ES2994349T3 - Cleaning agent - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to cleaning agents, preferably dishwashing agents, in particular automatic dishwashing agents, comprising a gel, preferably a gel which is solid at room temperature (20 °C), in each case based on the total weight of the gel: a. 4 to 40% by weight, preferably 6 to 30% by weight, in particular 7 to 24% by weight, particularly preferably 8 to 22% by weight, very particularly preferably 12 to 20% by weight of PVOH and/or its derivatives; b. 20 to 80% by weight of at least one organic solvent, preferably selected from the group consisting of 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, polyethylene glycols and/or alkanetriols, preferably glycerine, 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, and mixtures thereof; c. 0.1 to 30% by weight. % of at least one polypropylene glycol, preferably with an average molecular weight of 500 to 10,000 g/mol, in particular 1,000 to 6,000 g/mol. (Automatic translation with Google Translate, without legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Detergents

In US patent document 2019345422 A1 a dishwashing detergent comprising PVOH, PEG and organic solvents is disclosed. A cleaning gel comprising PPG with an average molecular weight between 1000-10,000 g/mol is disclosed in US patent document US5510047 A.

The invention relates to detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, comprising a gel, preferably a gel which is solid at room temperature (20 °C), comprising, in each case based on the total weight of the gel:

a. from 4 to 40% by weight, preferably from 6 to 30% by weight, in particular from 7 to 24% by weight, more preferably from 8 to 22% by weight, most preferably from 12 to 20% by weight of PVOH and/or derivatives thereof;

b. 20 to 80% by weight of at least one organic solvent, preferably selected from the group consisting of 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, polyethylene glycols and/or alkanetriols, preferably glycerol, 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, and mixtures thereof;

c. from 0.1 to 30% by weight of at least one polypropylene glycol, preferably with an average molecular weight of 500 to 10,000 g/mol, in particular from 1,000 to 6,000 g/mol, the gel comprising - based on the total weight of the gel - from 0.1 to 30% by weight of at least one polypropylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 1,000 to 10,000 g/mol.

Detergents, preferably dishwasher detergents, in particular automatic dishwasher detergents, are usually available in solid form (e.g. tablets) or in liquid form (or also as a fluid gel). Liquid detergents, in particular, are increasingly popular with consumers. Pre-dosed forms are popular with consumers because they are easier to dose. However, pre-dosed fluid gels are often problematic because they tend to drip, for example when packaged in single- or multi-chamber bags. At the same time, such gels need to have good cleaning and rinsing performance.

The object of the present invention is to provide detergents, preferably dishwashing agents, in particular automatic dishwashing agents, which can be produced in a simple and cost-effective manner, have good storage stability and, in addition, have good cleaning and/or rinsing performance.

A first object of the present invention relates to detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, comprising a gel, preferably a gel which is solid at room temperature (20 °C), comprising, in each case based on the total weight of the gel:

a. from 4 to 40% by weight, preferably from 6 to 30% by weight, in particular from 7 to 24% by weight, more preferably from 8 to 22% by weight, most preferably from 12 to 20% by weight of PVOH and/or derivatives thereof;

b. 20 to 80% by weight of at least one organic solvent, preferably selected from the group consisting of 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, polyethylene glycols and/or alkanetriols, preferably glycerol, 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, and mixtures thereof;

c. from 0.1 to 30% by weight of at least one polypropylene glycol, preferably with an average molecular weight of 500 to 10,000 g/mol, in particular from 1,000 to 6,000 g/mol, the gel comprising - based on the total weight of the gel - from 0.1 to 30% by weight of at least one polypropylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 1,000 to 10,000 g/mol.

According to the invention, a gel or gel-like phase, hereinafter also referred to as a gel phase, is to be understood as a composition (or phase) having an internally structuring network. This internally structuring (spatial) network is formed by the dispersion of a solid but dispersed substance with long or highly branched particles and/or gelling agents, in this case polyvinyl alcohol and/or its derivatives, in at least one liquid (the at least one liquid is liquid at 20 °C). Such gel phases behave in a thermoreversible manner.

The detergent, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, may have one, two, three, four or more gels or gel phases. The gels or gel phases may be the same or different. In the case of several gels or gel phases, these can preferably be distinguished spatially, optically or in terms of their ingredients. If the gels/gel phases are different, they may have different colorants and different additions of active substances.

The gel is dimensionally stable. During production, polyvinyl alcohol and/or its derivatives are brought into contact with glycerin. This produces a fluid mixture that can be molded into the desired shape. After a certain time, a gel/gel phase is obtained which remains in the specified shape, i.e. is dimensionally stable. This period, the solidification time, is preferably 15 minutes or less, preferably 10 minutes or less, particularly preferably 5 minutes or less. The gel yields to pressure, but is not deformed by it, but returns to its original state after the pressure is removed. The gel is preferably elastic, in particular linear-elastic.

The gel is preferably a molded body. A molded body is a single body that is stabilized in its printed form. This dimensionally stable body is formed from a molding compound (e.g. a composition) by specifically bringing this molding compound into a predetermined shape, for example by pouring a liquid composition into a mold and then curing the liquid composition, for example as part of a sol-gel process.

Certain minimum requirements are imposed on the formulations of the at least one gel phase. For example, as already mentioned, the gel must solidify in the shortest possible time. Long solidification times would lead to a long production time and thus to high costs. According to the invention, solidification time is understood to mean the period of time during which the gel changes from a fluid state to a dimensionally stable, non-fluid state at room temperature during production. Room temperature is understood to mean a temperature of 20 °C.

Gel is a solid gel phase. It is preferably resistant to cutting. For example, it can be cut with a knife after solidification without being further destroyed except at the point where the cut was made.

A phase in the sense of the present invention is a spatial area where the physical parameters and chemical composition are homogeneous. A phase is differentiated from another by various characteristics, for example ingredients, physical properties, external appearance, etc. Preferably, the different phases can be distinguished visually.

In this way, the consumer can clearly distinguish the at least one gel phase from other solid phases. If the detergent according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, has more than one gel phase, these can also be distinguished from each other with the naked eye, for example because they differ from each other in color. The same applies if there are two or more gel phases. In this case too, it is possible to distinguish the phases optically, for example by a difference in color or transparency. Phases within the meaning of the present invention are therefore self-contained areas that the consumer can distinguish optically with the naked eye. The individual phases may have different properties during use, such as the rate at which the phase dissolves in water and thus the rate and sequence of release of the ingredients contained in the respective phase.

It is also preferable for the gel to be translucent or transparent, which results in a good visual impression. The transmission of the gel phase (without dye) is preferably in a range between 100% and 20%, between 100% and 30%, in particular between 100% and 40%. To measure the light transmittance (transmission), the transmittance in % at 600 nm against water as a reference at 20 °C was determined. The mass was poured into the 11 mm round cuvettes supplied and measured after 12 h of storage at room temperature on a LICO 300 colour measuring system according to Lange.

The detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, contain polyvinyl alcohol and/or its derivatives in an amount of 4 to 40, in particular 6 to 30% by weight, particularly preferably in an amount of 8 to 18% by weight, more preferably 12 to 20% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the gel.

Polyvinyl alcohols are thermoplastics which are produced as a white to yellowish powder, usually by hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate. Partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol, which still contains amounts of up to 30 mol % of unhydrolyzed acetyl groups, is to be understood as polyvinyl alcohol within the meaning of the invention. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) is resistant to almost all anhydrous organic solvents. Polyvinyl alcohols with a molar mass of 30,000 to 60,000 g/mol are preferred.

Particularly preferred are polyvinyl alcohols which are in the form of yellowish-white powders or granules with degrees of polymerization in the range of about 100 to 2500 (molar masses of about 4000 to 100,000 g/mol) and degrees of hydrolysis of from 80 to 99 mol %, preferably from 85 to 90 mol %, in particular from 87 to 89 mol %, for example 88 mol %, which consequently still contain a residual content of acetyl groups.

In a preferred embodiment, the gel comprises PVOH (polyvinyl alcohol). These gels or gel phases produced in this way are particularly meltable, dimensionally stable (even at 40 °C) and do not or only insignificantly change their shape during storage. In particular, they are also less reactive with respect to a direct negative interaction with components of a granular mixture, especially an additional powder phase. In particular, PVOH can produce gel phases with little water or anhydrous. When PVOH is used as a polymer for the gel, low-viscosity melts are produced at 110-120 °C, which can therefore be processed particularly easily; in particular, the gel phase can be filled into the water-soluble coating quickly and precisely, without sticking or inaccurate dosing. In addition, these gel phases adhere particularly well to the water-soluble coating, especially if this is also made of PVOH. This also has an optical advantage. The rapid solidification of the at least one gel phase with PVOH means that the gel phases can be processed further particularly quickly. In addition, the good solubility of the gel phases produced is particularly favourable for the overall solubility of the detergent. Furthermore, gel phases with such short solidification times are advantageous in the event that a solid, preferably granulate, comprising granular mixtures, in particular powders, dosed therein does not sink into the not yet completely solidified or too soft gel. This results in visually unattractive detergent portions.

Particularly preferred are polyvinyl alcohols which are in the form of yellowish-white powders or granules with degrees of polymerization in the range of about 100 to 2500 (molar masses of about 4000 to 100,000 g/mol) and degrees of hydrolysis of from 80 to 99 mol %, preferably from 85 to 90 mol %, in particular from 87 to 89 mol %, for example 88 mol %, which consequently still contain a residual content of acetyl groups.

PVOH powders with the above-mentioned properties, which are suitable for use in the at least one gel phase, are marketed, for example, under the name Mowiol® or Poval® from Kuraray. Also suitable, for example, is Exceval® AQ4104 from Kuraray. Particularly suitable are Mowiol C30, the Poval® grades, especially the grades 3-83, 3-88, 6-88, 4-85, and particularly preferably 4-88, particularly preferably Poval 4-88 S2 and Mowiol® 4-88 from Kuraray.

For the purposes of the invention, preferred PVOH derivatives are copolymers of polyvinyl alcohol with other monomers, in particular copolymers with anionic monomers. Preferred suitable anionic monomers are vinylacetic acid, alkyl acrylates, maleic acid and its derivatives, in particular monoalkyl maleates (in particular monomethyl maleate), dialkyl maleates (in particular dimethyl maleate), maleic anhydride, fumaric acid and its derivatives, in particular monoalkyl fumarate (in particular monomethyl fumarate), dialkyl fumarate (in particular dimethyl fumarate), fumaric anhydride, itaconic acid and its derivatives, in particular monomethyl itaconic acid, dialkyl itaconic acid, dimethyl itaconic acid, itaconic anhydride, citraconic acid (methyl maleic acid) and its derivatives, monoalkyl citraconic acid (in particular methyl citraconate), dialkyl citraconic acid (dimethyl citraconate), citraconic acid anhydride, citraconic acid, mesaconic acid (methyl fumaric acid) and its derivatives, monoalkyl mesaconate, dialkyl mesaconate, mesaconic acid anhydride, glutaconic acid and its derivatives, monoalkyl glutaconate, dialkyl glutaconate, glutaconic acid anhydride, vinylsulfonic acid, alkylsulfonic acid, ethylsulfonic acid, 2-acrylamido-1-methylpropanesulfonic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid, 2-methylacrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid, 2-sulfoethyl acrylate and combinations thereof, as well as alkali metal salts or esters of the aforementioned monomers.

Particularly preferred PVOH derivatives are those selected from copolymers of polyvinyl alcohol with a monomer selected in particular from the group of monoalkyl maleates (in particular monomethyl maleate), dialkyl maleates (in particular dimethyl maleate), maleic anhydride and combinations thereof, and also alkali metal salts or esters of the mentioned monomers. The values indicated for the polyvinyl alcohols themselves apply to the appropriate molecular weights. In the context of the present invention, it is preferred that the gel comprises a polyvinyl alcohol and/or derivatives thereof, preferably polyvinyl alcohol, the degree of hydrolysis of which is preferably 70 to 100 mol %, in particular 80 to 90 mol %, more preferably 81 to 89 mol %, and above all 82 to 88 mol %. The water solubility of polyvinyl alcohol can be modified by subsequent treatment with aldehydes (acetalization) or ketones (ketalization). These are also to be understood as derivatives of polyvinyl alcohol. Polyvinyl alcohols which are acetalized or ketalized with the aldehyde or keto groups of saccharides or polysaccharides or mixtures thereof have proven to be particularly preferred and especially advantageous due to their extremely good solubility in cold water. The reaction products of polyvinyl alcohol and starch are extremely advantageous. Furthermore, the water solubility can be modified by complexation with Ni or Cu salts or by treatment with dichromates, boric acid, borax and thus specifically adjusted to the desired values.

