U.S. patent application number 11/810394 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-03 for methods and compositions for surfactant-free cleaning.
Invention is credited to Cory S. Hammock.
Application Number | 20080000503 11/810394 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35375924 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080000503 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hammock; Cory S. |
January 3, 2008 |
Methods and compositions for surfactant-free cleaning
Abstract
The present invention comprises methods and compositions for
affecting indoor air quality, such as by reducing particulates in
indoor air and providing allergen control comprising using
surfactant-free cleaning compositions to remove particulate matter
such as soils and stains from fibers and surfaces comprising fibers
such as indoor carpeting and upholstery, and to prevent
redeposition of particles and other soil or stain components on
indoor environmental surfaces.
Inventors: |
Hammock; Cory S.; (Macon,
GA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KILPATRICK STOCKTON LLP
1001 WEST FOURTH STREET
WINSTON-SALEM
NC
27101
US
|
Family ID: |
35375924 |
Appl. No.: |
11/810394 |
Filed: |
June 4, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11156807 |
Jun 20, 2005 |
7229505 |
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11810394 |
Jun 4, 2007 |
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11011512 |
Dec 14, 2004 |
7005013 |
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11156807 |
Jun 20, 2005 |
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10078010 |
Feb 19, 2002 |
6835704 |
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11011512 |
Dec 14, 2004 |
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60322308 |
Sep 14, 2001 |
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60652158 |
Feb 11, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
134/42 ;
510/405 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C11D 3/0036 20130101;
A61L 2/18 20130101; C11D 3/0031 20130101; D06L 1/04 20130101; C11D
3/3757 20130101; C11D 3/3776 20130101; D06L 1/00 20130101; C11D
3/3765 20130101; D06L 1/12 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
134/042 ;
510/405 |
International
Class: |
B08B 3/04 20060101
B08B003/04; C11D 17/08 20060101 C11D017/08 |
Claims
1. A method for lowering indoor particulate matter, comprising, i)
contacting an interior environment fiber or surface with a
composition, comprising, a) at least one dispersing agent; b) at
least one anti-redeposition agent; c) at least one pH modifier; d)
at least one chelating agent; e) at least one stabilizing agent;
and ii) removing a portion of the composition from the contacted
interior environment fiber or surface after a time sufficient to
disperse at least some portion of the total amount of particulate
matter.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the contacting and removing steps
are performed more than one time.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises
at least one fragrance.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises
at least one preservative agent; and
5. The method of claim 1, wherein composition is a liquid having a
surface tension greater than about 38 dynes per centimeter.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one dispersing agent
is polyacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid/maleic acid copolymers;
styrene/maleic anhydride copolymers, polymethacrylic acid,
polyaspartic acid or combinations or mixtures thereof.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one
anti-redeposition agent is polyvinylpyrrolidone; polyvinylbetaine;
polyvinyl pyrrolidone/vinylacetate copolymers;
polyvinylpyrrolidone/dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate copolymers;
polyvinylpyrrolidone/acrylic acid copolymers;
polymethylvinylether/maleic anhydride copolymers;
polyvinylpyridine-n-oxide or combinations or mixtures thereof.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one pH modifier is a
counter ion of sodium ions, potassium ions, calcium ions, magnesium
ions, ammonium ions and amine ions or combinations or mixtures
thereof.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one chelating agent
is ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; diethylenediaminepentaacetic
acid; nitrilotriacetic acid; hydroxyethylenediaminetriacetic acid;
iminodisuccinic acid; aminotrismethylenephosphonic acid;
hexamethylenediaminetetramethylenephosphonic acid;
diethylenetriaminepentamethylenephosphonic acid or combinations or
mixtures thereof.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the compositions further
comprises at least one fragrance and the at least one fragrance is
terpene compounds; monocyclic terpenes; limonene; dicyclic
terpenes; pinene; acyclic terpenes; myrcene; oxygenated alcohol,
aldehyde, ester, ether or ketone terpene derivatives; oxygenated
alcohol, aldehyde, ester, ether or ketone aromatic derivatives;
oils derived from citrus peels; lemon oil, orange oil, lime oil,
tangerine oil, grapefruit oil; oils of eucalyptus globulus, oil of
wintergreen, or combinations or mixtures thereof.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one stabilizing
agent is alcohols, methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, isopropyl
alcohol, propyl alcohol, glycol ethers, methyl glycol ethers, ethyl
glycol ethers, propyl glycol ethers, isopropyl glycol ethers, butyl
glycol ethers, phenyl glycol ethers, ethylhexyl ethers; glycol
ether esters of glycols, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol,
triethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol,
tripropylene glycol, diethylene glycol monobutylether, diethylene
glycol monobutylether acetate, or combinations or mixtures
thereof.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein the amount of pH modifier
present in the composition is sufficient to maintain a pH range of
about 5.0 to about 12.0 in the liquid composition.
13. The method of claim 4, wherein the at least one preservative
agent is 1,3-dihydroxymethyl-5-5-dimethylhydantoin (DMDM
Hydantoin); 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one;
5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one;
2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one; 3-iodo-2-propynyl butyl carbamate;
phenoxyethanol; 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol; methyl paraben;
propyl paraben; isopropyl paraben; butyl paraben; isobutyl paraben;
diazolidinyl urea and hydroxymethylglycinate or combinations or
mixtures thereof.
14. A method for removing allergens from interior environments,
comprising, i) contacting an interior environment fiber or surface
with a composition having a surface tension of greater than about
38 dynes per centimeter, comprising, a) at least one dispersing
agent; b) at least one anti-redeposition agent; c) at least one pH
modifier; d) at least one chelating agent; e) at least one
stabilizing agent; and ii) removing a portion of the composition
from the contacted interior environment fibers or surfaces after a
time sufficient to disperse at least a portion of the total amount
of particulate matter comprising allergens.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the composition further
comprises at least one preservative agent.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the applying and removing steps
are performed more than one time.
17. The method of claim 14, wherein the composition further
comprises at least one fragrance.
18. A particulate dispersing composition, comprising. a) at least
one dispersing agent; b) at least one anti-redeposition agent; c)
at least one pH modifier; d) at least one chelating agent; and e)
at least one stabilizing agent.
19. The composition of claim 18, further comprising at least one
fragrance.
20. The composition of claim 18, wherein the composition comprises,
in weight percentages per total weight of the composition, a)
0.01-10.0% total amount of dispersing agent b) 0.001-5.0% total
amount of anti-redeposition agent c) sufficient pH modifier to
adjust the pH of the composition to a pH of about 5.0-12.0 d)
0.01-10.0% total amount of chelating agent e) 0.0-2.0% total amount
of fragrance f) 0.05-25.0% total amount of stabilizing agent g)
sufficient amount of at least one preservative agent; and h)
sufficient water to adjust the weight percent of the aqueous
composition to 100%.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/652,158, filed Feb. 11, 2005, and is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/011,512, filed Dec. 14, 2004, which is a divisional application
of U.S. Pat. No. 6,835,704, filed Feb. 19, 2002, which claims the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/322,308 filed
Sep. 14, 2001, all of which are herein incorporated in their
entireties.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of cleaning
compositions and to methods for using such compositions to affect
indoor air quality such as particulate levels and aid in allergen
control. The present invention is directed to surfactant-free
cleaning compositions for use in removing soil and other
particulate matter from carpets, upholstery and other fiber-based
materials, as well as for preventing redeposition of soil and
particulate matter on these and other surfaces, thus providing
removal of particulates and allergen control through reduced
potential for particle resuspension indoors.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Indoor air pollution is a problem that is receiving much
attention. Particulates in the air cause multiple problems, and
include deposition of particulate matter in the airways, inhalation
of toxic chemicals, metals and fibers that are present in the air,
and exacerbation of allergic reactions in humans and animals. The
presence of improperly maintained upholstery and carpets in
confined spaces adds to the transmission and retention of
particulates and allergens.
[0004] An allergen is a substance that causes an allergic reaction
in an human or animal who is exposed to the substance. A
comprehensive list of allergens is not possible, because
sensitivities vary from person to person and it is possible for
someone or an animal to be allergic to almost any substance.
[0005] A growing issue for children and adults is the increase in
allergic asthma. In recent years, numerous hypotheses have advanced
the biological plausibility for the exacerbation of allergic asthma
likely associated with episodic exposure to allergens bound to soil
particles, transported to lower tracheobronchial (TB) and alveolar
(A) regions of the lung. Typically, allergens such as dander,
including house mite, cockroach, cat, or dog allergens, or pollens
such as ragweed, rye grass, or pine are found mainly in the coarse
fraction of airborne particles. However, allergens can also be
found in respirable particles that differ in particle size and
chemical composition.
[0006] Recent studies show that all types of particles appear to
exert an adjuvant effect on the immune response to co-administered
protein antigen, indicating that inhaled antigen in
particle-exposed individuals plays a major role in allergic asthma.
Different particles stimulated distinct types of immune responses.
Studies suggest that particles could modulate airway disease
through their actions on airway epithelial cells and that bronchial
epithelial cells from asthmatics are different from those of
non-asthmatics.
[0007] Evidence also suggests that metals commonly found in
particulate matter are responsible for augmentation of allergic
sensitization and may be responsible for increased allergic
sensitization in treated animals. Increased concentrations of heavy
metals have been found in the body tissues (including lungs) of
humans and other mammals living in areas with elevated
metal-containing soils.
[0008] The body in response to acute injury, infection, or other
inflammatory stimuli releases C-reactive protein (CRP) and
cytokines. This response is called the acute phase reaction. Acute
phase proteins are a class of proteins that are synthesized in the
liver in response to inflammation. C-reactive protein is a special
type of protein produced by the liver that is only present during
episodes of acute inflammation. CRP is therefore a marker of
inflammation. The most important role of CRP is its interaction
with the complement system, which is one of the body's immunologic
defense mechanisms.
[0009] Cytokines are small protein molecules that are the core of
communication between immune system cells, and even between immune
system cells and cells belonging to other tissue types. They are
actively secreted by immune cells as well as other cell types.
Their action is often local, but sometimes can have global effects
on the whole body. Cytokines act by binding to their cell-specific
receptors. These receptors are located in the cell membrane and
each allows a distinct signal cascade to start in the cell, which
eventually will leads to biochemical and phenotypical changes in
the target cell.
[0010] It has recently been discovered that CRP also plays a role
in heart disease. Atheromatous plaques, characterized by thickening
and fatty degeneration of the inner coat in diseased arteries,
typically contain inflammatory cells. Rupture of atheromatous
plaque is thought to be the mechanism for acute myocardial
infarction and acute coronary syndrome. The most common site of
plaque rupture appears to be the shoulder region where inflammatory
cells are most prominent. Thus the release of acute phase reactants
as a response to inflammation have been proposed as a potential
marker of an "unstable" atheromatous plaque and underlying
atherosclerosis, the progressive narrowing and hardening of the
arteries over time.
[0011] The amount of CRP produced by the body varies from person to
person, and this is affected by an individual's genetic makeup.
Higher CRP levels tend to be found in individuals who smoke, have
high blood pressure, are overweight and don't exercise, whereas
lean, athletic individuals tend to have lower CRP levels.
[0012] The toxicological consequences of inhaled particles on the
cardiovascular system are also under increased investigation. The
studies suggest that pathophysiological changes in cardiac
function, such as heart rate variability, post-myocardial
infarction; increased atherosclerosis plaque formation and/or blood
coagulation could be linked to inhaled protein and other toxins
found in respirable metal-associated particles.
[0013] What is needed are improved methods for improving indoor air
quality such as in control of particulates in indoor air and
reduction in allergen exposure by humans, adults and children, and
animals.
