BRPI0314295B1 - WATER SOLUBLE PACKAGING FOR TISSUE RINSING COMPOSITIONS AND TISSUE CONDITIONING PROCESS - Google Patents

Abstract

"WATER SOLUBLE PACKAGING AND PROCESS FOR THE CONDITIONING OF TISSUES". A water-soluble package comprises a polymeric film, the polymeric film comprising a polymeric backbone derived from a polymer, which is water-soluble, as defined herein, and one or more derivation groups attached to the backbone, the( s) derivatizing group(s) being derived from a material having a ClogP of from 0.5 to 6 and/or being derived from a source material comprising a C4 to C22 hydrocarbyl chain.

Description

Field of Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a polymeric film for a water-soluble package and a water-soluble package for containing a fabric treatment composition, such as a rinse treatment composition.

Background of the Invention

[0002] Fabric conditioning compositions added to the rinse are well known. Typically, such compositions are provided in the form of a liquid in a plastic bottle, which requires the consumer to dose the correct amount of fabric softening composition from the bottle into the dispensing drawer of a washing machine. .

[0003] The problem regarding conventional liquid fabric softeners, provided in a bottle or other such packaging, is that there is always a risk of underdosing or overdosing of the rinse conditioning composition inside the dispensing drawer of a washing machine washing resulting in an unsatisfactory or undesirable level of softening being provided to the fabrics. There is also the problem of wastage of ingredients when dumping the product from the packaging into the dispensing drawer of the washing machine.

[0004] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a rinse conditioning composition that is convenient to use and ensures that the correct amount of fabric softening composition is metered into the rinse cycle. It is also desirable to avoid the product waste problem associated with dispensing conventional rinse conditioners from a bottle or the like.

[0005] Water-soluble packages are known in the detergent and agrochemical industries and comprise, in general, either vertical form-fill-seal envelopes (VFFS) or thermoformed envelopes. In one of the VFFS processes, a roll of water-soluble film is sealed along its length to form individual envelopes, which are filled with product and heat sealed. The thermoforming process generally involves molding a first sheet of water-soluble film to form one or more recesses adapted to retain a composition, such that, for example, a solid agrochemical composition, places the sheet of soluble material in water over the first so as to cover the or each recess and thermally seal the first and second sheets together at least around the recesses so as to form one or more water-soluble packages.

[0006] Cleaning products are traditionally often liquid, viscous or thin, as known for personal cleaning (liquids and shampoos for the bath and shower) or for household cleaning (dishwashing manual and other hard surface cleaning, laundry cleaning, etc.). Other products are solids such as powders, granules, small capsules (up to 2 mm in diameter) or more recently tablets for washing clothes and dishwashers, and bars for cleaning the skin. Recently, so-called unit dose products are experiencing increasing success with consumers, due to the fact that they eliminate the need for handling, and possibly waste, of liquids or powders and simplify the use of a correct dose of the product. for the required purpose. Examples thereof are the above mentioned laundry and dishwasher tablets and recently described in F. Schambil and M. Bocker, Tenside Surf. Det. 37 (2000)1.

[0007] Many types of water-soluble packaging are known, including packaging produced from polyvinyl alcohol film (hereafter referred to as “PVOH”). A wide variety of different materials can be packaged in such films, including liquid materials.

[0008] EP-A-518689 discloses a storage system in containers for hazardous materials (eg pesticides), which comprises a PVOH film, which contains a composition comprising the hazardous material, water, an electrolyte and optionally others materials. Electrolyte is added in order to reduce the solubility of the film, or in order to prevent its dissolution by the packaged composition.

[0009] WO9737903 exposes films for the encapsulation of agrochemicals. There is no suggestion of films designed to respond to surfactant concentration.

[0010] EP-B-389513 exposes concentrated aqueous syrups (mainly foodstuffs, but also other materials, such as detergents, are mentioned) inside PVOH packaging, the concentration of syrup being effective to prevent the packaging from dissolving by packaged composition.

[0011] EP-A-700989 discloses a unit-packed detergent for dishwashing, the packaging comprising a detergent composition wrapped in a PVOH film, wherein the film protects the detergent against dissolution until the wash cycle main dishwasher.

[0012] WO-A-97/27743 discloses an agrochemical composition packaged in a water-soluble sachet, which may be PVOH.

[0013] GB-A-2118961 describes preparations packaged in a PVOH film, while EP-B-347221 refers to water-soluble sachets of phytosanitary materials, which are packaged in a secondary water-insoluble package, with a moist environment being maintained between the two.

EP-A-593952 describes a water-soluble PVOH sachet with two chambers and a treatment agent for washing inside each chamber.

[0015] EP-A-941939 refers to a water-soluble packaging, which may be PVOH, containing a composition which, when dissolved, produces a solution of known composition.

In Special for cleaning hands.

[0017] DE-29801621 describes a water-soluble unit dose for dishwashers.

[0018] EP-B-160254 relates to a washing additive, which comprises a mixture of detergent constituents in a PVOH bag. The detergent comprises non-ionic surfactant and a quaternary ammonium compound.

US-4846992 describes a double-packed laundry detergent in which the inner package is water-soluble and may be PVOH.

EP-B-15 8464 refers to a detergent, packaged in PVOH, and DE-A-19521140 discloses a water-soluble PVOH sachet containing a detergent composition.

FR-2601930 refers to a water-soluble sachet containing any substance, in particular a pharmaceutical substance.

[0022] A variety of water-soluble PVOH films are also known. For example, EP-B-157162 relates to a self-supporting film, which comprises a PVOH matrix having rubber microdomains dispersed therein.

[0023] WO-A-96/00251 refers to an amphiphatic graft copolymer, which comprises a hydrophobic main chain, with graft sites, onto which a hydrophilic polymer prepared from a hydrophilic monomer containing ionic groups is grafted which stabilize independently of pH.

[0024] GB-B-2090603 refers to a water-soluble film comprising a uniform mixture of partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate and polyacrylic acid.

[0025] WO-A-97/00282 refers to a water-soluble film, which combines two polymeric ingredients S and H, wherein S is an acid-functional olefinic addition copolymer having a Tg of less than 20°C and H is a hard acid functional olefinic addition copolymer having a Tg of less than 40°C. The S:H ratio is 90:10 to 65:35 and the acidic functionalities are at least partially neutralized to make the film soluble in water.

[0026] EP-B-79712 relates to a laundry additive for discharging into a wash containing borate ions. The additive is enclosed within a PVOH film, which is plasticized and has as a solubilizer either a polyhydroxy compound (such as sorbitol) or an acid (such as polyacrylic acid).

[0027] EP-B-291198 refers to a water-soluble film containing an alkaline additive or a borate-containing additive. The film is formed from a copolymer resin or a vinyl alcohol having 0-10 mole % residual acetate groups and 1-6 mole % non-hydrolyzable anionic comonomer. FR-2724388 displays a water-soluble bottle, flask or drum made from PVOH, which is plasticized with a 13-20% plasticizer (such as glycerol) and then molded.

[0028] The report of the International Patent Applications WO-A-00/55044, WO-A-00/55045, WO-A-00/55046, WO-A-00/55068, WO-A-00/55069 and WO-A-00/55415 discloses water-soluble packages containing a fluid substance (defined as a liquid, gel or paste) which is a horizontal form-fill-seal (HFFS) envelope. These packages comprise a body wall portion having an internal volume and which is preferably dome-shaped, formed from a first sheet, and a superimposed base wall portion, formed from a second sheet, attached to the wall portion of the body.

[0029] A PVOH package containing a liquid laundry detergent composition comprising from about 10% to about 24% by weight of water (but 3.57% in the single example) is disclosed in US-A- 4 973 416.

[0030] EP-0 283 180 discloses the preparation of very fast dissolving films with a high degree of hydrolysis.

[0031] WO-A1-97/19961 exposes polymers of rapid solubility, produced from PVOH co-polymerized with carboxylate portions, and which have some degree of lactonization. These materials quickly dissolve in the detergent solution. There is no reference or suggestion for solubility control using washing surfactants.

[0032] EP-0 284 334 relates to films, which comprise a mixture of PVOH and alkyl celluloses with a metal salt, such as borate, so as to produce a pouch that can be fired. Alkyl cellulose is temperature responsive such that at low rinse temperatures it is more soluble than at higher temperatures associated with the wash cycle. Crosslinking borate provides pH sensitivity. Furthermore, this document states that anionic surfactants have very little effect on, or even increase, the dissolution rate of the film.

[0033] GB-2 358 382 refers to rigid blow molded components produced from PVOH.

AT 408 548 relates to PVOH materials, which contain boosters for improving detergency during the main wash cycle.

[0035] When formulating a liquid unit dose product, of the type in which a substantially non-aqueous formulation is encapsulated in a water-soluble film, probably the most difficult challenge to be preserved is the physical integrity and stability of the film . One approach to this problem is set out in WO-A1/79417, which substantially involves the neutralization or superneutralization of acidic components in the liquid composition, in particular any fatty acids and/or anionic surfactant acid precursors. However, this approach is specific to encapsulation using a PVOH-based water-soluble film, which includes comonomer units having carboxyl functionality.

[0036] Preserving the integrity of films, which contain fabric softening compositions for use in the rinse cycle, is in particular a challenge, as commercial softening compositions are generally aqueous and tend to interact in an undesirable way, with the water-soluble packaging, causing a weakening of the film and potentially premature breakage, for example, during storage.

[0037] One way of approaching this problem is set out in US 4 765 916, which involves providing a crosslinked polymeric water soluble film, preferably a borate.

When packaging is to provide a fabric softening composition, it is important that the contents are provided primarily during the rinse cycle.

[0039] In the case of so-called "top load" washing machines, where the fabric conditioning product is typically dosed into the drum of the washing machine, this usually requires that the consumer is present both at the beginning of the washing cycle and at the beginning of the rinse cycle and that the washing and rinsing products are dosed, respectively.

[0040] Thus, it is desirable to be able to provide a product, which can be metered into the drum of the washing machine at the beginning of the washing cycle, but which does not disperse or release its contents until the rinse cycle.