As an additional essential component, the gel contains 0.1 to 30% by weight of at least one polypropylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 500 to 10,000 g/mol, in particular 1,000 to 6,000 g/mol, where the gel - based on the total weight of the gel - comprises 0.1 to 30% by weight of at least one polypropylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 1,000 to 10,000 g/mol.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, polypropylene glycol is present in an amount of 0.6 to 25% by weight, preferably in an amount of 1 to 15% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the gel.

Surprisingly, it was found that gels with polypropylene glycol(s) with an average molecular weight of propylene glycol of 500 to 10,000 g/mol, in particular 1,000 to 6,000 g/mol, work particularly well on stubborn greasy deposits on hard surfaces, especially on dishes. Particularly positive cleaning performance is achieved with greasy residues and burnt and/or cooked-on food residues. There is also a surprising effect on rinsing performance.

The gel or gel phase contains 20 to 80% by weight of at least one organic solvent. The organic solvents are preferably selected from the group consisting of 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, dipropylene glycol, triethylene glycol, polyethylene glycols and/or alkantriols, preferably glycerol, 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, as well as mixtures of the mentioned solvents.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, contain the at least one organic solvent in the gel phase in amounts of 30 to 75% by weight, in particular 40 to 70% by weight, particularly preferably 50 to 65% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel.

The at least one gel phase preferably comprises at least one polyhydric alcohol. In addition to the production of fluid gel phases, the at least one polyhydric alcohol also enables the production of a dimensionally stable, non-fluid gel phase within a short solidification time, which is 15 minutes or less, in particular 10 minutes or less. Polyhydric alcohols within the meaning of the present invention are hydrocarbons in which two, three or more hydrogen atoms are replaced by OH groups. The OH groups are bonded to different carbon atoms in each case. A carbon atom does not have two OH groups. This is in contrast to (simple) alcohols, in which only one hydrogen atom is replaced by an OH group in hydrocarbons. Polyhydric alcohols with two OH groups are called alkanediols, and polyhydric alcohols with three OH groups, alkantriols. Thus, a polyhydric alcohol corresponds to the general formula [KW](OH)x, where KW represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbon. The substitution can be carried out, for example, with -SH or -NH- groups. Preferably, KW is a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, unsubstituted hydrocarbon. KW comprises at least two carbon atoms. The polyhydric alcohol comprises 2, 3 or more OH groups (x= 2, 3, 4 ...), whereby only one OH group is attached to each carbon atom of the hydrocarbon. Particularly preferably, the hydrocarbon comprises 2 to 10, i.e. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 carbon atoms. In particular, polyhydric alcohols with x=2, 3 or 4 can be used (e.g. pentaerythritol with x=4). Preference is given to x=2 (alkanediol) and/or x=3 (alkanetriol).

Particularly preferably, the at least one gel phase comprises at least one alkanetriol and/or at least one alkanediol, in particular at least one C3 to C10 alkanetriol and/or at least one C3 to C10 alkanetriol, preferably at least one C3 to C8 alkanetriol and/or at least one C3 to C8 alkanetriol, in particular at least one C3 to C6 alkanetriol and/or at least one C3 to C5 alkanetriol as polyhydric alcohol. Preferably, it comprises one alkanetriol and one alkanediol as at least one polyhydric alcohol. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one gel phase therefore comprises at least one polymer, in particular PVOH or PVOH with gelatin, and at least one alkanetriol and at least one alkanetriol, in particular one alkanetriol and one alkanediol. Also preferred is a gel phase comprising at least one polymer, PVOH or PVOH with gelatin, as well as a C3 to C8 alkanediol and a C3 to C8 alkanetriol. Furthermore, a gel phase comprising at least one polymer, in particular PVOH or PVOH with gelatin, as well as a C3 to C5 alkanediol and a C3 to C6 alkanetriol is preferred. According to the invention, the polyhydric alcohols do not comprise derivatives, such as ethers, esters, etc. thereof.

Surprisingly, it has been shown that particularly short solidification times can be achieved by combining a corresponding triol (alkanetriol) with a corresponding diol (alkanediol). The resulting gel phases are also transparent and have a shiny surface, which provides an attractive visual impression of the detergent according to the invention. The terms diol and alkanediol are used synonymously in the present case. The same applies to triol and alkanetriol.

The amount of polyhydric alcohol or polyhydric alcohols used in the gel phases according to the invention is preferably at least 45% by weight, in particular 55% by weight or more. Preferred amount ranges are from 45% by weight to 85% by weight, in particular from 50% by weight to 80% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel phase.

The C3 to C6 alkanetriol is preferably glycerol and/or 2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol (also known as 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane) and/or 2-amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol (TRIS, trishydroxymethylaminoethane) and/or 1,3,5-pentanetriol.

The C3 to C6 alkanetriol is particularly preferably glycerol and/or 2-ethyl-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol (also known as 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane). The C3 to C5 alkanetriol is, for example, 1,5-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,3-propanediol and/or 1,2-propanediol, preferably 1,3-propanediol and/or 1,2-propanediol. Surprisingly, it has been shown that the chain length of the diol and in particular the position of the OH groups influence the transparency of the gel phase. It is therefore preferable if the OH groups of the diol are not arranged on directly neighbouring C atoms. In particular, there are three or four carbon atoms, especially three carbon atoms, between the two OH groups of the diol. The diol is preferably 1,3-propanediol. Surprisingly, it has been shown that particularly good results are obtained with mixtures comprising glycerol and 1,3-propanediol and/or 1,2-propanediol.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the preferred organic solvent is glycerol, preferably in an amount of 5 to 50% by weight, preferably 10 to 45% by weight, particularly preferably 20 to 40% by weight of glycerol, based on the total weight of the gel.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the proportion of 1,3-propanediol or 1,2-propanediol, based on the total weight of the gel, is preferably from 5% by weight to 70% by weight, in particular from 10% by weight to 65% by weight, especially from 20% by weight to 45% by weight. If 1,3-propanediol is present in the gel phase, the proportion of 1,3-propanediol, based on the total weight of the gel, is in particular from 5% by weight to 50% by weight, especially from 20% by weight to 40% by weight. Particularly preferred is 28 to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel.

If the gel phase comprises, in addition to at least one polypropylene glycol, preferably having an average molecular weight of 1000 to 6000 g/mol, in an amount of 1 to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel phase, at least one water-soluble zinc salt, in particular zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate, (preferably in amounts of 0.1 to 2.4% by weight, particularly preferably 0.2 to 1.0% by weight) an alkanetriol, in particular glycerol or 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, the proportion of alkanetriol, in particular glycerol or 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, is % ... In particular, the amount of glycerol or 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, relative to the total weight of the gel phase, is between 3 and 75% by weight, preferably between 5 and 70% by weight, particularly between 10 and 65% by weight, particularly between 20 and 40% by weight.

If the gel phase comprises several alkanetriol(s), the total proportion of alkanetriol(s), based on the total weight of the gel phase, is between 3% and 75% by weight, preferably between 5% and 70% by weight, in particular between 10% and 65% by weight, especially between 20% and 40% by weight.

If glycerol is present as alkanetriol in the gel phase, the proportion of glycerol relative to the total weight of the gel phase is preferably 5 to 50% by weight, in particular 10 to 55% by weight, especially 20 to 40% by weight. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the gel contains 23 to 29.5% by weight, especially 25 to 28% by weight of glycerol, based on the total weight of the gel phase.

If 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane is present in the gel phase, the proportion of 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane relative to the total weight of the gel phase is preferably from 5% by weight to 70% by weight, in particular from 10% by weight to 65% by weight, more preferably from 18% by weight to 45% by weight, particularly preferably from 20% by weight to 40% by weight.

If 2-amino-2-hydroxymethyl-1,3-propanediol is present in the gel phase, the proportion of 2-amino-2-hydroxymethyl-1,3-propanediol, based on the total weight of the gel phase, is preferably from 5% by weight to 70% by weight, in particular from 10% by weight to 65% by weight, especially from 20% by weight to 40% by weight.

If several alkanediols are present in the gel phase, the proportion of alkanediols, based on the total weight of the gel phase, is preferably from 5% by weight to 70% by weight, in particular from 7% by weight to 65% by weight, especially from 10% by weight to 40% by weight.

If the gel phase comprises, in addition to at least one polypropylene glycol, preferably having an average molecular weight of 1000 to 6000 g/mol, in an amount of 1 to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel phase, at least one water-soluble zinc salt, in particular zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate, (preferably in amounts of 0.1 to 2.4% by weight, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2.4% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, particularly preferably 0.2 to 1.0% by weight) of at least one alkanediol, in particular 1,3-propanediol or 1,2-propanediol, the proportion of alkanediol, in particular 1,3-propanediol or 1,2-propanediol, relative to the total weight of the gel phase is preferably 5% to 10%. 70% by weight, in particular 10% to 65% by weight, in particular 20% to 45% by weight. If 1,3-propanediol is present in the gel phase, the proportion of 1,3-propanediol, relative to the total weight of the gel phase, is in particular 10% to 65% by weight, especially 20% to 45% by weight.

A gel phase is preferred which, in addition to at least one polypropylene glycol, preferably having an average molecular weight of 1000 to 6000 g/mol, in an amount of 1 to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel phase. Also preferred is a gel phase which contains at least one water-soluble zinc salt, in particular zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate (preferably in amounts of 0.1 to 2.4% by weight, particularly preferably 0.2 to 1.0% by weight), 20 to 45% by weight of 1,3-propanediol and/or 1,2-propanediol and 10 to 65% by weight of 2-amino-2-hydroxymethyl-1,3-propanediol, in each case based on the total weight of the gel phase. Also preferred is a gel phase containing 20 to 45% by weight of 1,3-propanediol and/or 1,2-propanediol and 10 to 65% by weight of 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, in each case based on the total weight of the gel phase.

Particularly preferred is a gel phase containing 20 to 45% by weight of 1,3-propanediol and/or 1,2-propanediol and 10 to 65% by weight of glycerol, in each case based on the total weight of the gel phase. It has been shown that rapid solidification of a gel phase at 20 °C is possible in these ranges, and that the resulting phases are storable and transparent. In particular, the proportion of glycerol influences the setting time.

According to the invention, the gel phase preferably contains at least one polyethylene glycol.

In particular, polyethylene glycols with an average molecular weight of between about 100 and 8000 are suitable. Mixtures thereof may also be used. The polyethylene glycols mentioned are preferably used in amounts of 1 to 40% by weight, preferably 2 to 35% by weight, in particular 2.5 to 30% by weight, for example 3 to 20% by weight, preferably in each case based on the total weight of the gel phase or gel.

Preferably, the polyethylene glycols used are liquid at 20 °C, 1 bar. According to the invention, polyethylene glycols with an average molecular weight of 200 to 600 g/mol are preferably used in the at least one gel phase or gel phases. Polyethylene glycols with an average molecular weight between about 200 and about 600 g/mol, preferably between 300 and 500 g/mol, particularly preferably between 350 and 450 g/mol, for example about 400 g/mol INCI: PEG400) are used in combination with polyvinyl alcohol. The detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, are thus characterized in that they comprise polyethylene glycol(s) with an average molecular weight of 300 to 500 g/mol, in particular 350 to 450 g/mol.

Surprisingly, it has been shown that the addition of polyethylene glycols, in particular those with average molecular weights of 200 to 600 g/mol to the at least one gel phase, in particular in the case of gel phases comprising polyvinyl alcohol, leads to an acceleration of the solidification time of the gel phases. Values of a few minutes and even less than a minute can be achieved. This is particularly advantageous for production processes, since the further processing of the gel phases in the solidified state is much faster and therefore generally more cost-effective. Surprisingly, it was found that the presence of polyethylene glycol(s) with an average molecular weight of 200 to 600 g/mol in combination with polyvinyl alcohol and/or its derivatives makes a decisive contribution to reducing the solidification times. Without being limited by theory, it is assumed that such polyethylene glycols, in particular those with a molar mass of 350 to 450 g/mol, in particular around 400 g/mol, increase the sol-gel temperature.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the preferred organic solvent comprises 2 to 20% by weight of polyethylene glycol, in particular 3 to 16% by weight of polyethylene glycol, preferably polyethylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 200 to 600. The preferred organic solvent comprises 2 to 20% by weight of polyethylene glycol, in particular 3 to 16% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the amount of polyethylene glycol(s) with an average molecular weight of 350 to 450 g/mol, for example about 400 g/mol, is 3 to 16% by weight based on the total weight of the gel.

In another embodiment, in addition to the aforementioned polyethylene glycols with an average molecular weight of 200 to 600 g/mol, other polyethylene glycols, in particular other polyethylene glycols, with an average molecular weight of between about 800 and 8000, may be present in the at least one gel phase. Particularly preferably, the aforementioned polyethylene glycols are used in amounts of 1 to 20% by weight, preferably based in each case on the total weight of the gel.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the water content of the gel is less than 30% by weight, less than 20% by weight, preferably less than 15% by weight, in particular less than 10% by weight, particularly preferably less than 5% by weight, more preferably less than 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel.