SUMMARY
[0014] The present invention comprises methods for affecting indoor
air quality such as reducing particulate matter and allergens, and
compositions for accomplishing same. The methods of the present
invention comprise methods of applying compositions that result in
reduction of particulates in indoor air, reduction of toxic
materials in indoor air and reduction of allergens in indoor air.
The present invention also comprises methods for treating and
preventing allergic conditions, cardiology-related conditions and
other conditions related to particulate and toxic material
exposure. The compositions of the present invention are taught
herein and in U.S. Pat. No. 6,835,704, which is incorporated in its
entirety.
[0015] Methods of the present invention comprise applying the
compositions of the present invention to the surfaces and fibers,
the surfaces of fabrics and materials made with fibers, including
but not limited to carpet, upholstery or drapery fabrics, and other
surfaces, and removing at least a portion of the composition having
soils and other particulate matter removed from those fibers and
surfaces dispersed therein. The compositions of the present
invention are particularly useful in preventing the redeposition of
particulates during cleaning, thus reducing the amount of
particulates in the environment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1 is a graph showing the effect of compositions on
drying time of a carpet.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a graph showing particulate sizes.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a graph showing an idealized size distribution of
particulates.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] The present invention comprises methods for affecting indoor
air quality. Methods comprise reducing particulate matter and
allergens in the air and on surfaces, and compositions for
accomplishing same. The compositions of the present invention
comprise surfactant-free cleaning compositions. The methods of the
present invention comprise methods of applying compositions that
result in reduction of particulates in indoor air, reduction of
toxic materials in indoor air and reduction of allergens in indoor
air. The present invention also comprises methods for treating and
preventing allergic conditions, cardiology-related conditions and
other conditions related to particulate and toxic material exposure
by removing particulate matter from the environment of the subject
and reducing the exposure of the subject with allergic conditions,
cardiology-related conditions and other conditions, to particulate
matter. The compositions of the present invention are taught herein
and in U.S. Pat. No. 6,835,704, which is incorporated in its
entirety.
[0020] The compositions of the present invention are effective for
removal of particulates from fibers, surfaces comprising fibers,
and other surfaces. Methods of the present invention also comprise
using such compositions on fibers and surfaces comprising fibers
that have not been exposed to surfactant-containing compositions.
Methods may also comprise multiple treatments of fibers or
materials made with fibers. For example, if the fibers or surfaces
comprising fibers have been treated or exposed to
surfactant-containing compositions, the methods may comprise
treatment steps of the fiber or surfaces comprising fibers
comprising one or more application of the compositions of the
present invention. to remove residues of the surfactant-containing
compositions from the surfaces. Methods of the present invention
comprise using such compositions on surfaces comprising fibers that
may or may not have been exposed to surfactant-containing
compositions.
[0021] Methods of the present invention comprise treatments for
fibers, materials comprising fibers, surfaces comprising fibers,
and other surfaces. As used herein fibers and surfaces means
fibers, materials made from fibers, materials comprising some
amount of fibers, woven and nonwoven materials, upholstery fabrics,
rugs, carpeting, padding, mats, drapery fabrics, table linens, and
materials made of fibers and fabrics, such as those found in
interior environments. Fibers and surfaces also includes surfaces
of materials that are not made of fibers that are found in indoor
or interior environments for which preventing redeposition of
particulate matter is useful, including but not limited to,
flooring, furniture surfaces, countertops, walls, trim and other
surfaces found in indoor environments. Treatment of fibers and
surfaces may comprise removal of particulate material from a
portion or the entire length of the fiber, from the surface of the
fiber, from a padding material adjacent to a fiber-containing
material, and from smooth and rough surfaces. Fibers may be natural
or synthetic fibers, and includes combinations and mixtures of
natural and synthetic fibers, and combinations and mixtures of one
or more natural or one or more synthetic fibers. Natural fibers
include, but are not limited to, silk, wool, cotton, mohair,
cashmere, linen, flax fibers, ramie, hemp, jute, sisal, kapok, and
other fibers made by or derived from animals, plants, insects and
other living organisms. Synthetic fibers include, but are not
limited to, various polyesters, nylons, rayon, arnel, cellulose,
acetates, acrylic, modacrylic, olefin, vinyon, saran, metallic
fibers, spandex, aramids, PBI, sulfar, and other synthetic
materials that can be made into fibers. Surfaces comprising fibers
include, but are not limited to, carpets of all types, sizes, and
uses, such as area rugs or wall-to-wall carpeting, felts, and
fabrics used in indoor or outdoor environments, including but not
limited to upholstery, linens, and drapery fabrics. Surfaces that
do not contain fibers may also be treated with the compositions of
the present invention, but the benefits of particulate and allergen
control are most noted in treatment of surfaces comprising fibers.
As is known, such fibers and surfaces may be located in interior or
exterior environments, and the compositions and methods of the
present invention are effective on such fibers and surfaces where
ever located. An interior environment is generally considered to be
indoors and an exterior environment is generally considered to be
outdoors.
[0022] Though not wishing to be bound by any particular belief, it
is believed that the compositions of the present invention are
effective at removal of particulate material by dispersing the
particles present on a fiber or surface and lifting the particle
off of the fiber or surface, holding the particle in the liquid
portion of the composition, referred to herein as dispersing the
particle, preventing the particle from reassociating with the fiber
or surface by remaining in the liquid, and being removed from the
area by removing some amount of the liquid portion of the
composition. By combining dispersing, dissolution and
anti-redeposition of charged and other particles without wetting
the fiber or surface, and the associated soil spreading problems,
the present invention overcomes problems which have been
encountered with surfactant-containing cleaning compositions
containing micelle forming surfactants. For example in carpeting
applications, surfactant-containing cleaning compositions overcome
stain prevention chemicals present on the carpet fibers and allow
water to penetrate into the fiber, and allow water to penetrate
further down the length of the fibers towards, and into the padding
of the carpet. The soil or dyes are carried into the fiber, down
the fiber or into the padding by the water, which then stains the
fibers of the carpet or requires higher pressure removal techniques
to withdraw the penetrated water and soil or dyes. The present
invention comprises compositions and processes for removal of
metal-associated soils from fibers and materials comprising fibers
and reduces the human and animal exposure to such soils and other
particulates commonly found in indoor environments.
[0023] The compositions and methods of the present invention are
effective in removing particulates from surfaces and are
particularly effective in indoor or interior environments where
particulate matter is present in high amounts. For example, indoor
environments where persons smoke, fires are used for heating or
cooking, during periods of high pollen count or dust count, or high
traffic areas where humans, animals and others track soil and other
particulate matter into the interior environment on a regular or
frequent level. For example, many commercial and industrial
locations where there is frequent traffic can be treated with the
present invention, including, but not limited to, all means of
public transportation, airplanes, trains, subway trains, taxis,
buses, cars, malls, concert halls, public buildings, bars, hotels,
motels, condominiums, apartments, day care facilities, elderly
facilities, meeting halls, cinemas, theaters, physician offices,
hospitals, kennels, and veterinary hospitals, and other areas where
humans, animals or other carriers of soils, particulate matter, or
smoke walk, ride or repose. Methods of the present invention
comprise applying the compositions of the present invention to
surfaces, including fibers and materials comprising fibers, present
in interior environments having high amounts of particulate matter,
and removing the composition after an amount of the particulate
matter has admixed with the composition. Such applications may
occur one or multiple times and determining the number of
applications is dependent on the amount of particulate matter
present and the degree of removal desired.
[0024] An aspect of the present invention comprises a
surfactant-free, aqueous cleaning composition comprising polymeric
dispersing agents, polymeric anti-redeposition agents and a
sufficient amount of an alkali counter ion to maintain the pH of
the aqueous composition in a range of about 5.0-12.0, generally
9.0-10.0. In this regard, it has been found that such compositions
have the advantage of demonstrating soil suspending activity
without the use of micelle-forming surfactants found in prior art
carpet and upholstery cleaning products. This is a commercial
advantage since products containing the micelle-forming surfactants
have received low customer satisfaction ratings due to problems
relating to their use. Surfactants cause dyes and other materials
penetrate and react with fibers, creating stains that cannot be
removed, and cause dyes and other materials to move from the
surface of the material to deeper regions in the material, such as
in a padding, and then migrate back up the fibers, thus a stain
will reappear once the material dries. Surfactants also interfere
with fiber treatments, such as relaxing the individual fibers in a
strand, or removing kinks or bends in a fiber and thus changing the
appearance of the fibers, or altering the pile characteristics. The
present compositions, with their absence of micelle-forming
surfactants, are effective at stain removal and particulate
material removal; as well as, removal of residual surfactants left
by previous cleanings with compositions comprising surfactants,
which have a negative impact on the inherent carpet and upholstery
anti-soil properties. Residual surfactants left by applications of
compositions comprising surfactants allow for dye and particulate
matter to adhere more easily and with greater attachment force than
new, untreated or fibers and adjacent materials which have never
had surfactants applied.
[0025] Further advantages of the present invention, which relate to
enhanced soil removal, when compared to prior-art surfactant-based
cleaners, include reduced allergic allergen sensitization
exacerbated by particulates such as metals, found in common
household soil particles. It is currently believed that microscopic
sized particles of metals, found in soil and other particulate
matter, aid in retention of particulate matter, such as allergens
and exacerbate pathological conditions such as allergen-related
conditions. Metal particulates act in two ways. In one way, metal
particulate materials act by a catalytic effect by attaching to
charged particles such as allergens like pollen and dander, and
agglomerating them to form particle sizes that are inhaled and
retained by the lungs. The present invention removes the
metal/allergen agglomeration and reduces the overall particulate
exposure level in the environment. It is thought that particles
from 0.1 micron to 1 micron are of a size that is more likely to
adhere in the lung and create allergic-related, cardiac,
carcinogenic and other pathological conditions in humans and
animals. Metals are also involved in retaining other particulate
matter in the environment. The presence of metal particulates in
the environment leads to retention of other particles that may not
have been retained, had the metal particulates not been present.
Thus metal particulates have a synergistic effect in increasing the
load of particulate matter that can exist in an environment,
particularly associated with fibers, materials comprising fibers,
and other surfaces in the environment. Though the invention is
effective in removal of particulates in interior environments,
particulates in exterior environments are also effectively removed,
and applications of the compositions to any surfaces, wherever
found, are contemplated by the present invention.
[0026] It is an object of the present invention to overcome the
problems which have been encountered with prior art
surfactant-containing cleaning compositions including, wetting and
soil spreading problems which have been encountered employing
previous cleaning compositions containing micelle forming
surfactants. The present invention also overcomes problems of
surfactant-containing compositions in particulate removal.
[0027] Sections 7.5.3 and 7.9 of the Air Quality Criterion for
Particulate Matter (October 2004), Volume II discuss information
about airborne particles as carriers of toxic agents in detail.
These studies indicate that improved removal of metal contaminates
and naturally occurring soils from carpet and upholstery reduce the
potential for allergic allergen sensitization. Studies have
suggested that factors other than allergen concentrations play a
major role in determining the amount of allergen necessary to
sensitize atopic children. Dust and tracked-in soil accumulates in
carpets and upholstery, where young children spend a significant
amount of time.
[0028] Major sources of indoor metal-associated soils in
non-smoking residences include ambient outdoor particulate matter
and tracked in soil. Human and pet activities are also sources of
particulate matter that is found ubiquitously on and in house dust
deposited on floors, draperies, carpets, home furnishings and other
interior surfaces. Indoor metal-associated soils may be resuspended
after deposition on indoor surfaces by human activities such as
cleaning and walking. Typically, resuspension of soils from any
source involves coarse particles (>1 .mu.m). Indoor activities
account for 50-90% of coarse particle (>1 .mu.m) concentrations.