[0041] One way of approaching this problem is set out in WO-A1-02/102 956, in which a water-soluble package is provided, which is soluble in response, for example, to the change in pH and/or ionic resistance of the wash liquid in the rinse cycle. However, the variety of washing machines and conditions means that changes in pH and/or ionic strength can vary widely. Therefore, it is also desirable to provide a water soluble package, which can be metered into the wash cycle, and which is triggered into the rinse cycle through an alternative means.

WO-A-01/85892 describes highly concentrated conditioners with PVOH film receptacles, which are added to the rinse compartment of the dispenser drawer. The receptacle is introduced into the rinse bath when the rinse cycle is initiated.

[0043] WO-A-00/51724 exposes the use of molecular sieves for the controlled release of tissue treatment products.

[0044] WO-A-00/06688 refers to PVOH films, which are modified with an amine group. The film releases its contents due to a change in pH during the wash cycle.

[0045] DE-A-2749555 exposes a two-ply laminate, with a wash pocket, released during rinsing. However, an insoluble bag remains after the wash cycle is completed. Furthermore, the polymers exposed herein are not hydrophobically modified.

Invention Objects

[0046] The present invention seeks to address one or more of the aforementioned problems and provide one or more of the aforementioned benefits.

[0047] The inventors have found that a water-soluble package can be chemically modified, such that the rate at which it is broken, for example, is dissolved, dispersed or otherwise disintegrated, depends on the concentration of washing detergent present. in a liquid.

[0048] In particular, it has been found that, by modifying the structure of a water-soluble polymeric film, such that a PVOH film, with a modification group, for example, with a specific acetal group, the film remains substantially intact in the presence of an anionic and/or non-ionic detergent, for example, during the wash cycle of a laundry operation, and disintegrates when the detergent concentration is sufficiently reduced, for example, during the rinse cycle of the operation of washing clothes.

Invention Summary

[0049] Thus, according to the present invention, there is a water-soluble packaging for use in the rinse cycle of a washing machine, which comprises a polymeric film, the polymeric film comprising a polymeric backbone derived from a polymer, which is water soluble, as defined herein, and one or more derivation groups attached to the main chain, the derivation group(s) being derived from a material having a ClogP of from 0.5 to 6.

[0050] According to another aspect of the invention, a water-soluble package comprises a polymeric film, the polymeric film comprising a main chain derived from a polymer that is water-soluble, as defined herein, and one or more groups The derivation group(s) being derived from a source material comprising a C4 to C22 hydrocarbyl chain.

[0051] According to yet another aspect of the invention, a water-soluble packaging comprises a polymeric film, the polymeric film comprising a main chain derived from a polymer, which is water-soluble, as defined herein, and one or more derivatizing groups attached to the main chain, where the package has a relative rupture ratio of more than 1, more preferably more than 3, and most preferably greater than 7.

[0052] Preferably, the water-soluble packaging has a solubility or dispersibility in anionic surfactants or combinations of anionic/non-ionic surfactants of more than 15 minutes when the surfactant concentration in water is greater than 0.05 g/L and a solubility or dispersibility of less than 15 minutes, when the concentration of surfactant in water is less than 0.05 g/L.

[0053] Preferably, the source material, from which the derivation group is obtained, is an aldehyde.

[0054] It is particularly desirable that the polymeric film be able to form, upon contact with a detergent surfactant, in a micellar or liquid crystalline form, a network in gel form, having a viscosity or an apparent molecular weight greater than the molecular weight of the polymeric film alone.

[0055] In another aspect, the invention provides a process for conditioning fabrics, comprising the stages of adding the water-soluble packaging to a laundry washing cycle of a washing machine, as described herein, and contacting the contents of the package with the fabric in the washing machine drum.

[0056] In this process, it is preferred that the tendency to breakage of the water-soluble package is reduced in the presence of a detergent active substance for washing fabrics.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0057] The water-soluble packaging and any contents present in it need to be compatible with each other. By "compatible" is understood that, in an inert atmosphere free from moisture and at a temperature of from 5 to 40°C, the water-soluble package with the contents of rinse conditioning agent in it, is not ruptured or release any of its contents within 4 weeks, more preferably 8 weeks, most preferably 20 weeks.

polymeric film

[0058] The polymeric film used in the invention is a material whose dissolution/dispersion in a liquid depends on the concentration of any anionic and/or non-ionic surfactant present in the liquid, such that the lower the concentration of anionic surfactant/ non-ionic in the liquid, the faster the film is broken.

[0059] Without wishing to be bound by any theory, the hydrophobic derivative within the polymeric film is believed to interact with the anionic and/or non-ionic surfactants to form a gelled network during the duration of the wash cycle, which makes the film substantially insoluble, but which breaks up during the wash cycle such that the film becomes substantially more soluble or dispersible.

[0060] In a practical application, the release of a rinse additive will occur due to dissolution/dispersion, as well as due to mechanical abrasion and erosion of the polymeric film. Dissolution/dispersion is influenced by the molecular properties of the polymer, such as its Flory-Huggins interaction parameter, while the mechanical properties of the polymer are related to its rheological behavior under demand or external stress.

[0061] Preferably, the hydrophobically modified polymer has a solubility or dispersibility at 20°C in water, which contains an anionic/nonionic surfactant concentration of more than 1.3 x 10-4 mol/L, lower than 0.5 g per hour and a solubility or dispersibility of more than 0.5 g per hour when the concentration of anionic/non-ionic surfactant in water is less than 1.3 x 10-4 mol/L.

[0062] According to one aspect of the invention, the package formed from the polymeric film has a relative rupture ratio of more than 1, more preferably of more than 3, even more preferably of more than 7. As defined herein, the phrase "relative rupture ratio" means the ratio of the time taken for a package to be ruptured in the presence of an anionic and/or non-ionic surfactant in relation to the time taken for the same package to be ruptured in demineralized water.

[0063] According to another aspect of the invention, the derivation group attached to the main chain of the polymer, is selected from a source material having a ClogP of from 0.5 to 6, more preferably from 1 to 6, more preferably from 2 to 6, for example from 3 to 6.

In the context of the present invention, ClogP is calculated according to the ClogP Calculator Version 4, available from Daylight Chemicals Inc.

[0065] Preferred derivation groups include those based on parent groups selected from acetals, ketals, esters, fluorinated organic compounds, ethers, alkanes, alkenes, aromatics. Especially preferred parent groups are aldehydes, such as butyraldehyde, octyl aldehyde, dodecyl aldehyde, 2-ethyl hexanal, cyclohexane carboxy-aldehyde, citral, and 4-aminobutyraldehyde dimethyl acetal, although it may be readily apparent to the person skilled in the art that other groups Suitable materials having the required ClogP are also suitable for use in the polymeric film of the invention.

[0066] Additional modifying groups may be present on the polymer backbone. For example, amines may preferably be included as a modifying group, as this makes the polymer more soluble in response, for example, to the change in pH and/or ionic strength of the wash liquid in the rinse liquid.

[0067] The leaving group preferably comprises an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl chain.

[0068] According to another aspect of the invention, the length of the hydrocarbyl chain of the derivation group attached to the polymeric main chain is from 4 to 22, more preferably from 4 to 20, even more preferably from 4 to 15, more preferably from 4 to 10, for example, from 4 to 8.

[0069] Hydrocarbyl chain lengths shorter than 4 are undesirable because, in use, the gel-like structure formed at the interface of the polymeric film and any detergent surfactant will typically be very weak, and will allow for packaging is broken during the wash cycle, rather than during the rinse cycle.

[0070] Hydrocarbyl chain lengths greater than 22 are undesirable as the source material from which the derivation group is obtained does not react or react weakly with the polymer backbone.

[0071] The length of the hydrocarbyl chain of the original function in the source material, from which the derivation group is obtained, is preferably from 4 to 22, more preferably from 5 to 20.

[0072] In this context, the number of carbons in the hydrocarbyl group includes any carbon within the chain attached to any other functional group within the derivation material. For example, butyraldehyde has a hydrocarbyl chain length of 4.

[0073] The bypass material is present in the polymer, preferably at a level of from 0.1 to 40% by weight based on the total weight of the polymer, more preferably from 2 to 30% of more preferably from 5 to 15%, for example from 8 to 12%.

[0074] When the polymeric backbone is based on PVOH, the derivatizing material is preferably present at a level such that the number ratio of the derivatized groups to the free hydroxyl pairs in the backbone is 1:3 to 1:30, more preferably from 1:4 to 1:20, more preferably from 1:7 to 1:15, for example from 1:8 to 1:13.

Below a ratio of 1:30, the stability of the material during the wash phase is particularly poor and thus a package may not survive intact until the wash phase.

[0076] Above a ratio of 1:3, the resulting polymer may not sufficiently fragment and/or dissolve. This can cause a high residue content after the rinse phase, which is undesirable for consumers.

[0077] In the context of the present invention, "water soluble polymer" is defined as a material having a solubility in water at 20°C of more than 0.1 g/L, preferably of more than 0.3 g/ L, more preferably more than 0.5 g/L.

[0078] Preferred polymers, from which the backbone of the polymeric film derived from the invention is formed, include water-soluble resins such as PVOH, cellulose ethers, polyethylene oxide (hereinafter referred to as "PEO"), starch , polyvinylpyrrolidone (hereinafter referred to as "PVP"), polyacrylamide, polyvinyl methyl ether-maleic anhydride, polymaleic anhydride, styrene maleic anhydride, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, polyethylene glycols, carboxymethyl cellulose, polyacrylic acid salts, alginates, acrylamide copolymers , guar gum, casein, ethylene-maleic anhydride resin series, polyethyleneimine, ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, ethyl methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl methylcellulose. Water-soluble PVOH film-forming resins are particularly preferred.

In general, preferred water-soluble PVOH-based film-forming polymers should have relatively low average molecular weights and high levels of hydrolysis in water. Preferred polyvinyl alcohol based polymers for use herein have a molecular weight of from 1,000 to 300,000, preferably from 2,000 to 100,000, more preferably from 2,000 to 75,000. Hydrolysis, or alcoholysis, is defined as the percent completion of the reaction, in which the acetate groups on the resin are replaced by hydroxyl groups, -OH. A 60-99% hydrolysis range of PVOH-based film-forming resin is preferred, although a more preferred hydrolysis range is about 88-99%. As used in this application, the term "PVOH" includes polyvinyl acetate compounds having the levels of hydrolysis set forth herein.

