WO2018113979A1

WO2018113979A1 - Aqueous foaming detergent composition with increased foam dwell time and moistening content

Info

Publication number: WO2018113979A1
Application number: PCT/EP2016/082420
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tillmann KLEINE; Daniela Richter; Claudia Caussin De Schneck
Original assignee: Ecolab Usa Inc.
Priority date: 2016-12-22
Filing date: 2016-12-22
Publication date: 2018-06-28
Also published as: EP3559190A1

Abstract

An aqueous foaming detergent composition is provided comprising: - at least one source of alkalinity; - at least one alkyl sulfate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl sulfate; - at least one alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12 and m = 0 to 12; - at least one alkyl dialkylaminoacetate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl C₁-C₃-dialkylamino acetate; - at least one alkyl iminodipropionate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodipropionate; - at least one alkyl iminodiglycinate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodiglycinate; - at least one alcohol of a C₆-C₂₀ alcohol; and - a solvent.

Description

AQUEOUS FOAMING DETERGENT COMPOSITION WITH INCREASED FOAM DWELL TIME AND MOISTENING CONTENT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to surface aqueous cleaning foaming compositions having improved foam characteristics and increased foam dwell time as well as an increased moistening content over time, a method of manufacture and the use thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In many industrial cleaning and disinfection applications, such as cleaning and/or disinfection of hospitals, medical devices, for example chirurgical instalments, the

manufacture of foods and beverages, especially in the meat processing industry. Hard as well as soft surfaces commonly become contaminated with soils such as carbohydrate, proteins, blood and water hardness soils, food oil soils, fat soils and other soils. Such soils can arise from the manufacture of both liquid and solid residences/contaminants. Grease soils and residue soils such as proteins, fats, blood and oils, especially when dried, can be hard to remove soil. Similarly, carbohydrate soils, such as cellulosic, monosaccharides, di saccharides, oligosaccharides, starches, gums and other complex materials, when dried, can form tough, hard to remove soils, particularly when combined with other soil components such as proteins, blood, fats, oils, minerals, and others. The removal of such soils and residues, can be a significant problem.

Clean out of place systems (COP) cleaning techniques are a specific cleaning regimen adapted for removing soils from exterior surfaces of a wide variety of parts, such as ceramic surfaces, metal surfaces, walls, wash tanks, soaking vessels, mop buckets, holding tanks, scrub sinks, vehicle parts washers, non-continuous batch washers and systems, ceilings, external parts of production machinery and the like.

Often clean out of place methods can involve a first rinse, the application of the cleaning solutions, and a second rinse with potable water followed by resumed operations. The process can also include any other contacting step in which a rinse, acidic or basic functional fluid, solvent or other cleaning component such as hot water, cold water, etc. can be contacted with the equipment at any step during the process. Conventional clean in place as well as clean out of place methods require high temperatures, up to about 80° C. In production rooms, the elevated water temperature currently used for that kind of cleaning processes is in the range of about 40° C to about 60° C. Conventional clean out of place techniques (COP) thus require the consumption of large amounts of energy.

Detergent compositions generally used in clean out of place processes, related to medical devices, hospitals, food and meat processing industry are no-foaming or low foaming liquid compositions. No-foaming or low foaming detergent compositions have the drawback that the dwell time or so called "soaking time" on an upright tiled wall is short due to a good flow rate of the liquid detergent composition.

Furthermore, no-foaming or low foaming detergent compositions have the drawback that the user cannot easily track the areas that are processed or not processed due to the brief residence time of the detergent composition, and low foam stability. There is a tendency that surfaces to be cleaned are treated twice thus require the consumption of large amounts of water and detergent composition.

In particular prior art foams have the disadvantage that over extended contact times the foam that adheres to a surface loses liquid detergent and water that is held in between the foam air bubbles of the foam. This is mainly driven by collapsing of the foam bubbles and the subsequence drainage of the liquid discharged of said collapsed foam bubbles. This results in a dry foam having decreased cleaning and disinfection effect.

What is needed therefore is an improved detergent composition for removing soils having increased foam stability at lower temperatures, an increased dwell time and being traceable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object addressed by the present invention is to provide a long lasting foaming detergent composition that has excellent soil removal properties at lower temperatures, increased foam stability, increased dwell time and being traceable, that can be used for example in removing soil from a surface to be cleaned, preferably in a clean-out-of-place systems (COP) or in a clean-in-place system (CIP).

According to one aspect an aqueous foaming detergent composition for removing of soil at low temperatures from a surface to be cleaned is provided.

According to one aspect an aqueous foaming detergent composition is provided comprising:

- at least one source of alkalinity; - at least one alkyl sulfate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- at least one alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant of a Cg-C2₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)- alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12 and m = 0 to 12;

- at least one alkyl dialkylaminoacetate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl C 1 -C3- dialkylaminoacetate;

- at least one alkyl iminodipropionate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- at least one alkyl iminodiglycinate surfactant of a C₈-C2o-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- at least one alcohol, preferably two alcohols, selected from the group of C₆-C₂o alcohols; and

- a solvent, wherein the solvent can be preferably water.

It has been surprisingly found that the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be used for removal of soil at reduced temperatures, while still providing excellent soil removal properties. Thus, the compositions of the present invention provide for reduced energy consumption, since it is active at lower cleaning temperatures.

It has been further surprisingly found that the aqueous foaming detergent composition provides a long lasting foam, which adheres excellent on vertical and horizontal surfaces as well as overhead surfaces.

It has been further surprisingly found that the long lasting foam holds more of the cleaning liquid and water over an significant increased extended time period.

The foam of the present invention holds the cleaning liquid and water released by collapsing foam bubbles over a significant increased time period. This provides a wet foam over a significant increased time period that adheres to the surface to be cleaned and maintains its cleaning activity for a significant increased time period.

The composition of the invention is applied to the surface to be cleaned in the form of a foam. The foam has compared to know foaming composition an remarkable increased dwell time and liquid absorption capacity and the foam treated areas can be easily tracked due to the visibility of the foam that avoids multiple treatment of the same area.

Furthermore, the aqueous foaming detergent composition is active at a low

components concentration thus provides a reduced chemical consumption.

According to another embodiment the aqueous foaming detergent composition comprises:

- about 0.5 wt.-% to about 25 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.01 wt.-% to about 2 wt.-% of at least one Cs-C₂o-alkyl sulfate; - about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8;

- about 0.02 wt.-% to about 2.0 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl C1 -C3- dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 4 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C2o-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0,05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 1.3 wt.-% of at least two C₆-C2₀ alcohol; and

- water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 0.5 wt.-% to about 25 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.01 wt.-% to about 2 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈~C₂o~alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10 or 5 to 8;

- about 0.02 wt.-% to about 2.0 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl C1-C3- dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 4 wt.-% of at least one C -C₂₀-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 1.3 wt.-% of at least two C6-C20 alcohol; and

- about > 40 wt-% of water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 0.5 wt.-% to about 25 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.01 wt.-% to about 2 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10 or 5 to 8;

- about 0.02 wt.-% to about 2.0 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂o-alkyl C1-C3- dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0, 1 wt.-% to about 4 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate; - about 0.05 wt,-% to about 1.3 wt.-% of at least two C₆-C₂₀ alcohol; and

- about > 50 wt.-% of water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 0.5 wt.-% to about 25 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.01 wt.-% to about 2 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂₀-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.02 wt.-% to about 2.0 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl Ci-C₃-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 4 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o~alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 1.3 wt.-% of at least two C₆-C₂o alcohol; and

- about > 60 wt.-% of water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.1 wt.~% to about 1 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0. 5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, wherein n = 2 to 10 and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl Ci-C3-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0,8 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆- C₂o alcohols; and

- water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%. According to another embodiment the aqueous foaming detergent composition comprises:

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0. 5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, wherein n = 2 to 10 and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl Cj-C₃-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C2₀-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆- C₂₀ alcohols; and

- about > 40 wt.-% of water, or about > 55 wt.-% of water, or about > 70 wt.-% of water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyI sulfate;

- about 0.1 wt.~% to about 0.9 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl Ci-C₃-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two Cio-Ci₆ alcohols; and

- about 7 wt.-% to about 13 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity, preferably sodium hydroxide; - about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂₀-alkyl sulfate, preferably sodium lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.-% to about 1.2 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂o-alkyl C₂-C₃-alkoxylate surfactant, preferably a linear alcohol C9-C11 ethoxy 6 EO;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂₀-alkyl C 1-C3- dialkylamino acetate, preferably sodium alkyl dipropionate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate, preferably Coco dimethylaminoacetate;

- about 0.4 wt.-% to about 0.6 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate, preferably coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.375 wt.-% to about 0.625 wt.~% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C6-C20 alcohols, preferably C₁₀-Ci6 alcohols; and

- water; wherein

the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 7 wt.-% to about 13 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one Cg~C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.-% to about 1.2 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂₀-alkyl C₂-C₃-alkoxylate surfactant;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one Cs-C2o- lkyl Ci-C3-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of at least one Cg-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.4 wt.-% to about 0,6 wt.-% of at least one Cg-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.375 wt.-% to about 0.625 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆-C₂o alcohols; and

- about 7 wt.-% to about 13 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.-% to about 1.2 wt.-% of at least one Cg-C₂₀-alkyl C₂-C₃-alkoxylate surfactant; - about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one Cg-C₂o-alkyl Ci-C3-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.4 wt.-% to about 0.6 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.375 wt.-% to about 0.625 wt.-% of at least one C₈-Ci₈ alcohol; and

- about > 60 wt.-% of water, or about > 70 wt.-% of water, or about > 80 wt.-% of water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 7 wt.-% to about 13 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.2 wt.~% to about 0.4 wt-% of at least one C8-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.-% to about 1.2 wt.-% of at least one C₈~C₂o-alkyl C₂-C3-alkoxylate surfactant;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one Cs-C₂o-alkyl Cj-C₃-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C2₀-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.375 wt.-% to about 0.625 wt.-% of at least two Cio-C] alcohols; and

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0. 5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of Cg-Cn-alkyl (EO)4_-6-alkoxylate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of coco imino Ci~C₃-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two C₈-Ci₈ alcohols; and

- water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt,-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%. According to another embodiment the aqueous foaming detergent composition comprises:

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0. 5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of C₉-C_n-alkyl (EO)₄.₆-alkoxylate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C3-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two Ci₀-Ci₆ alcohols; and

- about > 60 wt.-% of water, or about > 70 wt.-% of water; or about > 75 wt.-% of water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0. 5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.~% of C₉-Cn-alkyl (EO)₄.₆-alkoxylate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C₃-diaIkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of Qo- C i6 alcohols; and

- about > 60 wt.-% of water, or about > 70 wt.-% of water; or about > 75 wt.-% of water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt,-%.