Typically, children are exposed to higher concentrations because
children are on the floor more than adults, and are generally
shorter, thus closer to the floor where indoor air concentrations
would be anticipated to be higher in closer proximity to the source
of the soil. TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 A copy of Table 5-11 of the Air
Quality Criterion for Particulate Matter (October 2004), Volume II
describes the Volume Mean Diameter (VMD) and Maximum PM.sub.2.5
concentrations of indoor air particle sources. TABLE 5-11. VOLUME
MEAN DIAMETER (VMD) AND MAXIMUM PM.sub.2.5 CONCENTRATIONS OF INDOOR
PARTICLE SOURCES .sup.a Size Maximum Concentration Statistics
(PM.sub.2.5) Mean VMD Mean SD Particle Source (.mu.m)
(.mu.g/m.sup.3) (.mu.g/m.sup.3) Dusting 5.38 22.6 22.6 Vacuuming
3.86 6.5 3.9 Walking Vigorously 3.96 12.0 9.1 (w/Carpet) Sampling
(w/Carpet) 4.25 8.0 6.6 Sampling (w/o Carpet) 4.28 4.8 3.0 .sup.a
All concentration data corrected for background particle
levels.
[0029] While particle deposition and retention in the respiratory
tract is influenced by complex physical; as well as anatomical and
physiological factors, one critical factor is particle size.
Particles deposit within the respiratory tract by five mechanisms:
(1) inertial impaction, (2) sedimentation, (3) diffusion, (4)
interception, and (5) electrostatic precipitation. Particles are
continuously influenced by gravity, but coarse particles (>1
.mu.m) are affected to the greatest extent.
[0030] Inertial impaction is a significant deposition mechanism for
particles larger than 2 .mu.m. Both inertial impaction and
sedimentation can influence the deposition of particles within the
same size range. These deposition processes act together in the ET
and TB regions. Inertial impaction dominates in the upper airways,
and gravitational settling becomes increasingly dominant in the
smaller conducting airways. Particles having actual physical
diameters <1 .mu.m are increasingly subjected to diffusion
deposition because of random bombardment by air molecules,
resulting in contact with airway surfaces. Interception is
deposition by physical contact with airway surfaces. Fibers are of
chief concern in relation to the interception process.
[0031] The particle size range around 0.2 to 1.0 .mu.m is
frequently described as consisting of particles that are small
enough to be minimally influenced by impaction or sedimentation and
large enough to be minimally influenced by diffusion. Such
particles are the most persistent in inhaled air and undergo the
lowest degree of deposition in the ET and TB regions of the
respiratory tract, thereby reaching the alveolar (A) regions of the
lung.
[0032] Electrostatic precipitation is deposition related to
particle charge. The electrical charge on some particles will
result in an enhanced deposition over what would be expected from
size alone. The effect of charge on deposition is inversely
proportional to particle size and airflow rate. This type of
deposition is often small compared to the effects of turbulence and
other deposition mechanisms, and it generally has been considered
to be a minor contributor to overall particle deposition.
[0033] Particles may be classified as inhalable, thoracic, and
respirable particles. Inhalable particles enter the respiratory
tract. Thoracic particles travel past the larynx and reach the lung
airways and the gas-exchange regions of the lung. Respirable
particles are a subset of thoracic particles that are more likely
travel past the extrathoracic (ET) region to reach the gas-exchange
(A) region of the lung.
[0034] Accumulation mode particles in the region between 0.001 and
3.0 .mu.m are formed primarily by combustion or chemical reactions
of gases. Accumulation mode particles are composed of metals (and
metal oxides), black or elemental carbon, primary and secondary
organic compounds, sulfate, nitrate, ammonium and hydrogen ions.
Coarse mode particles in the region between 1 and 100 .mu.m are
formed by the mechanical breakdown of minerals, crustal material,
and organic debris. In addition to primary minerals and organic
material, the coarse mode may include sea salt, nitrate formed from
the reaction of nitric acid with sodium chloride, and sulfate
formed from the reaction of sulfur dioxide with basic
particles.
[0035] The ET, TB and A region deposition is a minimum between 0.1
and 1 .mu.m diameter (the accumulation mode size range) and
increases for larger (coarse mode) and smaller (ultrafine particle)
size ranges. For ultrafine particles, alveolar (A) region
deposition peaks between 0.01 and 0.1 .mu.m and TB deposition
increases as particle size decreases below 0.1 .mu.m.
[0036] See FIG. 2 for a graph showing the distribution of ambient
particulate matter showing accumulation mode particles and coarse
mode particles and the fractions collected by size-selective
samplers. This graph is an adaptation of Wilson and Suh (1997) and
Whitby (1978). The accumulation mode and the coarse mode particles
overlap in the region between 1 and 3 .mu.m (and occasionally over
an even larger range). In this region, the chemical composition of
individual particles usually, but not always, allows identification
of a source or formation mechanism, permitting identification of a
particle as belonging to the accumulation or coarse mode. In FIG.
2, WRAC is wide range aerosol classifier. FIG. 3 shows an idealized
distribution of particulates, that might be observed in traffic,
showing fine and coarse particles, and the nucleation, Aitken, and
accumulation modes that comprise fine particles. Also shown are the
major formation and growth mechanisms of the four modes of
atmospheric particles.
[0037] Accumulation mode and coarse mode particles differ not only
in size but also in formation mechanisms, sources, and chemical,
physical, and biological properties. Transition metals in coarse
particles are likely to be associated with soil and tend to be less
soluble (and presumably less bioavailable) than transition metals
in fresh combustion particles found in fine particles.
[0038] Accumulation mode particles in the middle of size range (0.2
to 1.0 .mu.m) have the lowest deposition fraction in the ET and TB
regions. The fractional deposition of ultrafine particles in the A
region peaks between 0.02 and 0.03 .mu.m and is greater than
predicted for both accumulation and coarse mode particles. For
coarse particles, fractional deposition peaks between 4 and 6 .mu.m
for the TB region and between 2.5 and 5 .mu.m for the A region. A
significant fraction of ultrafine and coarse particles, but not
particles in the accumulation-mode size range, are deposited in the
ET region. Once particles are deposited on the surface of the
airways, they are subsequently cleared from the respiratory tract
or translocated to other sites within the system by distinct
regional processes. Particle deposition is enhanced in people with
chronic lung disease.
[0039] Poorly soluble particles deposited in the TB region are
cleared by mucociliary transport towards the oropharynx, followed
by swallowing. Soluble particles may be absorbed through the
epithelium into the blood, and may travel to organs outside of the
lungs. Solubility is influenced by the particle's surface to volume
ratio and other properties such as hydrophilicity and
lipophilicity. It has been shown that decreased bronchial flow is
associated with increased airway retention of soluble and
non-soluble particles. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of
relatively nontoxic, poorly soluble particles is associated with a
phenomenon termed particle overload. Moreover, there is a
significant relationship between particle dose, expressed as
particle surface area/lung, and chronic inflammation and increased
translocation of particles in the interstitium.
[0040] Particle deposition in the TB region is less harmful than in
the A region because clearances in the TB region are more rapid and
the epithelium is protected by a mucous layer. As a result, poorly
soluble particles may harm the alveoli while soluble particles may
not reach this region.
[0041] The mechanisms of action and ultimate biological effects of
inhaled particles and the proximal cause of the biological response
are due to the dose of particles delivered to and retained at the
target site, rather than the exposure concentration. Deposition,
clearance, and retention comprise the essential elements of
particle exposure measurement. Properly characterizing the
inhalation of particles is essential to understanding the effects
observed in human exposure studies and for relating effects in
healthy individuals to those in potentially susceptible persons.
The extrathoracic (ET) region, especially the nasal passages, is an
efficient filter for ultrafine (<0.01 .mu.m) and larger coarse
particles, but filtration is less efficient for larger ultrafine
and fine particles.
[0042] Accordingly, particles removed in the ET region are not
available for deposition in the tracheobronchial (TB) and alveolar
(A) regions of the respiratory tract. Within the thoracic region,
the deposition distribution of ultrafine particles (0.01 to 0.1
.mu.m) is highly skewed towards the proximal airway regions and
resembles that of coarse particles. Thus, the deposition patterns
for ultrafine particles are similar to those of coarse-mode
particles, with significant fractional deposition in all three
regions. Particles in the accumulation mode size range (0.1 to 1.0
.mu.m) have lower fractional deposition in all three regions. The
dose information expressed by fractional deposition may be applied
only to acute exposure conditions. Retained dose at any given time
is determined by the balance between deposition and clearance. In
this regard, a long-term retained dose can be much greater than an
acute exposure dose in individuals with impaired clearance
mechanisms.
[0043] The present invention is effective at removal of particulate
material from interior environments and removal of particulate
material classified as accumulation mode and coarse mode sizes are
contemplated. Methods of the present invention comprise applying
the compositions of the present invention to fibers, materials
comprising fibers, and other surfaces using fabric cleaning devices
and methods such as home, industrial or truck mounted carpet
cleaning machines, hand cleaning methods, upholstery cleaning
machines, steam or fluid applicators, mops, and combined with
removal mechanisms such as vacuum or suction, removing from the
fibers or other surfaces, particulate material having a size from
0.001 Am to 100 .mu.m.
[0044] Methods of the present invention comprise applying a liquid
surfactant-free composition to a fiber, allowing sufficient time
for the particulate matter, including particles and dyes, to
disperse within the composition, and removing the composition from
the fiber. By applying, it is meant that the composition contacts
the fiber. Other associated materials may also be contacted by the
composition, such as backing material, pads, or materials to which
the fibers may be attached or interwoven. By the particulate matter
dispersing within the composition, it is meant that the particulate
matter including but not limited to, particles and dyes, are more
associated with the composition and less associated with the fiber
or surface. The particulate matter may or may not dissolve in the
liquid composition and may be admixed in the liquid or with
components of the composition. Before applying the composition the
particulate matter is found associated with the fiber, and after
applying the composition, the particulate matter is found
associated with the composition. The method may be repeated until
the desired amount of particulate matter is removed.
[0045] Chemical reactions in the indoor environment are responsible
for secondary particle formation and modification of existing
particles. This process is complex and may influence exposures to
indoor-generated particles. For example, terpenes (specifically
d-limonene, .alpha.-terpinene, and .alpha.-pinene) have been found
to react with ambient ozone, resulting in a 10-fold increase in
fine particles (0.1 to 0.2 .mu.m). Ozone (O.sub.3) appears to be
the limiting reagent because particle number concentration varies
proportionally to O.sub.3 concentrations. However, concentration
would also depend on the O.sub.3 infiltration factor and the indoor
generation rate of terpenes. Ambient O.sub.3 and ambient PM.sub.2.5
are correlated in the summertime; indoor-reaction particles due to
O.sub.3-terpene reactions might be correlated with outdoor
PM.sub.2.5 mass. PM.sub.2.5 (particulate matter) is indicated in
FIG. 2. Such particles, if toxic, would represent an increased
health risk due to ambient indoor air pollution. It seems more
appropriate to consider indoor-reaction particles as part of
non-ambient exposure. Therefore, carpet and upholstery cleaners
that are intended to reduce the potential for particle resuspension
indoors should contain a minimum quantity of terpenes or similar
chemicals.