[0080] Preferred PVOH polymers preferably have an average degree of saponification within the range of 70 to 99%, and a viscosity as a 7% solution within the range of 100 to 5000 mPa.s at room temperature, measured at a rate shear rate of 20 s-1.

[0081] All of the above polymers include the aforementioned polymer classes, either as isolated polymers or as copolymers formed from monomer units or as copolymers formed from monomer units derived from the specified class or as copolymers, in which those units of monomer are copolymerized with one or more monomer units.

em que a razão de número médio de z para x está dentro da faixa de a partir de 1:200 para 1:6, mais preferivelmente de 1:100 a 1:8, de modo mais preferido de 1:50 a 1:12, por exemplo, de 1:30 a 1:14, y é o acetato residual remanescente a partir da hidrólise do composto de origem, 5 que está preferivelmente na faixa de 1-20%, mais preferivelmente de 1-10%, de modo mais preferido de 1-5% e R é um grupo alquila ou alquenila tendo de 3 a 22 átomos de carbono. De modo mais preferido R é um grupo alquila tendo de 3 a 6 átomos de carbono. Mais preferivelmente R é C3H7.[0082] A particularly preferred polymer for use in the present invention is represented by the formula:

wherein the z to x average number ratio is within the range of from 1:200 to 1:6, more preferably from 1:100 to 1:8, more preferably from 1:50 to 1:12 , for example, from 1:30 to 1:14, y is the residual acetate remaining from the hydrolysis of the parent compound, which is preferably in the range of 1-20%, more preferably 1-10%, so more preferred from 1-5% and R is an alkyl or alkenyl group having from 3 to 22 carbon atoms. More preferably R is an alkyl group having 3 to 6 carbon atoms. Most preferably R is C3H7.

Crosslink

[0083] In order to provide a water-soluble package, which maintains integrity and structure during the wash cycle, but which is dissolved or dispersed entirely in the rinse cycle, it was also considered advantageous for the water-soluble film to be provided as a cross-linked polymeric structure.

[0084] Particularly suitable crosslinking agents include formaleide, polyesters, epoxides, amidoamines, anhydrides, phenols, isocyanates, vinyl esters, urethanes, polymides, aryls; bis(methacryloxypropyl) tetramethylsiloxane (styrenes, methyl methacrylates); n-diazopyruvates; phenylboronic acids; cisplatin; divinyl benzene; polyamides; dialdehydes; triallyl cyanurates; N-(2-ethanesulfonylethyl) pyridinium halides; tetraalkyltitanates; mixtures of titanates and borates or zirconates; polyvalent ions of Cr, Zr, Ti; dialdehydes, diketones; alcohol complexes of organotitanates, zircoates and borates and copper(II) complexes.

The most preferred crosslinking agent is boric acid or its salt form, eg sodium borate.

[0086] Crosslinking agent levels are primarily dictated by the physical parameters of the film layer, for example by molecular weight, percent hydrolysis and thickness, and secondarily by additive and wash conditions. The level of crosslinking agent, if present, is from about 0.05% to 9% by weight of the film, more preferably from 1% to 6%, more preferably from about 1.5% to 5 % by weight. The higher range will, of course, result in greater crosslinking and a slower rate of dissolution or dispersion in the rinse cycle.

[0087] Functionally, it is believed that the crosslinking agent reduces the solubility of the film polymer by increasing its effective molecular weight. While it is preferred to incorporate the crosslinking agent into the polymer of the film, it is also within the scope of the invention to keep the film in contact with the crosslinking agent during washing. This can be done by adding the crosslinking agent to the wash solution, or by encapsulating it in the polymer film. If the crosslinking agent is added in this way, somewhat higher levels are required to sufficiently crosslink the film polymer, and should be in the range of about 115% by weight.

[0088] For films based on PVOH, the preferred crosslinking agent is a metalloid oxide, such as borate, tellurate, arsenate and precursors thereof. Other known crosslinkers include a vanadyl ion, a titanium ion in the valence plus three state, or a permanganate ion (discussed in US Patent 3,518,242). Alternative lattices are provided in the book: Polyvinylalcohol - Properties and Applications, Chapter 9, by C.A. Finch (John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1973).

Plasticizer and/or Crystallinity Breaking Agent

The film preferably incorporates a plasticizer and/or a crystallinity breaking agent.

[0090] It should be understood that the term "plasticizer" and the phrase "crystallinity breaking agent" are interchangeable, such that a reference to one is an implicit reference to the other.

[0091] The plasticizer influences the way in which polymer chains react to factors such as compressive and extensive forces, temperature and mechanical shock by controlling the way in which the chains are distorted/realigned as a consequence of these intrusions and its propensity to revert or regain its former state. The main characteristic of plasticizers is that they are compatible with the film and are normally hydrophilic in nature.

[0092] The plasticizer will depend on the nature of the film in question. In general, plasticizers suitable for use with PVOH-based films have -OH groups in common with the -CH2-CH(OH)-CH2-CH(OH) polymer chain of the film polymer.

[0093] Its mode of functionality is to introduce short-chain hydrogen bonding with the chain hydroxyl groups and this weakens adjacent chain interactions, which inhibits the swelling of the aggregate polymer mass - the first stage of dissolution of the movie.

Water is itself a suitable plasticizer for PVOH films, but other common plasticizers include: polyhydroxy compounds, for example, glycerol, trimethylolpropane, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, sorbitol, dipropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol; starches, for example starch ether, esterified starch, oxidized starch and potato, tapioca and wheat starches; cellulosics/carbohydrates, eg amylopectin, dextrin, carboxymethylcellulose and pectin. Amines are particularly preferred plasticizers.

[0095] PVP films exhibit excellent adhesion to a wide range of surfaces including glass, metals and plastics. Unmodified polyvinyl pyrrolidone films have a hygroscopic character. The dry polyvinyl pyrrolidone film has a density of 1.25 g.cm-3 and a refractive index of 1.53. Stickiness at higher moistures can be minimized by incorporating compatible non-water-sensitive modifiers into the polyvinyl pyrrolidone film, such as 10% of an aryl-sulfonamide-formaldehyde resin.

[0096] Plasticizers suitable for PVP-based films can be selected from one or more of: phosphates, for example, tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate, isopropyl diphenyl phosphate, tributexyethyl phosphate; polyols, for example glycerol, sorbitol, diethylene glycol diperlargonate, polyethylene glycol di-2-ethylhexanoate, dibutyl tartrate, polyol esters, for example hydroxy-containing polycaprolactones, hydroxy-containing poly-L-lactide; lower phthalates, for example dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate; and sulfonamides, for example toluene sulfonamide, N-ethyltoluene sulfonamide.

[0097] Preferred water-soluble films can also be prepared from polyethylene oxide (PEO) resins by conventional molding techniques such as calendering, melting, extrusion, and other conventional techniques. Polyethylene oxide films can be clear or opaque and are inherently flexible, tough, and resistant to most oil and grease. These polyethylene oxide resin films provide better solubility than other water-soluble plastics without sacrificing strength or stiffness. The excellent ability to be flatly deposited, the rigidity and sealing ability of water-soluble polyethylene oxide films translate into good machine handling characteristics.

[0098] Plasticizers suitable for PEO-based films can be selected from one or more of: phosphates, for example, tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate, isopropyl diphenyl phosphate, tributexyethyl phosphate; polyols, for example glycerol, sorbitol, diethylene glycol, diperlargonate, polyethylene glycol di-2-ethylhexanoate, dibutyl tartrate; lower phthalates, for example dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate; and sulfonamides, for example toluene sulfonamide, N-ethyltoluene sulfonamide.

[0099] If plasticizer is present in the fabric conditioning composition, then the preferred amount of plasticizer is from 0.001% to 25%, preferably from 0.005% to 4%, by weight of the composition. One or more plasticizers can be independently incorporated into the film and the liquid composition. However, it is much more preferred that the identity of the plasticizer(s) in the film and in the liquid composition are substantially the same.

[0100] The plasticizer and/or the crystallinity breaking agent can be physically bonded to the backbone of the polymeric material as, for example, when the plasticizer is provided as part of the fabric conditioning composition and/or can be chemically bonded to the The backbone of the polymeric material, for example, it may be covalently bonded within the backbone of the polymeric film as described. A suitable method of chemically linking the plasticizer to the backbone of the polymeric material is described in DE 10229213.2.

protective barrier

[0101] A protective material that provides a barrier between the film and its contents may be present in the package. Such a barrier allows a more aqueous composition, which would typically cause the package to disintegrate quickly, to be stored within the package without causing premature release of its contents.

[0102] A particularly suitable protective barrier material is PTFE as set out in US 4 416 791.

[0103] It is also considered that the polymeric film can be further protected against premature disintegration by providing an anionic surfactant coating over the film. For example, the film can be sprayed with an anionic surfactant or a sprayed detergent mixture, or the film can be cast in the presence of an anionic surfactant.

Film Formation

[0104] Film formation on a laboratory scale can be conducted by adding an aqueous solution of the polymer, containing any plasticizers, etc. to a bed of PTFE, and allowing the film to form for 1 to 5 days. The resulting film thickness is typically between 50 and 200 micrometers (depending on the concentration of the polymer solution, and the surface area of the PTFE bed).

[0105] The aqueous polymer solution can be melted at a controlled thickness on a commercial scale using conventional methods and techniques known in the art, such as solution melting and thermoforming techniques.

[0106] Typically, in solution melting, aqueous polymer solutions are melted onto a plate or belt using a film application device, where they are allowed to dry. Films can be vacuum dried, air dried, etc., followed by removal from the belt/plate. Fusion techniques are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,272,191, filed December 21, 1993, to Ibrahim et al., which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0107] Films can then be prepared using a melting process, which typically involves mixing the polymer with enough water to melt it below its decomposition temperature. The mixed polymer and water matrix are then fed to an extruder, extruded under tension through an appropriate matrix, cooled with air, and collected through an appropriate collection device. For film production, a tubular film can be produced by blowing cold air through the center of a tube, in order to cool the film and impart a biaxial tension to the film. Extrusion processes can also be used to produce other molded articles through the use of appropriate dies and molds. Examples of such thermoforming processes are described in greater detail in U.S. Patent No. 5,646,206, filed July 8, 1997, to Coffin et al., incorporated herein by reference.