- about 7 wt.-% to about 13 wi-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.-% to about 1.2 wt.-% of C₉-C_n-alkyl (EO)_4-6-alkoxylate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of coco imino C]-C₃-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.4 wt.-% to about 0.6 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.375 wt.-% to about 0,625 wt.-% of at least two Cio-C]₆ alcohols; and - about > 60 wt.-% of water, or about > 70 wt.-% of water, or about > 80 wt.-% of water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

- about 7 wt-% to about 13 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.2 wt,-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.~% to about 1.2 wt-% of C₉-Cn-alkyl (EO)₄.₆-alkoxylate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C3-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.4 wt.-% to about 0.6 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.375 wt.-% to about 0.625 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of Cio-C] 6 alcohols; and

According to one aspect an aqueous foaming detergent composition is provided wherein the aqueous foaming detergent composition comprises in addition:

- at least one chelating agent, preferably a gluconate, tetra sodium N,N- bis(carboxylatomethyl)-L-glutamate, methyl glycine diacetic acid and/or diethylene glycol monobutyl ether; and/or

- at least one polymeric polycarboxylate; and/or

- at least one sequestering agent, preferably phosphonobutane tricarboxylate; and/or

- at least one hydrotrope, preferably cumene sulfonate.

- at least one source of alkalinity;

- at least one alkyl sulfate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl sulfate;

- at least one alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl (EO)iV(POm)- alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8;

- at least one alkyl dialkylaminoacetate surfactant of a Cg-C₂o-alkyl Ci-C3-dialkylamino acetate;

- at least one alkyl iminodiglycinate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate; - at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆-C₂₀ alcohols;

- at least one chelating agent, preferably a gluconate, tetra sodium N,N- bis(carboxylatomethyl)-L-glutamate, methyl glycine diacetic acid and/or diethylene glycol monobutyl ether;

- at least one polymeric polycarboxylate;

- at least one sequestering agent, preferably phosphonobutane tricarboxylate;

- at least one hydrotrope, preferably cumene sulfonate;

and

- a solvent, wherein the solvent can be preferably water.

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0. 5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of Cg-Cn-alkyl (EO)₄.₆-alkoxylate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C₃-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆- C₂o alcohols;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 3 wt.-% of a gluconate;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-% of a tetra sodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)-L- glutamate;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-% of a methyl glycine diacetic acid;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 10 wt.-% of a diethylene glycol monobutyl ether;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-% of a polymeric polycarboxylate having an average molecular weight of 2,000 g/mol to 10,000 g/mol;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-% of a phosphonobutane tricarboxylate; and/or

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 10 wt.-% of a cumene sulfonate; and

The aqueous foaming detergent composition can be present in form of a concentrated solution. The concentrated solution has advantages in transporting and storing. The concentrated solution can be diluted, for example prior use, by admixing a solvent, preferably water.

It should be understood that the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of at least one additive selected from the group of dye, color transfer inhibitor, anti-redeposition agents, optical brighteners, builder, oil and water repellant agents, color fastness agents, starch/sizing agents, fabric softening agents, anti-microbials, fungicides, UV absorbers, fragrances and/or mixtures thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some aspects, the present invention relates to aqueous foaming detergent compositions and methods for removing soils from surfaces to be cleaned. Surfaces to be cleaned are hard and/or soft surfaces. In some embodiments, the composition of the invention is applied in a clean in place process (CIP) and/or in a clean out of place process (COP). According to the present invention it may be preferred that the clean in place process (CIP) is a fully automated cleaning process that may requires no reconstruction of the production plant before execution of the cleaning.

In other embodiments, the compositions of the invention may be manually applied to the surface to be cleaned. In particular the compositions of the invention can be used in hospital cleaning, cleaning of medical devices, for example chirurgical instruments, the food processing industry, such as meat processing industry, for cleaning purposes.

The aqueous foaming detergent composition can be a more component composition that can be mixed in situ at the place of use.

The aqueous foaming detergent composition can be applied to the surfaces to be cleaned in form of foam. Applying foam to an upright surface to be cleaned provides a long lasting contact time and the treated areas can be easily traced.

The aqueous foaming detergent composition allows for the use of reduced levels of chemistry, because the foaming detergent of the invention has a remarkable increased cleaning efficiency that allows the use of a lower concentrated foaming detergent

composition. Thus, the methods of the present invention provide for reduced energy consumption, e.g., lower cleaning temperatures, and reduced chemical consumption.

So that the invention may be more readily understood, certain terms are defined. As used herein, "by weight" refers to the total weight of the composition. For example, if a composition has a total weight of 100 grams and comprises 40% (by weight) of an alcohol, the composition may comprise 40 grams of alcohol.

It is understood that the total weight percent amount of all components, substances or agents of a composition are selected such that it does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

It is understood that, as used here,„percent",„%", and the like are intended to be synonymous with„ weight percent",„wt-%", etc..

In the understanding of the present specification the C -C₂₀ alcohols is not a solvent, but an active agent.

As used herein, the term„surface" refers to a surface of a medical instrument, a healthcare setting, a tool, a machine, equipment, a structure, a building, or the like that is employed as part of a food processing, preparation, or storage activity. Examples of healthcare settings include hospitals, doctor's offices and long term care facilities. Examples of food processing surfaces include surfaces of food processing or preparation equipment, e.g., slicing, canning, or transport equipment, including flumes, of food processing wares, e.g., utensils, dishware, wash ware, and bar glasses), and of floors, walls, or fixtures of structures in which food processing occurs. Food processing surfaces are found and employed in milking machines, food anti-spoilage air circulation systems, aseptic packaging sanitizing, food refrigeration and cooler cleaners and sanitizers, ware washing sanitizing, blancher cleaning and sanitizing, food packaging materials, cutting board additives, third-sink sanitizing, beverage chillers and warmers, meat chilling or scalding waters, auto dish sanitizers, sanitizing gels, cooling towers, food processing antimicrobial garment sprays, and non-to-low-aqueous food preparation lubricants, oils, and rinse additives.

As used herein, the term„ware" refers to items such as eating and cooking utensils, dishes, and other hard surfaces such as showers, sinks, toilets, bathtubs, countertops, windows, mirrors, transportation vehicles, and floors.

As used herein, the term„active components" refers to the components comprising source of alkalinity; alkyl sulfate surfactant of a Cs-C₂o-alkyl sulfate; alkyl (EO)n/(POm)- alkoxylate surfactant of a C8-C₂o~alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8; alkyl dialkylaminoacetate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀- alkyl C] -C3-dialkylamino acetate; alkyl iminodipropionate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate; alkyl iminodiglycinate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodiglycinate; and alcohol of a C₆-C₂o alcohol. As used herein, the term„about" refers to variation in the numerical quantity that can occur, for example, through typical measuring and liquid handling procedures used for making concentrates or use solutions in the real world; through inadvertent error in these procedures; through differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of the ingredients used to make the compositions or carry out the methods; and the like. The term„about" also encompasses amounts that differ due to different equilibrium conditions for a composition resulting from a particular initial mixture. Whether or not modified by the term„about", the claims include equivalents to the quantities.

If not other where stated the temperatures is about 23° C.

If not other where stated the humidity is about 40% ±5% at about 23° C.

It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms„a",„an", and„the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a composition containing„a compound" includes a composition having two or more compounds.

It should also be noted that the term„or" is generally employed in its sense including „and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

It should also be noted that the term„additional surfactant" or "additional surfactants" means a surfactant that exceeds the number of the five different surfactants of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

It is specifically understood that any numerical value recited herein (e.g., ranges) includes all values from the lower value to the upper value, i.e., all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application. For example, if a concentration range is stated as 1% to 50%, it is intended that values such as 2% to 40%, 10% to 30%, or 1% to 3%, etc., are expressly enumerated in this specification. These are only examples of what is specifically intended.

It is to be understood that all values and ranges between values and ranges are encompassed by the methods of the present invention.

In some embodiments, the compositions of the invention including the foam can have an alkaline pH, for example a pH of about 7.0 to about 14.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition as well as the foam has a pH in the range of about 7.0 to about 14.0, preferably a pH in the range of about 1 1 to about 14.0 and more preferred a pH in the range of about 12.0 to about 13.5.

The term "Mw" refers to an average molecular weight. The methods, and compositions of the present invention can include, or consist essentially of, or consist, of the steps, and ingredients of the present invention as well as other ingredients described herein. As used herein, "consisting essentially of means that the methods, and compositions may include additional steps, or ingredients, but only if the additional steps, or ingredients do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed methods, and compositions.

In some aspects, the methods and compositions of the present invention may be applied to equipment generally cleaned using clean in place cleaning procedures. Examples of such equipment include evaporators, heat exchangers, including tube-in-tube exchangers, direct steam injection, and plate-in-frame exchangers, heating coils, including steam, flame or heat transfer fluid heated, re-cry stallizers, pan crystallizers, spray dryers, drum dryers, and tanks.

The methods and compositions of the present invention may be used in any application where thermally degraded soils, i.e., caked on soils or burned on soils, such as proteins or carbohydrates, need to be removed. As used herein, the term "thermally degraded soil" refers to a soil or soils that have been exposed to heat and as a result have become baked on to the surface to be cleaned. Exemplary thermally degraded soils include food soils that have been heated during processing, e.g., dairy products heated on pasteurizers, fructose, or corn syrup.

