U.S. patent application number 10/745087 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-23 for method of replacing solvent from in-home dry cleaning machine.
This patent application is currently assigned to Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, Division of Conopco, Inc.. Invention is credited to Goldoni, Francesca, Murphy, Dennis Stephen, Orchowski, Michael, Overdevest, Pieter E. M., Van Kralingen, Kees.
Application Number | 20050132502 10/745087 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34679051 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050132502 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Goldoni, Francesca ; et
al. |
June 23, 2005 |
Method of replacing solvent from in-home dry cleaning machine
Abstract
The present invention relates to a method of eliminating the
need to have a track or other delivery service bring solvent to a
home where a dry cleaning machine using said solvent is used.
Instead, the method involves a method of first monitoring or having
monitored level of solvent used and then ordering or obtaining said
solvent in a consumer package or kit wherein the solvent can then
be directly applied by the consumer or other to a receptacle where
said solvent is kept.
Inventors: |
Goldoni, Francesca;
(Vlaardingen, NL) ; Van Kralingen, Kees;
(Vlaardingen, NL) ; Murphy, Dennis Stephen;
(Wyckoff, NJ) ; Orchowski, Michael; (East
Rutherford, NJ) ; Overdevest, Pieter E. M.;
(Vlaardingen, NL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
UNILEVER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY GROUP
700 SYLVAN AVENUE,
BLDG C2 SOUTH
ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS
NJ
07632-3100
US
|
Assignee: |
Unilever Home & Personal Care
USA, Division of Conopco, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
34679051 |
Appl. No.: |
10/745087 |
Filed: |
December 23, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
8/142 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 43/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
008/142 |
International
Class: |
D06F 001/00 |
Claims
We claim:
1. Method of maintaining or replacing solvent used in an in-home
dry cleaning machine which comprises: (1) monitoring or having
monitored level of solvent present to determine whether it is below
a desired level; (2) ordering or obtaining at a point of purchase
an amount of solvent small enough to be carried in a consumer
package or kit; and (3) applying or having applied, directly from
said solvent containing consumer package or kit to a receptacle or
container where said solvent is kept, sufficient solvent to replace
lost or wasted solvent.
2. A method according to claim 1, where ordering is done by phone
or internet.
3. A method according to claim 1, where consumer package or kit
with solvent is purchased at a store or other consumer outlet.
4. A kit for replacing solvent which is used in a home dry cleaning
machine.
5. A method of claim 1, wherein said solvent is siloxane
solvent.
6. A method of claim 5, wherein said solvent is part of a dry
cleaning composition comprising surfactant and said solvent.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to in-home dry cleaning
machines and process and, in particular, to methods and kits for
the home consumer to replace solvent lost during the dry cleaning
process.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Dry cleaning process for cleaning laundry articles are those
in which an organic solvent, rather than water, is used as the
primary medium for cleaning articles. In general, dry cleaning
helps avoid damage which may be associated with aqueous washing
(e.g., shrinkage, dye transfer).
[0003] The prior art discloses dry cleaning process and machines,
which can be used by a consumer in his or her home. (See for
example, WO 01/94675, assigned to P&G). Typically such dry
cleaning machines use a dry cleaning solvent (e.g., typically a
non-flammable, non-chlorine containing organic dry cleaning solvent
or mixture of solvents).
[0004] The dry cleaning solvent composition is typically a
composition comprising, in addition to solvent, small amounts of
surfactant (as described for example in U.S. Pat. No. 6,623,530 to
Murphy et al); and the composition is contacted with a fabric
article (any article that is customarily cleaned in a conventional
laundry process or in a dry cleaning process; the term comprises
articles of clothing, linens, drapery and clothing accessories and
also encompasses items made in whole or in part of fabric such as
tote bags, furniture covers, tarpaulins and the like).
[0005] After the articles are contacted with the dry cleaning
solvent composition, a certain amount of solvent is used up by the
process and the solvent is said to be "spent". For example, solvent
is often deposited and left on the article being dry cleaned during
processing. A certain amount of the solvent is also lost as it
becomes part of the waste product (a combination of spent solvent,
spent surfactant, lint, oils, etc.) and some is lost going through
filters (e.g., filters separating solid and liquid waste) and/or in
receptacles holding the waste. Some of the solvent may be separated
from the waste product and thus be "regenerated" for additional
use. However, overall, the amount of solvent is depleted and some
or all must be replaced after multiple uses.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 6,247,340 to Lindquist et al. discloses the
use of carbon dioxide from a low-pressure vessel to "top off" a
higher pressure-cleaning vessel. With regard to transfer of liquid
CO2 from such tank 135 to the high pressure storing tank, this is
done automatically via a pressure differential. As to the low
pressure supply tank, this is filled periodically from a mobile
tank (e.g., truck) every few weeks. Thus, the system is clearly
driven by delivery of solvent (CO2) from a truck rather than by a
distribution system that allows a consumer to replace solvent
themselves (e.g., by purchasing at store, ordering by phone or
internet, etc. such that the replenished solvent is physically
delivered into the dry cleaning apparatus by the consumer him or
herself.
[0007] U.S., Pat. No. 6,248,136 to McClain et al. discloses a
distribution system whereby (a) a concentrated detergent and, (b) a
dry cleaning solvent are separately delivered and are mixed at the
site where by will be used (e.g., dry cleaning establishment). The
solvent is still delivered, however, and there is no teaching or
suggestion of a distribution system whereby a home dry-cleaning
customer orders (e.g., via internet, telephone) or buys solvent him
or herself and tops off lost solvent from a home dry cleaning
machine.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention relates to precisely a machine for a
home customer to monitor his or herself (e.g., perhaps through an
indicator or alarm) whether solvent needs to be replenished and if
so, to replace the solvent themselves. In one embodiment, this can
be by placing an order on, for example, phone or internet. In
another embodiment, this can be by purchasing at a store where
solvent may be sold. In another embodiment, the customer may
purchase a kit comprising said solvent and optionally additionally
comprising filters or other parts which may be needed to maintain
the home dry cleaning machine.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Definitions
[0010] The term "dry cleaning process" used herein is intended to
mean any process wherein laundry articles are contacted with a dry
cleaning composition within a closable vessel. However, as used
herein this term does not include any process comprising steps
wherein the laundry articles are also immersed and rinsed in an
aqueous cleaning composition comprising more than 80 wt. % water
because this would damage garments that can only be dry
cleaned.
[0011] The term "dry cleaning composition" as used herein is
intended to mean the composition used in the dry cleaning process
including the dry cleaning solvent, any surfactant, cleaning agents
but excluding the laundry articles that are to be cleaned.