Water Soluble Packaging

[0108] Preferably, the package comprising the film is a "delayed release" package. "Delayed release" is defined herein as a package which, when placed in the drum at the start of the wash cycle, remains substantially intact during the wash cycle and is then dispersed or dissolved at the beginning or during the wash cycle.

[0109] In addition to modifying the film, such that its solubility is dependent on the concentration of detergent in the wash liquid, a source of a triggering agent, which activates or accelerates the dispersion or dissolution of the water-soluble package, a once the rinse cycle has started, it may also desirably be present.

[0110] A suitable triggering agent includes, for example, those described in WO-A1-02/102956, such as sources/materials to cause changes in pH, temperature, electrolytic conditions, light, time or molecular structure. Such triggering agents can be used alone or in combination with one another.

[0111] The formulation of the rinse conditioning agent, itself, can also be designed to assist and/or control the dissolution and/or dispersion of the package.

[0112] It is particularly preferred that at detergent wash levels having an anionic charge of 0.05 g/L to 2 g/L (based on LAS with an average molecular weight of 242) the packaging remains intact for more than 15 minutes and, at detergent rinse levels, the package is broken and dispersed within 15 minutes, more preferably within 7 minutes.

[0113] The film for the packaging preferably has an average thickness of from 50 to 500 micrometers, more preferably from 60 to 300 micrometers, more preferably from 65 to 250 µm.

[0114] Typically, the water-soluble packaging will be in the form of a pouch to contain a distinct fabric treatment composition. Alternatively, or additionally, the package may comprise a network or matrix of the film and fabric treatment composition, wherein there is a physical and/or chemical interaction between the film and the fabric treatment composition.

Encapsulation Methods

[0115] Any reference in this to filling refers to both complete filling and also partial filling, in which some air or other gas is also retained in the sealed envelope.

[0116] The envelope, which forms the package is preferably formed by a horizontal or vertical forming-film-sealing technique, (a) Forming-Filling-Sealing Horizontal

[0117] Water-soluble packages based on PVOH derivative can be produced according to any of the form-fill-seal methods described in any of WO-A-00/55044, WO-A-00/55045, WO-A -00/55046, WO-A-00/55068, WO-A-00/55069 and WO-A-00/55415.

[0118] By way of example, a thermoforming process is now described, in which a number of packages according to the invention are produced from two sheets of water-soluble material. In this regard, recesses are formed in the film sheet using a shaping die having a plurality of cavities with dimensions generally corresponding to the dimensions of the packages to be produced. Furthermore, a single heating plate is used for thermoforming the film for all cavities, and likewise a single sealing plate is described.

[0119] A first sheet of PVOH-derived film is stretched over a forming matrix such that the film is placed over the plurality of forming cavities in the matrix. In this example, each cavity is generally dome-shaped having a rounded end, the ends of the cavities being further rounded so as to remove any sharp edges, which might damage the film during the forming or sealing stages of the process. Each cavity further includes an elevated surrounding flange. In order to maximize the strength of the package, the film is supplied to the forming matrix in a wrinkle free form with minimal tension. In the forming stage, the film is heated at 100 to 120°C, preferably approximately 110°C, for up to 5 seconds, preferably approximately 700 microseconds. A heating plate is used to heat the film, which plate is positioned so that it is superimposed on the forming matrix. During this preheating stage, a vacuum of 50 kPa is drawn across the heating plate so as to ensure intimate contact between the film and the preheating plate, this intimate contact ensuring that the film is heated evenly. and uniform (the extent of vacuum depends on thermoforming conditions and the type of film used, however in the present context a vacuum of less than 0.6 kPa was considered adequate). Non-uniform heating results in a package having weak spots being formed. In addition to vacuum, it is possible to blow air against the film in order to force it into intimate contact with the previously heated plate.

[0120] The thermoformed film is molded inside the cavities by blowing the film out of the heating plate and/or sucking the film into the cavities, thereby forming a plurality of recesses in the film, which, once formed, they are retained in their thermoformed orientation by applying a vacuum through the cavity walls. This vacuum is maintained at least until the packages are sealed. Once the recesses have been formed and held in position by vacuum, a liquid composition according to the invention is added to each of the recesses. A second sheet of polyvinyl alcohol film is then superimposed on the first sheet transversely to the filled recesses and thermally sealed thereto through the use of a sealing plate. In this case, the heat seal plate, which is generally flat, operates at a temperature of about 140 to 160°C, and contacts the films for 1 to 2 seconds and with a force of 8 to 30 kg/cm2, preferably from 10 to 20 kg/cm2. Raised flanges, which surround each cavity, ensure that the films are sealed together along the flange and form a continuous seal. The rounded end of each cavity is at least partially formed of a resiliently deformable material, such as, for example, silicone rubber. This results in a reduced force being applied to the inner end of the sealing flange so as to avoid heat/pressure damage to the film.

[0121] Once sealed, the formed packages are separated from the fabric or sheet film using cutting devices. At this stage, it is possible to release the vacuum on the matrix, and eject the packages formed from the forming matrix. In this way, the packages are formed, filled and sealed while they are nested in the forming matrix. In addition, they can also be cut while in the forming matrix.

[0122] During the forming, filling and sealing stages of the process, the relative humidity of the atmosphere is controlled to about 50% humidity. This is done in order to maintain the sealing characteristics of the film. When handling thinner films, it may be necessary to reduce the relative humidity to ensure that the films have a relatively low degree of plasticization and therefore are stiffer and easier to handle. (b) Formation- Filling- Vertical Sealing

[0123] In the vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) technique, a continuous tube of flexible plastic film is extruded. It is sealed, preferably by thermal or ultrasonic sealing, at the base, filled with the liquid composition, resealed above the liquid film and then removed from the continuous tube, eg by cutting.

Unit Dose Volume

[0124] The amount of the product, preferably the liquid product, more preferably the substantially non-aqueous liquid product, in each package is preferably from 0.5 ml to 100 ml, more preferably from 1 ml to 30 ml, so more 1.5 ml to 25 ml, for example 2 ml to 15 ml, is preferred.

Rinse Conditioning Composition

[0125] The water-soluble package is constructed so as to be able to receive a fabric treatment composition. A particularly preferred treatment composition is a rinse-conditioning composition, for example a fabric softening composition.

[0126] It is preferable that the rinse conditioning composition is substantially non-aqueous so as to be compatible with the immediate release water-soluble polymeric film.

[0127] It is desirable that the rinse conditioning agent can be dissolved and/or dispersed quickly, once it is released from the package.

[0128] In the context of the present invention, "rapidly" in relation to dispersing and/or dissolving the rinse conditioning composition means within 20 minutes, more preferably within less than 15 minutes, more preferably within less than 12 minutes, for example, in less than 10 minutes in water at 25°C or less.

[0129] In the context of the present invention, "substantially non-aqueous" means that the level of water or other aqueous components in the rinse conditioning agent composition is less than 20% by weight of the total weight of the agent composition of rinse conditioning, more preferably 15% or less by weight, more preferably 10%, for example 5% or even 3% or less by weight.

[0130] Compositions, which are compatible with the water-soluble film and which dissolve and/or disperse rapidly in cold water, include the following: substantially non-aqueous concentrated melts, emulsions and concentrated microemulsions.

[0131] For the purposes of the present invention, a substantially non-aqueous concentrated melt is defined as a tissue conditioning composition present in solid form, such that in particles, at a specified temperature, the solid being suspended in an oily matrix and containing less than 20% by weight, preferably less than 5% by weight of water.

[0132] A substantially non-aqueous concentrated rinse conditioning agent emulsion is defined as a mixture of a quaternary ammonium softening material, an oil and water comprising greater than 10% by weight of the quaternary ammonium material and less than 20% by weight of water.

[0133] A substantially non-aqueous microemulsion is defined as a composition comprising less than 20% by weight of water, wherein the composition is clear, isotropic and thermodynamically stable over a range of temperatures.

[0134] The following conventional ingredients are optionally present in compositions compatible with the packaging used in the invention.

Cationic Fabric Softening Compound

[0135] The fabric softening compound is selected from those typically included in fabric softening compositions added in the rinse.

[0136] It is especially preferred if the cationic softening agent is a water-insoluble quaternary ammonium material comprising a compound having two C12-18 alkyl or alkenyl groups connected to the main nitrogen group via at least one ester bond. It is most preferred if the quaternary ammonium material has two ester bonds.

em que cada R é independentemente selecionado a partir de um grupo alquila C5-35 ou alquenila, R1 representa alquila C1-4, alquenila C2-4 ou um grupo hidroxialquila C1-4

n é 0 ou um número selecionado a partir de 1 a 4, m é 1, 2 ou 3 e representa o número de porções às quais ele está relacionado, que pendem diretamente a partir do átomo N, e X- é um grupo aniônico, tal que halogenetos ou sulfatos de alquila, por exemplo, cloreto, sulfato de metila ou sulfato de etila.[0137] The first group of cationic fabric softening compounds for use in the invention is represented by formula (I):

wherein each R is independently selected from a C5-35 alkyl or alkenyl group, R1 represents C1-4 alkyl, C2-4 alkenyl or a C1-4 hydroxyalkyl group

n is 0 or a number selected from 1 to 4, m is 1, 2 or 3 and represents the number of moieties to which it is related, which hang directly from the N atom, and X- is an anionic group, such as alkyl halides or sulphates, for example chloride, methyl sulphate or ethyl sulphate.

[0138] Especially preferred materials within this class are dialkenyl esters or triethanol ammonium methyl sulfate. Commercial examples include Tetranyl AHT-1 (80% active ammonium triethanol methyl sulfate di-hardened oleic ester), AT-1 (90% active ammonium triethanol methyl sulfate di-oleic ester), L5/90 (palm ester of 90% active ammonium triethanol methyl sulphate), all from Kao, and Rewoquat WE15 (reaction products of C10C20 and C16-C18 unsaturated fatty acids with 90% active quatemized dimethyl triethanolamine dimethyl sulphate) from Witco Corporation.

em que cada grupo R1 é independentemente selecionado a partir de grupos alquila C1-4, hidroxialquila ou alquenila C2-4; e em que cada grupo R2 é independentemente selecionado a partir de grupos alquila C8-28 ou alquenila; n é 0 ou um inteiro de 1 a 5 e T e X- são como acima definidos.[0139] The second group of cationic softening compounds for use in the invention is represented by formula (II):

wherein each R1 group is independently selected from C1-4 alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or C2-4 alkenyl groups; and wherein each R2 group is independently selected from C8-28 alkyl or alkenyl groups; n is 0 or an integer from 1 to 5 and T and X- are as defined above.