The methods and compositions of the present invention may also be used to remove other non-thermally degraded soils that are not easily removed using conventional cleaning techniques. Soil types suited to cleaning with the methods of the present invention include, but are not limited to, starch, cellulosic fiber, protein, simple carbohydrates and combinations of any of these soil types with mineral complexes. Examples of specific food soils that are effectively removed using the methods of the present invention include, but are not limited to, meat residues, blood residues, protein residues, vegetable and fruit juices, brewing and fermentation residues, soils generated in sugar beet and cane processing, and soils generated in condiment and sauce manufacture, e.g., ketchup, tomato sauce, barbeque sauce. These soils can develop on heat exchange equipment surfaces and on other surfaces during the manufacturing and packaging process.

Exemplary industries in which the methods and compositions of the present invention can be used include, but are not limited to: the food and beverage industry, e.g., the meat processing industry; dairy, cheese, sugar, and brewery industries; oil processing industry; industrial agriculture and ethanol processing; and the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. Conventional CIP as well as COP processing is generally well-known. The process includes applying a foam composition of the invention onto the surface to be cleaned. The foam adheres on the surface for slowly removing the soil.

The process to remove a soil according to the invention can includes an alkaline foam wash. According to one embodiment of the invention a process to remove a soil can include a fresh water rinse and an alkaline foam wash or a fresh water rinse, an alkaline foam wash and a fresh water rinse. Another embodiment of a process of the invention to remove soil can comprise at least three steps: an alkaline foam wash, an acid solution wash, and then a fresh water rinse. The alkaline foam softens the soils and removes the organic alkaline soluble soils. The subsequent acid solution removes mineral soils left behind by the alkaline cleaning step. The strength of the alkaline and acid solutions and the duration of the cleaning steps are typically dependent on the durability of the soil. The water rinse removes any residual solution and soils, and cleans the surface prior to the equipment being returned on-line.

The methods and compositions of the present invention provide for enhanced soil removal at reduced temperatures, e.g., about > 1° C to < 80° C, preferably at about 20° C to about 60° C or at about 35° C to about 50° C. The present invention also provides for a reduction in the amount of chemistry and water consumed during the cleaning process. Thus, the present invention provides both energy and water savings, while achieving effective soil removal.

The composition of the invention can be applied by spray as foam to the surface to be cleaned. By "spray" the present invention means a spray of discrete droplets or a jet of foam.

The foam stability allows an improved cleaning effect, because the foam as such can be considered as a carrier for the aqueous foaming detergent composition. It ensures that the foam of the aqueous foaming detergent composition can also adhere to vertical surface and ceilings. As a result, long lasting contact time is achieved between the foam of the aqueous foaming detergent composition and the surface to be cleaned. The foam layer of the aqueous foaming detergent composition has a repositoiy effect, i.e. through destmction of further foam bubbles new cleaning agent solution is constantly transported to the surface.

Surfactants

A surfactant mixture of five different surfactants is used in the aqueous foaming detergent composition and methods of the present invention.

According to one aspect the five different surfactants of the aqueous foaming detergent composition are selected from the group comprising: - at least one alkyl sulfate surfactant of a C8-C2o-alkyl sulfate;

- at least one alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl (EO)n/(POm) alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8;

- at least one alkyl dialkylamino acetate surfactant of a Cg-C₂₀-alkyl C] -C₃-dialkylamino acetate;

- at least one alkyl iminodipropionate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- at least one alkyl iminodiglycinate surfactant of a Cs-C2o-alkyl iminodiglycinate.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprises a maximum number of five different surfactants of an C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate, a Cs-C₂o-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)- alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8, a C₈-C₂o-alkyl Ci -C₃-dialkyl-amino acetate, a C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate, and a Cg- C₂₀-alkyl iminodiglycinate.

According to another embodiment the alkyl sulfate surfactant can be a C io-C ig-alkyl sulfate, preferably a Ci₂-Ci₆-alkyl sulfate and most preferred a lauryl sulfate.

According to another embodiment the alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant can be a C₉-Ci₇-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, preferably a C₉-C_{] 5}-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate and most preferred a C₉-C n -alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate; wherein n = 2 to 10 and m = 0 to 10, preferably n— 4 to 8 and m = 0 and more preferred n = 6 and m = 0.

According to another embodiment the alkyl C i-C3-dialkylaminoacetate surfactant can be a C | o-C i 8-alkyl Ci-C3-dialkylaminoacetate, preferably a Ci₀-Ci₆-alkyl C | -C₃- dialkylaminoacetate, further preferred a Ci2-C)4-alkyl Cj -C₃-dialkylaminoacetate and most preferred a coco dimethylaminoacetate.

According to another embodiment the alkyl iminodipropionate surfactant can be a C i o- Ci₈-alkyl iminodipropionate, preferably a Ci₀-C]₆-alkyl iminodipropionate, further preferred a C i2-Ci4-alkyl iminodipropionate and most preferred a coco iminodipropionate.

According to another embodiment the alkyl iminodiglycinate can be a Ci o-C] g- alkyl iminodiglycinate, preferably a C io-Ci 6-alkyl iminodiglycinate, further preferred a C 12-C 14- alkyl iminodiglycinate and most preferred a coco iminodiglycinate.

According to another embodiment the five different surfactants can be lauryl sulfate, Cg-Ci i-alkyl (EO)4_-6-alkoxylate, coco imino Ci-C₃-dialkylaminoacetate, coco

iminodipropionate, and coco iminodiglycinate.

According to another embodiment of the aqueous foaming detergent composition he weight ratio of the five different surfactants of lauryl sulfate to C₉-Cn -alkyl (EO)4_-6- alkoxylate to coco imino Ci-C3-dialkylaminoacetate to coco iminodipropionate to coco iminodiglycinate can be in the range of about 1 : 5 : 1 : 4.5 : 2 to about 1 : 1.5 : 0.9 : 1.8 : 0.8.

According to one embodiment the aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprises in addition at least one further anionic surfactant and/or further non-ionic surfactant. The additional surfactant chosen may be compatible with the surface to be cleaned. The additional surfactant can be an anionic surfactant and/or non-ionic surfactant. It can be preferred that the additional surfactant, which differs from the five surfactants of the aqueous foaming detergent composition may be selected from the group comprising of linear alkyl benzene sulfonates, alcohol sulfonates, amine oxides, alcohol ethoxylates, alkyl phenol ethoxylates, polyethylene glycol esters, EO/PO block copolymers, and mixtures thereof.

In addition, the level and degree of foaming under the conditions of use and in subsequent recovery of the composition may be a factor for selecting particular surfactants and mixtures of surfactants. In particular, the nonionics and anionics may be used in combination.

The examples mentioned in the specification are merely specific illustrations of the numerous surfactants which may find application within the scope of this invention. It should be understood that the selection of particular surfactants or combinations of surfactants may be based on a number of factors including compatibility with the surface to be cleaned at the intended use concentration and the intended environmental conditions including temperature and pH.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.1 wt,-% to about < 15 wt.-%. Acceptable levels of surfactants include about > 0.18 wt.-% to about < 13 wt.-%, about > 1.1 wt.-% to about < 6 wt.-%, about > 1.5 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-%, or about > 1.9 wt.-% to about < 3.7 wt.-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.01 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.05 wt.-% to about < 1.5 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.1 wt.-% to about < 1 wt.-% and in addition preferred about > 0.25 wt.-% to about < 0.75 wt,-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8, in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.05 wt.-% to about < 3 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.1 wt.-% to about < 2.5 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.25 wt-% to about < 2 wt.-% and in addition preferred about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 1.2 wt.-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of a Cs-Qo-alkyl C₁ -C3- dialkylamino acetate in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.02 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.05 wt.-% to about < 1.5 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.1 wt- % to about < 1 wt.-% and in addition preferred about > 0.25 wt.-% to about < 0.75 wt.-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of a C8-C₂o-alkyl

iminodipropionate in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a

concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.1 wt.-% to about < 4 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.25 wt.-% to about < 3 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-% and in addition preferred about > 0.75 wt.-% to about < 1.2 wt.-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of a Cs-C₂o-alkyl

iminodiglycinate in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.05 wt.-% to about < 3 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.1 wt.-% to about < 2.5 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.2 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-% and in addition preferred about > 0.3 wt.-% to about < 1 wt.-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.0024 wt.-% to about < 0.20 wt-%. Acceptable levels of surfactants include about > 0.005 ^■wt -% to about < 0.14 wt.-%, about > 0.006 wt.-% to about < 0.10 wt.-%, about > 0.007 wt.-% to about < 0.05 wt.-%, or about > 0.01 wt.-% to about < 0.025 wt.-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of a Cg-C₂o-alkyl sulfate in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0,0001 wt.-% to about < 0.02 wt-%, preferably about > 0.0005 wt-% to about < 0.018 wt-%, further preferred about > 0.001 wt-% to about < 0.015 wt-% and in addition preferred about > 0.0025 wt-% to about < 0.012 wt-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8, in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.0015 wt-% to about < 0.09 wt-%, preferably about > 0.01 wt- % to about < 0.07 wt-%, further preferred about > 0.025 wt-% to about < 0.05 wt-% and in addition preferred about > 0.024 wt-% to about < 0.026 wt-%. In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl Ci-C3-dialkyl- amino acetate in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.0002 wt.-% to about < 0.02 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.0005 wt.-% to about < 0.015 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.001 wt- % to about < 0.01 wt.-% and in addition preferred about > 0.0025 wt.-% to about < 0.0075 wt.-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropio- nate in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.001 wt.-% to about < 0.1 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.003 wt.-% to about < 0.07 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.005 wt.-% to about < 0.05 wt- % and in addition preferred about > 0.01 wt.-% to about < 0.035 wt.-%.

In some embodiments, the amount of total surfactant of a C8-C₂o-aIkyl iminodiglyci- nate in the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.0015 wt.-% to about < 0,09 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.0045 wt.-% to about < 0.024 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.012 wt.-% to about < 0.02 wt.-% and in addition preferred about > 0.0075 wt.-% to about < 0.018 wt.-%.

Alkalinity Source

In some aspects, the compositions of the present invention include a source of alkalinity. Exemplaiy alkaline sources suitable for use with the present invention include, but are not limited to are, basic salts, amines, alkanol amines, carbonates, silicates, and mixtures thereof, preferably the source of alkalinity is selected from the group comprising sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide or a mixture thereof, most preferred the source of alkalinity is sodium hydroxide.