[0012] The term "organic dry cleaning solvent" as used herein is
intended to mean any non-aqueous solvent that preferably has a
liquid phase at 20.degree. C. and standard pressure. The term
organic has its usual meaning, i.e., a compound with at least one
carbon hydrogen bond.
[0013] The term "laundry article" or "fabric article" as used
herein is typically a garment but may include any textile article.
Textile articles include--but are not limited to--those made from
natural fibers such as cotton, wool, linen, hemp, silk and man made
fibers such as nylon, viscose, acetate, polyester, polyamide,
polypropylene elastomer, natural or synthetic leather, natural or
synthetic fur and mixtures thereof.
[0014] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method
of replacing solvent from in-home dry cleaning machines which
method comprises:
[0015] 1) the home consumer ordering or buying the solvent
replenishment him or herself, and
[0016] 2) applying him or herself the required solvent to a
receptacle or container where solvent is kept.
[0017] The consumer can buy such replacement at a store or outlet
or can order, for example by phone or internet, that the
replacement solvent be delivered to his or her home. Presumably,
solvent will be bought/delivered in a receptacle or container
whereby the consumer can readily open and pour the solvent by
themselves. In one embodiment, the solvent may be sold as a refill
packet or container where it may be possible to simply detach the
previous container from the machine or machine feed and replace
with the new part.
[0018] The distribution system of the invention allows consumers to
have a self-packaged, single dose (i.e., for one household) amount
of solvent rather than have a delivery vehicle or truck carrying
large amounts of solvent drive around for periodic solvent
delivery.
[0019] In another embodiment, the solvent package may be sold as
part of a kit wherein the kit may comprise such a solvent package
and instructions for use/replenishment in home dry cleaning
machines, or may comprise a solvent package in combination with one
or more parts (e.g., filters, pumps) which may need replacement in
the dry cleaning machine.
[0020] In another embodiment of the invention, the solvent
dispenser/container may be fitted with an alarm or monitor which
monitors the amount of solvent left in the container and indicates
to the consumer (e.g., with a sound or flashing light, or with
colored indicator) that solvent quantity is low and will need
replenishment.
[0021] According to the process of the invention, a dry cleaning
process is provided for in-home dry cleaning comprising a low
and/or non-aqueous dry cleaning step of contacting a fabric article
with a low and/or non-aqueous dry cleaning composition, wherein
said composition comprises a non-flammable, non-chlorine containing
organic dry cleaning solvent, water and surfactant.
[0022] One example of a composition which may be used with fabric
articles is:
[0023] a) 0.001 to 10 wt. % surfactant;
[0024] b) 0 to 50 wt. % water;
[0025] c) 0 to 50 wt. % of a cosolvent, and
[0026] d) a non-flammable, non-chlorine containing organic dry
cleaning solvent.
[0027] The fabric may be treated in low aqueous step dry cleaning
step, non-aqueous dry cleaning step, rinsing step, etc.
[0028] The laundry articles in need of treatment are placed inside
a closable vessel. It will be clear that the process is also
suitable for cleaning one laundry article at the time although it
will often be more efficient to clean more articles at the same
time. Preferably, the vessel is a rotatable drum as part of an
automated dry cleaning machine that is closed or sealed in such a
way that the dry cleaning solvent can be contained within the
machine if needed. Inside the vessel, the laundry articles are then
contacted with the dry cleaning composition. This may be done in
any way known in the art such as spraying or even using a mist.
[0029] In some cases it may be useful to formulate the dry cleaning
composition in situ in the drum by contacting the different
ingredients of the dry cleaning composition separately with the
laundry articles. For example--when the dry cleaning composition
comprises dry cleaning solvent, water and surfactant--first water,
then surfactant followed by the dry cleaning solvent. Or first the
dry cleaning solvent, followed by the surfactant and then water. Or
any other order.
[0030] Alternatively, 2 or more of the ingredients may be premixed
before they are contacted with the laundry articles. For example,
water and surfactant may be premixed and this premix is then
contacted with the laundry followed by the dry cleaning solvent. In
the alternate, dry cleaning solvent and surfactant may be premixed
and this premix is then contacted with the laundry followed by
water.
[0031] Thus, in one aspect, in situ formulation of the dry cleaning
composition may also be provided by incorporating one or more
ingredients of the dry cleaning composition into a pretreatment
composition, pretreating the laundry articles with the pretreatment
composition, contacting the laundry articles with the pretreatment
composition, contacting the laundry articles with the remaining
ingredients of the dry cleaning composition thereby formulating the
dry cleaning composition in situ. This pretreatment may take place
manually outside the drum or mechanically inside the drum as part
of a pretreatment step. The pretreatment step per se need not be
immersive, i.e., it may be limited to treating the stained areas
only provided that when the laundry articles are contacted with all
the ingredients making up the final dry cleaning composition, the
laundry articles are immersed in said dry cleaning composition. For
example--when the dry cleaning composition comprises of dry
cleaning solvent, water and surfactant--stained areas of the
laundry articles may be pre-treated with a premix of water and
surfactant manually or by an automated process. After effective
pretreatment time is allowed, the laundry articles may be contacted
in the drum with the remaining ingredients such as in this case,
the dry cleaning solvent (and optionally the remaining amounts of
water and cleaning agent) to result in situ in the dry cleaning
composition according to this aspect of the invention. The
pretreatment time will be at least 5 sec but could be less than 1
day, preferably less than 1 hr, more preferably less than 30 min.
The pretreatment composition may be formulated to treat specific
stains. For example cleaning effective amounts of protease and
other enzymes may be included to treat proteinacious stains.
[0032] In another embodiment, the complete dry cleaning composition
is premixed in a separate premix compartment. For example, when the
dry cleaning composition comprises dry cleaning solvent, surfactant
and water, these may be premixed in a separate compartment before
the dry cleaning composition is contacted with the laundry article.
Preferably such a premix is in the form of an emulsion or
microemulsion.
[0033] Forming a premix of for example a water-in-oil emulsion can
be brought about by any number of suitable procedures. For example,
the aqueous phase containing a cleaning effective amount of
surfactant package can be contacted with the solvent phase by
metered injection just prior to a suitable mixing device. Metering
is preferably maintained such that the desired solvent/water ratio
remains relatively constant. Mixing devices such as pump assemblies
or in-line static mixers, a centrifugal pump or other type of pump,
a colloid mill or other type of mill, a rotary mixer, an ultrasonic
mixer and other means of dispersing one liquid in another,
non-miscible liquid can be used to provide effective agitation to
cause emulsification.
[0034] These static mixers are devices through which the emulsion
is passed at high speed and in which said emulsion experiences
sudden changes in direction and/or in the diameter of the channels
which make up the interior of the mixers. This results in a
pressure loss, which is a factor in obtaining a correct emulsion in
terms of droplet size and stability.