[0046] The compositions of the present invention, comprising a
liquid, surfactant-free composition, reduce the potential for
particle resuspension indoors by removing particles in the range of
from about 0.001 .mu.m to about 100 .mu.m, from about 0.03 to about
5.0 .mu.m, from about 0.1 .mu.m to about 50 .mu.m, from about 0.001
to about 2.0 .mu.m, from about 1.0 .mu.m to about 20 .mu.m, from
about 1. .mu.m to about 20 .mu.m, from about 1.0 .mu.m to about 50
.mu.m, from about 1.0 .mu.m to about 100 .mu.m, and from less than
about 0.1 to about 100 .mu.m, and optionally, do not contribute to
the formation of particles of the same size. Recent advances in
carpet cleaning efficacy testing have focused on removal of
metal-associated soils containing an exact quantity of elements
chosen for particle size and chemical characteristics naturally
occurring in soil. The results of the quality assured composition
and cleaning efficacy data are obtained by X-ray fluorescence
(XRF).
[0047] Compositions of the present invention comprise
surfactant-free, aqueous cleaning compositions comprising a
polymeric dispersing agent, a pH modifier, and a polymeric
anti-redeposition agent. The compositions may optionally further
include ingredients such as chelating agents, fragrance materials,
stabilizing agents, and preservative agents, and may depend on the
state of the compositions, solid liquid or gel, or when the
composition is admixed.
[0048] Exemplary of suitable polymeric dispersing agents for use in
the compositions of the present invention are polymeric and
co-polymeric compounds such as polyacrylic acid, polyacrylic
acid/maleic acid copolymers; styrene/maleic anhydride copolymers,
polymethacrylic acid, polyaspartic acid and the like, including
combinations or mixtures of two or more of these. Water soluble
compounds are useful in aqueous solutions or compounds that are
sufficiently soluble at the volumes and pH of the composition.
[0049] Exemplary of suitable polymeric anti-redeposition agents for
use in the compositions of the present invention are polymeric and
co-polymeric compounds such as polyvinylpyrrolidone,
polyvinylbetaine; polyvinyl pyrrolidone/vinylacetate copolymers,
polyvinylpyrrolidone/dimethylamino-ethylmethacrylate copolymers,
polyvinylpyrrolidone/acrylic acid copolymers,
polymethylvinylether/maleic anhydride copolymers;
polyvinylpyridine-n-oxide and the like which form complexes with
anionic and cationic substrates and with nonionic substrates, such
as household soils, dirt, stains and the like. Household soil and
dirt particulates may be composed of metals that do not ionize in
aqueous solution including iron oxide, yttrium oxide, zinc oxide
and the like. Although these particulates are non-polar, insoluble
in water, and do not ionize in aqueous solution they do contain
partial negative charges at regions of the molecule (at the metal
and oxygen atoms). The antiredeposition agents of the present
invention, such as PVP, generally contain a partial positive charge
along the backbone of the polymer, such as N.sup.+ in PVP, where an
ionic bond forms resulting in dispersion in aqueous solution.
[0050] The compositions of the present invention are effective at a
pH range of from about 5.0 to about 12.0, and pH modifying
compounds, referred to herein as pH modifiers, are used to bring
the pH of the composition within this pH range, and to maintain the
pH within that range. pH modifiers comprise a compound capable of
altering the pH of the composition to between about pH 5.0 and pH
12.0. An example of such a pH modifier is an alkali counter ion, in
which alkali is understood to mean having base-like qualities, or
is basic, and is related to OH-- from the neutralization reaction
of H.sup.++OH.sup.-.fwdarw.H.sub.2O, and may be the counter ion to
the following ions, sodium ions (Na.sup.+), potassium ions
(K.sup.+), calcium ions (Ca.sup.+2), magnesium ions (Mg.sup.+2),
ammonium (NH.sub.4.sup.+) and amine ions (NH.sub.3.sup.+), for
example, from ammonium hydroxide, isopropylamines, and
alkanolamines), and the like. Other pH modifying compounds include
known acids and bases, and buffering compounds useful for altering
or maintaining a desired pH or pH range. The pH modifying compounds
used in the compositions must be compatible with other components
of the compositions, and pass standard screening for cleaning
efficacy, challenge testing and storage stability.
[0051] Suitable chelating agents include compounds such as
ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; diethylenediaminepentaacetic acid;
nitrilotriacetic acid; hydroxyethylenediaminetriacetic acid;
iminodisuccinic acid; aminotrismethylenephosphonic acid;
hexamethylenediamine-tetramethylenephosphonic acid;
diethylenetriaminepentamethylene-phosphonic acid, combinations and
mixtures and the like. Water soluble chelating agents are useful in
aqueous solutions or compounds that are sufficiently soluble at the
volumes and pH of the composition.
[0052] Concerning suitable fragrances or fragrance materials for
use in the surfactant-free cleaning compositions of the present
invention, it should be noted that any desirable known scenting or
fragrance types may be employed to produce such compositions
provided that the fragrance or scent passes standard screening for
cleaning efficacy, challenge testing and storage stability and,
furthermore, that users/customers would be satisfied with the
aesthetics (i.e., color, smell and the like) of cleaning
composition containing the fragrance. Examples of suitable
fragrances or fragrance materials for use herein include, but are
not limited to, terpene compounds such as monocyclic terpenes such
as limonene; dicyclic terpenes such as pinene; and acyclic terpenes
such as myrcene and the like. Also, oxygenated terpene derivatives
such as alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ethers, ketones and the like;
as well as oxygenated aromatic derivatives such as alcohols,
aldehydes, esters, ethers, ketones and the like may be employed as
the fragrance material in the present compositions.
[0053] Exemplary of terpene compounds for use herein are oils
derived from citrus peels such as lemons, oranges, limes,
tangerines, grapefruits and the like. Such oils are comprised of
about 70-90% (by weight) terpenes (limonene, pinene, and myrcene)
with smaller amounts of alcohols (terpineol, linalool, geraniol,
octanol, and nonanol) and aldehydes (citral and citronellal).
Examples of an oxygenated terpene derivative suitable for use as a
fragrance in the compositions of this invention are oils of
eucalyptus globulus, which are comprised of about 80% (by weight)
terpene ether (cineol) with smaller amounts of other terpene
compounds. An example of an oxygenated aromatic derivative would be
oil of wintergreen, which is comprised of about 98% (by weight)
aromatic ester (methyl salicylate).
[0054] Suitable stabilizing agents, which also function as
fragrance stabilizing agents, include a variety of solvents
including, but not limited to, alcohols such as methyl alcohol,
ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, propyl alcohol and the like;
glycol ethers (including methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl,
phenyl, and ethylhexyl ethers) and glycol ether esters of glycols
(such as ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol,
propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol and the
like) including diethylene glycol monobutylether and diethylene
glycol monobutylether acetate and mixtures thereof.
[0055] As with fragrance materials for use herein, any desirable
known preservative may be employed to produce the compositions of
this invention provided that the preservative passes standard
screening for challenge testing and storage stability and,
furthermore, that users would be satisfied with the aesthetics
(i.e., color, smell and the like) of cleaning composition
containing the preservative. Additionally, there are US
regulations, such as EPA directions for use, that may have to be
complied with when preservatives are added to the composition.
Sufficient amounts of preservatives are those that meet standard
screening for challenge testing and storage stability, and may also
include amounts complying with EPA directions for use. Suitable
preservative agents for use in the present invention include a
variety of chemical compounds with the ability to impart to
chemical formulas a resistance to microbial contamination in order
to assure product safety and integrity over the useful life of the
product. Such preservative agents include
1,3-dihydroxymethyl-5-5-dimethylhydantoin (DMDM Hydantoin);
1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one; 5-chloro-2-methyl4-isothiazolin-3-one;
2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one; 3-iodo-2-propynyl butyl carbamate;
phenoxyethanol; 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol; methyl paraben;
propyl paraben; isopropyl paraben; butyl paraben; isobutyl paraben;
diazolidinyl urea and hydroxymethylglycinate and mixtures
thereof.
[0056] Generally, in formulating aqueous, surfactant-free cleaning
compositions of the present invention, the following ranges of
ingredients (as weight percentages per total weight of aqueous
cleaning composition) may satisfactorily be used: TABLE-US-00002
TABLE 2 Formulation ranges Ingredient Operating Range Preferred
Range dispersing agent 0.01-10.0% 0.05-1.0% anti-redeposition
0.001-10.0% 0.05-1.0% agent chelating agent 0.01-5.0% 0.05-1.0% pH
modifier Quantity sufficient Quantity sufficient to adjust pH to to
adjust pH to about 5.0-12.0 about 9.0-10.0 fragrance 0.0000-2.0%
0.0000-0.20% stabilizing agent* 0.05-25.0% 0.1-2.0% preservative
agent Sufficient amount Sufficient amount Water Quantity sufficient
Quantity sufficient to adjust weight to adjust weight percentage to
100% percentage to 100% *A stabilizing agent also functions as a
fragrance stabilizing agent when fragrance is present in the
composition.
[0057] Operating range refers to amounts in compositions that are
effective in the methods of the present invention.
[0058] Surfactant-free, aqueous cleaning compositions comprising
the above ranges of components may be prepared from preformed
concentrated stock solutions. In practice, these concentrated stock
solutions are intended to be diluted with water by an end user at
the site of application of the cleaning composition to a desired
level depending on the particular soil extraction device or
technique to be employed by the end user to treat the fiber
surface. The concentrated stock solutions contain predetermined
quantities (on a weight basis) of the desired ingredients so that
upon dilution the resulting aqueous compositions will contain such
ingredients in quantities (on a weight percent basis) corresponding
to the above tabulated operating and/or preferred ranges of
ingredients to be incorporated in the aqueous cleaning
compositions. The concentrated stock solutions are normally diluted
by a factor of from about 1:2 to about 1:256 to produce the aqueous
composition for application to carpets, upholstery and other fibers
and surfaces. Preferably, the concentrated stock solutions are
diluted by a factor of from about 1:4 to about 1:128 and, most
preferably, from about 1:16 to about 1:64.
[0059] An aspect of the present invention comprises a
surfactant-free, aqueous cleaning composition comprising one or
more polymeric dispersing agents, one or more polymeric
anti-redeposition agents and a sufficient amount of a pH modifier
to maintain the pH of the aqueous composition in a range of about
pH 5.0 to about pH 12.0, or about pH 9.0 to about pH 10.0. In the
present compositions, the absence of micelle-forming surfactants
are used in methods for dispersion of particulate matter and
preventing the redeposition of such particulate matter on fibers
and other surfaces. An exemplary composition comprises the
following ingredients:
[0060] a) one or more chelating agents, such as
ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid;
[0061] b) one or more dispersing agents, such as polyacrylic
acids;
[0062] c) one or more anti-redeposition agents such as
polyvinylpyrrolidone;
[0063] d) a sufficient amount of pH modifiers, such as the
counterions of sodium (Na), potassium (K), or ammonium, such as
ammonium hydroxide (NH.sub.4OH), isopropylamine and alkanolamines
to maintain the pH of the composition in a range of about pH 5.0 to
about 12.0; or in a range of about 9.0-10.0; and
[0064] e) one or more stabilizing agents, such as an alcohol, for
example, ethanol, or glycol ethers.
Optionally, a composition may further comprise a fragrance, such as
a terpene or a terpene derivatives, and/or one or more
preservatives, such as DMDM Hydantoin.