Preferably, the source of alkalinity is selected from the group comprising sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide or a mixture thereof, most preferred is sodium hydroxide.

According to a more preferred aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprise a sources of alkalinity wherein the sources of alkalinity include alkali metal hydroxides, alkali metal salts, phosphates, amines, and mixtures thereof, preferably alkali metal hydroxides including sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and lithium hydroxide, or is a mixture, and most preferred the sources of alkalinity is sodium hydroxide.

The amount of alkaline source present is dependent on a variety of factors including, for example, the type of surface to be cleaned, and the amount and type of soil present on the surface. In some embodiments of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, the amount of alkaline source present in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition can be about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 25 wt.-%, preferably about > 1 wt.-% to about < 17 wt.-%, and further preferred about > 5 wt.-% to about < 15 wt.-%; wherein the source of alkalinity is preferably sodium hydroxide.

In some embodiments of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, the amount of alkaline source present in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition can be about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 25 wt.-%, preferably about > 7 wt.-% to about < 13 wt.-%, and further preferred about > 5 wt.-% to about < 17 wt.-%; wherein the source of alkalinity is preferably sodium hydroxide.

In some embodiments of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, the amount of alkaline source present in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition can be about > 0.015 wt.-% to about < 0.75 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.15 wt.-% to about < 0.51 wt.-%, and further preferred about > 0.21 wt.-% to about < 0.39 wt.-%; wherein the source of alkalinity is preferably sodium hydroxide.

It is understood that the "surfactants" of the aqueous foaming detergent composition are not regarded as an alkaline source.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of an alkaline source except sodium hydroxide.

C₆ to C¾) alcohol

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition comprises at least one C₆ to C₂₀ alcohol and preferably a mixture of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆ to C₂₀ alcohols, also referred to as long chain alcohol.

According to an embodiment the mixture of at least two alcohols may comprises: a) at least one alcohol of a C₆ to C]₂ alcohol, preferably a Ci₂ alcohol;

b) at least one alcohol of a C|₄ to Ci₈ alcohol, preferably a C|₄ alcohol.

According to an embodiment the mixture of at least two alcohols may comprises: a) at least one alcohol of a C₆ to C₁₂ alcohol, preferably a Cj₂ alcohol;

b) at least one alcohol of a Cj₄ to C]₈ alcohol, preferably a C]₄ alcohol;

wherein the mixture has a ratio of a) C₆ to C]₂ alcohol, preferably a C₁₂ alcohol to b) Cj₄ to C i8 alcohol, preferably a Cj₄ alcohol of 6: 1 to 2: 1 , or 5: 1 to 3: 1, or 4: 1 to 3.5 : 1.

In some embodiments of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, the alcohol can be a C₈-Ci₈-alcohol, preferably a C]₀-Ci₆-alcohol and most preferred a mixture of at least two C₆ to C₂₀ alcohols, or a mixture of at least two Cg-Cig-alcohols, or a mixture of CJ_O-C^- alcohols.

In some embodiments of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, the amount of the long chain alcohol, preferably present in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.05 wt.-% to about < 1.3 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.2 wt.-% to about < 0.8 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.375 wt.-% to about < 0.625 wt.-%, and more preferred about > 0.04 wt.-% to about < 0.16 wt.

In some embodiments of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, the amount of the long chain alcohol, preferably present in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent

composition, can be about > 0,0015 wt.-% to about < 0.039 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.006 wt.-% to about < 0.024 wt.-%, and more preferred about > 0.01 1 wt.-% to about < 0.019 wt- %.

In some embodiments of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, the amount of the long chain alcohol of a mixture of Cg-Cjs-alcohols or a mixture of a Cio-C j 6-alcohols, preferably present in a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.05 wt.-% to about < 1.3 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.2 wt.~% to about < 0.8 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.375 wt.-% to about < 0.625 wt.-%, and more preferred about > 0.04 wt.-% to about < 0.16 wt.

In some embodiments of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, the amount of the long chain alcohol of a mixture of C₈-Ci8-alcohols or a mixture of a Cio-Ci₆-alcohols, preferably present in a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, can be about > 0.0015 wt.-% to about < 0.039 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.006 wt,-% to about < 0.024 wt.-%, and more preferred about > 0.01 1 wt.-% to about < 0.019 wt.-%.

Hydrotropes

Solubilizing intermediaries called hydrotropes. A hydrotrope is a compound that solubilizes hydrophobic compounds in aqueous solutions. Typically, hydrotropes consist of a hydrophilic part and a hydrophobic part (like surfactants) but the hydrophobic part is generally too small to cause spontaneous self-aggregation. Hydrotropes may be present in the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

Hydrotropes that can be suitable used are selected from the group comprising aromatic hydrocarbon sulfonate, preferably xylene sulfonate, toluene sulfonate, or cumene sulfonate; or n-octane sulfonate; or their sodium-, potassium- or ammonium salts or as salts of organic ammonium bases. Also commonly used are polyols containing only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms. They preferably contain from about 2 to about 6 carbon atoms and from about 2 to about 6 hydroxy groups. Examples include 1,2-propanediol, 1,2-butanediol, hexylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, mannitol, and glucose.

In some preferred embodiments the hydrotrope may be selected from the group comprising of a xylene sulfonate, toluene sulfonate, or cumene sulfonate, n-octane sulfonate, and/or acids thereof and also more preferred cumene sulfonate.

In some embodiments, Na-cumolsulfonate, linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) and/or xylene sulfonate, cumolsulfonate may be suitable to use as hydrotrope and having an improved wetting effect.

According to a more preferred aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprise at least one hydrotrope that is a cumene sulfonate.

In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably the concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise in addition a hydrotrope, preferably cumolsulfonate or the acid thereof, in the range of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 10 wt.-%, preferably about > 1 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-% and more preferred about > 2 wt.-% to about < 4 wt.-%, by weight of the total aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprise a hydrotrope, preferably cumolsulfonate or the acid thereof, in the range of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 0.1 wt.-%, preferably about > 0 wt.-% to about < 0.3 wt.-%, further preferred > 0.03 wt.-% to about < 0.15 wt.-%, and more preferred about > 0.06 wt.-% to about < 0.12 wt.-%, by weight of the total aqueous foaming detergent composition.

It should be understood that the hydrotrope can present in the form of an acid or salt thereof, depending on the pH of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

It should be understood that the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a hydrotrope.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a hydrotrope.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a hydrotrope, except cumene sulfonate.

Polymeric polycarboxylate The aqueous foaming detergent composition may include at least one polymeric polycarboxylate. The polymeric polycarboxylates suitable for use include those having a pendant carboxylate (— C0₂) groups and include, for example, polyacrylic acid, maleic/olefin copolymer, acrylic/maleic copolymer, polymethacrylic acid, acrylic acid-methacrylic acid copolymers, hydrolyzed polyacrylamide, hydrolyzed polymethacrylamide, hydrolyzed polyamide-methacrylamide copolymers, hydrolyzed polyacrylonitrile, hydrolyzed

polymethacrylonitrile, hydrolyzed acrylonitrile-methacrylonitrile copolymers, and the like.

Further suitable copolymeric polycarboxylates are particularly those of acrylic acid with methacrylic acid and of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid with maleic acid.

Copolymers of acrylic acid with maleic acid, which comprise about 50 wt- % to about 90 wt.- % acrylic acid and about 50 wt.- % to about 10 wt.- % maleic acid, have proven to be particularly suitable.

More preferred suitable polycarboxylates are the polyacrylates, which preferably have a molecular weight of 1 ,000 to 50,000 g/mol and preferably about 2,000 to 10,000 g/mol.

In some embodiments the aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprise a polymeric polycarboxylate, preferably a polyacrylate having a molecular weight of about 500 Mw to about 50000 Mw, preferably about 1000 Mw to about 20000 Mw, in addition preferred about 3000 Mw to about 10000 Mw and more preferred about 4000 Mw to about 6000 Mw, wherein the molecular weight of the polymeric polycarboxylate is based on a totally neutralized sodium polymeric polycarboxylate.

More preferred is a polymeric polycarboxylate that is a polyacrylate.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise the polymeric polycarboxylate, preferably polyacrylate, in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-% and more preferred about > 0.7 wt.-% to about < 1 wt.-% of a polycarboxylate, preferably polyacrylate of a polymeric polycarboxylate, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise the polymeric polycarboxylate, preferably polyacrylate, in an amount of about > 0 wt-% to about < 5 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-% and more preferred about > 0.7 wt-% to about < 1 wt.-% of a polycarboxylate, preferably polyacrylate having about 4000 Mw to about 6000 Mw, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition. In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise the polymeric polycarboxylate, preferably polyacrylate, in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 0.15 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.015 wt.-% to about < 0.06 wt.-% and more preferred about > 0.021 wt.-% to about < 0.03 wt.-% of a polycarboxylate, preferably polyacrylate of a polymeric polycarboxylate, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise the polymeric polycarboxylate, preferably polyacrylate, in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 0.15 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.015 wt.-% to about < 0.06 wt.-% and more preferred about > 0.021 wt.-% to about < 0.03 wt.-% of a polycarboxylate, preferably polyacrylate having about 4000 Mw to about 6000 Mw, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

By virtue of their superior solubility, preferred representatives of this group of polymeric polycarboxylate are the short-chain polyacrylates, which have average molecular weight (Mw), based on free acids, of 2,000 g/mol to 10,000 g/mol and, more particularly, 4,000 g/mol to 6,000 g/mol.

It should be understood that the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a polymeric polycarboxylate.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a polymeric polycarboxylate, except a polyacrylate.

Solvent

A solvent, preferably water, can be added add. 100 wt.-% to the aqueous foaming detergent composition. The solvent content, such as the water content, of the aqueous foaming detergent composition is simply determined by subtracting the weight-% amounts of all the other components, based on the total weight of the aqueous foaming detergent composition, except the solvent, from 100 wt. %.

In the understanding of the present specification the C₆-C2o alcohols are not a solvent, but an active agent.