According to a preferred embodiment, the gel is essentially anhydrous. This means that the gel is preferably free of water. “Essentially free” means that small amounts of water may be present in the gel phase. This water may, for example, be introduced into the phase by a solvent or as water of crystallization or as a result of reactions between components of the phase. However, preferably only small amounts, in particular no water, are used as solvent to produce the gel phase. In this embodiment, the proportion of water in the gel phase is 4.9% by weight or less, 4% by weight or less, preferably 2% by weight or less, in particular 1% by weight or less, especially 0.5% by weight or less, in particular 0.1% by weight or 0.05% by weight or less. The figures in % by weight refer to the total weight of the gel.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description and claims. Any feature of one aspect of the invention may be utilized in any other aspect of the invention. Furthermore, it is understood that the examples contained herein are intended to describe and illustrate the invention, but are not limiting thereof, and in particular, the invention is not limited to these examples. All percentages are % by weight unless otherwise indicated. Numerical ranges given in the format “x to y” include the values indicated. Where multiple preferred numerical ranges are specified in this format, it is understood that all ranges created by combining the various endpoints are also included.

“At least one” as used herein means 1 or more, i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or more. With respect to an ingredient, the specification refers to the type of ingredient and not to the absolute number of molecules. “At least one bleaching catalyst” is understood to mean, for example, at least one type of bleaching catalyst, i.e. it may be one type of bleaching catalyst or a mixture of several different bleaching catalysts. Together with weight indications, the indication refers to all compounds of the indicated type contained in the composition/mixture, i.e. the composition contains no further compounds of this type than the indicated amount of the corresponding compounds.

Whenever reference is made to molar masses in this document, this information always refers to the number-average molar mass Mn, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The number-average molecular weight can be determined, for example, by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) according to DIN 55672-1:2007-08 with THF as eluent. The mass-average molecular weight Mw can also be determined by GPC, as described for Mn.

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all percentages indicated in relation to the compositions described herein refer to % by weight, in each case in relation to the respective mixture or phase. Furthermore, the gel must be stable under normal storage conditions. The gel phase according to the invention is a component of a detergent, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular a machine dishwashing detergent. Such detergents are usually stored in a household for a certain period of time. Storage usually takes place near the washing machine or dishwasher. The gel must be stable for such storage. This means that the gel must be stable even after a storage period of, for example, 4 to 12 weeks, in particular 10 to 12 weeks or more at a temperature of up to 40 °C, especially at 30 °C, in particular at 25 °C or at 20 °C, and must not deform or change its consistency during this time.

If the gel and a solid, in particular a powder phase, are in direct contact with each other, the gel preferably penetrates a maximum of 1 mm into the interstices of the directly underlying powder phase during the storage period of 4 weeks at 25 °C.

A volume change or shrinkage during storage would be disadvantageous, as it would minimise consumer acceptance of the product. Liquid leakage or exudation of gel phase components is also undesirable. The visual impression is also important here. Leaking liquids, such as solvents, can affect the stability of the gel phase, so that ingredients are no longer contained in a stable manner, which can also affect the washing or cleaning effect.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, detergents in which at least one additional ingredient of the gel is selected from dyes, glass corrosion inhibitors, anionic polymers, nonionic surfactants and other processing auxiliaries, in particular perfume, are pH adjusters. Particularly preferred detergents, preferably dishwashing agents, in particular automatic dishwashing agents, contain at least one water-soluble zinc salt, in particular zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate, in an amount of 0.05 to 5% by weight, in particular 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, more preferably 0.2 to 1.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel.

According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, which are packaged as a detergent portion, preferably the dishwashing detergent portion, in particular the automatic dishwashing detergent portion, preferably containing the active substances necessary for a cleaning cycle, as a total amount of the water-soluble zinc salts, in particular zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate, in the detergent portion, preferably dishwashing detergent portion, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent portion, preferably from 0.0004 to 0.5 g, preferably from 0.001 to 0.2 g, in particular from 0.02 to 0.06 g.

This means that the individual portion of detergent, preferably portion of dishwashing detergent, in particular portion of automatic dishwashing detergent, which is used to carry out a single cleaning cycle, in particular is added to a cleaning cycle of an automatic dishwashing machine, contains 0.0005 to 1 g, preferably 0.01 to 0.5 g, in particular 0.02 to 0.06 g of water-soluble zinc salts, in particular zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate.

Particularly preferably, a single portion of detergent according to the invention, preferably portion of dishwashing detergent, in particular portion of automatic dishwashing detergent, which is added in particular to a cleaning cycle of an automatic dishwasher, contains 0.001 to 0.5 g, in particular 0.02 to 0.05 g of water-soluble zinc salts, in particular zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate, relative to the total amount of detergent, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent.

Particularly preferred embodiments of the present invention comprise, as at least one gel phase or gel, in each case based on the total weight of the gel, polypropylene glycol(s), preferably having an average molecular weight of 1000 to 6000 g/mol, in an amount of 1 to 15% by weight, at least one water-soluble zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, preferably zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate (preferably in amounts of 0.2 to 1.0% by weight), 8 to 22% by weight of PVOH, 20 to 40% by weight of glycerol, 5 to 15% by weight of polyacrylate copolymer containing sulfonic acid groups, and 1 to 20% by weight, in particular 3 to 16% by weight, of polyethylene glycol having an average molecular weight of 200-600 g/mol, in each case based on the total weight of the gel.

The detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, in particular are not films. Rather, they are molded bodies that do not have a film-like thickness. They therefore have a layer thickness of at least 0.3 mm, preferably at least 0.7 mm, in particular at least 1.0 mm, more preferably at least 1.2 mm. The layer thickness is measured in the plane of least expansion. The gel preferably also comprises another anionic polymer, in particular polycarboxylates. These can act as scaffolding materials and/or as thickening polymers. According to the invention, the gel can further comprise anionic polymers or copolymers with scaffolding properties. Preferably, it is a polycarboxylate. The polycarboxylate preferably used is a copolymeric polyacrylate, preferably a sulfopolymer, preferably a copolymeric polysulfonate, preferably a hydrophobically modified copolymeric polysulfonate. The copolymers may have two, three, four or more different monomeric units. Preferred copolymeric polysulfonates contain, in addition to monomer(s) containing sulfonic acid group(s), at least one monomer from the group of unsaturated carboxylic acids.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the low water content gel phase contains a polymer comprising at least one monomer containing a sulfonic acid group.

Unsaturated carboxylic acid(s) of formula R1(R2)C=C(R3)COOH, where R1 to R3 independently represent -H, -CH3, a saturated straight-chain or branched alkyl radical having 2 to 12 carbon atoms, a straight-chain or branched alkyl radical, mono- or polyunsaturated alkenyl radicals having 2 to 12 carbon atoms, alkyl or alkenyl radicals substituted by -NH2, -OH or -COOH, as defined above, or -COOH or -COOR4, where R4 is a saturated or unsaturated, straight-chain or branched hydrocarbon radical having 1 to 12 carbon atoms.

Particularly preferred unsaturated carboxylic acids are acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, ethacrylic acid, α-chloroacrylic acid, α-cyanoacrylic acid, crotonic acid, α-phenyl acrylic acid, maleic acid, maleic anhydride, fumaric acid, itaconic acid, citraconic acid, methylene malonic acid, sorbic acid, cinnamic acid or mixtures thereof. Of course, unsaturated dicarboxylic acids can also be used.

Preferred sulfonic acid group-containing monomers are those of the formula R5(R6)C=C(R7)-X-SO3H, where R5 to R7 independently represent -H, -CH3, a saturated branched or straight-chain alkyl radical with 2 to 12 carbon atoms, a mono- or polyunsaturated branched or straight-chain alkenyl radical with 2 to 12 carbon atoms, -NH2, -OH or -COOH- substituted alkyl or alkenyl radicals or -COOH or -COOR4, where R4 is a saturated or unsaturated, straight-chain or branched hydrocarbon radical having 1 to 12 carbon atoms and X represents an optionally present spacer group selected from -(CH2)n where n = 0 to 4, -COO-(CH2)k- where k = 1 to 6, -C(O)-NH-C(CH3)2-, -C(O)-NH-C(CH3)2-CH2- and -C(O)-NH-CH(CH3)-CH2-. Among these monomers, those of the formulae H2C=CH-X-<s>O3H, H2C=C(CH3)-X-SO3H or HO3S-X-(R6)C=C(R7)-X-SO3H are preferred, where R6 and R7 are independently selected from -H, -CH3, -CH2CH3, -CH2CH2CH3 and -CH(CH3)2 and X represents an optionally present spacer group selected from -(CH2)n where n = 0 to 4, -COO-(CH2)k- where k = 1 to 6, -C(O)-NH-C(CH3)2-, -C(O)-NH-C(CH3)2-CH2- and -C(O)-NH-CH(CH3)-CH2-. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the gel/gel phase contains a polymer comprising acrylamidopropanesulfonic acids, methacrylamidomethylpropanesulfonic acids or acrylamidomethylpropanesulfonic acid as a monomer containing sulfonic acid groups.

Particularly preferred monomers containing sulfonic acid groups are 1-acrylamido-1-propanesulfonic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-propanesulfonic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid, 2-methacrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid, 3-methacrylamido-2-hydroxypropanesulfonic acid, allylsulfonic acid, methallylsulfonic acid, allyloxybenzenesulfonic acid, methalloxybenzenesulfonic acid, 2-hydroxy-3-(2-propenyloxy)propanesulfonic acid, 2-methyl-2-propene-1-sulfonic acid, styrenesulfonic acid, vinylsulfonic acid, 3-sulfopropyl acrylate, 3-sulfopropyl methacrylate, sulfomethacrylamide, sulfomethylmethacrylamide and mixtures of the mentioned acids or water-soluble salts thereof. In the polymers, the sulfonic acid groups may be present wholly or partly in neutralized form, i.e. the acidic hydrogen atom of the sulfonic acid group in some or all of the sulfonic acid groups may be exchanged for metal ions, preferably alkali metal ions and in particular sodium ions. According to the invention, the use of partially or fully neutralized copolymers containing sulfonic acid groups is preferred.

The monomer distribution of the copolymers preferably used according to the invention is preferably 5 to 95% by weight in the case of copolymers containing only monomers containing carboxylic acid groups and monomers containing sulfonic acid groups, particularly preferably the proportion of the monomer containing sulfonic acid groups is 50 to 90% by weight and the proportion of the monomer containing carboxylic acid groups is 10 to 50% by weight, the monomers preferably being selected from those mentioned above. The molar mass of the sulfo copolymers preferably used according to the invention can be varied in order to adapt the properties of the polymers to the desired application. Preferred detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, are characterized in that the copolymers have molecular weights of 2000 to 200,000 g-mol-1, preferably 4000 to 25,000 g-mol-1 and in particular 5000 to 15,000 g-mol-1.

In a further preferred embodiment, the copolymers further comprise at least one nonionic, preferably hydrophobic monomer in addition to the carboxyl group-containing monomer and the sulfonic acid group-containing monomer. By using these hydrophobically modified polymers, the rinsing performance of the dishwashing detergents according to the invention can in particular be improved.

Particularly preferably, the gel further comprises an anionic copolymer, wherein the anionic copolymer is a copolymer comprising

i) monomers containing carboxylic acid groups

ii) monomers containing sulfonic acid groups

iii) non-ionic monomers, in particular hydrophobic monomers.

Nonionic monomers preferably used are monomers of the general formula R1 (R2)C=C(R3)-XR4, where R1 to R3 independently of one another represent -H, -CH3 or -C2H5, X represents an optionally present spacer group selected from -CH2-, -C(O)O- and -C(O)-NH-, and R4 represents a saturated straight-chain or branched alkyl radical having 2 to 22 carbon atoms or an unsaturated, preferably aromatic, radical having 6 to 22 carbon atoms.