[0065] The compositions of the present invention are generally used
as liquid aqueous solutions comprising at least one dispersing
agent, at least one anti-redeposition agent, at least one pH
modifier, at least one chelating agent, and at least one
stabilizing agent, generally in methods of cleaning fibers and
surfaces. Where used in liquid aqueous solutions, the ingredients
of the composition are generally water soluble, or are sufficiently
soluble in the volumes used or at the pH of the composition. Such
compositions may further comprise other ingredients such as at
least one fragrance or at least one preservative. Alternatively,
the compositions of the present invention may be a dry powder that
is admixed with water or other aqueous solutions to form an aqueous
solution composition of the present invention. Such powders may
comprise at least one dispersing agent, at least one
anti-redeposition agent, and at least one chelating agent, and may
optionally comprise at least one pH modifier, at least one
stabilizing agent, at least one fragrance or at least one
preservative. Such powders comprise dry ingredients that may be
added as one or more individual powder ingredients to form a powder
composition that when added to water may have further ingredients
added, such as adjusting the pH with a pH modifier or adding a
stabilizing agent to the liquid composition. Formulation of powder
compositions are known in the art, and may further comprise
additives needed for powder characteristics such as to keep the
powder free flowing. Alternatively, the compositions of the present
invention may also be found in paste or gel compositions comprising
at least one dispersing agent, at least one anti-redeposition
agent, at least one pH modifier, at least on chelating agent, and
may further comprise at least one stabilizing agent, at least one
fragrance or at least one preservative. Such paste or gel
formulations are known, and additives needed for paste or gel
formulations may be added to the compositions of the present
invention.
[0066] Though not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it
is currently believed that the polymeric dispersing agents the
present surfactant-free cleaning compositions take advantage of the
lower energy of the fiber surface to force the particles off the
surface and into the dispersing agent.
[0067] The aqueous compositions of the present invention provide
surface tensions of greater than about 38 dynes/centimeter (cm) for
application onto low energy fiber surfaces, which are generally
less than about 35 dynes/cm, thereby establishing an energy barrier
which is employed to maintain separation between the surface of the
fiber and the surfactant-free cleaning composition. The formation
of this energy barrier allows for the efficient transfer of
particulate matter, including particles and dyes, from the surface
of a fiber into an aqueous liquid phase, enables the dissolution or
dispersion of charged particles, such as dirt and acid dye, polar
soils, such as sugars and starches, and non-polar soils, such as
oil, from the surface of the fiber into the cleaning compositions
of this invention. The energy barrier formed between a fiber
surface and the compositions of the present invention prevent
redeposition of particulate matter and dye particles onto a fiber
and facilitate adsorption of the dispersed particles into a clean
cloth used to remove the unwanted soil, or transport the
particulate matter away with the removal of the solution, and
eliminate or reduce the amount of residual cleaning solution left
on the fiber after completion of the cleaning task when compared to
the residual amounts remaining after cleaning with surfactant
containing solutions.
[0068] It should be noted that the advantages achieved by employing
the higher surface tension cleaners of the present invention, while
being most pronounced on fibers with a soil-repellant finish, are
also realized to a lesser degree on non-treated synthetic fibers
(i.e., nylon, polyester, polypropylene and acrylic), which are
intrinsically low energy surfaces and essentially non-absorbent to
water based liquids.
[0069] The present invention comprises surfactant-free cleaning
compositions having a surface tension of at least about 38
dynes/cm, or above 60 dynes/cm that is applied to a fiber, or fiber
surface such as carpets, upholstery and the like. Compositions with
surfactants, which lower surface tensions, are known to penetrate
the typical topical hydrophobic fluorochemical soil repellant
and/or stain resistant finish treatments on the fiber surface. The
compositions of the present invention may be applied to a stained
or soiled area employing a hand held sprayer, a pull/push
applicator, a woven or non-woven fabric wipe or a similar device.
The application of the compositions of the present invention to the
fiber or fiber surfaces or other surfaces may be applied with any
range of force to contact the composition with the fiber or
surface, or to remove the composition from the fiber or surface.
The amount of force used in application of composition has effects
on the movement of the particulate matter and dye particles. For
example, in the case of spots and stains, such as red Kool-Aid,
forceful application of compositions may cause penetration of the
stain into the fiber which causes increased potential for staining.
Penetration into carpet backing causes the stain to seem to
disappear, only to re-migrate to the surface during the drying
stage. In the case of application force of the compositions to
remove particulate matter, if the soil can be dispersed without
being forced deeper in the carpet, the efficacy of the extraction
equipment is enhanced, and there is less work needed to remove the
particulate matter. If a lower force is used to disperse the
particulate matter, there is a lower amount of liquid that reaches
deeper into the fabric or carpet. If liquid containing dispersed
particulate matter is forced more deeply into the fabric, it will
require more force to remove that liquid, which is not an issue
with extraction systems that have high force for extraction, such
as truck mounted or industrial cleaners. Less forceful extraction
systems, such a handheld, or home carpet or upholstery cleaning
machines function at a greater efficiency using the compositions of
the present invention. The handheld or home machine has lower force
application, the composition is effective at dispersing the
particulate matter, and the lower removal force of the handheld or
home machine can still remove the particulate matter
effectively.
[0070] The methods of the present invention may be used with hand
cleaning, or using machines such as a hand-held, upright, truck
mount, or commercial extraction devices. Such methods are normally
performed by incorporating a suitable concentrated solution of the
cleaning composition into an applicator and diluting the
concentrate sufficiently to enable the diluted cleaning composition
to perform the cleaning function satisfactorily when applied to a
fiber surface. In operation, the benefits of a surfactant-free
formulation are realized since cleaning compositions that do not
penetrate the fiber not only provide better stain and soil cleaning
benefits on the fiber surface, but also are more readily extracted
by extraction devices. The surfactant-free compositions of the
present invention with higher surface tension characteristics than
surfactant containing cleaning compositions are applied to a fiber
or surface and any soiled or stained areas that are contained on
the surface are then available for removal from the surface by
known absorption or extraction techniques.
[0071] Literature has discussed the anti-redeposition agent
interaction with surfactants. This interaction is used to benefit
surfactant micelle properties. At high surfactant to
anti-redeposition agent ratios, the anti-redeposition polymer
enters the surfactant micelle, reducing critical micelle
concentration and promoting rod-like micelle formation, enhancing
performance of the surfactant properties. However, at high
anti-redeposition agent to surfactant ratios, it is theorized that
this interaction is a hindrance to anti-redeposition properties due
to attachment of surfactant monomers to the anti-redeposition agent
polymer reaction sites. As a result, the dispersion forces are
neutralized, and particulates are not dispersed into the aqueous
solutions.
[0072] The mechanism of fiber cleaning, the interaction with
surfactants and dyes, and the suspension of particulates has
indicated that these anti-redeposition agent interactions relate to
dipole-dipole, dipole-polarizable, and electron charge attraction
forces of the anti-redeposition agent polymeric molecule. The
anti-redeposition agent molecule has strongly negative oxygen atoms
with a strong affinity for cations
[0073] Anti-redeposition agents, when properly selected, aid the
dispersing agent in separating particles by providing additional
steric repulsion forces. Thus, the present invention comprises
compositions with improved removal of metal-associated soils from
fibers, such as carpets and upholstery containing transition metals
chosen for particle size and chemical characteristics naturally
occurring in soil. Conversely, surfactant monomers hinder this
function and lead to bridging flocculation in which the
anti-redeposition and dispersing agents pull the particles together
to make larger particles or even bridging the particles to the
surface being cleaned, thus attaching the particulates to the
fibers.
[0074] Residual surfactants and hydrophobically modified polymers
present on carpet and upholstery interfere with the dispersion
forces of the compositions of the present invention until residual
surfactants are removed during the cleaning process. When
particulate are effectively dispersed and suspended in an aqueous
solution without first applying a carpet and upholstery cleaning
composition that causes the soil and particulate to penetrate deep
into the fabric, such as a surfactant containing composition, the
particulates are more efficiently removed due to improved
particulate suspending activity coupled with improved extraction
solution recovery rates. The functional advantages of the
compositions of the present invention are best seen when residual
surfactant removal has occurred, or surfactants were never applied.
A surfactant-containing cleaner may be required to remove oil and
grease residue.
[0075] Methods of the present invention comprise cleaning one or
more surfaces comprising fibers by applying a composition taught
herein to the fibers or surfaces, which removes particulates and
prevents the redeposition of the particulates, such as
metal-associated soils or allergens. By removing the particulates
from the indoor environment, there is less particulate matter the
air. With less particulate matter in the air, humans or animals are
exposed to fewer particulates with the attendant health benefits of
cleaner air. Methods of treating or preventing allergic reactions
comprise applying a composition taught herein to a fiber, a surface
comprising fibers, or other surface, allowing a sufficient amount
of time to remove particulates and allergens associated with the
fibers, and removing the composition comprising the particulates,
thus preventing such particulates from redepositing on the fiber, a
surface comprising fibers, or other surface. Methods of treating or
preventing inflammatory responses or cardiac-related conditions in
humans and animals comprise applying a composition taught herein to
fiber, a surface comprising fibers, or other surface, allowing a
sufficient amount of time to remove particulates associated with
the fibers, and removing the composition comprising the
particulates, thus preventing particulates from redepositing on the
surface comprising fibers, and lowering the overall particulate
load in the environment, and concomitantly, reducing exposure of
the humans or animals to the particulates and lessening the
pathological responses in the humans or animals to the
particulates. Methods of affecting indoor air quality comprise
applying a composition taught herein fiber, a surface comprising
fibers, or other surface, allowing a sufficient amount of time to
remove particulates associated with the fibers, and removing the
composition comprising the particulates, thus preventing
particulates from redepositing on the surface comprising fibers,
and lowering the overall particulate load in the environment In
preventing redeposition of the particulate matter, the particulates
are removed from the environment.
[0076] The present invention comprises methods and compositions for
removing particulates from fibers and surfaces. The compositions
comprise aqueous solutions comprising at least one dispersing
agent; at least one anti-redeposition agent; at least one pH
modifier; at least one chelating agent; at least one stabilizing
agent; and; and optionally, a fragrance and/or at least one
preservative agent. Water soluble compounds are useful in aqueous
solutions or compounds that are sufficiently soluble at the volumes
and pH of the composition. Methods of the present invention
comprise applying a composition to a fiber or surface, or
contacting a fiber or surface with a composition, allowing the
composition to remain in contact with the fiber or surface so that
at least some portion of the particulates present in, on or
adjacent to the fiber or surface are dispersed in the composition,
and removing the composition from contact with the fiber or
surface. The methods comprise methods for removing particulates
from fibers or surfaces, whether the fibers and surfaces are found
in interior environments or exterior environments, which generally
means an environment inside an enclosed structure or outside of a
structure, respectively. Methods comprise removing particulates
from fibers or surfaces, removing allergens from fibers or
surfaces, methods for improving indoor air quality, methods for
treating allergic or inflammatory conditions in humans or animals
by removing the particulates or allergens which may be causing or
exacerbating the allergic or inflammatory conditions, from the
environment, particularly an interior environment, and methods for
preventing inflammatory reactions or allergic reactions in humans
or animals by removing the particulates or allergens which may be
causing or exacerbating the allergic or inflammatory
conditions.
[0077] The methods used in these and other methods of removing
particulates from fibers and surfaces may comprise multiple
applications of the compositions or multiple contacting of the
fibers or surfaces, so as to remove as much of the particulates as
desired. The applying or contacting steps, along with each
sequential removing of the composition steps may performed more
than one time.
[0078] The compositions of the present invention may be provided in
concentrated solutions that are then diluted to effective
concentrations for application to the fibers or surfaces. The
compositions generally comprise solutions of effective amounts of
the ingredients described herein. The compositions may have a
surface tension greater than about 38 dynes per centimeter. The
compositions comprise at least one dispersing agent, which is
polyacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid/maleic acid copolymers;
styrene/maleic anhydride copolymers, polymethacrylic acid,
polyaspartic acid or combinations or mixtures thereof. The
compositions comprise at least one anti-redeposition agent which is
polyvinylpyrrolidone; polyvinylbetaine; polyvinyl
pyrrolidone/vinylacetate copolymers;
polyvinylpyrrolidone/dimethylamino-ethylmethacrylate copolymers;
polyvinylpyrrolidone/acrylic acid copolymers;
polymethylvinylether/maleic anhydride copolymers;
polyvinylpyridine-n-oxide or combinations or mixtures thereof.