[0035] In one variant of the method of the invention, the mixing
steps are for example sequential. The procedure consists in mixing
the solvent and emulsifier in a first stage, the premix being mixed
and emulsified with the water in a second stage.
[0036] In another variant of the method of the invention, provision
is made for carrying out the above steps in a continuous mode.
[0037] The premix may take place at room temperature, which is also
the temperature of the fluids and raw materials used.
[0038] A batch process such as an overhead mixer or a continuous
process such as a two fluid co-extrusion nozzle, an in-line
injector, an in-line mixer or an in-line screen can be used to make
the emulsion. The size of the emulsion composition in the final
composition can be manipulated by changing the mixing speed, mixing
time, the mixing device and the viscosity of the aqueous solution.
In general, by reducing the mixing speed, decreasing the mixing
time, lowering the viscosity of the aqueous solution or using a
mixing device that produces less shear force during mixing, one can
produce an emulsion of a larger droplet size. Especially preferred
are ultrasonic mixers. Although the description above refers to the
addition of surfactant it is understood it may also apply to the
addition of cleaning agents.
[0039] While the laundry articles are in contact with the dry
cleaning solvent, it is preferred to add mechanical energy for
example by agitating or tumbling the laundry articles by rotating
the drum or other means known in the art. Usually after one step,
the dry cleaning solvent including any cleaning agents and/or
loosened soil will be separated from the laundry articles. This is
preferably done by spinning the laundry articles and collecting the
dry cleaning composition, although other separation methods known
in the art may also be employed such as evaporation. The dry
cleaning solvent is then preferably recycled by separating the soil
and/or cleaning agents from the solvent.
[0040] In other instances it may be advantageous to recirculate at
least part of the dry cleaning composition during one step. For
example by separating a portion of the dry cleaning composition
from the laundry articles, optionally filtering soil from the
separated portion of dry cleaning composition and contacting the
laundry articles with the filtered portion of the dry cleaning
composition.
[0041] The surfactants, dry cleaning solvents, cosolvents and
optional cleaning agents used in present invention are described
below and may be the same or different for each step of the
inventive process.
[0042] The dry cleaning is usually performed at atmospheric
pressure and room temperature, between 10 and 30.degree. C. in most
countries. In some instances the process temperature may be
elevated to just under the boiling point of the most volatile dry
cleaning solvent used. Sometimes the process may be performed under
reduced or elevated pressure, typically achieved via a vacuum pump
or by supplying a gas, such as nitrogen, to the apparatus thereby
increasing the pressure the closable vessel. The dry cleaning
process may be carried out in any suitable apparatus. Preferably,
the apparatus will comprise a closable vessel and means to recycle
the dry cleaning solvents used to minimize solvent losses into the
environment. The dry cleaning composition may be in the form of a
micro-emulsion but usually will be in the form of a macro-emulsion,
which is generally accepted to be thermodynamically unstable. A
suitable process and appliance for dry cleaning is described in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,588. The solvent will preferably be filtered
and recycled in the same appliance. Generally, the laundry articles
will be agitated in the dry cleaning process by tumbling, rotating,
ultrasonics or any suitable type of mechanical energy (see U.S.
Pat. No. 6,045,588).
[0043] Still other advantages and novel features of the present
invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the
following detailed description, which presents, by way of
illustration, various exemplary modes contemplated for carrying out
the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of
other different aspects and objects all without departing from the
invention. Accordingly, advantages, aspects, and descriptions are
illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
[0044] Dry Cleaning Solvent
[0045] The dry cleaning solvent is usually a non-flammable,
non-chlorine containing organic dry cleaning solvent. Although the
term dry cleaning solvent is used in the singular, it should be
noted that a mixture of solvents may also be used. Thus, the
singular should be taken to encompass the plural, and vice versa.
Because of the typical environmental problems associated with
chlorine containing solvents, the solvent preferably does not
contain Cl atoms. In addition, the solvent should not be flammable
such as most petroleum or mineral spirits having typical flash
points as low as 20.degree. C. or even lower. The term
non-flammable is intended to describe dry cleaning solvents with a
flash point of at least 37.8.degree. C., more preferably at least
45.degree. C., most preferably at least 50.degree. C. The limit of
a flashpoint of at least 37.8.degree. C. for non-flammable liquids
is defined in NFPA 30, the Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
as issued by National Fire Protection Association, 1996 edition,
Massachusetts USA. Preferred test methods for determining the flash
point of solvents are the standard tests as described in NFPA30.
One preferable class of solvents is a fluorinated organic dry
cleaning solvent including hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) and
hydrofluoroether (HFE). However even more preferred are non
flammable non-halogenated solvents. For example other classes of
suitable highly preferred solvents are siloxanes and hydrocarbons
(see below). It should be noted that mixtures of different dry
cleaning solvents may also be used.
[0046] The most desirable solvents are non-ozone depleting and a
useful common definition for the ozone depleting potential is
defined by the Environmental Protection Agency in the USA: the
ozone depleting potential is the ratio of the impact on ozone of a
chemical compared to the impact of a similar mass of CFC-11. Thus,
the ODP of CFC-11 is defined to be 1.0.
[0047] Hydrofluorocarbons
[0048] One preferred hydrofluorocarbon solvent is represented by
the formula CxHyF(2x+2-y), wherein x is from 3 to 8, y is from 1 to
6, the mole ratio of F/H in the hydrofluorocarbon solvent is
greater than 1.6.
[0049] Preferably, x is from 4 to 6 and most preferred x is 5 and y
is 2.
[0050] Especially suitable are hydrofluorocarbon solvents selected
from isomers of decafluoropentane and mixtures thereof. In
particular useful is 1,1,1,2,2,3,4,5,5,5-decafluoropentane. The
E.I. Du Pont De Nemours and Company markets this compound under the
name Vertrel XF.TM..
[0051] Hydrofluoroethers
[0052] Hydrofluoroethers (HFEs) suitable for use in the present
invention are generally low polarity chemical compounds minimally
containing carbon, fluorine, hydrogen, and catenary (that is,
in-chain) oxygen atoms. HFEs can optionally contain additional
catenary heteroatoms, such as nitrogen and sulphur. HFEs have
molecular structures which can be linear, branched, or cyclic, or a
combination thereof (such as alkylcycloaliphatic), and are
preferably free of ethylenic unsaturation, having a total of about
4 to about 20 carbon atoms. Such HFEs are known and are readily
available, either as essentially pure compounds or as mixtures.
[0053] Preferred hydrofluoroethers can have a boiling point in the
range from about 40.degree. C. to about 275.degree. C., preferably
from about 50.degree. C. to about 200.degree. C., even more
preferably from about 50.degree. C. to about 121.degree. C. It is
very desirable that the hydrofluoroether has no flashpoint. In
general, when a HFE has a flash point, decreasing the F/H ratio or
decreasing the number of carbon-carbon bonds each decreases the
flash point of the HFE (see WO/00 26206).