Suitable solvents include, but are not limited to, water, Ci to C₅-alcohols, glycols, glycol ethers, esters, and the like, or combinations thereof. Suitable alcohols include, but are not limited to, ethanol, isopropanol (propan-2-ol), glycerin, monoethanolamine (MEA), and the like, or combinations thereof. Suitable glycols include, but are not limited to, ethylene glycol (monoethylene glycol or MEG), diethylene glycol (propylene glycol or butoxy diglycol or DEG), tri ethylene glycol (TEG), tetraethylene glycol (TETRA EG), glycerin, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, and the like, or combinations thereof. Preferably the composition may comprise at least two solvents and more preferred the composition may comprise water and hexylene glycol.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise the solvent, preferably water, in an amount of about > 45 wt.-%, preferably about > 70 wt.-% and further preferred about > 85 wt.-% to about < 92 wt.-%, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise the solvent, preferably water, in an amount of about > 98 wt.-%, preferably about > 99 wt.-% and further preferred about > 99.9 wt.-%, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

A diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition is obtainable by diluting a concentrated liquid composition with a solvent, preferably water, in a ratio of an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated liquid composition, to solvent, preferably water, of about 1 : 10 to 1 : 1000, preferably of about 1 : 50 to 1 : 500, in particular of about 1 : 100 to 1 : 250, and also preferred of about 1 : 30 to 1 : 50.

The solvent is not a C₆ to C₂o alcohol.

Chelating agent

The chelating agent can be selected from the group of sodium gluconate, pentasodium salt of diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid, sodium glucoheptonate, salts of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid, salts of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid, salts of hydroxyethyl ethylene diamine triacetic acid, salts of hydroxyethyl ethylene diamine triacetic acid, salts of nitrilotriacetic acid, salts of nitrilotriacetic acid, diethanolglycine sodium salt,

ethanoldiglycine disodium salt, salts of hydroxymonocarboxylic acid compounds, salts of hydroxydicarboxylic acid compounds, salts of amine containing carboxylic acids, terasodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)-L-glutamate (GDLA) and mixtures thereof.

In particular preferred is at least one chelating agent that exhibits soil removal properties when used at a pH of at least about 11 to about 14 and more preferred at a pH in the range of about 12 to about 13.5. The chelating agent is provided for tying up metals in the soil to assist in cleaning and detergency. The chelating agent can be provided as part of the solid alkaline composition. Exemplary chelating agent that exhibit soil removal properties at a pH of greater than about 12.0 to about 13.5 that can be used according to the invention include sodium gluconate, pentasodium salt of diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (available under the name Versenex 80), sodium glucoheptonate, ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), salts of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid, hydroxyethyl ethylene diamine triacetic acid (HEDTA), salts of hydroxyethyl ethylene diamine triacetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), salts of nitrilotriacetic acid, diethanolglycine sodium salt (DEG), ethanoldiglycine disodium salt (EDG), tetrasodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)-L-glutamate (GLDA), methyl glycine diacetic acid (MGDA) and mixtures thereof. Exemplary salts of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid include disodium salts, tetrasodium salts, diammonium salts, and trisodium salts. An exemplary salt of hydroxyethyl ethylene diamine triacetic acid is the trisodium salt.

It should be understood that the chelating agent can include mixtures of different chelating agent agents.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise a chelating agent, preferably a gluconate, in an amount of about > 0.1 wt,-% to about < 3 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-%, further preferred about > 1.0 wt.-% to about < 1.7 wt- % and more preferred about > 1.2 wt.-% to about < 1.4 wt.-%, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise a chelating agent, preferably a gluconate, in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 0.1 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.01 wt- % to about < 0.05 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.02 wt.-% to about < 0.04 wt.-% and more preferred about > 0.0375 wt.-% to about < 0.0395 wt.-%, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise a tetrasodium N,N- bis(carboxylatomethyl)-L-glutamate (GLDA), in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-% and more preferred about > 0.7 wt.-% to about < 1 wt.-%, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition,

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise a tetrasodium N,N-bis(carboxylato- methyl)-L-glutamate (GLDA), in an amount of about > 0 wt-% to about < 0.2 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.005 wt.-% to about < 0.05 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.0228 wt.-% to about < 0.0232 wt.-%, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise a methyl glycine diacetic acid (MGDA), in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-% and more preferred about > 0.7 wt.-% to about < 1 wt.-%, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, may comprise a methyl glycine diacetic acid (MGDA), in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 0.2 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.005 wt.-% to about < 0.05 wt.-%, further preferred about > 0.018 wt.-% to about < 0.022 wt.-%, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a chelating agent.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a chelating agent except gluconate.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a chelating agent except tetrasodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)-L-glutamate (GLDA).

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a chelating agent except methyl glycine diacetic acid (MGDA).

Sequestering agent

In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition may include at least one sequestering.

Exemplary commercially available sequestering agents for use with aqueous foaming detergent composition of the present invention may include, but are not limited to: sodium tripolyphosphate available from Innophos; Trilon A® available from BASF; Versene 100®, Low NTA Versene ®, Versene Powder®, and Versenol 120® all available from Dow;

Dissolvine D-40 available from Akzo; and sodium citrate.

In some embodiments, dipicolinic acid and/or phosphonic acid and corresponding salts thereof are suitable for use as sequestering agents with the methods of the invention. Phosphonates are suitable for use as sequestering agents with the methods of the invention and can be selected from the group comprising 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid (AEPn); dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP); 1 -hydroxy ethylidene- 1 , 1 -diphosphonic acid (HEDP); amino tris(methylene phosphonic acid) (ATMP); ethylenediamine tetra(methylene phosphonic acid) (EDTMP); tetramethylenediamine tetra(methylene phosphonic acid) TDTMP); hexamethylenediamine tetra(methylene phosphonic acid) (HDTMP);

diethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid) (DTPMP); phosphonobutane- tricarboxylic acid (PBTC); N-(phosphonomethyl)iminodiacetic acid (PMIDA); 2- carboxyethyl phosphonic acid (CEP A); 2-hydroxyphosphonocarboxylic acid (HPAA); amino- tris-(methylene-phosphonic acid) (AMP); and/or salts thereof.

Aminophosphonates are also suitable for use as sequestering agents with the methods of the invention and include ethylenediaminetetramethylene phosphonates,

nitrilotrismethylene phosphonates, and diethylenetriamine-(pentamethylene phosphonate) for example. These aminophosphonates commonly contain alkyl or alkenyl groups with less than 8 carbon atoms.

In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, comprises in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.1 wt.-% to about < 2 wt.-%, further preferred

> 0.3 wt-% to about < 1 wt.-%, and also preferred > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 0.7 wt.-%, a sequestering agent, preferably phosphonobutane-tricarboxylic acid (PBTC), based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, comprises in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 0.2 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.005 wt.-% to about < 0.05 wt.-%, further preferred

> 0.01 wt.-% to about < 0.025 wt.-%, and also preferred > 0.018 wt.-% to about < 0.019 wt- %, a sequestering agent, preferably phosphonobutane-tricarboxylic acid (PBTC), based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a sequestering agent.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a sequestering agent except phosphonobutane-tricarboxylic acid (PBTC).

Penetrants In some embodiments, a penetrant may be used with the aqueous foaming detergent composition of the present invention.

In some embodiments, the penetrant is water miscible.

Examples of suitable penetrants include, but are not limited to short chain ethoxylated alcohols and phenol (having 1-6 ethoxylate groups). Organic solvents are also suitable penetrants. Examples of suitable organic solvents, for use as a penetrant, include esters, ethers, ketones, amines, and nitrated and chlorinated hydrocarbons.

Ethoxylated alcohols are also suitable for use with the methods of the present invention. Examples of ethoxylated alcohols include, but are not limited to, alky, aryl, and alkylaryl alkloxylates. These alkloxylates may be further modified by capping with chlorine-, bromine-, benzyl-, methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, butyl- and alkyl-groups. Ethoxylated alcohols may be present in the foaming detergent composition from about > 0.1 wt% to about > 20 wt%.

Fatty acids are also suitable for use as penetrants in the methods of the present invention. Some non-limiting examples of fatty acids are C₆ to C]₂ straight or branched fatty acids. In some embodiments, fatty acids used in the methods of the present invention are liquid at room temperature.

In some embodiments, a penetrant for use in the methods of the present invention includes water soluble glycol ethers. Examples of glycol ethers include dipropylene glycol methyl ether (available under the trade designation DOWANOL DPM from Dow Chemical Co.), diethylene glycol methyl ether (available under the trade designation DOWANOL DM from Dow Chemical Co.), propylene glycol methyl ether (available under the trade designation DOWANOL PM from Dow Chemical Co.), and ethylene glycol monobutyl ether (available under the trade designation DOWANOL EB from Dow Chemical Co.).

In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, comprises in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 10 wt.-%, preferably about > 1 wt.-% to about < 8 wt.-%, further preferred > 3 wt.-% to about < 6 wt.-%, and also preferred > 4 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-%, a penetrant, preferably diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, comprises in an amount of about > 0 wt.-% to about < 0.4 wt.-%, preferably about > 0.01 wt.-% to about < 0.3 wt.-%, further preferred > 0.05 wt.-% to about < 0.2 wt.-%, and also preferred > 0.130 wt.-% to about < 0.135 wt.-%, a penetrant, preferably diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, based on the total weight amount of the aqueous foaming detergent composition.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a penetrant.

According to one aspect the aqueous foaming detergent composition can be free of a penetrant except diethylene glycol monobutyl ether.

Concentrate

The liquid foaming detergent composition can be presented in a concentrated liquid form. The concentrates include a liquid medium, preferably water, and relatively large concentrations of the active cleaning component or cleaning components. The concentrated liquid foaming detergent composition may have a pH in the range of about 7.0 to about 14.0, preferably a pH in the range of about 1 1 to about 14 and more preferred a pH in the range of about 12 to about 13.5 and for the diluted liquid foaming detergent composition the pH may be adjusted to a pH of about 7.0 to pH of about 14.0, preferably to a pH of about 1 1 to about 14 and more preferred a pH in the range of about 12 to about 13.5.