[0140] Preferred materials of this class, such as 1,2-bis[tallowyloxy]-3-trimethylammonium chloride propane and 1,2-bis[oleyloxy]-3-trimethylammonium propane chloride and their method of preparation are, for example, described in US 4137180 (Lever Brothers), the contents of which are incorporated herein.

em que, cada grupo R1 é independentemente selecionado a partir de grupos alquila C1-4 ou alquenila C2-4; e em que cada grupo R2 é independentemente selecionado a partir de grupos alquila C8-28 ou alquenila; n é 0 ou um inteiro de 1 a 5 e T e X- são como definidos. Um material preferido dentro desta classe é cloreto de N, N-di(seboiloxietil)-N,N-dimetil amônio.[0141] A third group of cationic fabric softening compounds for use in the invention is represented by formula (III):

wherein, each R1 group is independently selected from C1-4 alkyl or C2-4 alkenyl groups; and wherein each R2 group is independently selected from C8-28 alkyl or alkenyl groups; n is 0 or an integer from 1 to 5 and T and X- are as defined. A preferred material within this class is N,N-di(tallowyloxyethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride.

em que cada grupo R1 é independentemente selecionado a partir de grupos alquila C1-4 ou alquenila C2-4, e em que cada grupo R2 é independentemente selecionado a partir de grupos alquila C8-28 ou alquenila; e X- é como acima definido.[0142] A fourth group of cationic fabric softening compounds for use in the invention is represented by formula (IV):

wherein each R1 group is independently selected from C1-4 alkyl or C2-4 alkenyl groups, and wherein each R2 group is independently selected from C8-28 alkyl or alkenyl groups; and X- is as defined above.

[0143] Preferably, the compositions are provided as super-concentrates comprising from 25-97% by weight of the cationic surfactant (active ingredient) based on the total weight of the composition, more preferably from 35-95% by weight of more preferably 45-90% by weight, for example 55-85% by weight.

[0144] If the quaternary ammonium softening agent comprises hydrocarbyl chains formed from fatty acids or fatty acyl compounds, which are unsaturated or at least partially saturated (for example, having an iodine value of from 5 to 140 , preferably from 5 to 100, more preferably from 5 to 60, more preferably from 5 to 40, for example from 5 to 25), then the weight ratio of the cis:trans isomer of the chains in the fatty acid/acyl compound fatty is greater than 20:80, preferably greater than 30:70, more preferably greater than 40:60, more preferably greater than 50:50, for example 70:30 or greater. Higher cis:trans isomer weight ratios are believed to provide the compositions comprising the compound with better low temperature stability and minimal odor formation. Suitable fatty acids include Radiacid 406, from Fina.

[0145] Saturated and unsaturated fatty acid/acyl compounds can be mixed together in varying amounts so as to provide a compound having the desired iodine value.

[0146] Fatty acid/acyl compounds can also be at least partially hydrogenated in order to achieve lower iodine values.

[0147] Naturally, the cis:trans isomer weight ratios can be controlled during hydrogenation by methods known in the art, such as optimal agitation, using specific catalysts and providing high availability of H2.

[0148] For a faster dispersion and/or dissolution of the composition after its release from the water-soluble packaging, it is preferred that the fatty acyl compounds or fatty acids, from which the softening compound is formed, have a value of average iodine from from 5 to 140, more preferably from 10 to 100, more preferably from 15 to 80, for example from 25 to 60.

Source Fatty Acid Iodine Value

[0149] The method for calculating the iodine value of a fatty acyl/parent acid compound is

[0150] The method for calculating the iodine value is described in WO-A1-01/04254.

Oily Sugar Derivatives

[0151] Oily sugar derivatives may also be present in the composition. The oily sugar derivative is preferably present in an amount of from 0.001 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.01 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.1 to 4% by weight , based on the total weight of the composition. Preferred oily sugar derivatives are those described as CPE's or RSE's in WO-A-96/16538. A particularly preferred oily sugar derivative is a sucrose polyester.

Formulation and Dispersion Aids

[0152] Formulation and/or dispersion aids suitable for use in the composition are preferably substantially non-aqueous. Examples include one or more of the following components: (a) non-ionic stabilizing agents; (b) polymeric stabilizers; (c) single-chain cationic surfactants; (d) alcohols or fatty acids; (e) short chain alcohols or oils; or (f) electrolytes

Non-ionic Stabilizing Agents

[0153] Suitable non-ionic stabilizing agents are non-ionic surfactants.

[0154] Preferred nonionic surfactants include the addition products of ethylene oxide and/or propylene oxide with fatty alcohols, fatty acids and fatty amines.

[0155] Any of the alkoxylated materials of the particular type described below can be used as the non-ionic surfactant.

em que R é selecionado a partir do grupo, que consiste de grupos alquil e/ ou acil hidrocarbila de cadeia primária, secundária e ramificada; grupos alquenil hidrocarbila de cadeia primária, secundária e ramificada; e grupos hidrocarbila fenólicos alquenil- substituídos de cadeia primária, secundária e ramificada; os grupos hidrocarbila tendo um comprimento de cadeia de a partir de 8 a cerca de 25, preferivelmente de 10 a 20, por exemplo, de 14 a 18 átomos de carbono.[0156] Suitable surfactants are substantially water-soluble surfactants of the general formula:

wherein R is selected from the group, consisting of primary, secondary and branched chain alkyl and/or acyl hydrocarbyl groups; primary, secondary and branched chain alkenyl hydrocarbyl groups; and primary, secondary and branched chain alkenyl-substituted phenolic hydrocarbyl groups; hydrocarbyl groups having a chain length of from 8 to about 25, preferably from 10 to 20, for example from 14 to 18 carbon atoms.

em que, R possui o significado dado acima ou pode ser hidrogênio; e Z é, de modo preferido, de 8 a 40, mais preferivelmente de 10 a 30, de modo mais preferido de 11 a 25, por exemplo, de 12 a 22.[0157] In the general formula for the alkoxylated nonionic surfactant, Y is typically:

where, R has the meaning given above or can be hydrogen; and Z is preferably from 8 to 40, more preferably from 10 to 30, more preferably from 11 to 25, for example from 12 to 22.

[0158] The level of alkoxylation, Z, denotes the average number of alkoxy groups per molecule.

[0159] Preferably, the non-ionic surfactant has an HLB of from about 7 to about 20, more preferably from 10 to 18, for example from 12 to 16.

[0160] Examples of non-ionic surfactants are as follows. In the examples, the integer defines the number of ethoxy (EO) groups in the molecule. A. Straight Chain Primary Alcohol Alkoxylates

[0161] Deca-, undeca-, dodeca-, tetradeca-, and pentadecaethoxylates of n-hexadecanol, and n-octadecanol having an HLB within the aforementioned range herein are useful viscosity/dispersibility modifiers in the context of the invention. Exemplary ethoxylated primary alcohols useful herein as viscosity/dispersibility modifiers of the compositions are EO(10)C18; and EO(11)C18. Ethoxylates of natural or synthetic mixed alcohols in the "tallow" chain length range are also useful. Specific examples of such materials include tallow alcohol- EO(ll), tallow alcohol- EO(18), and tallow alcohol- EO(25), coconut alcohol- EO(10), coconut alcohol- EO(15) ), coconut alcohol- E0(20) and coconut alcohol- EO(25). B. Secondary Alcohol Alkoxylates, Straight Chain

[0162] The deca-, undeca-, dodeca-, tetradeca-, pentadeca-, octadeca-, and nonadeca-ethoxylates of 3-hexadecanol, 2-octadecanol, 4-eicosanol, and 5-eicosanol having an HLB within the range here cited are viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers useful in the context of the invention. Exemplary ethoxylated secondary alcohols useful herein as viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of the compositions are: EO(11) C16; EO(11) C20 and EO(14) C16. C. Alkyl Phenol Alkoxylates

As in the case of alcohol alkoxylates, hexa- to octadeca-ethoxylates of alkylated phenols, in particular monohydric alkyl phenols, having an HLB within the range cited herein are useful as the viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of the present compositions . Hexa- to octadeca-ethoxylates of p-tri-decylphenol, m-pentadecylphenol, and the like, are useful. Exemplary ethoxylated alkyl phenols useful as viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of mixtures therein are: p-tridecylphenol EO(11) and p-pentadecylphenol EO(18).

[0164] As used herein and as recognized in the art, a phenylene group in the non-ionic formula is the equivalent of an alkylene group containing from 2 to 4 carbon atoms. For present purposes, nonionics containing a phenylene group are considered to contain an equivalent number of carbon atoms, calculated as the sum of the carbon atoms in the alkyl group plus about 3.3 carbon atoms for each phenylene group. D. Olefin Alkoxylates

[0165] Alkenyl alcohols, both primary and secondary, and alkenyl phenols corresponding to those described immediately above, can be ethoxylated with an HLB within the range cited herein and used as the viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of the present compositions. E. Branched Chain Alkoxylates

[0166] Branched chain primary and secondary alcohols, which are available from the well-known "OXO" process, can be ethoxylated and employed as the viscosity and/or dispersibility modifiers of the compositions. F. Polyol-Based Surfactants

[0167] Suitable polyol based surfactants include sucrose esters such as sucrose monooleates, alkyl polyglycosides such as stearyl monoglycosides and stearyl triglycosides and alkyl polyglycerols.

[0168] The above nonionic surfactants are useful in the present compositions alone or in combination and the term "nonionic surfactant" encompasses mixed nonionic surfactants.

[0169] The non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of from 0.01 to 10%, more preferably from 0.1 to 5%, more preferably from 0.35 to 3.5%, for example from 0 .5 to 2% by weight based on the total weight of the composition.

Polymeric Stabilizers

[0170] Suitable polymeric stabilizers for use in the compositions preferably comprise at least 2% by weight of water-soluble groups, either on the main polymeric backbone or pendant thereto.