[0054] Useful hydrofluoroethers include two varieties: segregated
hydrofluoroethers and omega-hydrofluoroalkylethers. Structurally,
the segregated hydrofluoroethers comprise at least one mono-, di-,
or trialkoxy-substituted perfluoroalkane, perfluorocycloalkane,
perfluorocycloalkyl-containing perfluoroalkane, or
perfluorocycloalkylene-containing perfluoroalkane compound.
[0055] HFEs suitable for use in the processes of the invention
include the following compounds:
[0056] C.sub.4F.sub.9OC.sub.2F.sub.4H
[0057] HC.sub.3F.sub.6OC.sub.3F.sub.6H
[0058] HC.sub.3F.sub.60CH.sub.3
[0059] C.sub.5F.sub.11OC.sub.2F.sub.4H
[0060] C.sub.6F.sub.13OCF.sub.2H
[0061] C.sub.6F.sub.13OC.sub.2F.sub.4OC.sub.2F.sub.4H
[0062] c-C.sub.6F.sub.11CF.sub.2OCF.sub.2H
[0063] C.sub.3F.sub.7OCH.sub.2F
[0064] HCF.sub.2O(C.sub.2F.sub.4O)n(CF.sub.2O)mCF.sub.2H, wherein
m=0 to 2 and n=0 to 3
[0065] C.sub.3F.sub.7O[C(CF.sub.3).sub.2CF.sub.2O]pCFHCF.sub.3,
wherein p=0 to 5
[0066] C.sub.4F.sub.9OCF.sub.2C(CF.sub.3).sub.2CF.sub.2H
[0067]
HCF.sub.2CF.sub.2OCF.sub.2C(CF.sub.3).sub.2CF.sub.2OC.sub.2F.sub.4H
[0068] C.sub.7F.sub.15OCFHCF.sub.3
[0069] C.sub.8F.sub.17OCF.sub.2O(CF.sub.2).sub.5H
[0070]
C.sub.8F.sub.17OC.sub.2F.sub.4OC.sub.2F.sub.4OC.sub.2F.sub.4OCF.sub-
.2H
[0071] C.sub.4F.sub.9OC.sub.2H.sub.5
[0072] C.sub.4F.sub.9OCH.sub.3
[0073] C.sub.8F.sub.17OCH.sub.3
[0074] Preferred HFEs are according to the formula
[0075] C.sub.nX.sub.2n+1--O--C.sub.mY.sub.2m+1
[0076] wherein X and Y are each independently F or H provided that
at least one F is present. Preferably, X=F and Y=H;
[0077] n=2-15 and m=1-10, but preferably, n=3-8 and m=1-4, or more
preferably n=4-6 and m=1-3.
[0078] Especially preferred is a HFE wherein n=4 and m=1 or 2 which
is marketed under the name of HFE 7100.TM. and 7200.TM.
respectively by the 3M corporation.
[0079] Mixtures of different organic dry cleaning solvents may also
be used. For example, a suitable dry cleaning composition may
comprise a mixture of HFEs together with a mixture of hydrocarbons
and/or siloxanes.
[0080] When solvent compounds are mentioned, isomers thereof are
also included. Thus, suitable HFEs include nonafluoromethoxybutane
(C4F9OCH3) isomers such as
1,1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4-nonafluoro-4-methoxy-butane (CH3OCF2CF2CF2CF3),
1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoro-2-(trifluoromethyl)-3-methoxy-- propane
(CH3OCF2CF(CF3)2), 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-methoxy-2-(trifluorome-
thyl)-propane (CH3OC(CF3)3), and
1,1,1,2,3,3,4,4,4-nonafluoro-2-methoxy-bu- tane
(CH3OCF(CF3)CF2CF3), approximate isomer boiling point=60 (C; Also
isomers of nonafluoroethoxybutane (C4F9OC2H5) such as
1,1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4-nonafluoro-4-ethoxybutane (CH3CH2OCF2CF2CF2CF3),
1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoro-2-(trifluoromethyl)-3-ethoxypropane
(CH3CH2OCF2CF(CF3)2),
1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-ethoxy-2-(trifluoromethyl)- -propane
(CH3CH2OC(CF3)3), and 1,1,1,2,3,3,4,4,4-nonafluoro-2-ethoxybutane
(CH3CH2OCF(CF3)CF2CF3) with approximate isomer boiling points of
73.degree. C.
[0081] Siloxane Dry Cleaning Solvent
[0082] Some siloxane solvents may also be used advantageously in
the present invention. The siloxane may be linear, branched,
cyclic, or a combination thereof. One preferred branched siloxane
is tris (trimethylsiloxyl) silane. Also preferred are linear and
cyclic oligo dimethylsiloxanes are preferred. One preferred class
of siloxane solvents is an alkylsiloxane represented by the
formula:
R3--Si(--O--SiR2)w--R
[0083] where each R is independently chosen from an alkyl group
having form 1 to 10 carbon atoms and w is an integer from 1 to 30.
Preferably, R is methyl and w is 1-4 or even more preferably w is 3
or 4.
[0084] Of the cyclic siloxane octamethyl cyclotetrasiloxane and
decamethyl cyclopentasiloxane are particularly effective.
[0085] Very useful siloxanes are selected from the group consisting
of decamethyl tetrasiloxane, dodecamethyl pentasiloxane and
mixtures thereof.
[0086] Hydrocarbon Dry Cleaning Solvent
[0087] Hydrocarbon dry cleaning solvents that can be used in the
present invention are non-flammable as defined above and include
isoparaffinic solvents. As used herein, the term "isoparaffinic
solvent" means one or more branched alkanes having on average, at
least 9 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms.
[0088] Suitable isoparaffinic solvents, include those sold as
DF-2000 or Isopar L, namely a mixture of C11 to C15 alkanes ex
Exxon Mobil. These isoparaffinic solvents are branched chain fully
saturated hydrocarbons and are characterised by boiling range.
These mixtures are available in boiling ranges from 180.degree. C.
to 210.degree. C. In addition to the isoparaffinic hydrocarbons,
non-flammable hydrocarbon solvents including low petroleum odour
solvents having a boiling range of 195.degree. C. to 250.degree. C.
and d-Limonene may also be useful. From an odour standpoint, the
isoparaffinic solvents are preferred, as these materials have a low
odour. However, if odour is not a consideration, substantially any
of the above solvents can be utilized. Preferably, the organic
solvent is not a terpene.