As a solvent, preferably water is added to 100 wt.-% to the concentrated liquid foaming detergent composition, wherein the weight.-% of the components are based on the total weight of the concentrated liquid foaming detergent composition, and the weight. -% of all components of the foaming detergent composition are select so that it does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

According to one aspect, a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprise:

- about 0.5 wt.~% to about 25 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.01 wt,-% to about 2 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)- alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8;

- about 0.02 wt.-% to about 2.0 wt.-% of at least one Cs-C₂o-alkyl C) -C3-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 4 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 1.3 wt.-% of at least two C₆-C₂₀ alcohols; and

- water; wherein the weight % of the components are based on the total weight of the composition and the total wt.-% of all components of the composition does not exceed 100 wt,-%.

According to one aspect an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition, is provided comprising:

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of C₉-C_n-alkyl (EO) .₆-alkoxylate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C3-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆- C₂₀ alcohols;

- about > 1 wt.-% to about < 1.5 wt.-% of a gluconate;

- about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 0.9 wt-% of a tetra sodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)- L- glutamate;

- about > 0.4 wt.-% to about < 0.8 wt.-% of a methyl glycine diacetic acid;

- about > 3 wt.-% to about < 6 wt.-% of a diethylene glycol monobutyl ether;

- about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 1 wt,-% of a polymeric polycarboxylate having an average molecular weight of 2,000 g/mol to 10,000 g/mol;

- about > 0.4 wt.-% to about < 0.8 wt.-% of a phosphonobutane tricarboxylate; and/or

- about > 1 wt.-% to about < 5 wt,-% of a cumene sulfonate; and

- about 7 wt.-% to about 13 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.~% to about 1.2 wt.-% of Cg-Cn-alkyl (EO)₄_6-alkoxylate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of coco imino Cj-C3-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.4 wt.-% to about 0.6 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.375 wt.-% to about 0.625 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆-C₂o alcohols; - about > 1 wt.-% to about < 1.5 wt.-% of a gluconate;

- about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 0,9 wt.-% of a tetra sodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)- L- glutamate;

- about > 0.4 wt.-% to about < 0.7 wt.-% of a methyl glycine diacetic acid;

- about > 3 wt.-% to about < 6 wt.-% of a diethylene glycol monobutyl ether;

- about > 0.5 wt.-% to about < 1 wt.-% of a polymeric polycarboxylate having an average molecular weight of 2,000 g/mol to 10,000 g/mol;

- about > 0.4 wt.~% to about < 0.8 wt.-% of a phosphonobutane tricarboxylate; and/or

- about > 1 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-% of a cumene sulfonate; and

Ready-to-use composition

The liquid foaming detergent composition can be present in form of a diluted or so called "ready-to-use" composition. The diluted compositions may be derived from a concentrated liquid foaming detergent composition, for example, by combining water, for example, deionized water, city or tap water, with said concentrate. The so called ready-to-use compositions may be treated to reduce hardness.

The source of alkalinity and addition of the solvent, preferably water, are provided so that the diluted liquid foaming detergent composition may have a pH in the range of about 1 1 to about 14 and more preferred a pH in the range of about 12 to about 13.5.

According to one aspect, the concentrated liquid foaming detergent composition can be diluted with a solvent, preferably water, to an about 1 ,0 wt.-% to about 10 wt.-%, preferably to an about 2,0 wt.-% to 5.5 wt.-%, diluted foaming detergent composition, also named "ready-to-use solution".

As a solvent, preferably water is added to 100 wt.-% to the diluted liquid foaming detergent composition, wherein the weight. -% of the components are based on the total weight of the diluted liquid foaming detergent composition, and the weight.-% of all components of the foaming detergent composition are select so that it does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

According to one aspect, a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprise: According to one aspect, a concentrated aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprise:

- about 0,5 wt.-% to about 25 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.01 wt.-% to about 2 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C2₀-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.02 wt.-% to about 2.0 wt.-% of at least one Cs-C₂o-alkyl Cj-C3-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 4 wt,-% of at least one C8-C₂o-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.01 wt.-% to about 0.3 wt.-% of at least two C₆-C2o alcohol; and

- water; wherein

According to another aspect, a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition may comprise:

- about 0.005 wt.-% to about 0.25 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.0001 wt.-% to about 0.02 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.0005 wt.-% to about 0.03 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)- alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, or 2 to 10, and m = 0 to 12, or 1 to 10, or 5 to 8;

- about 0.0002 wt.-% to about 0.02 wt.-% of at least one C₃-C₂₀-alkyl Ci-C₃-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.001 wt.-% to about 0,04 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodipropionate;

- about 0.0005 wt-% to about 0.03 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.0001 wt.-% to about 0.003 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C6-C20 alcohols; and

- water; wherein

According to one aspect an aqueous foaming detergent composition, preferably a diluted aqueous foaming detergent composition, is provided comprising:

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.51 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.003 wt.-% to about 0.03 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.015 wt.-% to about 0,0045 wt.-% of C₉-Cn-alkyl (EO)_4-6-alkoxylate; - about 0.003 wt.-% to about 0.027 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C₃-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.0135 wt.-% to about 0.054 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.0045 wt.-% to about 0.024 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.006 wt.-% to about 0.024 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆-C₂o alcohols;

- about > 0.035 wt.-% to about < 0.039 wt.-% of a gluconate;

- about > 0.0225 wt.-% to about < 0.023 wt.-% of a tetra sodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)- L-glutamate;

- about > 0.015 wt.-% to about < 0.02 wt.-% of a methyl glycine diacetic acid;

- about > 0.125 wt.-% to about < 0.133 wt.-% of a diethylene glycol monobutyl ether;

- about > 0.02 wt.-% to about < 0.025 wt.-% of a polymeric polycarboxylate having an average molecular weight of 2,000 g/mol to 10,000 g/mol;

- about > 0.017 wt.-% to about < 0.02 wt.-% of a phosphonobutane tricarboxylate; and/or

- about > 0.07 wt.-% to about < 0.1 wt.-% of a cumene sulfonate; and

- about 0.02 wt.-% to about 0.04 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.003 wt.-% to about 0.03 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.015 wt.-% to about 0.0045 wt.-% of C9-Cl l-alkyl (EO)4-6-alkoxylate;

- about 0.003 wt.-% to about 0.027 wt.-% of coco imino Cl-C3-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.0135 wt.-% to about 0.054 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.0045 wt.-% to about 0.024 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.006 wt.-% to about 0.024 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆-C2o alcohols;

- about > 0.01 wt.-% to about < 0.04 wt.-% of a gluconate;

- about > 0.01 wt.-% to about < 0.025 wt.-% of a tetra sodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)- L-glutamate;

- about > 0.015 wt.-% to about < 0.02 wt.-% of a methyl glycine diacetic acid;

- about > 0.125 wt.-% to about < 0.135 wt.-% of a diethylene glycol monobutyl ether;

- about > 0.01 wt.-% to about < 0.025 wt.-% of a polymeric polycarboxylate having an average molecular weight of 2,000 g/mol to 10,000 g/mol; - about > 0.015 wt.-% to about < 0,02 wt.-% of a phosphonobutane tricarboxylate; and/or

- about > 0.05 wt.-% to about < 0.1 wt.-% of a cumene sulfonate; and

Methods of Cleaning

In some aspects, the present invention provides methods for removing soil from a surface. In some embodiments, the methods for removing soil from a surface include using a clean out of place (COP) or clean in place (CIP) cleaning process. The methods include applying to the surface a composition of the invention, preferably in form of foam.

The method for removing soil from a surface to be cleaned may comprises applying to the surface a liquid foaming detergent composition. According to another aspect the method for removing soil from a surface to be cleaned may comprises applying to the surface a concentrated liquid foaming detergent composition. According to another aspect the method for removing soil from a surface to be cleaned may comprises preferably applying to the surface a diluted liquid foaming detergent composition.

The method for removing soil from a surface to be cleaned may comprising:

a) optional applying a pre-treatment solution, preferably water, to the surface to be cleaned for an amount of time sufficient to substantially penetrate a soil on the surface to be cleaned and/or pre-clean a soil on the surface to be cleaned;

b) applying the liquid foaming detergent composition, preferably the diluted liquid foaming detergent composition, to the surface to be cleaned for an amount of time for cleaning the surface to be cleaned;

c) optional a rinsing step before and/or after the application (a) and/or (b).

In some embodiments, the methods and compositions of the present invention are applied to surfaces which are normally cleaned using a clean out of place or in place cleaning technique. Examples of such surfaces include hard and soft surface, for example of upper outer and/or inner outer surfaces of materials such as ceramic, metal, plastic and/or glass, surface that came into contact with beverages and/or food, beverages such alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages such as beer or milk, food such as meat, vegetables and/or grain-products. Other surfaces that can be cleaned are instruments and apparatus, for example used in sanitary or medical services, evaporators, heat exchangers, including tube-in-tube exchangers, direct steam injection, and plate-in-frame exchangers, heating coils including steam, flame or heat transfer fluid heated re-crystallizers, pan crystallizers, spray dryers, drum dryers, and tanks.

Additional surfaces capable of being cleaned using the methods and compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to membranes, medical devices, laundry and/or textiles, and hard surfaces, e.g., walls, floors, dishes, flatware, pots and pans, heat exchange coils, ovens, fryers, smoke houses, sewer drain lines, and vehicles. In some embodiments, the surfaces may be cleaned using a clean in place method. The methods of the present invention may also be used to remove dust from air handling equipment, for example, from air conditioners and refrigeration heat exchangers. In other embodiments, the methods of the present invention may be used for drain line microbial control, e.g., to reduce or remove biofilm formation.

Exemplary industries in which the methods and compositions of the present invention may be used include, but are not limited to: the food and beverage industry, e.g., the dairy, cheese, sugar, and brewery industries; oil processing industry; industrial agriculture and ethanol processing; and the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.

Temperature

The methods and aqueous foaming detergent composition for soil removal from surfaces can be applied at reduced temperatures, e.g., from about > 1° C to about < 80° C, preferably at about > 20° C to about < 60° C, preferably about > 35° C to about < 50° C. The ability of stable foam formation and to clean at reduced temperatures, preferably at about 45° C results in energy and cost savings compared to traditional cleaning techniques that require increased temperatures. Further, the present invention provides for effective soil removal on surfaces that cannot withstand high temperatures.

