
3.75.times.10.sup.-2-5.4.times.10.sup.-2 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 51
[0219]
71 Vantocil P 0.15-0.5% Isopropanol 0.1-4% PnB (glycol ether)
0.5-1.5% Surfactant 0-1.5% Ammonium Chloride 0.05-1% Dipotassium
EDTA 0-0.3% Fragrance 0-1% Water at least 90%
[0220] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about
3.75.times.10.sup.-2-5.4.times.10.sup.-2 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 52
[0221]
72 BTC 2250 0.05-0.4% Vantocil P 0.05-0.4% Sodium Citrate 0.2-2%
DiPotassium EDTA 0-0.5% PnB (glycol ether) 0-2% Surfactant 0-2%
Isopropanol 0-5% Lauryl Dimethyl 0-1% Amine Oxide Water at least
90%
[0222] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about
3.75.times.10.sup.2-5.4.times.10.sup.-2 mol/l.
EXAMPLE 53
[0223]
73 BARQUAT 205M 0.1-0.3% Ammonium Chloride 0.05-0.4% DiPotassium
EDTA 0.3-0.5% PnB (glycol ether) 1-2% Surfactant 0.2-1% Isopropanol
0-4% Lauryl Dimethyl 0-1% Amine Oxide Fragrance 0-1% Water at least
90%
[0224] wherein the ionic strength of the salts in the improved
cleaning composition is about 3.75.times.10.sup.-2
5.4.times.10.sup.-2 mol/l.
[0225] The invention has been described with reference to a
preferred embodiment and alternates thereof. It is believed that
many modifications and alterations to the embodiments disclosed
will readily suggest itself to those skilled in the art upon
reading and understanding the detailed description of the
invention. It is intended to include all such modifications and
alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present
invention.
* * * * *