[0089] Especially suitable organic dry cleaning solvents include
those selected from the group consisting of the isomers of
nonafluoromethoxybutane, nonafluoroethoxybutane and
decafluoropentane, octamethyl cyclotetrasiloxane, decamethyl
cyclopentasiloxane, decamethyl tetrasiloxane, dodecamethyl
pentasiloxane, isoparaffinic solvents and mixtures thereof. Even
more preferred are organic dry cleaning solvents include those
selected from the group consisting of octamethyl
cyclotetrasiloxane, decamethyl cyclopentasiloxane, decamethyl
tetrasiloxane, dodecamethyl pentasiloxane, isoparaffinic solvents
and mixtures thereof.
[0090] The dry cleaning compositions of the invention generally
contain greater than about 50 percent by weight of organic dry
cleaning solvent, preferably greater than about 75 weight percent,
more preferably greater than about 80 weight percent, more
preferably greater than about 85 weight percent, even more
preferably greater than about 95 weight percent, but preferably
less than 100 weight percent of organic dry cleaning solvent by
weight of the total dry cleaning composition. Such amounts aid in
improved drying times and maintain a high flashpoint or no
flashpoint at all. For the rinse step or conditioning step the dry
cleaning compositions may even comprise of at least 99 weight
percent of organic dry cleaning solvent by weight of the total dry
cleaning composition and sometimes even 100 weight percent of
organic dry cleaning solvent.
[0091] Water
[0092] In some cases water may be used in the dry cleaning process
and the amount of water is important. In those cases, the amount of
water present in any step of the dry cleaning process is at such a
level that laundry articles can be safely cleaned. This includes
laundry articles that can only be dry cleaned. The amount of water
present in the low aqueous dry cleaning composition is preferably
from 0.01 to 50 wt. % water more preferably from 0.01 to 10 wt. %,
even more preferably from 0.01 to 0.9 wt. % water by weight of the
dry cleaning composition or more preferably, 0.05 to 0.8 wt. % or
most preferable 0.1 to 0.7 wt. %. The amount of water present in
the non-aqueous dry cleaning composition is preferably from 0 to
0.1 wt. % water by weight of the dry cleaning composition or more
preferably, 0 to 0.01 wt. % or even more preferable 0 to 0.001 wt.
% and most preferable 0 wt. %.
[0093] Cosolvents
[0094] The compositions of the invention may contain one or more
cosolvents. The purpose of a cosolvent in the dry cleaning
compositions of the invention is often to increase the solvency of
the dry cleaning composition for a variety of soils. The cosolvent
also enables the formation of a homogeneous solution containing a
cosolvent, a dry cleaning solvent, and the soil; or a cosolvent, a
dry cleaning solvent and an optional cleaning agent. As used
herein, a "homogeneous composition" is a single phased composition
or a composition that appears to have only a single phase, for
example, a macro-emulsion, a micro-emulsion or an azeotrope.
However, if a cosolvent is used the dry cleaning composition is
preferably a non-azeotrope as azeotropes may be less robust.
[0095] Useful cosolvents of the invention are soluble in the dry
cleaning solvent or water, are compatible with typical cleaning
agents, and can enhance the solubilization of hydrophilic composite
stains and oils typically found in stains on clothing, such as
vegetable, mineral, or animal oils. Any cosolvent or mixtures of
cosolvents meeting the above criteria may be used.
[0096] Useful cosolvents include alcohols, ethers, glycol ethers,
alkanes, alkenes, linear and cyclic amides, perfluorinated tertiary
amines, perfluoroethers, cycloalkanes, esters, ketones, aromatics,
the fully or partly halogenated derivatives thereof and mixtures
thereof. Preferably, the cosolvent is selected from the group
consisting of alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, cycloalkanes, ethers,
esters, cyclic amides, aromatics, ketones, the fully or partly
halogenated derivatives thereof and mixtures thereof.
[0097] Representative examples of cosolvents which can be used in
the dry cleaning compositions of the invention include methanol,
ethanol, isopropanol, t-butyl alcohol, trifluoroethanol,
pentafluoropropanol, hexafluoro-2-propanol, methyl t-butyl ether,
methyl t-amyl ether, propylene glycol n-propyl ether, propylene
glycol n-butyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-butyl ether, propylene
glycol methyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether,
trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, decalin, methyl decanoate, t-butyl
acetate, ethyl acetate, glycol methyl ether acetate, ethyl lactate,
diethyl phthalate, 2-butanone, N-alkyl pyrrolidone (such as
N-methyl pyrrolidone, N-ethyl pyrrolidone), methyl isobutyl ketone,
naphthalene, toluene, trifluorotoluene, perfluorohexane,
perfluoroheptane, perfluorooctane, perfluorotributylamine,
perfluoro-2-butyl oxacyclopentane.
[0098] Preferably, the cosolvent is present in the compositions of
the invention in an effective amount by weight to form a
homogeneous composition with the other dry cleaning solvent(s) such
as HFE. The effective amount of cosolvent will vary depending upon
which cosolvent or cosolvent blends are used and the other dry
cleaning solvent(s) used in the composition. However, the preferred
maximum amount of any particular cosolvent present in a dry
cleaning composition should be low enough to keep the dry cleaning
composition non-flammable as defined above.
[0099] In general, cosolvent may be present in the compositions of
the invention in an amount of from about 1 to 50 percent by weight,
preferably from about 5 to about 40 percent by weight, and more
preferably from about 10 to about 25 percent by weight. In some
exceptional cases the cosolvent may be present amounts of from
about 0.01 percent by weight of the total dry cleaning
composition.
[0100] Surfactants
[0101] The dry cleaning compositions of the invention can utilise
many types of cyclic, linear or branched surfactants known in the
art, both fluorinated and non-fluorinated. Preferred solvent
compatible surfactants include nonionic, anionic, cationic and
zwitterionic surfactants having at least 4 carbon atoms, but
preferably less than 200 carbon atoms or more preferably less than
90 carbon atoms as described below. Solvent compatible surfactants
usually have a solvent-philic part that increases the solubility of
the surfactant in the dry cleaning solvent/composition. Effective
surfactants may comprise of one or more polar hydrophilic groups
and one or more dry cleaning solvent-philic parts having at least 4
carbon atoms so that the surfactant is soluble in said dry cleaning
solvent/composition. It is preferred that the surfactant is soluble
in the dry cleaning composition, i.e., to at least the amount of
surfactant used in the dry cleaning composition at 20.degree. C.
The composition may comprise one or a mixture of surfactants
depending on the desired cleaning and garment care. One preferred
surfactant is an anionic surfactant. Another preferred surfactant
is a cationic surfactant.
[0102] The polar hydrophilic group, Z, can be nonionic, ionic (that
is, anionic, cationic, or amphoteric), or a combination thereof.