It has also been found that the methods of the present invention provide for soil removal at reduced temperatures, and using reduced amounts of chemistry, compared to conventional cleaning methods. In some embodiments, the methods of the present invention use about 25% to about 50% less chemistry, e.g., source of alkalinity, than conventional cleaning methods. Thus, the methods of the present invention may effectively remove soil at both low temperatures, and using a low concentration of chemicals, providing both an energy savings and a reduction in the amount of chemistry consumed per cleaning. Time

In some aspects of the aqueous foaming detergent composition for use with the methods of the present invention are applied as stable foam to the surface for a sufficient amount of time such that the composition penetrates into the soil to be removed.

In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition for use with the methods of the present invention is applied as stable foam to the surface to be cleaned for about 1 to about 30 minutes. In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition for use with the methods of the present invention is applied as stable foam to the surface to be cleaned for about 5 to about 15 minutes. In some embodiments, the aqueous foaming detergent composition for use with the methods of the present invention is applied as stable foam to the surface to be cleaned for about 10 minutes. It is to be understood that any value between these ranges is to be encompassed by the methods of the present invention.

Another object is a foam comprising the components of the liquid foaming detergent composition.

The foam stability allows an improved cleaning effect, because the foam as such can be considered as a carrier for the cleaning solution. It ensures that the solution can also adhere to vertical surface and ceilings. As a result, longer contact is achieved between the cleaning solution and the surface to be cleaned. The foam layer on the cleaning agent film has a repository effect, i.e. through destruction of further foam bubbles new cleaning agent solution is constantly transported to the surface.

Description of the Drawings

FIG. 1 shows the liquid height (water liquid loss) after 70 sec. of Examples 1 to 7 according to the present invention and comparative examples lto 6;

FIG. 2 shows the foam height decrease over time of Examples 1 to 7 according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 shows the foam height decrease over time of Comparative examples 1 to 7 vs. Examples 1 of the present invention.

The following non-limiting examples illustrate certain advantages of the present invention. EXAMPLES

Examples El to E7 and Comparative examples C I to C6

The compositions of examples El to E7 of the invention and comparative examples CI to C6 were prepared by mixing the components as mentioned in tables I and II below, wherein the compositions of tables I and II below are additional diluted with demineralized water.

Foam Moister Test Method

This test method provides a basis to assess the relation of volume liquid to volume foam. The compositions of examples El to E7 of the invention and comparative examples C I to C6 were prepared by mixing the components as mentioned in table I and II below at about 20° C. The obtained compositions of tables I and II are then additional diluted by demineralized water to a 3% (w/w).

The tests were performed for a 3% (w/w) composition at 20° C and 45% relative humidity.

The demineralized water (demin. water) is produced by a process of distillation and has an electrical conductivity of not more than 1 1 nS/cm and total dissolved solids of less than 10 mg/liter. Distillation involves boiling the water and then condensing the vapor into a clean container, leaving solid contaminants behind.

Table I

Examples 1 to 7 of the present invention

Examples

El E2 E3 E4 E5 E6 E7 Gevv.-%

SODIUM

13,000 14,000 14,000 17,000 10,000 13,000 16,000 HYDROXIDE

Sodium Lauryl

0,300 0,400 1,000 2,000 0,200 0,500 0,800 Sulfate

Linear Alcohol

Ethox (C₉-C„) 1 ,000 1 ,200 1,500 3,000 1 ,000 1 ,200 1 ,400 6 EO

Coco dimethyl

0,300 0,400 0,900 2,000 0,300 0,500 0,800 amino acetate

SODIUM ALKYL

0,900 1 ,100 1,800 4,000 0,800 1 ,100 1 ,600

DIPROPIONATE

Coco

0,500 0,600 0,800 3,000 0,500 0,600 0,800 iminodiglycinate

Alcohol C|o-Ci6 0,500 0,625 0,800 1 ,300 0, 100 0,200 0,600 add. 100 add. 100 add. 100 add. 100 add. 100 add. 100 add. 100

Demin. water add. 100 Gew.-% Gew.-% Gew.-% Gew.-% Gew.-% Gew.-% Gew.-% Gew.-%

Table II

Comperative exampL

Equipment

Dynamic Foam Analyzer DFA 100 Kriiss

Foaming Phase:

Pumping time: 5 sec

Gas flow rate: 1 L/min

Decay Phase

Time: 1200 sec

Device Power

Pump: 100%

LED: 20%

Boundary line: 40 mm

Frit diameter (FL 4502): 45 mm

Pore: 40 - 100 μιη

- Foam solution parameter

Volume: 50 ml

Product concentration: 3% (w/w) Temperature: 20°C

Water quality: demin, water

- Foam container

CY 4501 Glass Column; diameter 40 mm, height 250 mm

Measuring liquid high in [mm!

The detergent compositions of examples El to E7 and Comparative examples CI to C6 are further diluted with addition of demin. water to a 3% (w/w) detergent composition. Each 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of examples El to E7 and Comparative examples CI to C6 are tested in a Dynamic Foam Analyzer DFA 100 Kriiss; wherein 50 ml of each 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of examples El to E7 and Comparative examples CI to C6 are filed into a CY 4501 Glass Column. The CY 4501 Glass Column has a diameter 40 mm and a height of 250 mm. Then oxygen is blown through a frit for 5 sec and a flow rate of lL/min to generate foam.

The reduction of foam height and liquid loss for each detergent compositions of examples El to E7 and Comparative examples CI to C6 are recorded for about 1200 sec (Decay Phase).

Tables III and IV show the liquid loss of the foam, measured as liquid height in the CY 4501 Glass Column, for each detergent compositions of examples El to E7 and

Comparative examples CI to C6.

Table III

Liquid height after 70s for a 3% (w/w) compositions of examples E l to E7

Table IV

Liquid height after 70s for a 3% (w/w) compositions of examples CI to C6

Time

70 [s] CI C2 C3 C4 C5 C6

Liquid

height 38 41 40 38 39 36 [mm]

The liquid high indicates the liquid loss at 70 seconds for each 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of examples El to E7 and comparative examples CI to C6. It can be seen from tables III and IV that the liquid loss of the 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of Examples El to E7 is significant less compared to the 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of comparative examples CI to C6.

Thus, the volume liquid loss test clearly demonstrates that the foam of the 3% (w/w) aqueous foaming detergent composition El to E7 according to the present invention compared to the 3% (w/w) aqueous foaming detergent composition of comparative examples CI to C6 have a significant decreased liquid loss - see Fig. 1 - and a much better foam stability.

The water liquid loss of the 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of examples El to E7 after 70s is below 35 mm. However, the water liquid loss of the 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of the comperative examples CI to C6 is after 70s closed to the maximum of liquid loss, which is about 42 mm.

Further, the results of tables III and IV and Fig. 1 demonstrate for the 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of examples Examples 1 to 7 of the present invention an improved rewetting foam effect. The test further demonstrate that the foam of the 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of comparative examples CI to C6 dries over time, which leads to an decreased cleaning effect compared to the 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of examples El to E7.

Measuring foam high in [mm] and liquid high in [mm!

For each 3% (w/w) compositions of examples El to E7 according to the invention and 3% (w/w) compositions of comparative examples CI to C6 the foam high in [mm] and liquid high in [mm] as recorded in tables V and VI are measured in the CY 4501 Glass Column of the Dynamic Foam Analyzer DFA 100 Kriiss. About 50 ml of each 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of examples El to E7 and Comparative examples CI to C6 are filed into a CY 4501 Glass Column having a diameter 40 mm and a height of 250 mm. Then oxygen is blown through the frit of the CY 4501 Glass Column at a flow rate of IL/min until a foam height of about 170 mm is reached.

Thereafter the foam high in [mm] and liquid high in [mm] were recorded for the 3% (w/w) compositions of examples El to E7 and comparative examples CI to C6 starting after 10s for a total time 1200 s. The results are recored from 10s to 1 110s. The liquid high indicates the loss of foam liquid and the foam high indicates the foam stability over time.

Table V

Liquid height and foam height measured after 10s to 1110s for a 3% (w/w) compositions of examples El to E7

itions El E2 E3 E4 E5 E6 E7

Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liqui

Time [s] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm]

10 163 21 162 21 160 21 170 21 164 21 165 21 166

50 155 31 159 28 161 28 168 23 162 28 170 22 169

70 152 34 155 31 158 31 163 28 158 31 166 26 165

110 149 36 152 34 154 34 159 31 154 34 160 31 160

150 147 37 150 36 152 36 157 34 152 35 158 33 158

210 145 38 148 37 150 37 155 35 150 37 156 35 156

250 144 39 147 38 150 37 154 36 149 37 155 36 155

310 143 39 145 38 149 38 153 37 148 38 154 36 154

350 142 40 145 39 149 38 153 37 147 38 . 154 37 154

410 140 40 144 39 148 39 152 37 145 38 154 37 153

450 139 40 143 39 148 39 152 38 144 39 153 37 153

510 138 40 142 39 147 39 152 38 143 39 153 38 152

550 138 40 142 39 147 39 151 38 143 39 153 38 152 .