Particularly preferred nonionic monomers are butene, isobutene, pentene, 3-methylbutene, 2-methylbutene, cyclopentene, hexene, hexene-1, 2-methylpentene-1, 3-methylpentene-1, cyclohexene, methylcyclopentene, cycloheptene, methylcyclohexene, 2,4,4-trimethylpentene-1, 2,4,4-trimethylpentene-2, 2,3-dimethylhexene-1, 2,4-dimethylhexene-1, 2,5-dimethylhexene-1, 3,5-dimethylhexene-1, 4,4-dimethylhexane-1, ethylcyclohexine, 1-octene, α-olefins with 10 or more carbon atoms such as 1-decene, 1-dodecene, 1-hexadecene, 1-octadecene and C22-a -olefin, 2-styrene, a-methylstyrene, 3-methylstyrene, 4-propylstyrene, 4-cyclohexylstyrene, 4-dodecylstyrene, 2-ethyl-4-benzylstyrene, 1-vinylnaphthalene, 2-vinylnaphthalene, acrylic acid methyl ester, acrylic acid ethyl ester, acrylic acid propyl ester, butyl ester of acrylic acid, pentyl ester of acrylic acid, hexyl ester of acrylic acid, methyl ester of methacrylic acid, N-(methyl)acrylamide, 2-ethylhexyl ester of acrylic acid, 2-ethylhexyl ester of methacrylic acid, N-(2-ethylhexyl)acrylamide, octyl ester of acrylic acid, octyl ester of methacrylic acid, N-(octyl)acrylamide, acrylic acid lauryl ester, ester lauryl ester of methacrylic acid, N-(lauryl)acrylamide, acrylic acid stearyl ester, methacrylic acid stearyl ester, N-(stearyl)acrylamide, acrylic acid behenyl ester, methacrylic acid behenyl ester and N-(behenyl)acrylamide or mixtures thereof, in particular acrylic acid, ethyl acrylate, 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) and mixtures thereof.

Surprisingly, it has been shown that PVOH and/or its derivatives together with anionic polymers or copolymers, in particular copolymers containing sulfonic acid groups, also lead to the formation of gel phases with insensitive surfaces. Such surfaces can be touched by the end user without the material sticking to his hands. There is also no erosion of the material in the packaging. Preferably, the gel comprises PVOH, polyethylene glycol(s) with an average molecular weight of 200 to 600 g/mol, glycerol and a copolymer/anionic polymer. The proportion of anionic polymer is preferably from 0.1% by weight to 35% by weight, in particular from 3% by weight to 30% by weight, especially from 4% by weight to 25% by weight, preferably from 5% by weight to 20% by weight, for example 10% by weight based on the total weight of the gel. Sulfopolymers, in particular the preferred polysulfonate copolymers, which in addition to monomer(s) containing sulfonic acid group(s) contain at least one monomer from the group of unsaturated carboxylic acids, in particular acrylic acid, also ensure an excellent surface gloss. In addition, fingerprints are not retained. The proportion of sulfopolymers, in particular the preferred copolymeric polysulfonates, which contain at least one monomer from the group of unsaturated carboxylic acids, in particular acrylic acid, in addition to monomer(s) containing sulfonic acid group(s), in particular the above-mentioned sulfopolymers with AMPS as monomer containing sulfonic acid group(s), for example Acusol 590, Acusol 588 or Sokalan CP50, is therefore preferably 1% to 25% by weight, in particular 3% to 18% by weight, especially 4% to 15% by weight, preferably 5% to 12% by weight, based on the weight of the gel phase. Most preferably, they are used in an amount of 0.1 to 15% by weight, particularly preferably 0.5 to 13.0% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the gel. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the gel therefore comprises PVOH and a sulfopolymer, in particular the preferred copolymeric polysulfonates which, in addition to monomer(s) containing sulfonic acid group(s), contain at least one monomer from the group of unsaturated carboxylic acids, in particular acrylic acid, and at least one polyhydric alcohol.

The preferred zinc salt to be used according to the invention is water-soluble, i.e. it has a solubility in water of greater than 100 mg/l, preferably greater than 500 mg/l, particularly preferably greater than 1 g/l and in particular greater than 5 g/l (all solubilities at 20 °C water temperature). The inorganic zinc salt is preferably selected from the group consisting of zinc bromide, zinc chloride, zinc iodide, zinc nitrate and zinc sulphate. The organic zinc salt is preferably selected from the group consisting of zinc salts of monomeric or polymeric organic acids, in particular from the group consisting of zinc acetate, zinc acetylacetonate, zinc PCA (zinc-5-oxopyrrolidine-2-carboxylate), zinc benzoate, zinc chloride, zinc formate, zinc lactate, zinc gluconate, zinc ricinoleate, zinc abietate, zinc valerate and zinc p-toluenesulfonate.

In a particularly preferred embodiment according to the invention, zinc chloride, zinc acetate or zinc sulphate, in particular anhydrous zinc salt (anhydrate), particularly preferably zinc acetate (anhydrate), is used as the water-soluble zinc salt.

The zinc salt is preferably present in the gel phase in an amount of 0.05% to 3% by weight, particularly preferably in an amount of 0.1% to 2.4% by weight, especially in an amount of 0.2% to 1.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel phase.

Zinc salts may also be present in any solid phase present. In this case, the zinc salt in the agents according to the invention is preferably present in an amount of 0.01% to 5% by weight, particularly preferably in an amount of 0.05% to 3% by weight, especially in an amount of 0.1% to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the detergent, preferably dishwashing agent, especially automatic dishwashing agent.

In addition to the effect of these zinc salts as glass corrosion inhibitors, it was surprisingly found that the presence of zinc salts in the gel phase helps to stabilise the gel and improve processability. A particular disadvantage is that the gel cannot be processed within a short time after production. If the gel becomes too viscous shortly after production, it can no longer be dispensed in the usual way. In addition, yellowing of the gel is often observed, which is visually unpleasant for the end consumer and results in the product being perceived as “no longer fresh” or “no longer usable”. For the production process, this means that fresh gel only needs to be prepared in small quantities and at short time intervals to ensure that the gel can continue to be filled into the product. In particular, the time window in which the gel can be processed (rest time) is significantly extended by the addition of the zinc salt.

Another object of the present invention relates to a detergent portion comprising at least one gel as described above in a water-soluble coating.

According to another particularly preferred embodiment, the detergent, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, is a detergent portion, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, in a water-soluble housing. This may have one or more chambers/compartments.

The detergent, preferably dishwasher detergent, in particular automatic dishwasher detergent, is preferably packaged as a single portion of detergent, so that it is used to carry out a dishwasher cycle and is (to a large extent) substantially or entirely consumed in the process.

The water-soluble wrapper is preferably formed from a water-soluble film material selected from the group consisting of polymers or polymer blends. The wrapper may be formed from one or two or more layers of the water-soluble film material. The water-soluble film material of the first layer and subsequent layers, if any, may be the same or different.

It is preferred that the water-soluble coating contains polyvinyl alcohol or a polyvinyl alcohol copolymer. Water-soluble coatings containing polyvinyl alcohol or a polyvinyl alcohol copolymer exhibit good stability with a sufficiently high water solubility, in particular cold water solubility.

Water-soluble films suitable for producing the water-soluble coating are preferably based on a polyvinyl alcohol or a polyvinyl alcohol copolymer whose molecular weight is in the range of 10,000 to 1,000,000 gmol-1, preferably 20,000 to 500,000 gmol-1, particularly preferably 30,000 to 100,000 gmol-1 and especially 40,000 to 80,000 gmol-1.

Polyvinyl alcohol is usually produced by hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate, since the direct synthesis route is not possible. The same applies to polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, which are produced from polyvinyl acetate copolymers. It is preferable that at least one layer of the water-soluble coating comprises a polyvinyl alcohol whose degree of hydrolysis is 70 to 100 mol %, preferably 80 to 90 mol %, more preferably 81 to 89 mol %, and in particular 82 to 88 mol %.

In a preferred embodiment, the water-soluble container comprises at least 20% by weight, more preferably at least 40% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight and in particular at least 80% by weight of a polyvinyl alcohol whose degree of hydrolysis is 70 to 100% by moles, preferably 80 to 90% by moles, more preferably 81 to 89% by moles and in particular 82 to 88% by moles.

A polyvinyl alcohol-containing film material suitable for producing the water-soluble wrapper may further contain a polymer selected from the group comprising (meth)acrylic acid-containing (co)polymers, polyacrylamides, oxazoline polymers, polystyrene sulfonates, polyurethanes, polyesters, polyethers, polylactic acid or mixtures of the above polymers. Polylactic acids are a further preferred polymer.

Preferred polyvinyl alcohol copolymers comprise vinyl alcohol and dicarboxylic acids as additional monomers. Suitable dicarboxylic acids are itaconic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid and mixtures thereof, itaconic acid being preferred. Also preferred are polyvinyl alcohol copolymers which comprise, in addition to vinyl alcohol, an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid, its salt or its ester. Particularly preferred, such polyvinyl alcohol copolymers contain acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid esters, methacrylic acid esters or mixtures thereof, in addition to vinyl alcohol.

It may be preferable for the film material to contain other additives. For example, the film material may contain plasticizers such as dipropylene glycol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, mannitol or mixtures thereof. Other additives include, for example, release agents, fillers, cross-linking agents, surfactants, antioxidants, UV absorbers, anti-blocking agents, anti-tack agents or mixtures thereof.

Water-soluble films suitable for use in water-soluble packaging of water-soluble packaging according to the invention are those marketed by MonoSol LLC, for example under the designation M8720, M8630, M8312, M8440, M7062, C8400 or M8900. Other suitable films are those marketed by Nippon Gohsei under the designation SH2601, SH2504, SH2707 or SH2701. Other suitable films are those called Solublon® PT, Solublon® GA, Solublon® KC or Solublon® KL from Aicello Chemical Europe GmbH or VF-HP films from Kuraray.

The water-soluble coating preferably has at least partially a bittering agent with a bitterness value between 1,000 and 200,000, in particular those selected from quinine sulphate (bitterness value = 10,000), naringin (bitterness value = 10,000), sucrose octaacetate (bitterness value = 100,000), quinine hydrochloride and mixtures thereof. In particular, the outer surface of the water-soluble coating is at least partially coated with a bittering agent with a bitterness value between 1,000 and 200,000. In this context, it is particularly preferable that the water-soluble coating is at least 50%, preferably at least 75% and more preferably at least 90% coated with the bitter substance with a bitterness value comprised between 1,000 and 200,000. The bitter substance with a bitter value between 1,000 and 200,000 can be applied, for example, by printing, spraying or coating.

According to the invention, the water-soluble coating preferably has at least one continuous circumferential sealing seam which is essentially in one plane. This is favourable in terms of process technology, since only a single sealing step, possibly using a single sealing tool, is necessary for a circumferential sealing seam which is essentially in one plane. The continuous circumferential sealing seam results in a better seal compared to packagings with several sealing seams and an excellent tightness of the sealing seam and thus of the packaging itself. Leakage of product from the packaging, for example onto the surface of the portion, would be harmful, since the consumer would then come into contact with the product. However, this is precisely what should be avoided as far as possible with a detergent portion, preferably a dishwashing detergent portion, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent portion, with a water-soluble coating.

The water-soluble packaging can preferably be made of at least 2 parts of packaging. Preferably, the at least two parts of packaging are water-soluble, so that no parts of packaging are left in the dishwasher, which can lead to problems in the dishwasher. It is not necessary that the two parts of the packaging be different. Preferably, they can be made of the same material and in the same way. In a preferred embodiment, these are two parts of a water-soluble film, in particular two parts of a water-soluble film of the same composition.

In another embodiment, the at least two parts of the packaging may be made of different material, for example, of different films or of material with two different properties (e.g. cold and hot water soluble film). In this embodiment, it is preferred that a water-soluble film and another part of the packaging produced by injection moulding are combined.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the water-soluble wrapper comprises at least one at least partially plastically deformed film. In particular, this plastic deformation of the film can be produced by methods known to the skilled person, such as thermoforming (with and without application of vacuum), blow molding or stamping molding. In particular, the water-soluble coating comprises at least one at least partially plastically deformed film produced by thermoforming.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the water-soluble coating has a layer thickness of 30 to 100 µm, in particular 40 to 800 µm.

The at least one solid, preferably granular, phase and the gel may be arranged in any combination within the water-soluble coating. Thus, a solid, preferably granular, phase may be arranged on or adjacent to a gel phase. In this embodiment, the detergent according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, has a solid, preferably granular phase and a gel or gel phase. It is also conceivable that a solid, preferably granular, phase is surrounded by gel phases. Embedding of one phase in another is also included according to the invention. In a further, particularly preferred arrangement, the gel is present in moulded form, for example in the form of a gel core surrounded by a solid phase. There may also be 2 or more separate cavities which are filled with at least one gel phase. In this embodiment, the detergent, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, comprises two gel phases, whereby the two gel phases may have different compositions.

According to a preferred embodiment, there are 3, 4, 5 or 6 or more separate cavities which are filled with one or more of the gel phases. Preferably, such detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, comprise 3, 4, 5 or 6 or more gel phases, wherein these gel phases may have the same or different compositions.

According to a preferred embodiment, the detergent portion comprises, in addition to at least one gel or gel phase, at least one or more additional phase(s) selected from a liquid phase, a gelatinous phase and/or a solid phase, preferably granular, in particular particulate, preferably free-flowing.