Typical nonionic moieties include polyoxyethylene and
polyoxypropylene moieties. Typical anionic moieties include
carboxylate, sulfonate, sulfate, or phosphate moieties. Typical
cationic moieties include quaternary ammonium, protonated ammonium,
imidazolines, amines, diamines, sulfonium, and phosphonium
moieties. Typical amphoteric moieties include betaine,
sulfobetaine, aminocarboxyl, amine oxide, and various other
combinations of anionic and cationic moieties. Especially suitable
surfactants comprise at least one polar hydrophilic group Z which
is an anionic moiety whereby the counterion may be as described
below.
[0103] The polar hydrophilic group Z is preferably selected from
the group comprising --SO.sub.4M, --SO.sub.3M, --PO.sub.4M.sub.2,
--PO.sub.3M.sub.2, --CO.sub.2M and mixtures thereof wherein each M
can be independently selected from the group including H, NR.sub.4,
Na, K and Li, wherein each R is independently selected from H and
C.sub.1-4 alkyl radical but preferably H. Preferably M is H but in
some cases salts may also be used.
[0104] Fluorinated Surfactants
[0105] In one preferred embodiment, the surfactant is fluorinated
or more preferably a fluorinated acid.
[0106] Suitable fluorosurfactants are in most cases those according
to the formula (I):
(Xf).sub.n(Y).sub.m(Z).sub.p (I)
[0107] and contain one, two or more fluorinated radicals (Xf) and
one or more polar hydrophilic groups (Z), which radicals and polar
hydrophilic groups are usually (but not necessarily) connected
together by one or more suitable linking groups (Y). Preferably, n
and p are integers independently selected from 1 to 4 and m is
selected from 0 to 4. When the surfactant comprises more than one
Xf, Y or Z group, then each of Xf, Y and Z may be the same or
different. Preferably, the polar hydrophilic group is connected by
a covalent bond to Y, or in absence of Y, to Xf.
[0108] The fluorinated radical, Xf, can generally be a linear or
cyclic, saturated or unsaturated, aromatic or non-aromatic, radical
preferably having at least 3 carbon atoms. The carbon chain may be
linear or branched and may include hetero atoms such as oxygen or
sulphur, but preferably not nitrogen. Preferably, Xf is an
aliphatic and saturated. A fully fluorinated Xf radical is
preferred, but hydrogen or chlorine may be present as substituents
provided that not more than one atom of either is present for every
two carbon atoms, and, preferably, the radical contains at least a
terminal perfluoromethyl group. Radicals containing no more than
about 20 carbon atoms are preferred because larger radicals usually
represent a less efficient utilisation of fluorine.
[0109] Especially suitable Xf groups can be based on perfluorinated
carbon: CnF.sub.2n+1--wherein n is from 1-40, preferably 2 to 26,
most preferably 2 to 18 or can be based on oligomers of
hexafluoropropyleneoxide: [CF(CF.sub.3)--CF.sub.2--O].sub.n wherein
n is from 1 to 30. Suitable examples of the latter are marketed by
E.I DuPont de Nemours and Co. under the name Krytox.TM. 157,
especially, Krytox.TM. 157 FSL. Fluoroaliphatic radicals containing
about 2 to 14 carbon atoms are more preferred.
[0110] The linking group, Y, is selected from groups such as alkyl,
alkylene, alkylene oxide, arylene, carbonyl, ester, amide, ether
oxygen, secondary or tertiary amine, sulfonamidoalkylene,
carboxamidoalkylene, alkylenesulfonamidoalkylene,
alkyleneoxyalkylene, or alkylenethioalkylene or mixtures thereof.
In one preferred embodiment Y is (CH.sub.2).sub.t or
(CH.sub.2).sub.tO wherein t is 1 to 10, preferably 1 to 6, most
preferably 2 to 4. Alternatively, Y may be absent, in which case Xf
and Z are directly connected by a covalent bond.
[0111] A particularly useful class of fluoroaliphatic surfactants
useful in this invention are those wherein Xf, Y, and Z are as
defined, and n is 1 or 2, m is 0 to 2, and p is 1 or 2.
[0112] Examples of very useful surfactants are those comprising at
least wherein n is 1 to 4, m is 0 to 4, and p is 1 to 4, Z is as
defined and
Xf=R.sup.1
Y=(R.sup.2).sub.v
[0113] wherein R.sup.1 is a perfluoroalkyl group having 1 to 40
carbon atoms; R.sup.2 is an alkyl or an alkylene oxide group having
2 to 6 carbon atoms; and v is 0-10
[0114] Preferably, the surfactant is according to the formula
[R.sup.1--R.sup.2.sub.v].sub.wPO(OH).sub.3-w
[0115] wherein R.sup.1 is a perfluoroalkyl group having 1 to 26
carbon atoms; R.sup.2 is an alkyl or an alkylene oxide group having
2 to 6 carbon atoms; v is 0-10 and w is 1-2.
[0116] More preferably, R.sup.1 is a perfluoroalkyl group having 2
to 16 carbon atoms; R.sup.2 is an alkyl or an alkylene oxide group
having 2 to 6 carbon atoms; v is 1 and w is 1 or 2.
[0117] Most preferably, R.sup.1 is a perfluoroalkyl group having 2
to 14 carbon atoms; R.sup.2 is ethylene oxide; v=1 and w=1-2.
[0118] Non-fluorinated Surfactant
[0119] One other suitable class of surfactants are non-fluorinated
surfactants according the formula (II):
(Xh).sub.n(Y).sub.m(Z).sub.p (II)
[0120] wherein Xh is a non-fluorinated radical and(Y), (Z), n, m
and p are as described above for formula (I).
[0121] Xh may be a linear, branched or cyclic, saturated or
unsaturated, aromatic or non-aromatic, radical preferably having at
least 4 carbon atoms. Xh preferably includes hydrocarbon radicals.
When Xh is a hydrocarbon, the carbon chain may be linear, branched
or cyclic and may include hetero atoms such as oxygen, nitrogen or
sulphur, although in some cases nitrogen is not preferred.