[0171] Examples of suitable polymeric materials within this class include PVA; polylactones, such as polycaprolactone and polylactide; methyl cellulose; derived starches; cellulose derivatives; and cationic polymers such as Guar gum.

[0172] If present, it is desirable that such polymers be incorporated at a level of from 0.01 to 5%, more preferably from 0.05 to 3.5%, more preferably from 1 to 2%, in weight of the polymer based on the total weight of the composition.

Single Chain Cationic Surfactants

[0173] The compositions of the invention optionally contain a single-chain cationic surfactant.

[0174] Single-chain cationic surfactants are particularly suitable for use in emulsions as they can be employed in formulation to aid the dispersion characteristics of the emulsion and/or emulsify the composition to form a macroemulsion having droplets of oil, which are smaller than those in macroemulsion compositions, which comprise only the cationic fabric softening agent.

[0175] The single-chain cationic surfactant is preferably a quaternary ammonium compound, which comprises a hydrocarbyl chain having from 8 to 40 carbon atoms, more preferably from 8 to 30, more preferably from 12 to 25 carbon atoms ( for example, quaternary ammonium compounds, which comprise a C10-18 hydrocarbyl chain are especially preferred).

[0176] Examples of commercially available single-chain cationic surfactants, which can be used in the compositions of the invention, include: ETHOQUAD (RTM) 0/12 (oleylbis (2-hydroxyethyl) methyl ammonium chloride); ETHOQUAD (RTM) C12 (cocobis (2-hydroxyethyl) methyl ammonium chloride and ETHOQUAD (RTM) C25 polyoxyethylene (15) cocomethyl ammonium chloride), all from Akzo Nobel; SERVAMINE KAC (RTM), (cocotrimethyl ammonium methosulfate), from Condea; REWOQUAT (RTM) CPEM (cocoalkylpentaethoxymethyl ammonium methosulfate), from Witco; cetyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (25% solution supplied by Aldrich); RADIAQUAT (RTM) 6460, (trimethyl ammonium coconut oil chloride), from Fina Chemicals; NORAMIUM (RTM) MC50, (oleyl trimethyl ammonium chloride), from Elf Atochem.

[0177] The single-chain cationic surfactant is preferably present in an amount of from 0 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.01 to 3% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 2.5% by weight based on the total weight of the composition.

Alcohols, Acids or Fatty Oils

[0178] The formulation aid can be further selected from alcohols, fatty acids or oils, for example C8 to C24 alkyl or alkenyl monocarboxylic acids, alcohols or polymers thereof and C8 to C35 oils. Preferably, saturated fatty acids or alcohols are used in particular, hardened tallow C16 to C18 fatty acids.

[0179] Preferably the fatty acid is unsaponified, more preferably the fatty acid is free, for example oleic acid, lauric acid or tallow fatty acid. The level of fatty acid material is preferably greater than 0.1% by weight, more preferably greater than 0.2% by weight. Concentrated and super-concentrated compositions may comprise from 0.5 to 20% by weight of fatty acid, more preferably from 1% to 10% by weight.

[0180] Suitable fatty acids include stearic acid (PRIFAC 2980), myristic acid (PRIFAC 2940), lauric acid (PRIFAC 2920), palmitic acid (PRIFAC 2960), erucic acid (PRIFAC 2990), sunflower fatty acid (PRIFAC 7960) , tallow acid (PRIFAC 7920), soy fatty acid (PRIFAC 7951) all from Uniqema; azelaic acid (EMEROX 1110) from Henkel.

[0181] The fatty acid can also act as a co-softener in the rinse conditioning agent composition.

[0182] The formulation aid may comprise a long-chain oil. The oil can be a mineral oil, an ester oil, a silicone oil and/or natural oils such as vegetable or essential oils, however, ester oils or mineral oils are preferred.

[0183] Ester oils are preferably hydrophobic in nature. They include fatty esters of monohydric or polyhydric alcohols having 1 to 24 carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain, and monocarboxylic or polycarboxylic acids having 1 to 24 carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain, provided the total number of carbon atoms in the ester oil is equal to or greater than 8, and that at least one of the hydrocarbon chains has 12 or more carbon atoms.

[0184] Suitable ester oils include saturated ester oils, such that PRIOLUBES (from Uniqema), 2-ethyl hexyl stearate (PRIOLUBE 1545), neopentyl glycol monomerate (PRIOLUBE 2045) and methyl laurate (PRIOLUBE 1415) are particularly preferred, although oleic monoglyceride PRIOLUBE 1407) and neopentyl glycol dioleate (PRIOLUBE 1446) are also suitable.

[0185] It is preferred that the viscosity of the ester oil is 0.002 to 0.4 Pa.S (2 to 400 cps) at a temperature of 25°C to 106 s-1, measured using a Haake NV1 rotoviscometer, and that the density of mineral oil is 0.8 to 0.9 g.cm-3 at 25°C.

[0186] Suitable mineral oils include branched chain or straight chain hydrocarbons (eg paraffins) having from 8 to 35, more preferably from 9 to 20 carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain.

[0187] Preferred mineral oils include the Marcol technical range of oils (from Esso), although the Sirius (from Silkolene) or Semtol (from Witco Corp.) range is partially preferred. The molecular weight of mineral oil is typically within the range of 100 to 400.

[0188] One or more oils of any of the above mentioned types may be used.

[0189] It is believed that the oil provides an excellent distribution of perfume to the fabric and also that it increases the longevity of the perfume when storing the composition.

[0190] The oil may be present in an amount of from 0.1 to 40% by weight, more preferably from 0.2-20% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 - 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

Short Chain Alcohols

[0191] The formulation aid may comprise a short-chain alcohol. Low molecular weight alcohols having a molecular weight of preferably 180 or less are preferred. Alcohol can also be monohydric or polyhydric.

[0192] The presence of a low molecular weight alcohol helps to improve physical stability upon storage by reducing viscosity to a more desired level and also aids in the formation of the microemulsion. Examples of suitable alcohols include ethanol, isopropanol, n-propanol, dipropylene glycol, t-butyl alcohol, hexylene glycol, and glycerol.

[0193] Alcohol is preferably present in an amount from 0.1% to 40% by weight, more preferably from 0.2% to 35%, more preferably from 0.5 to 20%, by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

electrolytes

[0194] The fabric softening composition optionally comprises an electrolyte.

[0195] The electrolyte can be an organic or inorganic electrolyte.

[0196] Preferably, the electrolyte is present in an amount of from 0.001 to 1.5%, more preferably from 0.01 to 1%, more preferably from 0.02 to 0.7% by weight with based on the total weight of the composition.

[0197] Suitable inorganic electrolytes include sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, calcium (II) chloride, magnesium (II) chloride, potassium sulfate, and potassium chloride.

[0198] Suitable organic electrolytes include sodium acetate, potassium acetate, sodium citrate, potassium citrate and sodium benzoate.

[0199] The electrolyte improves the control of viscosity (in particular the reduction of viscosity) of the compositions and helps to disperse the composition.

Co-active Softening Surfactants

[0200] Softening surfactants co-active for the cationic surfactant can also be incorporated in an amount of 0.01 to 20% by weight, more preferably 0.05 to 10%, based on the total weight of the composition. Co-active softening surfactants are fatty amines and fatty N-oxides.

perfume

[0201] The perfume can be any perfume conventionally used in fabric softening compositions. The perfume will thus preferably be compatible with the types of fabric softening active substances typically found in fabric softening compositions, although many commercially available perfumes may not be compatible. Also, the perfume will generally be polar in nature.

[0202] The perfume used in the invention may be lipophilic in nature. By lipophilic perfume is understood that the perfume has a solubility in water (i.e. it is dissolved) of 1 g or less in 100 ml of water at 20°C. Preferably, the solubility in water is 0.5 g or less, preferably 0.3 g or less. Such perfumes can be referred to as water-insoluble perfumes.

[0203] Perfumes contain a number of ingredients, which can be natural products or extracts, such as essential oils, resinoids, resins, etc. and synthetic perfume components such as hydrocarbons, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, acids, esters, acetals, ketals, nitriles, phenols, etc., including saturated and unsaturated compounds, aliphatic, alicyclic, heterocyclic and aromatic compounds. Examples of such perfume components are to be found in "Perfume and Flavor Chemicals" by Steffen Arctander (Library of Congress Catalog Card No. 75-91398).

[0204] When present, perfume is preferably used in a concentration of 0.01-20% by weight, more preferably 0.05-17% by weight, more preferably 1-10% by weight for example from 2 to 6% by weight based on the total weight of the composition.

Other Optional Ingredients

[0205] The compositions may also contain one or more optional ingredients conventionally included in fabric conditioning compositions, such as pH buffering agents, perfume vehicles, fluorescers, dyes, hydrotopes, suds suppressing agents, anti-foam agents. redeposition, polyelectrolytes, enzymes, optical brightening agents, pearlescents, anti-shrink agents, anti-wrinkle agents, anti-stain agents, germicides, fungicides, anti-corrosion agents, crease agents, anti-static agents, ironing aids , crystal growth inhibitors, antioxidants, anti-reduction agents and colorants.

[0206] The fabric treatment composition is substantially, and preferably entirely, free of anionic detergent surfactants conventionally used as an active cleaning ingredient in a main wash detergent product.

a Tetranyl AOT-1 de kao (80% ativo em 20% de dipropileno glicol); b Cloreto de dimetil amônio de sebo di-endurecido (75 % de substância ativa em 25% de propileno glicol); c Óleo mineral ramificado, peso molecular médio 288, de Fuchs; d Erucato de sacarose 50% esterificado, de Mitsubishi Foods; e Álcool alquílico secundário com um grau médio de etoxilação de 7, de Union Carbide. Tabela 2

a Cloreto de 1,2-di-seboiloxi etil, 3-trimetil amoniopropano; b Óleo de éster; c mistura de ésteres metílicos de ácidos adípico, glutárico e succínico; d N-metil pirrolidona; e Dimetil sulfóxido; fCoco- álcool 3 EO.[0207] Non-limiting examples of fully formulated composition suitable for use in the packaging of the present invention are as follows: Table 1

kao's Tetranyl AOT-1 (80% active in 20% dipropylene glycol); b Di-hardened tallow dimethyl ammonium chloride (75% active substance in 25% propylene glycol); c Branched mineral oil, average molecular weight 288, from Fuchs; d 50% esterified sucrose erucate, from Mitsubishi Foods; and Secondary alkyl alcohol with an average degree of ethoxylation of 7, from Union Carbide. Table 2

a 1,2-ditallowyloxy ethyl, 3-trimethylammoniopropane chloride; b Ester oil; c mixture of methyl esters of adipic, glutaric and succinic acids; d N-methyl pyrrolidone; and Dimethyl sulfoxide; fCoco-alcohol 3 EO.