Water soluble compounds are useful in aqueous solutions or
compounds that are sufficiently soluble at the volumes and pH of
the composition. The compositions comprise at least one pH modifier
which may be a counter ion of sodium ions, potassium ions, calcium
ions, magnesium ions, ammonium ions or amine ions or combinations
or mixtures thereof. The compositions at least one chelating agent
is ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; diethylenediaminepentaacetic
acid; nitrilotriacetic acid; hydroxyethylene-diaminetriacetic acid;
iminodisuccinic acid; aminotrismethylenephosphonic acid;
hexamethylenediaminetetramethylenephosphonic acid;
diethylenetriamine-pentamethylenephosphonic acid or combinations or
mixtures thereof. Water soluble chelating agents are useful in
aqueous solutions or compounds that are sufficiently soluble at the
volumes and pH of the composition. The compositions comprise at
least one stabilizing agent which is an alcohol, methyl alcohol,
ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, propyl alcohol, glycol ether,
methyl glycol ether, ethyl glycol ether, propyl glycol ether,
isopropyl glycol ether, butyl glycol ether, phenyl glycol ether,
ethylhexyl ether; glycol ether ester of glycols, ethylene glycol,
diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, propylene glycol,
dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, diethylene glycol
monobutylether, diethylene glycol monobutylether acetate, or
combinations or mixtures thereof.
[0079] The compositions may further comprise at least one
preservative which is 1,3-dihydroxymethyl-5-5-dimethylhydantoin
(DMDM Hydantoin); 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one;
5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one;
2-methyl4-isothiazolin-3-one; 3-iodo-2-propynyl butyl carbamate;
phenoxyethanol; 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol; methyl paraben;
propyl paraben; isopropyl paraben; butyl paraben; isobutyl paraben;
diazolidinyl urea and hydroxymethylglycinate or combinations or
mixtures thereof. Water soluble compounds are useful in aqueous
solutions or compounds that are sufficiently soluble at the volumes
and pH of the composition. The compositions may optionally comprise
at least one fragrance, wherein the at least one fragrance is a
terpene compound; monocyclic terpene; limonene; dicyclic terpene;
pinene; acyclic terpene; myrcene; oxygenated alcohol, aldehyde,
ester, ether or ketone terpene derivative; oxygenated alcohol,
aldehyde, ester, ether or ketone aromatic derivative; oil derived
from citrus peel; lemon oil, orange oil, lime oil, tangerine oil,
grapefruit oil; oils of eucalyptus globulus, oil of wintergreen, or
combinations or mixtures thereof. The pH of the solution
compositions of the present invention are effective in a pH range
of about 5.0 to about 12.0, which is accomplished by the pH
modifier.
[0080] For example, a method for removing allergens, comprises
contacting interior environment fibers or surfaces with a
composition comprising, at least one dispersing agent; at least one
anti-redeposition agent; at least one pH modifier; at least one
chelating agent; at least one stabilizing agent; and may further
comprise at least one preservative agent; and removing a portion of
the composition from the contacted interior environment fibers or
surfaces after a time sufficient to disperse at least some portion
of the total amount of particulate matter. Water soluble compounds
are useful in aqueous solutions or compounds that are sufficiently
soluble at the volumes and pH of the composition. When an aqueous
or liquid composition, the composition has a surface tension of
greater than about 38 dynes per centimeter. The composition may
further comprise at least one fragrance. An example of such a
particulate dispersing composition, comprises at least one
dispersing agent; at least one anti-redeposition agent; at least
one pH modifier; at least one chelating agent; and at least one
stabilizing agent. The composition may further comprise at least
one preservative agent or at least one fragrance, or both. Such a
particulate dispersing composition may comprise, in weight
percentages per total weight of the composition, 0.01-10.0% total
amount of dispersing agent; 0.001-5.0% total amount of
anti-redeposition agent; sufficient pH modifier to adjust the pH of
the composition to a pH of about 5.0-12.0; 0.01-10.0% total amount
of chelating agent; 0.0-2.0% total amount of fragrance; 0.05-25.0%
total amount of stabilizing agent; sufficient amount of at least
one preservative agent; and sufficient water to adjust the weight
percent of the aqueous composition to 100%.
[0081] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the
appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include
plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0082] All patents, patent applications and references included
herein are specifically incorporated by reference in their
entireties.
[0083] It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing
relates only to exemplary embodiments of the present invention and
that numerous modifications or alterations may be made therein
without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention as
set forth in this disclosure.
[0084] Although the exemplary embodiments of the present invention
are provided herein, the present invention is not limited to these
embodiments. There are numerous modifications or alterations that
may suggest themselves to those skilled in the art.
[0085] The present invention is further illustrated by way of the
examples contained herein, which are provided for clarity of
understanding. The exemplary embodiments should not to be construed
in any way as imposing limitations upon the scope thereof. On the
contrary, it is to be clearly understood that resort may be had to
various other embodiments, modifications, and equivalents thereof
which, after reading the description herein, may suggest themselves
to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of
the present invention and/or the scope of the appended claims.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
[0086] A 1200 gram (g) sample of a surfactant-free aqueous cleaning
composition in accordance with the present invention was prepared
by blending, in laboratory scale apparatus, the following
ingredients: TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 A Cleaning Composition Weight
Percent Ingredients (%) Grams (g) Water (Tap) 80.776 969.312 Sodium
iminodisuccinate (34%*) 9.800 117.6 Polyacrylic acid, sodium salt
(50%) 2.404 28.848 Polyvinylpyrrolidone (30%) 6.670 80.04 DMDM
Hydantoin 0.0500 0.6 Ethyl Alcohol 0.3000 3.6 Totals 100.0000
1200.00 *A 34% aqueous solution of sodium iminodisuccinate, of
which 117.6 g was added to the cleaning composition.
[0087] The mixing procedure employed in producing the 1200 g sample
included initially weighing and incorporating 969.312 g water into
a 5000 mL polypropylene beaker and then placing the beaker
containing the water on a steel mixer base, inserting a Talboy
agitator into the beaker and initiating agitation. Then, 117.6 g
Sodium iminodisuccinate, 28.848 g polyacrylic acid (sodium salt),
2.50 g polyvinylprrolidone, a preservative (MDM Hydantoin) and 3.6
g ethyl alcohol were incorporated, in listed order, into the water
under agitation. The combined mixture was then blended for 10
minutes after which an 8-ounce (oz) portion of the 2500 mL sample
mixture was collected and transferred for Quality Control (QC)
testing. Other portions of the mixture were collected diluted as
suitable for use as Test Samples for the performance testing
detailed hereinafter in Examples 2, 3 and 4.
[0088] The QC testing of the 8-ounce sample resulted in the
following data: TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Quality Control Property
Predetermined Ranges Test Results Appearance/Odor -- Clear, pale
colored liquid with bland odor pH 8.5-9.0 8.75 Sp. Gravity @
25.degree. C. 1.035-1.045 1.04 % Solids .sup. 7.0-7.5% 7.25 Surface
Tension >60 dynes/cm 63.4
Example 2
[0089] Several acrylic copolymers are described in U.S. Pat. No.
6,835,704 for use as dispersing and/or anti-redeposition agents,
and the selection of an appropriate acrylic copolymer depends on
properties including wetting (surface tension reduction), foaming
(polar attraction disruption and film viscosity increase), and
anti-redeposition agent interaction.
[0090] Pemulen.RTM. 1622 Polymeric Emulsifier type acrylic acid
polymer is one example. Pemulen 1622 is hydrophobically modified by
addition of C10-30 alkyl acrylate monomer to the acrylic acid
polymer backbone. It is believed the molecule imparts undesirable
surfactant-like properties to the formulation.
[0091] Pemulen.RTM. 1622 Polymeric Emulsifier was incorporated into
the base formulation (as described in Example 1) at a concentration
of 1.6% Pemulen 1622. Both formulations were diluted 1:16 with tap
water.
[0092] Table 5 summarizes the properties and results, followed by
detailed discussion and observations. TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5
Effects of Hydrophobically Modified Polymer Example 1 Formula (plus
Properties Example 1 Formula 1.6% Pemulen 1622) Surface Tension
63.4 dyne/cm 69.8 dyne/cm Foaming.sup.1 <5 mL 125 mL
Viscosity.sup.2 0 cps 8 cps Soil Dispersion Test 3.0 0.5 (60
Minute) .sup.1Modified Ross-Miles (5 Minute Foam) .sup.2Brookfield
LV Viscometer/Spindle 1 at 30 rpm .sup.3To simulate the use of the
surfactant-free aqueous cleaning compositions of the present
invention to disperse common dirt and to demonstrate the improved
dispersion achieved with the compositions of the present invention
as compared with prior art commercial products, a 16 g test sample
of an aqueous dilution (1:16) # of the cleaning composition
produced in Example 1 was introduced into a 22 mL KIMAX Sample Vial
(Fisher Cat # 03-339-25F) along with a dirt sample comprising 0.2 g
Georgia Red Clay which was obtained from a household yard and was
prepared by air drying at 23.degree. C. and 70% relative humidity
and, then, grinding with a mortar # and pestle. After the test
sample and the control sample cleaning solutions and the dirt
sample were introduced into the Sample Vials, the Sample Vials were
each capped and held without shaking for 15 seconds. Then, each of
the Sample Vials was inverted three times, followed by a 60 second
holding period without shaking and then each # of the Sample Vials
was again inverted three times. Based on visual observations, the
dispersion rate of the dirt in each of the tested cleaning
solutions was determined and recorded after a 1 minute, a 15
minutes and a 60 minutes interval and tabulated.
[0093] The micelle-forming surfactants which have been utilized in
prior art cleaning compositions have functioned to reduce the
water/oil interfacial tension at the surface of the fiber substrate
for purposes of encapsulating oil particles for removal in much the
same manner as is typical for most consumer cleaning products such
as hard surface cleaners, fabric cleaners, personal care products
and the like. This lowering of the surface tension (i.e., the force
per unit length on the surface that opposes the expansion of the
surface area) when prior art aqueous cleaning solutions have been
utilized have been found to be counterproductive in practice
resulting in the cleaning solution causing many soils and/or stains
to penetrate into and "wet" the fiber surface, thereby, to cause
the soiled section or stain in the fiber surface to spread over a
larger area rather than to be removed. Additionally, this "wetting"
tends to cause fibers to untwist, particularly under mechanical
force, thereby causing increased fiber damage and wear.
[0094] Testing indicates that Pemulen 1622 does not reduce surface
tension. The slight increase in surface tension observed is likely
related to the increase in viscosity. Consequently, the Pemulen
Polymeric Emulsifier does not hinder the invention with regard to
problems associated with wetting, such as spreading of stains or
fiber untwisting.
[0095] The polymer cannot reduce surface tension because the
polymer does not form typical surfactant micelle structures in
aqueous solution. As anticipated, incorporation of an
hydrophobically modified polymer into the base formulation has a
significant effect on foam and foam stability. This foam is the
result of forces other than those typically associated with
surfactant micelles. Molecules that incorporate both polar and
non-polar units may be either soluble or dispersed in water and
capable of breaking the high-energy polar forces that cause bubbles
to break. Surfactants are known for the ability to break these
forces at very low concentrations due to the formation on micelles.
Once these polar forces are broken, foam occurs. Pemulen Polymeric
Emulsifiers exert a similar surfactant-like ability by
incorporation of both polar and non-polar units. Once foam is
formed, its stability is dependent on several film properties
including film thickness, drainage, viscosity, elasticity,
permeability and the presence of electrical double layers.