Preferably, Xh is aliphatic and saturated. Radicals containing no
more than about 24 carbon atoms are preferred. One preferred
surfactant is an acid surfactant. Preferred surfactants include
anionic surfactants. Anionic surfactants are generally known in the
art and include, for example, alkyl aryl sulfonates (such as, for
example, alkylbenzenesulfonates), alkyl aryl sulfonic acids (such
as, for example, sodium and ammonium salts of toluene-, xylene- and
isopropylbenzenesulfonic acids), sulfonated amines and sulfonated
amides (such as, for example, amidosulfonates), carboxylated
alcohols and carboxylated alkylphenol ethoxylates, diphenyl
sulfonates, fatty esters, isethionates, lignin-based surfactants,
olefin sulfonates (such as, for example, RCH=CHSO3Na, where R is
C10-C16), phosphorous-based surfactants, protein based surfactants,
sarcosine-based surfactants (such as, for example,
N-acylsarcosinates such as sodium N-lauroylsarcosinate), sulfates
and sulfonates of oils and/or fatty acids, sulfates and sulfonates
of ethoxylated alkylphenols, sulfates of alcohols, sulfates of
ethoxylated alcohols, sulfates of fatty esters, sulfates of
aromatic or fluoro containing compounds, sulfosuccinnamates,
sulfosuccinates (such as, for example, diamyl-, dioctyl- and
diisobutylsulfosuccinates), taurates, and sulfonic acids.
[0122] Examples of suitable non-fluorinated anionic surfactants
include Crodafos.TM. 810A (ex Croda).
[0123] Other classes of suitable surfactants include, but are not
limited to nonionic and cationic surfactants. Compounds suitable
for use as the nonionic surfactant of the present invention are
those that carry no discrete charge when dissolved in aqueous
media. Nonionic surfactants are generally known in the art and
include, for example, alkanol amides (such as, for example, coco,
lauric, oleic and stearic monoethanolamides, diethanolamides and
monoisopropanolamides), amine oxides (such as, for example,
polyoxyethylene ethanolamides and polyoxyethylene propanolamides),
polyalkylene oxide block copolymers (such as, for example,
poly(oxyethylene-co-oxypropylene)), ethoxylated alcohols, (such as,
for example, isostearyl polyoxyethylene alcohol, lauryl, cetyl,
stearyl, oleyl, tridecyl, trimethyinonyl, isodecyl, tridecyl),
ethoxylated alkylphenols (such as, for example, nonylphenol ),
ethoxylated amines and ethoxylated amides, ethoxylated fatty acids,
ethoxylated fatty esters and ethoxylated fatty oils (such as, for
example, mono- and diesters of acids such as lauric, isostearic,
pelargonic, oleic, coco, stearic, and ricinoleic, and oils such as
castor oil and tall oil), fatty esters, fluorocarbon containing
materials, glycerol esters (such as, for example, glycerol
monostearate, glycerol monolaurate, glycerol dilaurate, glycerol
monoricinoleate, and glycerol oleate), glycol esters (such as, for
example, propylene glycol monostearate, ethylene glycol
monostearate, ethylene glycol distearate, diethylene glycol
monolaurate, diethylene glycol monolaurate, diethylene glycol
monooleate, and diethylene glycol stearate), lanolin-based
surfactants, monoglycerides, phosphate esters, polysaccharide
ethers, propoxylated fatty acids, propoxylated alcohols, and
propoxylated alkylphenols, protein-based organic surfactants,
sorbitan-based surfactants (such as, for example, sorbitan oleate,
sorbitan monolaurate, and sorbitan palmitate), sucrose esters and
glucose esters, and thio- and mercapto-based surfactants.
[0124] In a preferred embodiment, one component of the present
invention comprises one or more nonionic surfactants according to
one or more of the structural formulas III and IV:
R.sup.9--O--(CH.sub.2--CH.sub.2--O).sub.n--R.sup.10 (III)
R.sup.9--O--(CH.sub.2--C(CH.sub.3)H--O).sub.n--R.sup.10 (IV)
[0125] wherein:
[0126] R.sup.9 is a monovalent hydrocarbon group of from 1 to 30
carbons that may be linear, cyclic, branched, unsaturated, aromatic
or fluoro containing; R.sup.10 is hydrogen or a monovalent
hydrocarbon group of 1 to 30 carbons that may be linear, cyclic,
branched, unsaturated, aromatic or fluoro containing; and n is from
about 1 to about 100, more preferably from about 1 to about 40. In
a highly preferred embodiment, R.sup.9 contains from 2 to about 24
carbons, even more preferably from 8 to 24 carbons, R.sup.10 is H
and n is from about 2 to about 20.
[0127] Other suitable nonionic surfactants include Polyethylene
oxide condensates of nonyl phenol and myristyl alcohol, such as in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,685,930 Kasprzak; and b) fatty alcohol ethoxylates,
R--(OCH.sub.2CH.sub.2).sub.aOH wherein a=1 to 100, typically 1 to
30, R=hydrocarbon residue 8 to 20 C atoms, typically linear alkyl.
Examples polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, with 4 or 10 oxyethylene
groups; polyoxyethylene cetyl ether with 2, 6 or 10 oxyethylene
groups; polyoxyethylene stearyl ether, with 2, 5, 15, 20, 25 or 100
oxyethylene groups; polyoxyethylene (2), (10) oleyl ether, with 2
or 10 oxyethylene groups. Commercially available examples include,
but are not limited to: BRIJ and NEODOL. See also U.S. Pat. No.
6,013,683 Hill et al. Other suitable nonionic surfactants include
Tween.TM..
[0128] Suitable cationic surfactants include, but are not limited
to dialkyldimethyl ammonium salts having the formula:
R'R"N.sup.+(CH.sub.3).sub.2X.sup.-
[0129] wherein R' and R" are each independently selected from the
group consisting of hydrocarbon containing moiety containing 1-30 C
atoms or derived from tallow, coconut oil or soy, X=Cl, I or Br.
Examples include: didodecyldimethyl ammonium bromide (DDAB),
dihexadecyldimethyl ammonium chloride, dihexadecyidimethyl ammonium
bromide, dioctadecyldimethyl ammonium chloride, dieicosyldimethyl
ammonium chloride, didocosyldimethyl ammonium chloride,
dicoconutdimethyl ammonium chloride, ditallowdimethyl ammonium
bromide (DTAB). Commercially available examples include, but are
not limited to: ADOGEN, ARQUAD, TOMAH, VARIQUAT. See also U.S. Pat.
No. 6,013,683 Hill et al.
[0130] Also suitable surfactants are silicone surfactants
including, but not limited to the polyalkyleneoxide
polydimethylsiloxanes having a polydimethylsiloxane hydrophobic
moiety and one or more hydrophilic polyalkyleneoxide side chains
and have the general formula:
R.sup.1--(CH.sub.3).sub.2SiO--[(CH.sub.3).sub.2SiO].sub.a--[(CH.sub.3)(R.s-
up.1)SiO].sub.b--Si(CH.sub.3).sub.2--R.sup.1
[0131] wherein a+b are from about 1 to about 50, preferably from
about 3 to about 30, more preferably from about 10 to about 25, and
each R.sup.1 is the same or different and is selected from the
group consisting of methyl and a poly(ethyleneoxide/propyleneoxide)
copolymer group having the general formula:
--(CH.sub.2).sub.nO(C.sub.2H.sub.4O).sub.c(C.sub.3H.sub.6O).sub.dR.sup.2
[0132] with at least one R.sup.1 being a
poly(ethyleneoxide/propyleneoxide- ) copolymer group, and wherein n
is 3 or 4, preferably 3; total c (for all polyalkyleneoxide side
groups) has a value of from 0 to about 100, preferably from about 6
to about 100; total d is from 0 to about 14, preferably from 0 to
about 3; and more preferably d is 0; total c+d has a value of from
about 5 to about 150, preferably from about 9 to about 100 and each
R.sup.2 is the same or different and is selected from the group
consisting of hydrogen, an alkyl having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and an
acetyl group, preferably hydrogen and methyl group. Examples of
these surfactants may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,705,562 and U.S.