610 138 40 141 39 147 39 151 38 141 39 152 38 152

650 137 40 141 39 146 39 151 38 141 39 152 38 152

710 ^' 137 40 140 40 146 40 151 39 140 39 152 38 152

750 136 41 140 40 146 40 151 39 139 39 152 38 151

810 135 41 139 40 146 40 151 39 139 39 152 39 151

850 134 41 139 40 145 40 151 39 138 39 151 39 151

910 133 41 139 40 145 40 150 39 127 39 151 39 151

950 132 41 138 40 145 40 150 39 126 40 151 39 151

1010 130 41 138 40 144 40 150 39 126 40 151 39 151

Table V

Liquid height and foam high measured after 10s to 1110s for a 3% (w/w) compositions of comparative examples CI to C6

Compositions CI C2 C3 C4 C5 C6

Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Foam Liquid Time [s] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm] [mm]

10 159 21 153 25 146 35 149 28 167 23 165 2

50 141 37 131 40 141 40 134 37 150 38 158 3

70 139 38 128 41 138 40 130 38 148 39 155 3

110 132 39 106 41 128 41 113 38 145 40 151 3

150 123 39 91 41 117 41 100 38 140 40 149 3

210 101 39 63 41 99 41 81 38 125 41 147 4

250 92 39 58 41 96 41 70 38 115 41 145 4

310 77 40 56 41 80 41 60 38 111 41 139 4

350 74 40 55 42 74 41 53 38 106 41 107 4

410 60 40 56 42 65 41 52 39 98 41 98 4

450 58 40 56 42 64 41 51 39 97 41 89 4

510 53 40 56 42 60 41 48 39 90 41 74 4

550 51 40 54 42 58 41 46 39 89 41 67 4

610 50 40 55 42 58 41 45 39 82 41 66 4

650 50 40 55 42 57 41 45 39 81 41 64 4

710 46 40 55 42 57 41 44 39 75 41 59 4

750 45 40 54 42 57 41 44 39 75 41 58 4

810 44 40 53 42 56 41 44 39 74 41 57 4

850 44 40 53 42 56 42 44 39 73 41 55 4

910 43 40 53 42 53 42 44 39 66 41 52 4

950 43 40 53 42 52 42 43 39 66 41 51 4

1010 42 40 52 42 52 42 43 39 65 41 50 4

It can be seen from tables V and VI and Figs. 2 and 3 that the decrease of foam high and loss of water for the 3% (w/w) compositions of Examples El to E7 are significant less compared with the 3% (w/w) compositions of comparative examples CI to C6.

The lower the loss of water the better the moister content of the foam. Further the higher the foam stability the better the cleaning performance. However, the combination of decreased water liquid loss and increased foam stability provides an significant improved foam with respect of cleaning performance, since the higher moistening content of the foam prolongs the activity period of the cleaning components.

Thus, the volume liquid to volume foam test clearly demonstrates that the foam of the- 3% (w/w) aqueous foaming detergent compositions El to E7 according to the present invention compared to the 3% (w/w) detergent compositions of CI to C6 have a significant decreased foam liquid loss. Further the foam stability and moistening content of the 3% (w/w) foam compositions of Examples 1 to 7 are significant improved as indicated in Figs. 2 and 3.

In Fig. 3 it can be seen that the 3% (w/w) foam detergent composition of example El is practically stable over time with respect of foam stability and water liquid loss compared to the 3% (w/w) compositions of CI to C6.

The test further demonstrate that the foam of CI to C6 quickly dries over time due rapid liquid loss, which leads to an decreased cleaning effect, since the loss of liquid causes a loss of cleaning components combined with a decrease of cleaning effectivity.

It is to be understood that wherever values and ranges are provided herein, all values and ranges encompassed by these values and ranges, are meant to be encompassed within the scope of the present invention. Moreover, all values that fall within these ranges, as well as the upper or lower limits of a range of values, are also contemplated by the present application.

Embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed above for illustrative purposes. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims. In the embodiments of the present invention, the foaming compositions has been taken as an example for description. However, this is only an example, and the foaming composition in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may be applied to other products. The scope of the invention should be limited only by the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. An aqueous foaming detergent composition comprising:

- at least one source of alkalinity;

- at least one alkyl sulfate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- at least one alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant of a Cg-C₂o-alkyl (EO)iV(POm)- alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12 and m = 0 to 12;

- at least one alkyl dialkylaminoacetate surfactant of a C₈-C₂o-alkyl Ci-C₃-dialkylamino acetate;

- at least one alkyl iminodiglycinate surfactant of a C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodiglycinate;

- at least one alcohol of a C6-C20 alcohol; and

- a solvent.

2. The composition according to claim 1 comprising:

- about 0.5 wt.-% to about 25 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0.01 wt.-% to about 2 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C2₀-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 3 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)- alkoxylate, wherein n = 1 to 12, and m = 0 to 12, preferably m = 0;

- about 0.02 w -% to about 2.0 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl Ci -C₃-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.05 wt.-% to about 1.3 wt.-% of at least two C₆-C₂o alcohol; and

3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2 comprising:

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity;

- about 0. 1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂o-alkyl sulfate;

- about 0.5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)- alkoxylate, wherein n = 2 to 10 and m = 0 to 12, preferably m = 0; - about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl Ci-C3-dialkylamino acetate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆-C₂o alcohols; and

The composition according to claims 1 to 3 comprising:

- about 7 wt.-% to about 13 wt.-% of at least one source of alkalinity, preferably sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one C8-C₂o-alkyl sulfate, preferably sodium lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.-% to about 1.2 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl C₂-C3-alkoxylate surfactant, preferably a linear alcohol Cg-Cn ethoxy 6 EO;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl Ci-C₃-dialkylamino acetate, preferably sodium alkyl dipropionate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of at least one Cg-C₂₀-alkyl iminodipropionate, preferably Coco dimethylaminoacetate;

- about 0.4 wt.-% to about 0.6 wt.-% of at least one C₈-C₂₀-alkyl iminodiglycinate, preferably coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.375 wt.-% to about 0.625 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆-C₂o alcohols, preferably Ci₀-Ci₆ alcohols; and

The composition of claims 1 to 4, wherein the source of alkalinity is selected from the group comprising basic salts, amines, alkanol amines, carbonates, silicates, and mixtures thereof, preferably the source of alkalinity is selected from the group comprising sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide or a mixture thereof, most preferred the source of alkalinity is sodium hydroxide.

6. The composition of claims 1 to 5, wherein the alkyl sulfate surfactant is a Cio-Cis-alkyl sulfate, preferably a C]₂-Ci₆-alkyl sulfate and most preferred a lauryl sulfate.

7. The composition of claims 1 to 6, wherein the alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate surfactant is a C₉-Ci7-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate, preferably a C₉-C₁₅-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)- alkoxylate and most preferred a C9-C1 j-alkyl (EO)n/(POm)-alkoxylate; wherein n = 2 to 10 and m = 0 to 10, preferably n = 4 to 8 and m = 0 and more preferred n = 6 and m = 0.

8. The composition of claims 1 to 7, wherein the alkyl Ci-C₃-dialkylaminoacetate

surfactant is a Cio-C]₈-alkyl Ci-C3-dialkylaminoacetate, preferably a Cio-Ci₆-alkyl C|- C₃-dialkylaminoacetate, further preferred a C₁₂-C) 4-alkyl Ci-C3-dialkylaminoacetate and most preferred a coco dimethylaminoacetate.

9. The composition of claims 1 to 8, wherein the alkyl immodipropionate surfactant is a Cio-Cis-alkyl immodipropionate, preferably a Cio-C]₆-alkyl iminodipropionate, further preferred a C 12-Q4- alkyl iminodipropionate and most preferred a coco

iminodipropionate.

10. The composition of claims 1 to 9, wherein the alkyl iminodiglycinate is a C|o-C|₈- alkyl iminodiglycinate, preferably a Cio-Cj6-alkyl iminodiglycinate, further preferred a C12- C14- alkyl iminodiglycinate and most preferred a coco iminodiglycinate.

11. The composition of claims 1 to 10, wherein the alcohol is a C₈-C] 8-alcohol, preferably a Cio~Ci₆-alcohol and most preferred a mixture of C₈-C i 8-alcohols or of Cio-Ci₆-alcohols.

12. The composition according to claims 1 to 1 1 comprising:

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0. 5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of C₉-C_n -alkyl (EO)_4-6-alkoxylate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C₃-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate; - about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of Cio-C( alcohols; and

13. The composition according to claims 1 to 12 comprising:

- about 7 wt.-% to about 13 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0.8 wt.-% to about 1.2 wt.-% of C₉-Cn-alkyl (EO)_4-6-alkoxylate;

- about 0.2 wt-% to about 0.4 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C₃-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.7 wt.-% to about 1.1 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate;

- about 0.4 wt.-% to about 0.6 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.375 wt.~% to about 0.625 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of Cjo-Ci₆ alcohols; and

14. The composition of claims 1 to 13, wherein the aqueous foaming detergent composition comprises in addition:

- at least one polymeric polycarboxylate; and/or

- at least one hydrotrope, preferably cumene sulfonate.

15. The composition according to claims 1 to 14 comprising:

- about 5 wt.-% to about 17 wt.-% of sodium hydroxide;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 1 wt.-% of lauryl sulfate;

- about 0. 5 wt.-% to about 1.5 wt.-% of C₉-Cn-alkyl (EO)₄.₆-alkoxylate;

- about 0.1 wt.-% to about 0.9 wt.-% of coco imino Ci-C₃-dialkylaminoacetate;

- about 0.45 wt.-% to about 1.8 wt.-% of coco iminodipropionate; - about 0.15 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of coco iminodiglycinate;

- about 0.2 wt.-% to about 0.8 wt.-% of at least two alcohols selected from the group of C₆-C₂o alcohols, and more preferred selected from the group of Cio-C]₆ alcohols;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 3 wt.-% of a gluconate;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-% of a tetra sodium N,N-bis(carboxylatomethyl)- L-glutamate;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 5 wt.-% of a methyl glycine diacetic acid;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 10 wt.-% of a diethylene glycol monobutyl ether;

- about > 0 wt.-% to about < 10 wt.-% of a cumene sulfonate; and

16. The composition according to claims 1 to 15, wherein the composition of claims 1 to 15 is additional diluted with water 1 : 10 to 1 : 1000, preferably the composition is diluted with water 1 : 50 to 1 : 500, and more preferred the composition is diluted with water 1

: 100 to 1 : 250.

17. A foam comprising the components of the liquid foaming detergent composition

according to claims 1 to 16.

18. A method for removing soil from a surface to be cleaned comprising applying to the surface a composition of claims 1 to 17.

19. The method of claim 18 comprising:

a) optional applying a pre-treatment solution to the surface to be cleaned for an amount of time sufficient to substantially penetrate a soil on the surface to be cleaned and/or pre-clean a soil on the surface to be cleaned;

b) applying a foamed composition of claims 1 to 17 to the surface to be cleaned for an amount of time for cleaning the surface to be cleaned;

c) optional a rinsing step before and/or after the application (a) and/or (b). Use of the composition of claims 1 to 17 for removing soil from a surface to be cleaned, preferably in a clean-out-of-place systems (COP) or in a clean-in-place system (CIP).