A preferred object of the present invention is a detergent, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, which, in addition to the at least one gel phase, comprises at least one solid phase, in particular particulate and optionally at least one other liquid/gel or solid phase, preferably granular.

“Solid” in this context means that the composition is in solid form under standard conditions (temperature 25 °C, pressure 1013 mbar). Suitable solid, preferably granular, phases are, on the one hand, granular mixtures of a solid composition, such as powders and/or granules, in particular powder phases. Also suitable according to the invention are solid compositions/phases which have an increased dimensional stability compared to loose powder, for example powdery or granular preparations which have been compacted by compression before or after being enclosed in the film, for example by film restoring forces after thermoforming or also directly compressed compositions, such as compresses or tablets. This at least one solid, preferably granular phase can be in direct contact with the gelatinous phase. Also according to the invention are detergent portions, preferably dishwashing detergent portions, in particular machine dishwashing detergent portions, in particular multi-chamber bags, in which the solid and the gel/gel phase are present in close proximity but separated from each other. The two chambers can be separated, for example, by a film, in particular a water-soluble film, or else by a sealed seam (preferably a sealed seam of 3 mm or less). According to the invention, the chambers of a multi-chamber bag can be arranged one above the other or next to each other. Furthermore, mixtures of single-chamber or multi-chamber bags comprising a gelatinous phase according to the invention and, separated therefrom, at least one solid, preferably granular phase, which come into contact by arrangement, for example by folding and fixing a bag, or by storage at a distance of less than 3 mm, for example in a packaging bag or in a device for portion dosing, are also in accordance with the invention.

A powder phase within the meaning of the present invention is to be understood as a granular mixture which is formed from a plurality of loose solid particles which in turn comprise so-called grains. According to the invention, the term powder phase comprises powders and/or granules according to the following definition.

A grain is a term for the particulate constituents of powders (grains are the loose solid particles), dusts (grains are the loose solid particles), granules (loose solid particles are agglomerates of several grains) and other granular mixtures. A preferred embodiment of the granular mixture of the solid phase composition is powder and/or granules; when “powder” or “granules” is mentioned here, it is also included that these are also mixtures of different powders or different granules. Accordingly, powder and granules also refer to mixtures of different powders with different granules. Said solid particles of the granular mixture again preferably have a particle diameter X50.3 (volume median) of from 10 to 1500 µm, more preferably from 200 µm to 1200 µm, particularly preferably from 600 µm to 1100 µm. These particle sizes can be determined by sieving or by using a Retsch Camsizer particle size analyzer. The granular mixture of the solid composition of the present invention, which serves as a solid, preferably granular phase, is preferably in free-flowing form (particularly preferably as free-flowing powder and/or free-flowing granules). Thus, the portion agent according to the invention comprises at least one solid, preferably granular phase of a free-flowing solid composition granular mixture, in particular a powder, as well as at least one gel phase as defined above.

A particularly preferred subject of the present invention are detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, in particular a detergent portion, preferably the dishwashing detergent portion, in particular the automatic dishwashing detergent portion, wherein the gel/gel phase is contained in direct contact, for example in a chamber, with the at least one solid phase.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the at least one solid, preferably granular, phase and the gel are in direct contact with each other. In this case, there should be no negative interaction between the solid phase and the gel phase. By absence of negative interaction is meant, for example, that no ingredients or solvents pass from one phase to the other or that the stability, in particular the storage stability, preferably at 4 weeks and 30 °C storage temperature, and/or the aesthetics of the product are impaired in any way, for example by a color change, the formation of wet action edges, a blurred boundary between the two phases or the like. Surprisingly, it has been shown that this objective can be achieved by formulating a gel phase, preferably a dimensionally stable gel phase, comprising at least one polypropylene glycol, preferably with an average molecular weight of 1000 to 6000 g/mol, preferably in an amount of 1 to 15% by weight, which is combined with a granular mixture of a solid composition, in particular a powder phase. It is particularly suitable for the granular mixture of a solid composition, in particular the powder phase, to be free-flowing, since as a result of the process a more targeted filling of the water-soluble coating can be achieved, in particular when filling a cavity produced by thermoforming. Furthermore, the visual appearance of the granular mixture of a solid composition, in particular the powder, can be better modified compared to a compressed tablet, in particular texture differences, such as coarse and fine particles as well as particles or areas with different colours, in aggregate or as coloured speckles, can thus be used to enhance a visually attractive appearance. The granular mixture of the solid composition, in particular the powder, also offers improved solubility compared to tablets, even without the addition of disintegrating agents.

Especially in the multiphase single-dose portions according to the invention with at least one solid phase, it is important that the gel is dimensionally stable so that as few interactions as possible occur between the solid and gel phases.

The at least one solid, preferably granular, phase of the present invention comprises a granular mixture of a solid composition, in particular it is present in powder and free-flowing form. The detergent according to the invention, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, thus comprises at least one powdery and free-flowing solid phase, as well as at least one gel phase comprising at least one water-soluble zinc salt, in particular zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate, as well as at least one polyvinyl alcohol, at least one PVOH and/or its derivatives, particularly preferably at least PVOH, as a gelling agent, as well as glycerol.

The flowability of a granular mixture, in particular of a powdery solid, of the powder phase, preferably of the powder and/or the granules, refers to its ability to flow freely under its own weight. The flowability is determined by measuring the flow time of 1000 ml of detergent, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent in powder form, from a standard flow test funnel with an outlet of 16.5 mm diameter, which is initially closed in its outlet direction, measuring the time for the complete flow of the granular mixture, in particular of the powder phase, preferably of the powder and/or the granules, for example of the powder after opening of the outlet and comparing it with the outlet rate (in seconds) of a standard test sand whose outlet rate is defined as 100 %. The sand mixture defined for calibrating the drip apparatus is dry sea sand. Sea sand with a particle diameter of 0.4 to 0.8 mm is used, available for example from Carl Roth, Germany CAS No. [14808-60-7]. For drying, the sea sand is dried for 24 h at 60 °C in a drying oven on a plate at a maximum layer height of 2 cm before measurement.

Preferred embodiments of the solid phases according to the invention have an angle of repose/angle of collapse of 26 to 35, 27 to 34, 28 to 33, where the angle of repose is determined according to the method mentioned below after 24 h after preparation of the granular mixture of the solid composition, in particular the powdery solid phase, preferably the powder and/or the granules, and storage at 20 °C. Such angles of repose have the advantage that the cavities can be filled with the at least one solid phase comparatively quickly and precisely.

In order to determine the angle of repose of the at least one solid, preferably granular, phase, a powder funnel with a capacity of 400 ml and an outlet of 25 mm diameter is suspended upright in a holder. The hopper is moved upwards at a speed of 80 mm/min by means of a manually operated knurled wheel so that the granular mixture, in particular the powder phase, preferably the powder and/or the granules, for example the powder, drips outwards. A so-called pouring cone is thus formed. The height and diameter of the cone are determined for each of the solid phases. The angle of repose is calculated from the quotient of the height of the cone of repose and the diameter of the cone of repose * 100.

Particularly suitable are such granular mixtures of a solid composition, in particular such pulverulent phases, preferably powders and/or granulates, for example powders having a % fluidity to the above-mentioned standard test material of more than 40%, preferably more than 50%, in particular more than 55%, especially preferably more than 60%, particularly preferably between 63% and 80%, for example between 65% and 75%. Particularly suitable are such granular mixtures of a solid composition, in particular such powders and/or granules, which have a % fluidity of the above-mentioned standard test material of more than 40%, preferably more than 45%, in particular more than 50%, especially preferably more than 55%, particularly preferably more than 60%, the fluidity being measured 24 h after production of the powder and storage at 20 °C.

Lower flowability values are rather unsuitable, since from a process engineering point of view, precise dosing of the granular mixture, in particular of the powder phase, preferably the powder and/or granules, e.g. powder, is necessary. In particular, values above 50%, especially above 55%, preferably above 60% (where the dosability measurement is carried out 24 h after powder production and storage at 20 °C) have proven to be advantageous, since the good dosability of granular mixtures, especially of the powder phases, preferably the powder and/or granules, e.g. powder, results in only slight fluctuations in the dosed quantity or composition. More precise dosing leads to a constant product yield, thus avoiding economic losses due to overdosing. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the granular mixtures, in particular the powder phase, preferably the powder and/or the granules, for example the powder, can be easily metered, thereby achieving a faster metering process. Furthermore, this good flowability makes it easier to prevent the granular mixture, in particular the powder phase, preferably the powder and/or the granules, for example the powder, from penetrating into the part of the water-soluble coating intended to produce the sealed seam and should therefore remain as free of granules as possible, in particular free of dust.

The granular mixture of the solid composition of the present invention, which serves as a solid, preferably granular phase, is preferably in free-flowing form (particularly preferably as free-flowing powder and/or free-flowing granules). Thus, the portion-forming agent according to the invention comprises at least one solid, preferably granular phase of a free-flowing granular mixture of a solid composition, in particular a powder, as well as at least one predefined gel phase.

The detergent according to the invention, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, preferably comprises at least one surfactant. This surfactant is selected from the group consisting of anionic, nonionic and cationic surfactants. The detergent according to the invention, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, may also comprise mixtures of several surfactants selected from the same group.

According to the invention, the at least one solid, preferably granular, phase and/or the gel comprise at least one surfactant. It is possible that only the at least one solid, preferably granular, phase or only the gel comprises at least one surfactant. If both phases comprise a surfactant, they are preferably different surfactants. However, it is also possible that the solid and gel phases comprise the same surfactant or surfactants. At least one solid and/or gel phase according to the invention preferably contains at least one nonionic surfactant. All nonionic surfactants known to the skilled person can be used as nonionic surfactants. Preference is given to using low-foaming nonionic surfactants, in particular alkoxylated, in particular ethoxylated, low-foaming nonionic surfactants, such as alkoxylated, preferably ethoxylated or ethoxylated and propoxylated alkyl glucosides of alkyl esters of fatty acids, polyhydroxy fatty acids, amides or amine oxides. Particularly preferred nonionic surfactants are specified in more detail below.

The preferred alcohol ethoxylates have a narrow homolog distribution (narrow range ethoxylates, NRE). In addition to these nonionic surfactants, fatty alcohols with more than 12 EO can also be used. Examples are tallow fatty alcohols with 14 EO, 25 EO, 30 EO or 40 EO.

Particular preference is given to using ethoxylated non-surfactants which are obtained from C6-20 monohydroxyalkanols or C6-20 alkylphenols or C16-20 fatty alcohols and more than 12 moles, preferably more than 15 moles and in particular more than 20 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of alcohol. A particularly preferred non-surfactant is obtained from a straight-chain fatty alcohol with 16 to 20 carbon atoms (C16-20 alcohol), preferably a C18 alcohol, and at least 12 moles, preferably at least 15 moles and in particular at least 20 moles of ethylene oxide. Particular preference is given to using so-called “narrow-range ethoxylates”.

The surfactants used preferably belong to the groups of alkoxylated non-surfactants, in particular ethoxylated primary alcohols and mixtures of these surfactants with structurally more complex surfactants, such as polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene/polyoxypropylene ((PO/EO/PO)) surfactants. These (PO/EO/PO) surfactants are also characterised by good foam control.

In the context of the present invention, low-foaming nonionic surfactants having alternating ethylene oxide and alkylene oxide units have proven to be especially preferable. Among them, surfactants with EO-AO-EO-AO blocks are again preferred, in which one to ten EO or AO groups are linked to each other before a block of the respective other groups follows. In this case, nonionic surfactants of the general formula

wherein R1 is a C6-24 straight or branched chain alkyl or alkenyl radical, saturated or, in some cases, polyunsaturated; each R2 or R3 group is independently selected from -CH3, -CH2CH3, -CH2CH2-CH3, -CH(CH3)2 and the indices w, x, y, z are independently integers from 1 to 6.

The preferred nitrogen-containing surfactants of the above formula can be prepared by known methods from the corresponding alcohols R1-OH and ethylene oxide or alkylene oxide. The residue R1 in the above formula may vary depending on the origin of the alcohol. If native sources are used, the residue R1 has an even number of carbon atoms and is usually unbranched, so linear residues of alcohols of native origin with 12 to 18 carbon atoms, for example from coconut, palm, tallow fat or oleyl alcohol, are preferred. Alcohols accessible from synthetic sources are, for example, Guerbet alcohols or branched methyl or linear and branched methyl radicals in the mixture in the 2-position, since they are usually present in oxoalcohol radicals. Regardless of the type of alcohol used to produce the niosurfactants contained in the agents, those niosurfactants are preferred in which R1 in the above formula represents an alkyl radical with 6 to 24, preferably 8 to 20, particularly preferably 9 to 15 and especially 9 to 11 carbon atoms.