Pat. No. 5,707,613, both of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
[0133] Examples of this type of surfactants are the Silwet.TM.
surfactants which are available from CK Witco, OSi Division,
Danbury, Conn. Representative Silwet.TM. surfactants are for
example L-7608, L-7607, L-77, L-7605, L-7604, L-7600, L-7657,
L-7602. The molecular weight of the polyalkyleneoxide group
(R.sup.1) is less than or equal to about 10,000. Preferably, the
molecular weight of the polyalkyleneoxide group is less than or
equal to about 8,000, and most preferably ranges from about 300 to
about 5,000. Thus, the values of c and d can be those numbers which
provide molecular weights within these ranges. However, the number
of ethyleneoxide units (--C.sub.2H.sub.4O) in the polyether chain
(R.sup.1) must be sufficient to render the polyalkyleneoxide
polysiloxane water dispersible or water soluble. If propyleneoxide
groups are present in the polyalkyleneoxide chain, they can be
distributed randomly in the chain or exist as blocks. Especially
preferred Silwet.TM. surfactants are L-7600, L-7602, L-7604,
L-7605, L-7657, and mixtures thereof. Besides cleaning and/or
emulsifying activity, polyalkyleneoxide polydimethylsiloxane
surfactants can also provide other benefits, such as anti-static
benefits, and softness to fabrics.
[0134] The preparation of polyalkyleneoxide polydimetylsiloxanes is
well known in the art. Polyalkyleneoxide polydimethylsiloxanes of
the present invention can be prepared according to the procedure
set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 3,299,112, incorporated herein by
reference.
[0135] Another suitable silicone surfactant is SF-1488, which is
available from GE silicone fluids. Especially preferred silicone
surfactants include Tegopren.TM. 7008 and 7009 (ex
Goldschmidt).
[0136] These and other surfactants suitable for use in combination
with the organic dry cleaning solvent as adjuncts are well known in
the art, being described in more detail in Kirk Othmer's
Encyclopaedia of Chemical Technology, 3rd Ed., Vol. 22, pp.
360-379, "Surfactants and Detersive Systems", incorporated by
reference herein. Further suitable nonionic detergent surfactants
are generally disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,929,678, Laughlin et
al., issued Dec. 30, 1975, at column 13, line 14 through column 16,
line 6, incorporated herein by reference. Other suitable detergent
surfactants are generally disclosed in WO-A-0246517.
[0137] The surfactant or mixture of surfactants is present in a
cleaning effective amount. A cleaning effective amount is the
amount needed for the desired cleaning. This will, for example,
depend on the number of articles, level of soiling and volume of
dry cleaning composition used. However, surprisingly effective
cleaning was observed when the surfactant was present from at least
0.001 wt. % to 10 wt. % by weight of the dry cleaning composition.
More preferably, the surfactant is present from 0.01 to 3 wt. % or
even more preferably from 0.05 to 0.9 wt. % by weight of the dry
cleaning composition. More preferably, the surfactant is present
from 0.1 to 0.8 wt. % or even more preferably from 0.3 to 0.7 wt. %
by weight of the dry cleaning composition.
[0138] Optional Cleaning Agents
[0139] The dry cleaning compositions may contain one or more
optional cleaning agents. Cleaning agents include any agent
suitable for enhancing the cleaning, appearance, condition and/or
garment care. Generally, the cleaning agent may be present in the
compositions of the invention in an amount of about 0 to 20 wt. %,
preferably 0.001 wt. % to 10 wt. %, more preferably 0.01 wt. % to 2
wt. % by weight of the total dry cleaning composition.
[0140] Some suitable cleaning agents include, but are not limited
to, builders, enzymes, bleach activators, bleach catalysts, bleach
boosters, bleaches, alkalinity sources, antibacterial agents,
colorants, perfumes, pro-perfumes, finishing aids, lime soap
dispersants, composition malodour control agents, odour
neutralisers, polymeric dye transfer inhibiting agents, crystal
growth inhibitors, photobleaches, heavy metal ion sequestrants,
anti-tarnishing agents, anti-microbial agents, anti-oxidants,
anti-redeposition agents, soil release polymers, electrolytes, pH
modifiers, thickeners, abrasives, divalent or trivalent ions, metal
ion salts, enzyme stabilisers, corrosion inhibitors, diamines or
polyamines and/or their alkoxylates, suds stabilizing polymers,
process aids, fabric softening agents, optical brighteners,
hydrotropes, suds or foam suppressors, suds or foam boosters,
fabric softeners, anti-static agents, dye fixatives, dye abrasion
inhibitors, anti-crocking agents, wrinkle reduction agents, wrinkle
resistance agents, soil repellency agents, sunscreen agents,
anti-fade agents, and mixtures thereof.
[0141] As indicated, the invention is specifically directed to a
machine or process whereby a consumer can be in charge of
ordering/buying their own package or kit of solvent for replacement
in their dry cleaning machine.
[0142] One way to do so, for example, is by ordering through
telephone or internet. Another way is to go to a store where a
"single-sized" serving of solvent (for home use machine) can be
purchased.
[0143] The invention also comprises kits whereby package(s) of
solvents are sold with instructions and optionally with other
components of the machine which may need replacing.
[0144] Except in the operating and comparative examples, or where
otherwise explicitly indicated, all numbers in this description
indicating amounts or ratios of materials or conditions or
reaction, physical properties of materials and/or use are to be
understood as modified by the word "about".
[0145] Where used in the specification, the term "comprising" is
intended to include the presence of stated features, integers,
steps, components, but not to preclude the presence or addition of
one or more features, integers, steps, components or groups
thereof.
[0146] The following examples are intended to further illustrate
the invention and are not intended to limit the invention in any
way.
[0147] Unless indicated otherwise, all percentages are intended to
be percentages by weight.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
[0148] The in home dry cleaning machine indicates that it is time
for the solvent to be topped off. The consumer purchases solvent in
a retail outlet, brings it home, and adds enough solvent so the
machine is topped off.
* * * * *