[0208] The compositions were prepared by heating the ingredients under stirring at 80°C until they became clear, and then left to cool at room temperature under stirring in low shear, so as to form soft-solid pastes, or gels.

[0209] It will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that the above compositions are merely examples and many more compositions will be compatible with the polymeric film.

[0210] For example, a suitable fusion can be prepared by heating a reaction vessel to at least 50°C, adding an oil and a non-ionic surfactant to the vessel and stirring the mixture. A cationic surfactant and a fatty acid and/or a long or short chain alcohol are then added to the vessel, and the agitation rate is increased. Stirring is continued until a homogeneous mixture is formed. The mixture is then allowed to cool to room temperature, with continuous stirring. Optionally, a perfume and/or a polymeric builder (such as disclosed in WO 99/43777) is then stirred into the mixture.

[0211] A suitable microemulsion is prepared by mixing under low agitation an oil, a solvent such as a low molecular weight alcohol, a dispersibility aid such as a nonionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant and 10% by weight, or less, of water, until a clear composition is formed. In order to aid the formation of the clear microemulsion the mixture can be heated as required. Perfume can optionally be added to the mix at any stage.

[0212] A suitable concentrated emulsion is prepared by heating water to a temperature above 50°C, adding an emulsifier, pre-stirring a cationic surfactant, non-ionic surfactant and an oil, and adding this to the water. Optionally, the product is ground and then allowed to cool. Once below 50°C, perfume can be added.

Product Form

[0213] The water-soluble package is preferably in the form of a capsule, which contains but does not interact with the tissue treatment composition. A suitable alternative is a package, which comprises a polymeric matrix, which incorporates the fabric treatment composition.

pH composition

[0214] When the fabric treatment composition is dispersed in water, the solution preferably has a pH of from 1.5 to 5.

Product Use

[0215] In a preferred method of use, the water-soluble packaging is placed in the drum of the washing machine at the beginning of the wash cycle for dissolution and/or dispersion at the beginning of, or during, the rinse cycle.

Examples

[0216] The invention will now be illustrated by the following non-limiting examples which follow. Additional modifications within the scope of the present invention will be apparent to the person skilled in the art.

[0217] Invention samples are denoted by a number and comparative samples are denoted by a letter. All amounts are in % by weight based on the total weight of the composition, unless otherwise noted.

Example 1: Preparation of Polymeric Material

[0218] A 10% by weight solution of PVOH in water was prepared by placing 100 g of PVOH (Mowiol 20-98 (trademark), by Kuraray Specialties) and 900 g of demineralized water into a bottle and heating to 70°C. To this was added 10 ml of hydrochloric acid (36% aqueous solution) to catalyze the reaction and then butyraldehyde was added. The mixture was then stirred at 70°C for 5 hours, under an inert atmosphere, after which time heating was stopped and stirring continued for an additional 20 hours at room temperature. The reaction mixture was then brought to a pH of 7 using sodium hydroxide solution.

[0219] The resulting solution was precipitated in acetone to provide the acetalized PVOH polymer and washed repeatedly with acetone (500 ml) and then water (50 ml). It was then dried under vacuum at 70°C to provide a white polymer.

[0220] The polymer was then analyzed by 1H NMR in DMSO d6.

a Acetato presente como função residual após a saponificação de poli(acetato de vinila) para formar o poli(álcool vinílico) antes da acetilização com butiraldeído para formar o polímero final.[0221] The following peaks were observed: Table 3

a Acetate present as a residual function after saponification of poly(vinyl acetate) to form poly(vinyl alcohol) prior to acetylization with butyraldehyde to form the final polymer.

em que a razão de número médio de z para x está dentro da faixa de 1:30 a 1: 14, e y é de 1-5%.[0222] It is believed to correspond to the structure:

where the z-to-x-average ratio is within the range of 1:30 to 1:14, and y is 1-5%.

[0223] The degree of acetylation was calculated as the number of hydroxyl pairs, as follows:

[0224] H, which represents the “CH3” group from the acetal product, was found by integration to be 0.1609.

[0225] Therefore, the number of acetal repeats, each containing an OH pair, was 0.1609/3 or 0.0536.

[0226] A, B and C represent the number of free OH groups. J represents a hydrogen from the acetal ring. A, B, C and J combined are 0.9746.

[0227] The total integration due to A, B and C is 09746 - J or 0.9746 - 0.0536, i.e. 0.921.

[0228] The total number of OH repeat units that remain unreacted is 0.921/2 or 0.4605.

[0229] Thus, the degree of acetal content with respect to the total number of available OH pairs is 0.0536/ (0.0536 + 0.4605) * 100 or 10.43 % of acetal with respect to available OH pairs.

Polymer Film Preparation

[0230] The poly(vinyl alcohol)-butyral resin (PVA-BA), prepared in Example 1, was diluted in a 7% m/m solution with demineralized water. The resulting solution was poured onto a PTFE-glued foil tray. The polymer solution was then allowed to evaporate to produce films. Film thickness was adjusted by increasing or decreasing the volume of liquid polymer dosed in a given space. After 2 or 3 days, either films were detached from the PRJFE tray and an average thickness was measured on 5 regions of the cast films using an electronic micrometer. Films were then stored at 23°C and 50% relative humidity for 2 days prior to evaluation.

[0231] The following examples illustrate the effect of the concentration of anionic/non-ionic surfactant in the PVOH derived from butyraldehyde. The blade test method described below was employed as a test for polymer films.

Example 1: Film Break Test

[0232] The evaluation of the effect of the concentration of anionic/non-ionic surfactant on the polymer material is carried out based on its dissolution and erosion characteristics using a slide test regime.

[0233] This is denoted by the break-up time, that is, the first time when the polymer is broken and the contents can flow from the inside of the sachet into the surrounding liquid.

[0234] A film sheet was used to hold a 30 mm x 30 mm film at a thickness of 100-200 µm, in place. The slide and film were then immersed in either a detergent surfactant solution or tap water in a 1 liter beaker. The blade and film to be tested were shaken at room temperature at 293 rpm until the polymer film was broken.

μm. Média de 5 leituras através da superfície dos filmes; b PVOH hidrolisado base empregado durante a derivação (faixa Mowiol, de Kuraray); c Grau de modificação de butiral (percentual de grupo butiral com base em pares -OH na resina); d Teor de polímero da resina base, conforme fornecida; e Viscosidade a 4% m/m, medida a 20°C em um rotoviscômetro Haake a 106 s-1 usando um copo e êmbolo.[0235] The nature of the films tested is given in the following table: Table 4

µm. Average of 5 readings across the surface of the films; b PVOH base hydrolyzate used during derivation (Mowiol range, from Kuraray); c Degree of modification of butyral (percentage of butyral group based on -OH pairs in the resin); d Polymer content of base resin as supplied; and Viscosity at 4% m/m, measured at 20°C on a Haake rotoviscometer at 106 s-1 using a cup and plunger.

a Temperatura (°C) na qual o polímero começa a se tomar mais hidrofóbico devido a um efeito de LCST; b Temperatura (°C) na qual ocorre a precipitação do polímero devido ao comportamento de LCST hidrofóbico; c Tempo (minutos) para a ruptura do filme em 1, 66g/L Ultra Wisk (marca registrada) em temperatura ambiente; dTempo (minutos) para a ruptura do filme em água da bica em temperatura ambiente; eRazão do tempo de ruptura em Ultra Wisk comparado à água da bica.[0236] Results are given in the table below. Table 5

the Temperature (°C) at which the polymer starts to become more hydrophobic due to an effect of LCST; b Temperature (°C) at which polymer precipitation occurs due to hydrophobic LCST behavior; c Time (minutes) to break the film at 1.66g/L Ultra Wisk (trademark) at room temperature; dTime (minutes) for the film to break in tap water at room temperature; eRatio of breakage time in Ultra Wisk compared to tap water.

[0237] The polymer from sample 9 was cast at a thickness of 200 µm and placed on a slide. The effect of changing the concentration of a special washing detergent (Ultra-Wisk, trademark) was then measured using the room temperature slide test regime as described above.

a Ultra-Wisk, adquirido nos E.U.A, em fevereiro de 2001.[0238] The results are given in the table below. Table 6

Ultra-Wisk, acquired in the US in February 2001.

[0239] The results clearly show that the break-up time varies significantly with the level of detergent.

“A” é uma solução de 2g/litro de Wisk em um litro de água Wirral fria. “B” é um litro de água Wirral fria.[0240] A sample of polymer 9 was melted at 90 µm from a 15% solution. The resulting film was conditioned at 20°C and 65% relative humidity for 24 hours. A Tergometer was filled with one liter of cold Wirral water (15-20°FH) optionally containing 2g/liter of Wisk's solution (Wisk purchased in the USA May 2003) and placed under agitation at 75 rpm. started, the film was placed in the vessel, and visually inspected for fragmentation (the inspection was stopped after 15 minutes. The test was repeated 3 times. The results are given in the following table: Table 7

“A” is a solution of 2g/liter of Wisk in one liter of cold Wirral water. “B” is a liter of cold Wirral water.

[0241] Fragmentation occurs when the polymeric film is broken into more than one piece.

Derivation Group Assessment

Tw= Tempo para a ruptura do filme em 1, 66 g/ L de solução de Wisk; TT= Tempo para a ruptura do filme em água da bica; TW/TT = Razão do tempo de ruptura em solução de Wisk: tempo de ruptura em água da bica.[0242] The films were cast using polymer from sample 9 and various levels of butyral derivation groups (prepared as described above). The blade test method was used to measure detergent breakdown time (Tw) and water breakdown time (Tt). Results are provided below. Table 8

Tw= Time to break the film in 1.66 g/L of Wisk's solution; TT= Time to break the film in tap water; TW/TT = Ratio of rupture time in Wisk's solution: rupture time in tap water.