The alkylene oxide unit contained alternatively with the ethylene oxide unit in the preferred non-surfactants is, in addition to propylene oxide, in particular butylene oxide. However, other alkylene oxides are also suitable, in which R2 or R3 are independently selected from -CH2CH2-CH3 or -CH(CH3)2. Preference is given to using nonionic surfactants of the above formula, in which R2 or R3 represent a -CH3 radical, w and x independently of one another represent values of 3 or 4, and y and z independently of one another represent values of 1 or 2.

Other nonionic surfactants of the solid phase preferably used are nonionic surfactants of the general formula R1O(AlkO)xM(OAlk)yOR2, where

R1 and R2, independently of each other, represent a branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated, optionally hydroxylated alkyl radical having 4 to 22 carbon atoms; Alk represents a branched or unbranched alkyl radical having 2 to 4 carbon atoms; x and y represent, independently of each other, values between 1 and 70; and M represents an alkyl radical of the group CH2,<c>H<r>3, CR3R4, CH2CHR3 and CHR3CHR4, where R3 and R4 represent, independently of each other, a branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl radical with 1 to 18 carbon atoms.

Nonionic surfactants of general formula are preferred

R1-CH(OH)CH2-O(CH2CH2O)xCH2CHR(OCH2CH2)y-CH2CH(OH)-R2,

where R, R1 and R2 independently represent an alkyl radical or an alkenyl radical having 6 to 22 carbon atoms; x and y independently represent values between 1 and 40.

Particularly preferred are compounds of the general formula

R1-CH(OH)CH2-O(CH2CH2O)xCH2CHR(OCH2CH2)yO-CH2CH(OH)-R2,

where R is a saturated linear alkyl radical having 8 to 16 carbon atoms, preferably 10 to 14 carbon atoms, and n and m have values of 20 to 30 independently of each other. The corresponding compounds can be obtained, for example, by reacting alkyl diols HO-CHR-CH2-OH with ethylene oxide, followed by reaction with an alkyl epoxide to close the free OH functions and form a dihydroxy ether.

The preferred nonionic surfactants are those of the general formula R1-CH(OH)CH2O-(AO)w-(AO)x-(A “O)y-(A-"'O)z-R2, where

-R 1 is a C6-24 straight or branched chain alkyl or alkenyl radical, saturated or mono or polyunsaturated;

-R 2 is hydrogen or a linear or branched hydrocarbon radical containing 2 to 26 carbon atoms;

- A, A', A” and A '''- independently of each other represent a radical of the group formed by -CH2CH2, -CH2CH2-CH2, -CH2-CH(CHa), -CH2-CH2-CH2 -CH2, -CH2-CH(CHa)-CH2-, -CH2-CH(CH2-CH<s>)

- w, x, y, and z represent values between 0.5 and 120, so x, y, and/or z can also be 0.

By adding said nonionic surfactants of the general formula R1-CH(OH)CH2O-(AO)w-(A'O)x-(A “0)y-(A'''O)z-R2, hereinafter also referred to as “hydroxylated mixed ethers”, surprisingly, the cleaning performance of the preparations according to the invention can be significantly improved, both in comparison with systems without surfactants and in comparison with systems containing alternative nonionic surfactants, for example from the group of polyalkoxylated fatty alcohols.

By using these nonionic surfactants with one or more free hydroxyl groups on one or both terminal alkyl radicals, the stability of the enzymes contained in the detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, can be significantly improved. Particularly preferred are capped poly(oxyalkylated) nonionic surfactants which, according to the following formula:

in addition to a radical R1, which represents linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon radicals having from 2 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably having from 4 to 22 carbon atoms, they also have a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon radical R2 having from 1 to 30 carbon atoms, where n represents values between 1 and 90, preferably values between 10 and 80 and in particular values between 20 and 60. Particularly preferred are surfactants of the above formula in which R1 is C7 to C13, n is a natural integer from 16 to 28 and R2 is C8 to C12.

Particularly preferred are surfactants of the formula R1O[CH2CH(CH3)O]x[CH2CH2O]yCH2CH(OH)R2, where R1 is a linear or branched aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having 4 to 18 carbon atoms or mixtures thereof, R2 is a linear or branched hydrocarbon radical having 2 to 26 carbon atoms or mixtures thereof and x is a value between 0.5 and 1.5 and y is a value of at least 15. The group of these nonionic surfactants includes, for example, the C2-26 fatty alcohols (PO)1-(EO)15-40-2-hydroxyalkyl ethers, in particular also the Cs-10 fatty alcohols (PO)1-(EO)22-2-hydroxydecyl ethers.

Particularly preferred are also such capped poly(oxyalkylated) nitrosurfactants of the formula R1O[CH2CH2O]x[CH2CH(R3)O]yCH2CH(OH)R2, wherein R1 and R2 independently of one another represent a linear or branched, saturated or mono- or polyunsaturated hydrocarbon or polyunsaturated hydrocarbon radical having 2 to 26 carbon atoms, R3 is independently selected from -CH3, -CH2CH3, -CH2CH2-CH3, -CH(CH3)2, but is preferably -CH3, and x and y are independently values between 1 and 32, nitrosurfactants withR3=-CH3 and values for x of 15 to 32 and for y of 0.5 and 1.5 being particularly preferred.

Other preferably usable non-surfactants are capped poly(oxyalkylated) non-surfactants of the formula R1O[CH2CH(R3)O]x[CH2]kCH(OH)[CH2]jOR2, where R1 and R2 represent linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbons, aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon radicals having 1 to 30 carbon atoms, R3 represents H or a methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, 2-butyl or 2-methyl-2-butyl radical, x represents values between 1 and 30, k and j represent values between 1 and 12, preferably between 1 and 5.

If the value x > 2, each R3 in the above formula R1O[CH2CH(R3)O]x[CH2]kCH(OH)[CH2]jO.

R2 may be different. R1 and R2 are preferably linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon radicals having 6 to 22 carbon atoms, with radicals having 8 to 18 carbon atoms being particularly preferred. For the radical R3, H, -CH3 or -CH2CH3 are especially preferred. Particularly preferred values for x are in the range from 1 to 20, especially from 6 to 15. As described above, each R3 in the above formula may be different if x > 2. This allows the alkylene oxide unit in the bracket to be varied. For example, if x is 3, the residue R3 can be selected to form ethylene oxide (R3= H) or propylene oxide (R3= CH3) units, which can be joined in any order, e.g. (EO)(PO)(EO), (EO)(EO)(PO), (EO)(EO)(EO), (PO)(EO)(PO), (PO)(PO)(PO)(EO) and (PO)(PO)(PO). The value 3 for x has been chosen here as an example and can certainly be made larger, so the range of variation increases with increasing x values and includes, for example, a large number of (EO) groups combined with a small number of (PO) groups, or vice versa.

Particularly preferred end-capped poly(oxyalkylated) alcohols of the above formula have values of k = 1 and j = 1, so that the above formula simplifies to R1O[CH2CH(R3)O]xCH2CH(OH)CH2OR2. In this last formula, R1,R2 and R3 are as defined above and x represents numbers from 1 to 30, preferably from 1 to 20 and in particular from 6 to 18. Particularly preferred are surfactants in which the radicalsR1 and R2 have from 9 to 14 carbon atoms, R3 represents H and x assumes values from 6 to 15. Finally, non-ionic surfactants of the general formula R1-CH(OH)CH2O-(AO)w-R2 have proven to be particularly effective, in which - R1 is a straight or branched chain alkyl or alkenyl radical, saturated or mono or polyunsaturated of C 6-24; - R2 is a straight or branched hydrocarbon radical having from 2 to 26 carbon atoms;

-A represents a radical of the group CH2CH2, CH2CH2CH2, CH2CH(CH3), preferably CH2CH2, and

-w represents values between 1 and 120, preferably between 10 and 80, in particular between 20 and 40. The group of these nonionic surfactants includes, for example, C4-22 fatty alcohols (EO)10-80-2-hydroxyalkyl ethers, in particular also C8-12 fatty alcohols (EO)22-2-hydroxydecyl alcohols and C4-22 fatty alcohols (EO)40-80-2-hydroxyalkyl ethers.

Preferably, the at least one solid and/or gel contains at least one nonionic surfactant, preferably a nonionic surfactant from the group of hydroxylated mixed ethers, wherein the proportion by weight of the nonionic surfactant in the total weight of the gel is preferably from 0.5% to 30% by weight, preferably from 5% to 25% by weight and in particular from 10% to 20% by weight.

In a further preferred embodiment, the nonionic surfactant of the solid and/or gel phase is selected from nonionic surfactants of the general formula R1-O(CH2CH2O)xCR3R4(OCH2CH2)yO-R2, wherein R1 and R2 independently of each other represent an alkyl radical or an alkenyl radical having 4 to 22 carbon atoms; R3 and R4 independently of each other represent H or an alkyl radical or an alkenyl radical having 1 to 18 carbon atoms and x and y independently of each other represent values between 1 and 40.

Particularly preferred are compounds of the general formula R1-O(CH2CH2O)xCR3R4(OCH2CH2)yO-R2, where R3 and R4 represent H and the indices x and y independently assume values between 1 and 40, preferably between 1 and 15.

Particularly preferred are compounds of the general formula R1-O(CH2CH2O)xCR3R4(OCH2CH2)yO-R2, wherein the radicals R1 and R2 independently of one another represent saturated alkyl radicals having 4 to 14 carbon atoms and the indices x and y independently of one another assume values from 1 to 15 and in particular from 1 to 12.

Also preferred are compounds of the general formula R1-O(CH2CH2O)xCR3R4(OCH2CH2)yO-R2, where one of the radicals R1 and R2 is branched.

Particularly preferred are compounds of the general formula R1-O(CH2CH2O)xCR3R4(OCH2CH2)yO-R2, in which the indices x and y independently assume values from 8 to 12.

The stated C-chain lengths and degrees of ethoxylation or alkoxylation of the niosurfactants represent statistical average values, which may be an integer or fractional number for a specific product. Due to manufacturing processes, commercial products of the mentioned formulae usually do not consist of a single representative, but of mixtures, which may result in average values for both C-chain lengths and degrees of ethoxylation or alkoxylation and, consequently, in fractional numbers.

Of course, the nonionic surfactants (niosurfactants) mentioned can be used not only as individual substances, but also as surfactant mixtures of two, three, four or more surfactants.

In the at least solid, preferably granular phase, nonionic surfactants having a melting point above room temperature are particularly preferred. Nonionic surfactants having a melting point above 20 °C, preferably above 25 °C, particularly preferably between 25 and 60 °C and in particular between 26.6 and 43.3 °C are particularly preferred.

Suitable nonionic surfactants having melting or softening points in the temperature range mentioned are, for example, low-foaming nonionic surfactants which may be solid or highly viscous at room temperature. If nonionic surfactants which are highly viscous at room temperature are used, they should preferably have a viscosity of more than 20 Pas, preferably more than 35 Pas and in particular more than 40 Pas. Also preferred are nonionic surfactants which have a waxy consistency at room temperature.

The nonionic surfactant which is solid at room temperature preferably has propylene oxide (PO) units in the molecule. Preferably, said PO units represent up to 25% by weight, particularly preferably up to 20% by weight and especially up to 15% by weight of the total molecular weight of the nonionic surfactant. Particularly preferred nonionic surfactants are ethoxylated monohydroxyalkanols or alkylphenols which also contain polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block copolymer units. The alcohol or alkylphenol part of said surfactant molecules preferably represents more than 30% by weight, especially more than 50% by weight and above all more than 70% by weight of the total molecular weight of said surfactants. Preferred agents are characterized by containing ethoxylated and propoxylated nonionic surfactants in which the propylene oxide units of the molecule represent up to 25% by weight, preferably up to 20% by weight and in particular up to 15% by weight of the total molecular weight of the nonionic surfactant.

Other particularly preferred nonionic surfactants for use in the solid phase with melting points above room temperature contain from 40% to 70% of a polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene/polyoxypropylene block polymer blend, containing 75% by weight of a reverse block copolymer, 75% by weight of a polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene reverse block copolymer containing 17 moles of ethylene oxide and 44 moles of propylene oxide and 25% by weight of a trimethylolpropane-initiated polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block copolymer containing 24 moles of ethylene oxide and 99 moles of propylene oxide per mole of trimethylolpropane.

In a preferred embodiment, the proportion by weight of the nonionic surfactant in the total weight of the solid, preferably granular, phase is 0.1 to 20% by weight, particularly preferably 0.5 to 15% by weight, especially 2.5 to 10% by weight.