[0096] Of the mechanisms affecting film rupture, the initial
concern is liquid drainage out of the film. Hence, the hydrodynamic
flow properties within the film (surface viscosity and film
elasticity) come into play. As the film thickness thins, increased
surface viscosity and film elasticity properties tend to help
resist localized thinning of the film, which causes film
rupture.
[0097] From Table 5, both the foam and viscosity measurements
appear to support the theory that hydrophobically modified polymers
influence these non-micelle forces (film thickness, drainage,
viscosity, elasticity, and possibly permeability), which are likely
the reasons for foam formation and foam stability. However, while
foam is undesirable from a marketing point of view (since it makes
it more difficult to sell the product as "surfactant free"), this
alone is not reason enough to discount Pemulen Polymeric
Emulsifiers from use in the invention since the effect the
polymeric dispersion, dissolution and redeposition of charged
particles in manner very similar to surfactants as described in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,835,704.
[0098] From Table 5, it is noted that the soil dispersion testing
indicates that the Pemulen Polymeric Emulsifier interferes with the
anti-redeposition agent, thereby inhibiting the composition's
ability to prevent the redeposition of soil and to facilitate the
quicker absorption of soil.
Example 3
[0099] To measure the effect of surfactant-containing cleaners on
drying times, the base formulation (as described in Example 1) was
applied under standard lab conditions of 23.degree. C. @ 40-60%
relative humidity. Each carpet cleaning composition was diluted to
the maximum recommended extraction solution dilution ratio and
sprayed onto an approximately 9''.times.9'' area of EverSet.RTM.
Commercial carpet (Style No. DC 038, Ultron Nylon 6,6) at an
application rate of 0.25 grams per inch.sup.2 (20 gram) with a hand
held spray/stream sprayer adjusted to a medium spray pattern. After
60 seconds, a three-pass vacuum extraction was applied using a
Bissell Little Green Machine.RTM.. The drying period was initiated
after first measuring the amount of cleaning solution removed by
vacuum extraction. TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 Effect of
Surfactant-Containing Cleaner on Drying Times Carpet Cleaning
Composition Extraction Solutions Example 1 Water Composition
Extraction SC* Time (Control) (1:16) (1:320) 0.00 74.35 g 76.92 g
56.14 g 0.50 81.20 g 83.70 g 63.22 g 1.25 90.90 g 92.03 g 71.83 g
2.00 95.40 g 95.99 g 79.01 g 3.00 97.35 g 98.03 g 85.40 g 4.00
99.25 g 99.21 g 90.15 g 5.25 100.00 g 100.00 g 93.60 g 6.50 100.00
g 100.00 g 95.79 g 8.00 100.00 g 100.00 g 98.00 g *Surfactant
containing composition
[0100] The present invention compositions (even at the highest
recommended dilution) had an extraction solution recovery rate and
drying profile equal to water. Drying time (dry to the touch) was
reduced from 6 hours to 2 hours as compared to a typical surfactant
containing cleaner (i.e. Extraction SC from Johnson Wax
Professional), a 50-70% reduction in drying time vs. the surfactant
containing system. TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 Surface Tension
Measurements Example 1 Properties Water Formula Extraction SC
Dilution NA 1:16 1:320 Ratio Surface 72.1 dyne/cm 63.4 dyne/cm 34.0
dyne/cm Tension
[0101] TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 Surface Tension Properties Surface
Tension Properties Less than Fast-moderate wetting. Increased soil
penetration 40 dynes/cm into carpet backing 40-50 dynes/cm Slow
wetting. Slightly increased soil penetration into carpet backing.
>60 dynes/cm Very slow wetting. Decreased soil penetration into
carpet backing
Example 4
[0102] The results of the cleaning efficacy data were obtained by
X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Data generated in accordance with PTL
(DRAFT)- Standard Test Practice Using X-Ray Fluorescence for
Evaluating Cleaning Effectiveness of Carpet Cleaning Processes
(2004) supported the claims described herein of improved
compositions and processes to remove metal-associated soils from
carpets.
[0103] The test soil used a standard set of compounds containing
elements suitable for XRF detection, chosen for particle size,
hardness and surface characteristics of naturally occurring soils
commonly found in household carpet soil (such as clay and sand).
TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 Test Soil Characteristics Compound Particle
Size Comments Iron Oxide <1 .mu.m Commonly found in soil Zinc
Oxide <74 .mu.m Clay-like consistency Yttrium Oxide <10 .mu.m
Sand-like characteristics Zirconium Boride <44 .mu.m Black
dust-like characteristics
The test soil was first applied to Zytel.TM. 01FNC010 nylon
pellets, which were used to transfer the test soil to carpet test
specimens following ASTM D6540. The carpet test specimens
(untreated1 or precleaned2) were mounted securely inside a rotating
drum with the pile surface exposed and subjected to an accelerated
soiling process. The degree of soiling (a) was assessed by XRF
analysis to determine the starting concentration of each compound.
The carpet test specimens were pre-sprayed (1 gallon use solution
per 200 ft.sup.2. After 15 minutes, the samples were cleaned by two
extraction strokes and two dry strokes starting at the bottom of
the sample on the first stroke at 1.0 foot per second for a total
of four strokes. The carpet test specimens were allowed to dry for
24 hours and the soil removal (b) was assessed by XRF analysis. The
% soil removal was determined using the following formula:
% Soil removal=a-b/a (100)
[0104] TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 10 % Soil Removal (In-tank
Commercial.sup.3 Extraction) Process Dilutions Cleaning Pre- Carpet
% Removal Composition Spray Extraction Surface Fe.sub.2O.sub.3
Y.sub.2O.sub.3 ZnO Total 1 Example 1 1:16 1:64 Unt.sup.1 101 98 99
99 Precl.sup.2 94 93 93 93 2 Example 1 1:64 1:64 Unt.sup.1 97 95 94
95 Precl.sup.2 88 91 89 89 3 Extraction SC 1:320 1:320 Unt.sup.1 90
91 90 90 Precl.sup.2 88 90 89 89
[0105] TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 11 % Soil Removal (In-tank
Household.sup.4 Extraction) Process Dilutions Cleaning Pre- Carpet
% Removal Composition Spray Extraction Surface Fe.sub.2O.sub.3
Y.sub.2O.sub.3 ZnO Total 1 Example 1 1:16 1:64 Unt.sup.1 58 56 56
57 Precl.sup.2 54 53 53 53 2 Example 1 1:64 1:64 Untr.sup.1 57 55
55 55 Precl.sup.2 52 50 50 50 3 Bissell 1:64 1:64 Unt.sup.1 42 41
40 41 Precl.sup.2 38 37 37 37
[0106] TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 12 % Soil Removal (In-tank
Household.sup.5 Extraction) Process Dilutions* Cleaning Pre- Carpet
% Removal Composition Spray Extraction Surface Fe.sub.2O.sub.3
Y.sub.2O.sub.3 ZnO Total 1 Example 1 1:16 1:64 Unt.sup.1 62 60 59
60 Precl.sup.2 58 56 56 56 2 Example 1 1:64 1:64 Unt.sup.1 60 58 58
58 Precl.sup.2 54 52 52 53 3 Hoover 1:64 1:64 Unt.sup.1 44 43 43 43
Precl.sup.2 40 39 40 40 .sup.1Untreated Carpet Surface - Mohawk
Spotlite (Style 25418-121), 25-oz/square yd, Pile 0.470'' cut Nylon
.sup.2Treated Carpet Surface - Mohawk Spotlight precleaned with
0.1% Magnesium lauryl sulfate and dried 48 hours at 25.degree. C.
.sup.3Commercial Truck Mount - ProChem Performer Model 980060
.sup.4Household Unit - Bissell Proheat Model 8910 .sup.5Household
Unit - Hoover SteamVac Model F5900-900 *Dilutions of the
composition of Example 1.
[0107] In operation, the benefits of a surfactant-free formulation
were realized since cleaning compositions that do not penetrate the
fiber not only provide better stain and soil cleaning benefits on
the fiber surface, but also are more readily extracted by
extraction devices. Functionally, the absence of surfactants in the
compositions of the present invention greatly enhanced the
effectiveness of these cleaning compositions as compared with prior
art surfactant containing cleaning compositions since the presence
of surfactants in the prior art products reduced the surface
tension of the cleaning composition and significantly reduced the
dispersing properties of the composition. In this regard, the
surfactant-free compositions of the present invention were
formulated to exhibit higher surface tension characteristics than
prior art cleaning compositions when applied to a fiber surface
whereby any soiled or stained areas are contained on the surface
and are available for subsequent removal from the surface by known
absorption or extraction techniques."
[0108] The data described herein showed that compositions of the
present invention removed metal-associated soils from carpets more
efficiently than prior art surfactant-containing cleaning
compositions. Generally, the process dilutions were very near
economical equivalents.
[0109] It appeared that the presence of residual surfactant on
carpets previously cleaned with surfactant containing cleaning
compositions may reduce the efficiency of the present invention.
However, since surfactant chemistry may be used for certain greasy
and oily residues, the most efficient process, may be to clean
first by use of the present invention by extraction, followed by
spot cleaning with a minimum quantity of surfactant based cleaner,
with subsequent extraction with surfactant-free cleaning
compositions as described in the present invention to reduce
surfactant residues in the carpet to a minimum level.
[0110] The improved process of the present invention became more
evident in household wet extraction equipment due to a less
efficient vacuum design in household equipment. The significant
performance improvement with household equipment (as compared to
commercial equipment) is believed to be due to a combination of
factors, the first of which is the improved exchange rate noted in
the data presented in FIG. 1. Here it is noted that
surfactant-containing solutions were more difficult to remove by
vacuum extraction from carpeting.
Example 5
[0111] A 2500 gram (g) sample of a surfactant-free aqueous cleaning
composition in accordance with the present invention was prepared
by blending, in laboratory scale apparatus, the following
ingredients: TABLE-US-00013 TABLE 13 Cleaning Composition Weight
Percent Ingredients (%) Grams (g) Water (Tap) 97.9670 2449.17 EDTA,
Tetrasodium salt 1.2000 30.00 Polyacrylic acid, sodium 0.3800 9.50
salt Polyvinylpyrrolidone 0.1000 2.50 DMDM Hydantoin 0.0500 1.25
Ethyl Alcohol 0.3000 7.50 #181335 Lemon 0.0030 0.08 Totals 100.0000
2500.00
[0112] The mixing procedure employed in producing the 2500 g sample
included initially weighing and incorporating 2449.17 g water into
a 5000 mL polypropylene beaker and then placing the beaker
containing the water on a steel mixer base, inserting a Talboy
agitator into the beaker and initiating agitation. Then, 30.00 g
EDTA (tetrasodium salt), 9.50 g polyacrylic acid (sodium salt),
2.50 g polyvinylpyrrolidone and a preservative (DMDM Hydantoin)
were incorporated, in listed order, into the water under agitation.
The resulting mixture was blended for 5 minutes. Separately, 7.50 g
ethyl alcohol and 0.08 g fragrance (#181335 Lemon) were weighed and
mixed in a 50 mL Pyrex beaker and this mixture was pre-blended with
a spatula in the 50 mL beaker after which the resulting pre-blend
was introduced into the original mixture in the 5000 mL
polypropylene beaker. The combined mixture was then blended for 10
minutes after which an 8 ounce (oz) portion of the 2500 mL sample
mixture was collected and transferred for Quality Control (QC)
testing. Other portions of the mixture were collected and
introduced into 32 oz. high density polyethylene (HDPE) containers
with a suitable closure (28400 High Flow Pull Push manufactured by
Creative Packaging Corp. or a Model 0176 spray/stream/off trigger
sprayer manufactured by Owens-Brockway) to be used as Test Samples
for the performance testing detailed hereinafter in Examples 6 and
8.