[0243] The results demonstrate that a degree of modification above 6% of butyral significantly increases the break-up time.

Evaluation of mixed lead groups

[0244] The polymer from sample 9 was reacted as previously described with butyraldehyde and propionaldehyde. The level of butyral groups was 9%. Propional group levels between 0 to 1.4% were used. The blade test, as described above, was performed on 1.66 g/L of Wisk. The results are given in the table below. Table 9

[0245] The results demonstrate that the presence of propional groups decreased the time taken for the rupture to occur.

Viscosity Assessment

[0246] The polymer from sample 9 was diluted to 7% using either demineralized water or 20g/liter of SDS. Viscosity of the diluted resin was then measured.

aMedido em um rotoviscômetro Haake a 25,4 °C e 20 s-1 usando um copo e êmbolo NV.[0247] The results are given in the table below. Table 10

aMeasured on a Haake rotoviscometer at 25.4 °C and 20 s-1 using an NV cup and plunger.

[0248] The results demonstrate that the anionic surfactant is interacting with the polymeric film in order to create a gel-like structure.

Film Thickness Assessment

[0249] The effect of film thickness on the breakage of the film in water from the spout of the film prepared from the polymer of sample 9 was evaluated.

[0250] Films of various thicknesses were placed on the blade and broken, according to the blade test regime described above.

a medido em água da bica em temperatura ambiente.[0251] Results are given in the table below. Table 11

a measured in tap water at room temperature.

[0252] As can be seen, the release times can be changed to be adjusted to the environment of use, for example, the thickness and concentration of surfactant can be coupled to decrease or increase the release of active substance. Plasticizer Evaluation

[0253] The polymer from sample 9 was cast into films according to the method described in the presence of various concentrations of sorbitol. Breakdown time at room temperature in tap water was evaluated using the blade test regime.

a Sorbitol foi adicionado à resina base antes da fusão (percentual em peso, com base em sólidos da resina de partida diluída, isto é, 7% m/m).[0254] Results are given in the table below. Table 12

Sorbitol was added to the base resin prior to melting (weight percent, based on diluted starting resin solids, i.e., 7% w/w).

Enzyme Evaluation

[0255] It is undesirable that enzymes in wash formulations have a significant effect on the timing of breakage.

[0256] Films were cast from polymer sample 9, as above, and immersed in a special enzyme-containing detergent (Persil Performance, trademark) and an enzyme-free detergent (Persil Non-Biological liquid) in 8 g / liter of water. Break times were measured using the blade test regime. The results are given in the table below. Table 13

[0257] The results illustrate that enzymes in liquids had no adverse effect on time to breakdown. Cationic Surfactant Evaluation

[0258] A polymer cast film from sample 9 was tested using the slide test regime, as described above, in the presence of varying concentrations of cetyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (CTAC).

[0259] Results are given in the table below. Table 14

[0260] It was observed that the variation of the concentration of cationic surfactant did not produce any effect on the rupture time. Evaluation of pH Variation

[0261] A polymer film of sample 9 cast at 200 µm thick was evaluated for break-up time in tap water at various pH levels. The results are given in the table below. Table 15

Film Evaluation in Clothes Washing Operation Capsule Preparation

[0262] The polymer from sample 9 was cast to form a film measuring 10 cm x 10 cm and with a thickness of 50 μm, 90 μm or 100 μm. This was folded in half and 3 of the 4 sides were heat sealed at 150°C using a Hulme-Hunter heat sealer to form a pouch. 20 g of a formulation consisting of 96% by weight Tetranyl AOT-1 (a quaternary ammonium softening material based on triethanol amine, 80% Kao active) and 4% perfume (hereafter referred to as formulation "A"_ or 20 g of a formulation comprising 96 wt% Tetranyl AOT-1, 3 wt% water 1 wt% perfume (hereinafter referred to as formulation "B" ) were then introduced into the pouch, and the top of the film sealed to form a capsule. The capsule was then stored at 23°C and 50% relative humidity for 2 days prior to evaluation.

[0263] A top load washing machine (Whirpool) was filled with 65 liters of water (French hardness 6° to 15°C). 110 g of the washing liquid (Ultra Wisk) was added and stirred gently for 10 minutes until dissolved. 3.5 kg of a mixed ballast load comprising 1 kg of Terry towel, 1 kg of cotton poplin, 1 kg of polycotton and 0.5 kg of polyester was then added along with ten 20 cm x 20 Terry towel monitors. cm, followed by the capsule formed from a 100 μm thick film containing formulation “A”. The machine was then set for an 18 minute wash at 15°C, one rotation, and then a rinse (5 minutes). After the washing phase, the integrity of the capsule was visually assessed, and it was verified that it was flaccid, but still intact. After the program ended, the cloth and drum were inspected for any residual gelled polymer film. No residual film found. Softness Assessment

[0264] Terry towel monitors were retrieved and softening was evaluated after drum drying against drum dried controls by a trained 10-person jury using paired comparison tests. The results were analyzed at the 95% C.I. level.

[0265] The results are given in the table below. Table 16

[0266] The results clearly indicate that benefits were noticeable when the capsule was present.

Perfume Evaluation

[0267] The Terry towel was also evaluated by the jury (Paired Comparison Test) for perfume preference both on the wet cloth (5 hours of drying on rope) and after the tipping.

[0268] Results are given in the table below. Table 17

[0269] The results clearly indicate that significant improvements in perfume benefits are achieved when the capsule is present in the laundry treatment process.

[0270] The investigation for the residue transformed into gel was conducted on 3 additional occasions, under the machine washing conditions described in the example above. On all three occasions no residue was found either on the cloth, drum or stirrer spindle. Additional Evaluation in Washing Operation

[0271] A top loading machine was filled with 2.5 kg of mixed ballast (Terry towel, polycotton, polyester, cotton sheet cloth) with 6 Terry towel monitors (20 x 20 cm). The machine was filled with 65 liters of cold water at 15°C, and 6° of French Hardness. 110 g of Ultra-Wisk was added. A 10- or 18-minute super wash was selected, followed by a single wash and rotation. Capsules comprising formulation "B" and unencapsulated fabric care compositions were added at various stages of the wash cycle. After the cycle was completed, the ballast and monitors were dried in a Whirpool U.S. dryer. The monitors were then isolated and treated with a bromophenol blue stain to indicate the intensity and uniformity of the cationic softener coating.

[0272] The bromophenol blue test consisted of bromophenol blue dye (0.7 g) dissolved in ethanol (10 g), added to hot water (5 ml) and then added to 10 liters of cold Wirral water (final pH 7, 4).

[0273] The monitors were added to the bromophenol blue solution, left at room temperature for 15 minutes with occasional agitation and then gently rinsed until the rinse waters were clear. The cloths were then spun for 30 seconds to remove any excess water, and left on string to dry out of direct sunlight.

[0274] The monitors were then visually assessed by a trained 8-person jury for uniformity of deposition on a scale of 1-5, where 1 denotes very jagged and 5 denotes full coverage, and for the intensity of blue staining also on a scale of 1-5, where 1 denotes very pale and 5 denotes very dark.

[0275] In the table below, the capsule was formed from a cast film at 50 micrometers and the wash cycle of 18 minutes was used. Table 18

[0276] In the following table, the capsule was formed from a cast film at 90 micrometers and both 10 and 18 minute wash cycles were used.

[0277] Softening was rated by a trained 6-person jury on a line scale of 0 to 100, where 0 denotes no softness and 100 denotes extremely soft. Results were analyzed using Anova and Tukey-Kramer HSD statistics. The perfume was rated by a trained jury of 8 people on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 denotes no scent and 5 denotes a very intense scent. Perfume evaluation was carried out on the damp fabric immediately after removal from the washing machine and also 24 hours after removal from the drum dryer. Table 19

Evaluation of plasticization through formulation

[0278] A plasticizer for PVOH films, PEG 1500, was added to formulation “B”, which was then packaged in a film formed from the polymer of sample 9 melted at 90 micrometers.

[0279] The tactile evaluation of the film was produced by a trained jury after 24 hours of storage at 20°C and 60° relative humidity.

Poli(etileno glicol) 1500, de Fisher Chemicals.[0280] Results are given in the table below. Table 20

Poly(ethylene glycol) 1500, from Fisher Chemicals.

Claims (6)

1. Water-soluble packaging for fabric rinsing compositions, characterized in that it comprises a polymeric film, the polymeric film comprising a polymeric backbone that is based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH) having more than one derivation group attached to main chair, said derivation group(s) being derived from a material having a ClogP from 0.5 to 6, wherein the PVOH has a degree of hydrolysis of 88 to 99%; wherein the degree of derivation of the polymer chain by the derivation group is from 8 to 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the polymer; wherein the leaving groups are based on the parent groups selected from butyraldehyde, octyl aldehyde, dodecyl aldehyde, 2-ethyl hexanal and citral; and in which said package has a relative rupture ratio greater than 1, said ratio corresponding to the time it takes the package to be ruptured in the presence of an anionic and/or non-ionic surfactant in relation to the time that it takes to be broken down in demineralized water. 2. Water-soluble packaging for fabric rinsing compositions, characterized in that it comprises a polymeric film, the polymeric film comprising a polymeric backbone that is based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH) having more than one derivation group attached to main chair, said group(s) being derived from a compound having a C4-C22 hydrocarbyl chain, wherein the degree of derivation is from 8 to 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the polymer; wherein the PVOH has a degree of hydrolysis of 88 to 99%; and in which said package has a relative rupture ratio greater than 1, said ratio corresponding to the time it takes the package to be ruptured in the presence of an anionic and/or non-ionic surfactant in relation to the time that it takes to be broken down in demineralized water. Water-soluble packaging according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it has a relative breakage ratio greater than 3, preferably greater than 7. A water-soluble packaging according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises a crystallinity breaking agent and/or a plasticizer physically or chemically linked to the main chain of the polymeric film. 5. Water-soluble packaging according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the polymer is based on PVOH and the numerical ratio of the derived groups to the free hydroxyl pairs in the main chain is from 1:7 to 1:15 . 6. Process for conditioning fabrics, characterized in that it comprises the stages of addition to a washing cycle of a washing machine, the water-soluble packaging, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 5, and contacting the contents of the packing with the fabric in the drum of the washing machine.