All anionic surfactants are suitable as anionic surfactants in the compositions. They are characterized by a water-soluble anionic group, such as a carboxylate, sulfate or sulfonate group, and a lipophilic alkyl group with about 8 to 30 carbon atoms. In addition, the molecule may contain glycol or polyglycol ether groups, ester, ether and amide groups, as well as hydroxyl groups. Suitable anionic surfactants are preferably in the form of sodium, potassium and ammonium salts, as well as mono-, di- and trialkanolammonium salts with 2 to 4 carbon atoms in the alkanol group, but zinc, manganese(II), magnesium, calcium or mixtures thereof can also serve as counterions. Preferred anionic surfactants are alkyl sulfates, alkyl polyglycol ether sulfates and ether carboxylic acids with 10 to 18 C atoms in the alkyl group and up to 12 glycol ether groups in the molecule.

Cationic and/or amphoteric surfactants, such as betaines or quaternary ammonium compounds, may also be used instead of or in combination with the surfactants mentioned above. However, it is preferred not to use cationic and/or amphoteric surfactants.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the gel contains at least one further nonionic surfactant, preferably in an amount of 0.1 to 7.5% by weight.

Particularly suitable nonionic surfactants have been described above. Substances from the Plurafac® LF series (BASF) are preferably suitable, as are the end-capped and end-uncapped surfactants described above such as hydroxylated mixed ethers or fatty alcohols polyalkylene glycols.

The preferred detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, are further characterized in that they contain in the at least one solid phase and/or in the at least one gel phase, in particular in the solid phase, less than 1.0% by weight and in particular less than 0.1% by weight, preferably no anionic surfactant.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, are characterized in that the gel comprises less than 1% by weight, in particular less than 0.5% by weight, in particular less than 0.1% by weight of anionic surfactant, in each case based on the total weight of the gel. Preferably, the gel is essentially free of anionic surfactants. Essentially free means that the gel contains less than 0.05% by weight of anionic surfactant, in each case based on the total weight of the gel.

In this context, it has been shown that the presence of 1% by weight of anionic surfactant in at least one gel phase causes a poorer foaming behaviour and a poorer rinsing behaviour of the overall composition. Furthermore, higher amounts of anionic surfactants have a negative effect on the curing. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the gel contains less than 1% by weight, preferably less than 0.5% by weight, in particular less than 0.05% by weight of fatty acid salts or soaps.

In another embodiment, the gel may contain sugars. According to the invention, the sugars comprise sugar alcohols, monosaccharides, disaccharides and oligosaccharides. In a preferred embodiment, the gel comprises at least one sugar alcohol other than glycerol, preferably at least one monosaccharide or disaccharide sugar alcohol. Particularly preferred are mannitol, isomalt, lactitol, sorbitol, threitol, erythritol, arabitol and xylitol. Particularly preferred monosaccharide sugar alcohols are pentitols and/or hexitols. Xylitol and/or sorbitol are particularly preferred.

In another embodiment, the gel may contain disaccharides, in particular sucrose. The proportion of sucrose is from 0% by weight to 30% by weight, in particular from 5% by weight to 25% by weight, particularly preferably from 10% by weight to 20% by weight, based on the weight of the gel phase. In higher amounts, the sugar does not completely dissolve in the gel phase and causes clouding of the gel phase. The use of sugar, in particular in a proportion of 10 to 15% by weight, reduces the development of moisture and thus improves adhesion to the solid phase.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one additional phase comprises at least one, preferably several, ingredients which are selected from the group consisting of builders (preferably carbonates, citrate, aminopolycarboxylates and/or aminocarboxylates, preferably MGDA and/or GLDA or their salts, and/or bleaching agents (in particular percarbonate), and/or bleach activators and/or bleach catalysts, and/or silver protecting agents, and/or enzymes (preferably protease(s) and/or amylase(s)), and/or nonionic surfactants and/or other processing aids.

The use of building substances (builders) such as silicates, aluminium silicates (in particular zeolites), salts of di- and polycarboxylic organic acids and mixtures of these substances, preferably water-soluble building substances, may be advantageous.

In a particularly preferred embodiment according to the invention, the use of phosphates (including polyphosphates) is largely or completely dispensed with. In this embodiment, the agent preferably contains less than 5% by weight, particularly preferably less than 3% by weight, in particular less than 1% by weight of phosphate(s). Particularly preferably, the agent in this embodiment is completely free of phosphate, i.e. the agents contain less than 0.1% by weight of phosphate(s).

The builders include, in particular, carbonates, citrates, phosphonates, organic builders and silicates. The proportion by weight of the total builders in the total weight of the compositions according to the invention is preferably from 15 to 80% by weight and in particular from 20 to 70% by weight.

Suitable organic builders according to the invention are, for example, polycarboxylic acids (polycarboxylates) which can be used in the form of their sodium salts, where polycarboxylic acids are understood to be those carboxylic acids which carry more than one, in particular two to eight, preferably two to six, in particular two, three, four or five acid functions in the entire molecule. Preferred polycarboxylic acids are therefore dicarboxylic acids, tricarboxylic acids, tetracarboxylic acids and pentacarboxylic acids, in particular di-, tri- and tetracarboxylic acids. The polycarboxylic acids may also have other functional groups, such as hydroxyl or amino groups. These include, for example, citric acid, adipic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, sugar acids (preferably aldaric acids, e.g. galactaric acid and glucaric acid), aminocarboxylic acids, in particular aminodicarboxylic acids, aminotricarboxylic acids, aminotetracarboxylic acids such as nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), glutaminic-N,N-diacetic acid (also known as N,N-bis(carboxymethyl)-L-glutamic acid or GLDA), methylglycinic diacetic acid (MGDA) and derivatives and mixtures thereof. Preferred salts are salts of polycarboxylic acids such as citric acid, adipic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, tartaric acid, GLDA, MGDA and mixtures thereof.

Also suitable as organic scaffolds are polymeric polycarboxylates (organic polymers with a large number (in particular more than ten) of carboxylate functions in the macromolecule), polyaspartates, polyacetals and dextrins.

In addition to their building effect, free acids often also have the property of an acidifying component. In particular, citric acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, gluconic acid and their mixtures should be mentioned.

Particularly preferred detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, contain one or more salts of citric acid, i.e. citrates, as one of their essential constituents. These are preferably present in a proportion of 2 to 40% by weight, in particular 5 to 30% by weight, especially 7 to 28% by weight, particularly preferably 10 to 25% by weight, most preferably 15 to 20% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the composition.

Particularly preferred is also the use of carbonate(s) and/or hydrogen carbonate(s), preferably alkali metal carbonate(s), particularly preferably sodium carbonate (soda), in amounts of 2 to 50% by weight, preferably 4 to 40% by weight and in particular 10 to 30% by weight, more preferably 10 to 24% by weight, in each case based on the weight of the agent.

Particularly preferred detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, are characterized in that they contain at least two builders from the group consisting of silicates, phosphonates, carbonates, aminocarboxylic acids and citrates, the proportion by weight of these builders being, based on the total weight of the detergent according to the invention, preferably the dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, preferably from 5 to 70% by weight, preferably from 15 to 60% by weight, preferably from 15 to 60% by weight and in particular from 20 to 50% by weight. The combination of two or more builders from the above-mentioned group has proven to be advantageous for the cleaning and rinsing performance of the detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents. In addition to the builders mentioned here, one or more builders may also be present.

Preferred detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, are characterized by a citrate-forming combination and carbonate and/or hydrogen carbonate. In a particularly preferred embodiment according to the invention, a mixture of carbonate and citrate is used, wherein the amount of carbonate is preferably 5 to 40% by weight, in particular 10 to 35% by weight, very preferably 15 to 30% by weight, and the amount of citrate is preferably 5 to 35% by weight, in particular 10 to 25% by weight, most preferably 15 to 20% by weight, in each case based on the total amount of the detergent, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, the total amount of these two formers preferably being 20 to 65% by weight, in particular 25 to 60% by weight, preferably 30 to 50% by weight. In addition, one or more additional trainers may also be present.

The detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, may contain phosphonates, in particular as an additional builder, insofar as this is permitted by regulation. A hydroxyalkane and/or aminoalkane phosphonate is preferably used as the phosphonate compound. Among the hydroxyalkane phosphonates, 1-hydroxyethane-1,1-diphosphonate (HEDP) is particularly important. Suitable aminoalkane phosphonates are preferably ethylenediaminetetramethylene phosphonate (EDTMP), diethylenetriaminepentamethylene phosphonate (DTPMP) and their higher homologues. The phosphonates are preferably present in the compositions according to the invention, where this is permitted by regulation, in amounts of from 0.1 to 10% by weight, in particular in amounts of from 0.5 to 8% by weight, more preferably from 2.5 to 7.5% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the composition.

Particularly preferred is the combined use of citrate, (hydrogen)carbonate and phosphonate. These can be used in the amounts mentioned. In particular, in this combination amounts of 10 to 25% by weight of citrate, 10 to 30% by weight of carbonate (or hydrogen carbonate) and 2.5 to 7.5% by weight of phosphonate are used, each based on the total weight of the agent.

Particularly preferred detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, are characterized in that they contain at least one further non-phosphorus-forming agent in addition to citrate and (hydrogen)carbonate and possibly phosphonate. In particular, it is selected from aminocarboxylic acids, and the further non-phosphorus-forming agent is preferably selected from methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA), glutamic acid diacetate (GLDA), aspartic acid diacetate (ASDA), hydroxyethyliminodiacetate (HEIDA), iminodisuccinate (IDS) and ethylenediamine disuccinate (EDDS), in particular from MGDA and GLDA. A particularly preferred combination is, for example, citrate, (hydrogen)carbonate and MGDA and, optionally, phosphonate.

The weight percentage of the other non-phosphorus builder, in particular MGDA and/or GLDA, is preferably 0 to 40% by weight, in particular 5 to 30% by weight, especially 7 to 25% by weight. Particular preference is given to using MGDA or GLDA, in particular MGDA, in the form of granules. Advantageous are MGDA granules which contain as little water as possible and/or have a lower hygroscopicity (water absorption at 25 °C, normal pressure) than the non-granulated powder. It has been found that the combination of at least three, in particular at least four, builders from the above-mentioned group is advantageous for the cleaning and rinsing effectiveness of the detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents. Other boosters may also be included.

Polymeric polycarboxylates are also suitable as organic scaffolding materials, for example the alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid or polymethacrylic acid, for example those with a relative molecular mass of 500 to 70,000 g/mol. Suitable polymers are in particular polyacrylates, which preferably have a molecular mass of 1000 to 20,000 g/mol. Due to their higher solubility, short-chain polyacrylates from this group, which have molecular masses of 1100 to 10,000 g/mol, and particularly preferably 1200 to 5000 g/mol, may again be preferred.

The content of (homo)polymeric polycarboxylates in the cleaning products according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, is preferably 0.5 to 20% by weight, preferably 2 to 15% by weight and in particular 4 to 10% by weight.

The detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, may additionally contain crystalline layered silicates of the general formula NaMSixO2x+1 and H2O, where M represents sodium or hydrogen, x represents a number from 1.9 to 22, preferably from 1.9 to 4, particularly preferred values for x being 2, 3 or 4, and y represents a number from 0 to 33, preferably from 0 to 20. Amorphous sodium silicates with a Na2O : SO2 modulus of 1:2 to 1:3.3, preferably from 1:2 to 1:2.8 and in particular from 1:2 to 1:2.6, which preferably retard in solution and have secondary washing properties, may also be used.

In addition to the above-mentioned builders, the detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, may also contain alkali metal hydroxides. These alkaline carriers are preferably used in the detergents, preferably dishwashing agents, in particular automatic dishwashing agents, and in particular in the at least one gel phase, preferably only in small amounts, preferably in amounts of less than 10% by weight, preferably less than 6% by weight, preferably less than 5% by weight, particularly preferably between 0.1 and 5% by weight and in particular between 0.5 and 5% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the detergent, preferably dishwashing agent, in particular automatic dishwashing agent. Alternative detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, do not contain alkali metal hydroxides.

As an additional component, the detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, preferably contain enzyme(s) in the at least one solid phase and/or the at least one gel phase. These are in particular proteases, amylases, lipases, hemicellulases, cellulases, perhydrolases or oxidoreductases, and preferably mixtures thereof. These enzymes are in principle of natural origin; improved variants are available from natural molecules for use in detergents, preferably dishwashing agents, in particular automatic dishwashing agents, which are therefore preferably used. The detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, preferably contain enzymes in total amounts of 1 x 10-6% by weight to 5% by weight based on the active protein. The protein concentration can be determined by known methods, for example the BCA method or the Biuret method.