[0113] The QC testing of the 8 ounce sample resulted in the
following data: TABLE-US-00014 TABLE 14 Quality Control
Predetermined Property Ranges Test Results Appearance/Odor Clear
liquid/mild citrus odor pH 9.0-9.5 9.24 Sp gravity at 25.degree. C.
0.7-0.8 0.76 Surface tension >60 dynes/cm 63.4 dynes/cm
Example 6
[0114] To simulate use of the surfactant-free aqueous cleaning
compositions of the present invention for stain removal on
stain-resistant carpeting and to demonstrate the improved stain
removal results achieved with the compositions of the present
invention as compared with prior art commercial products, Test
Samples of the cleaning composition produced in Example 5, packaged
in a 32 ounce container with a high flow pull/push applicator, were
applied to a variety of laboratory staining agents and were blotted
and the resulting stain ratings were compared with the stain rating
results achieved employing various commercially available prior art
cleaning compositions as Controls under the same test
conditions.
[0115] For purposes of this comparative test, a series of 11/2''
stains were applied to a test carpet at 21/2'' intervals by pipette
transfer of approximately 6 mL of various staining agents tabulated
below onto the carpet surface. The stains were conditioned for 24
hours at 23.degree. C. (70% relative humidity) and excess stain was
scraped from the surface with a scraper.
[0116] Then, a 7 g test sample of the cleaning composition produced
in Example 5 was applied to each of the stained areas on the carpet
surface using a high flow pull/push applicator. For purposes of
providing control samples for comparative testing, two additional 7
g samples comprising two commercially available prior art cleaning
products (i.e., one sample being prepared with RESOLVE.RTM..TM.
"Spot and Stain" and the other being prepared with BISSELL "Tough
Stain Precleaner".TM.) were applied to in a similar manner to
comparable stained areas on separate carpets. Three minutes after
application, all of the stained areas were blotted with no more
than two paper towels (as necessary). Then, additional 7 g test
samples of each of the cleaning compositions were reapplied to the
stained areas and these areas were again blotted until no further
transfer of stain from the carpet to the towels was noted (about 10
minutes). If necessary, a scraper was employed to agitate any
undissolved dried particles remaining on the carpets. A final 7 g
Test Sample of each of the cleaning composition samples was
reapplied to the stained areas and these areas were blotted again
until no transfer was noted (about 5 minutes). Thereafter, the
carpet was conditioned for 24 hours at 23.degree. C. and the
following tabulated comparative stain rating results were
determined based on visual inspection of the carpet after
treatment: TABLE-US-00015 TABLE 15 Stain Rating Results Cleaner
Compositions Staining Agents Test.sup.A Control 1.sup.B Control
2.sup.C Grape Juice (''Welch's 100% 5.0 4.5 4.5 Grape Juice)
''Kool-Aid'' 4.8 3.5 3.0 Cherry Burst, pre-sweetened, pre- mixed
Wine (Mogen David Concord) 4.8 4.5 4.5 Mustard (French's) 3.5 3.5
3.0 Chocolate Syrup (Hershey's 5.0 4.8 4.8 Genuine Ragu Brand (Meat
Sauce) 4.7 4.5 4.5 .sup.ACleaning Compositions from Ex. 5
.sup.BResolve .RTM. "Spot and Stain" .sup.CBISSELL "Tough Stain
Precleaner" .TM. Rating Scale: 5--no stain remaining 4--75% of
stain removed 3--50% of stain removed 2--25% of stain removed 1--0%
of stain removed
Example 7
[0117] Typically, the surfactants employed in prior art cleaning
compositions have been incorporated for purposes of lowering the
surface tension of aqueous cleaning solutions when the surfactants
are added at concentrations above critical micelle concentrations
(CMC) of the surfactants.
[0118] In this Example, the surface tension characteristics of
various conventional prior art cleaning compositions were measured
in comparison with the surface tension exhibited by the cleaning
compositions of the present invention. As determined by measurement
with a calibrated CSC-DuNouy Tensiometer (Model 70535; SN 12516),
the prior art cleaning compositions exhibited surface tensions
below 35, and typically between 22 and 35 dynes/cm as compared with
the cleaning compositions of the present invention which exhibit
surface tensions of at least about 38.0 dynes/cm and higher as is
demonstrated in the following Table 16. TABLE-US-00016 TABLE 16
Surface Tension Measurements Carpet Cleaning Compositions Dynes/cm
Resolve .RTM. "Spot and Stain" 22.0 BISSELL "Tough Stain
Precleaner" .TM. 33.2 Formula 409 .RTM. Carpet Cleaner 29.5 Stain
Control .TM. 30.5 Test Sample from Ex. 5 63.4
[0119] Since the surface tension of the prior art aqueous
surfactant solutions are typically below 35 dynes/cm, it has been
found that the standard soil repellent finishes on fiber surfaces
such as carpets, upholstery and the like have been unable to
prevent surfactant containing cleaning solutions from penetrating
the soil repellent finishes applied on carpet surfaces resulting in
several problems including the following:
[0120] 1. As the stain/soil is emulsified and dispersed, instead of
being removed, the stain/soil is carried deeper into the fiber,
backing and padding of a carpet as the low energy of the fiber
finish is overcome. This can actually cause the soil to appear to
be removed, only to be discovered that the stain/soil has actually
only migrated to the padding and will later often re-migrate back
to the surface as the fiber dries (or during subsequent application
of cleaner).
[0121] 2. As the surfactant solution penetrates a carpet fiber, the
visual appearance of the fiber is changed due to loss of twist and
inflection of the angle of carpet pile. While all of the cleaners
tested herein had some effect on the fiber pile,
surfactant-containing cleaners caused greater fiber damage. The
cleaning compositions of the present invention as produced in
accordance with Example 5 caused less initial damage and the fibers
had greater ability to recover to near original appearance. The
loss of twist is accompanied by an increased loss of fiber, as
mechanical force is applied to the carpet to remove stains and
soil.
[0122] 3. Once the surfactant solution has penetrated completely
into the carpet fiber, backing and padding, the solution is more
difficult to remove by either blotting or extraction. This results
in longer drying times and decreased customer satisfaction.
[0123] The surfactant-free cleaning compositions of the present
invention as exemplified by the compositions produced in accordance
with the procedures set forth in Example 5 outperformed the prior
art surfactant containing cleaning compositions which were tested
such as the Control Samples set forth in Example 6. Also, when the
stained areas discussed in Example 6 were cut away and inspected,
it was noted that a significant portion of many stains in the
Control Samples had migrated, spreading the stains out from the
center to the base of the fiber strands and carpet backing.
Example 8
[0124] This Example demonstrated the use of the surfactant-free
aqueous cleaning compositions of the present invention to clean
carpeting and to illustrate the enhanced affect the use of these
compositions has on the attraction of common dirt to a cleaned area
of carpet fiber (i.e., to prevent re-soiling). Re-soiling
performance of the compositions of this invention has been
determined herein by application of the cleaning composition of
Example 5 to test carpet and subsequent application of test soil,
followed by vacuuming.
[0125] The re-soil testing procedure employed in this Example
included adjusting the nozzle of a spray/steam/off trigger sprayer
to a medium spray pattern (typically about 70% closed for an
adjustable sprayer that can be adjusted anywhere from a fine mist
through medium, coarse and, finally, to a stream spray pattern when
fully opened). Then, 15 grams of each test carpet cleaning
composition was sprayed onto an approximately 3'' times 15'' area
of carpet (at an application rate of 0.3 grams per inch). After 3
minutes, the treated area was thoroughly blotted with paper towels
(using one paper towel per 5 grams of cleaning composition
applied). The carpet sample was then conditioned for 24 hours at
23.degree. C. (about 70% relative humidity). Thereafter, a 1/8''
layer of Scotts Potting Soil was applied evenly to the carpet
sample and excess soil was shaken from the carpet. The results of
this soil application to the previously cleaned carpet were
observed and recorded employing the rating scale set forth below
and then one-half of the re-soiled carpet was vacuumed by passing
the a vacuum cleaner over the carpet surface three times and the
vacuumed area of the re-soiled carpet was observed and graded
utilizing the same rating scale set forth below. The results of
this re-soil testing were as follows in Table 17. TABLE-US-00017
TABLE 17 Resoiling Results Cleaner Compositions Test Sample Resolve
.RTM. BISSELL Cleaning "Spot and "Tough Stain Compositions Stain"
Precleaner" .TM. from Ex. 1 (Control) (Control) Without 1.0 0.5 1.0
Vacuuming With Vacuuming 4.0 3.5 3.0 Re-soil Rating: 5--no soil
remaining 4--slight soil remaining 3--noticeable soil remaining
2--considerable soil remaining 1--severe soil remaining
Based on visual observation and ratings of the re-soil testing, it
was determined that the surfactant-free aqueous cleaning
compositions of the present invention outperformed the commercially
available prior art Control products. Also, when the soiled areas
were closely inspected, it was noted that a significant level of
imbedded soil was left under the surface of the carpet fiber when
the Control products were applied to the carpet surface. It is
believed that this imbedded soil resulted from the presence of
surfactants in the Control products, thus having an adverse
influence on the re-soil rating as compared with the
surfactant-free cleaning compositions of the present invention
which did not leave such imbedded soil under the surface of in the
carpet fiber.
Example 9
[0126] To simulate the use of the surfactant-free aqueous cleaning
compositions of the present invention to disperse common dirt and
to demonstrate the improved dispersion achieved with the
compositions of the present invention as compared with prior art
commercial products, a 20 g test sample of the aqueous cleaning
composition produced in Example 5 was introduced into a 24 mL KIMAX
Sample Vial (VWR Cat #66010-429) along with a dirt sample
comprising 0.2 g Georgia Red Clay which was obtained from a
household yard and was prepared by air drying at 23 degree C. and
70% relative humidity and, then, grinding with a mortar and pestle.
For purposes of providing control samples for comparative testing,
two additional 20 g samples comprising two commercially available
prior art cleaning products (i.e., one sample being prepared with
RESOLVE.RTM..TM. "Spot and Stain" and the other being prepared with
BISSELL "Tough Stain Precleaner".TM.) were mixed with dirt samples
in a similar manner in separate Sample Vials.
[0127] After the test sample and the control sample cleaning
solutions and the dirt sample were introduced into the Sample
Vials, the Sample Vials were each capped and held without shaking
for 15 seconds. Then, each of the Sample Vials was inverted three
times, followed by a 60 second holding period without shaking and
then each of the Sample Vials was again inverted three times. Based
on visual observations, the dispersion rate of the dirt in each of
the tested cleaning solutions was determined and recorded after a 1
minute, a 15 minutes and a 60 minutes interval and is tabulated in
Table 18. TABLE-US-00018 TABLE 18 Soil Dispersion Results Cleaner
Compositions Resolve .RTM. BISSELL "Spot and "Tough Stain
Composition of Stain" Precleaner" .TM. Time Example 5 (Control)
(Control) 1 Minute 3.0 0.5 0.1 15 Minutes 3.0 0.5 0.1 60 Minutes
3.0 0.5 0.1 Soil Dispersion Rating: 5--100% dispersed 4--75%
dispersed 3--50% dispersed 2--25% dispersed 0-0% dispersed
As a result of the visual observation and ratings of this red clay
dispersion testing, it was demonstrated that the cleaning
compositions of the present invention significantly out-performed
both of the commercially available, prior art control products
tested in regard to dispersion properties--without the use of
surfactants. While the present invention has been described with
reference to specific embodiments, examples and ranges, it will be
clear to those skilled in the art that modification may be made
without departing from the invention which is specifically set
forth in the following claims.
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