Among the proteases, those of the subtilisin type are preferred. Examples of these are the subtilisins BPN' and Carlsberg and their more developed forms, the protease PB92, the subtilisins 147 and 309, the alkaline protease from Bacillus lentus, the subtilisin DY and the enzymes thermitase, proteinase K and the proteases TW3 and TW7, which are classified as subtilases, but no longer as subtilisins in the strict sense.

Examples of amylases which can be used according to the invention are the α-amylases from Bacillus licheniformis, B. amyloliquefaciens, B. stearothermophilus, Aspergillus niger and A. oryzae, as well as further developments of the above-mentioned amylases improved for use in detergents, preferably dishwashing agents, in particular automatic dishwashing agents. Also noteworthy for this purpose are α-amylase from Bacillus sp. A 7 7 (DSM 12368) and cyclodextrin glucanotransferase (CGTase) from B. agaradherens (DSM 9948).

Lipases or cutinases may also be used according to the invention, in particular because of their triglyceride scavenging activities, but also to produce peracids in situ from suitable precursors. These include, for example, the lipases originally obtainable from Humicola lanuginosa (Thermomyces lanuginosus) or more developed lipases, in particular those with the amino acid exchange at positions D96LT213R and/or N233R, particularly preferably all D96L, T213R and N233R exchanges.

In addition, enzymes that are summarized under the term hemicellulases can be used. These include, for example, mannanases, xanthan lyases, pectin lyases (= pectinases), pectin esterases, pectate lyases, xyloglucanases (= xylanases), pullulanases and p-glucanases.

In order to increase the bleaching effect, oxidoreductases, for example oxidases, oxygenases, catalases, peroxidases, such as halo-, chloro-, bromo-, lignin-, glucose- or manganese-peroxidases, dioxygenases or laccases (phenoloxidases, polyphenoloxidases) can be used according to the invention. Advantageously, organic compounds, particularly preferably aromatic, are also preferably added, which interact with the enzymes to increase the activity of the oxidoreductases in question (enhancers) or to ensure the flow of electrons (mediators) in the case of very different redox potentials between the oxidising enzymes and the soil. A protein and/or enzyme can be protected against damage such as inactivation, denaturation or decomposition, for example by physical influences, oxidation or proteolytic cleavage, in particular during storage. If the proteins and/or enzymes are obtained microbially, inhibition of proteolysis is particularly preferred, especially if the agents also contain proteases. Detergents, preferably dishwashing agents, in particular machine dishwashing agents, may contain stabilizers for this purpose; the provision of such agents represents a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Active proteases and amylases for cleaning are generally not supplied in the form of pure protein, but in the form of stabilised, storable and transportable preparations. These ready-made preparations include, for example, solid preparations obtained by granulation, extrusion or freeze-drying or, in particular in the case of liquid or gelatinous agents, enzyme solutions, advantageously as concentrated as possible, low in water and/or mixed with stabilisers or other auxiliary agents.

Alternatively, the enzymes for the at least one solid and/or the gel may be encapsulated, for example by spray drying or extrusion of the enzyme solution together with a preferably natural polymer or in the form of capsules, for example those in which the enzymes are enclosed as in a solidified gel or in those of the core-capsule type, in which an enzyme-containing core is coated with a protective layer impermeable to water, air and/or chemicals. Additional active ingredients, such as stabilizers, emulsifiers, pigments, bleaching agents or colorants, may also be applied in superimposed layers. Such capsules are applied using methods known per se, for example by agitation or rolling granulation or in fluid bed processes. Advantageously, such granulates, for example by the application of polymeric film formers, are low-dusting and stable on storage due to the coating.

It is also possible to combine two or more enzymes so that a single granule has several enzymatic activities.

As can be seen from the above, the enzyme protein constitutes only a fraction of the total weight of conventional enzyme preparations. The protease and amylase preparations used according to the invention contain between 1 and 40% by weight, preferably between 2 and 30% by weight, particularly preferably between 3 and 25% by weight of the enzyme protein. Detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, which contain between 0.1 and 12% by weight, preferably between 0.2 and 10% by weight and in particular between 0.5 and 8% by weight of the respective enzyme preparations, based on their total weight, are preferred.

In addition to the components listed above, the at least one solid and/or gel of the detergent according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergent, in particular automatic dishwashing detergent, may contain further ingredients. These include, for example, anionic, cationic and/or amphoteric surfactants, bleaching agents, bleach activators, bleach catalysts, other solvents, thickeners, sequestering agents, electrolytes, corrosion inhibitors, in particular silver inhibitors, glass corrosion inhibitors, foam inhibitors, colorants, fragrances (especially in at least one solid phase), additives for improving drainage and drying, for adjusting viscosity, for stabilization, UV stabilizers, preservatives, antimicrobial agents (disinfectants), pH adjusters in amounts typically not exceeding 5% by weight.

As an additional solvent, the agents according to the invention preferably contain at least one alkanolamine. The alkanolamine is preferably selected from the group consisting of mono-, di-, triethanol- and propanolamine and mixtures thereof. The alkanolamine is preferably present in the compositions according to the invention in an amount of 0.5 to 10% by weight, in particular in an amount of 1 to 6% by weight. In preferred detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, the gel is substantially free of alkanolamine, i.e. the gel contains less than 1% by weight, in particular less than 0.5% by weight, preferably less than 0.1% by weight, more preferably less than 0.05% by weight of alkanolamine and the alkanolamine is only present in the at least one solid phase.

In addition to the zinc salts mentioned, polyethyleneimines, such as those available under the name Lupasol® (BASF), can preferably be used as glass corrosion inhibitors in an amount of 0 to 5% by weight, in particular 0.01 to 2% by weight.

Suitable polymers as additives are in particular the Na salt of the copolymer of maleic acid and acrylic acid (e.g. Sokalan® CP 5 from BASF, Ludwigshafen (Germany)), the Na salt of modified polyacrylic acid (e.g. Sokalan® CP 10 from BASF, Ludwigshafen (Germany)), Na salt of modified polycarboxylate (e.g. Sokalan® HP 25 from BASF, Ludwigshafen (Germany)), polyalkylene oxide, modified heptamethyltrisiloxane (e.g. Silwet® L-77 from BASF, Ludwigshafen (Germany)), polyalkylene oxide, modified heptamethyltrisiloxane (e.g. Silwet® L-7608 from BASF, Ludwigshafen (Germany)) and polyether siloxanes (copolymers of polymethylsiloxanes with ethylene oxide/propylene oxide segments). (polyether blocks)), preferably water-soluble linear polyethersiloxanes with polyether terminal blocks such as Tegopren® 5840, Tegopren® 5843, Tegopren® 5847, Tegopren® 5851, Tegopren® 5863 or Tegopren® 5878 from Evonik, Essen, Germany. Suitable building substances are in particular the Na salt of polyaspartic acid, ethylenediamine triacetate cocosalkylacetamide (e.g. Rewopol® CHT 12 from Evonik, Essen, Germany), the tri-Na salt of methylglycine diacetic acid and acetophosphonic acid. Blends with surfactant or polymeric additives show synergisms in the case of Tegopren® 5843 and Tegopren® 5863. However, the use of Tegopren grades 5843 and 5863 is less preferable when applied to hard glass surfaces, in particular glass tableware, since they may attract silicone surfactants to the glass. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the above additives are not used.

A preferred detergent, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, preferably further comprises a bleaching agent, in particular an oxygen bleaching agent, and optionally a bleach activator and/or bleach catalyst. If present, they are contained exclusively in the at least one solid phase.

As a preferred bleaching agent, the detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, contain an oxygen bleaching agent from the group consisting of sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate tetrahydrate and sodium perborate monohydrate. Other useful bleaching agents are, for example, peroxypyrophosphates, citrate perhydrates and persic acid salts or peracids giving HzOz, such as perbenzoates, peroxophthalates, diperazelaic acid, phthaloiminopersic acid or diperdodecanedioic acid. Bleaching agents from the group of organic bleaching agents can also be used. Typical organic bleaching agents are diacyl peroxides, such as dibenzoyl peroxide. Other typical organic bleaching agents are peroxyacids, among which alkyl peroxyacids and aryl peroxyacids are mentioned as examples. Sodium percarbonate is particularly favored for its good bleaching performance. A particularly preferred oxygen bleaching agent is sodium percarbonate.

Bleach activators which may be used are compounds which under perhydrolysis conditions give rise to aliphatic peroxocarboxylic acids with preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms, in particular 2 to 4 carbon atoms, and/or optionally substituted perbenzoic acid. Suitable substances are those carrying 0- and/or N-acyl groups of the stated number of carbon atoms and/or optionally substituted benzoyl groups. Polyacylated alkylenediamines are preferred, of which tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED) has proven to be particularly suitable.

Bleaching catalysts are transition metal salts or transition metal complexes which enhance bleaching, such as Mn-, Fe-, Co-, Ru- or Mo-salene complexes or carbonyl complexes. Mn, Fe, Co, Ru, Mo, Ti, V and Cu complexes with N-containing tripod ligands as well as amine complexes of Co, Fe, Cu and Ru can also be used as bleaching catalysts. Particular preference is given to using manganese complexes in oxidation state II, III, IV or IV, which preferably contain one or more macrocyclic ligands with the donor functions N, NR, PR, O and/or S. Preference is given to using ligands which have nitrogen donor functions. It is particularly preferred to use bleaching catalyst(s) in the compositions according to the invention which contain as macromolecular ligands 1,4,7-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane (Me-TACN), 1,4,7-triazacyclononane (TACN), 1,5,9-trimethyl-1,5,9-triazacyclododecane (Me-TACD), 2-methyl-1,4,7-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane (Me/Me-TACN) and/or 2-methyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane (Me/TACN). Suitable manganese complexes are, for example, [Mnm2(ji-O)1(ji-OAc)2(TACN)2](ClO4)2, [MnmMnIV(M-O)2(M-OAc)1(TACN)2](BPh4)2, [MnIV4(M-O)a(TACN)4](ClO4)4, [Mnm2(ji-O)1(ji-OAc)2(Me-TACN)2](ClO4)2, [MnmMnIV(|j-O)1(|j-OAc)2(Me-TACN)2](ClO4)3, [MnIV2(--O)a(Me-TACN)2](PF6)2 and [MnIV2(--O)a(Me/Me-TACN)2](PFa)2 (with OAc = OC(O)CH3).

According to a preferred embodiment, the detergent portion comprises, in addition to at least one gel or gel phase, at least one or more additional phase(s) selected from a liquid phase, a gelatinous phase and/or a solid phase, preferably granular, in particular particulate, preferably free-flowing.

The detergent according to the invention, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, preferably comprises at least one gel or gelatinous phase and at least one solid, preferably granular phase. The cleaning product, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, may comprise one, two, three or more solid, preferably granular phases, different from each other; it may also comprise one, two, three, four or more gel phases different from each other. Preferably, the detergent according to the invention, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, comprises a solid, preferably granular phase and a gel phase. Particularly preferably, the cleaning product, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, comprises two solid, preferably granular phases and a gel phase. Preferably, it comprises two solid, preferably granular phases and two gel phases. Furthermore, an embodiment is preferred in which the detergent, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent, comprises three solid, preferably granular phases and one or two gel phases.

The weight ratio of the total of the at least one solid phase to the total of the at least one gel phase is generally from 40:1 to 2:1, in particular from 20:1 to 4:1, preferably from 14:1 to 6:1, for example from 12:1 to 8:1. The total weight of all phases in a portion of detergent, preferably of dishwashing detergent, in particular of automatic dishwashing detergent, may be between 8 and 30 g, in particular between 10 and 25 g, preferably between 12 and 21 g, for example between 13 and 17 g per portion of detergent, preferably of dishwashing detergent, in particular of automatic dishwashing detergent. This weight ratio results in a good concentration of the respective ingredients of the solid or gel phase in a cleaning process.

According to the invention, the at least one solid, preferably granular, phase and the gel are contiguous over all or part of their surface. It is preferable that the two phases are directly adjacent to each other.

If the at least one solid, preferably granular, phase and the gel are directly adjacent to each other over their entire or partial surface, stability is important in addition to the shortest possible solidification time of the at least one gel phase. Stability here means that components contained in the gel phase do not pass into the at least one solid, preferably granular, phase, but that, even after prolonged storage, the at least one solid, preferably granular, phase and the gel are optically separated from each other and do not interact with each other, such as diffusion of liquid components from one phase into the other or reaction of components of one phase with those of the other phase.

Another object of the present application is a method for cleaning hard surfaces, in particular tableware, wherein the surface is treated in a manner known per se using a detergent according to the invention, preferably a dishwashing agent, in particular an automatic dishwashing agent. In particular, the surface is brought into contact with the detergent according to the invention, preferably a dishwashing detergent, in particular an automatic dishwashing detergent. In particular, the cleaning is carried out using a cleaning machine, preferably a dishwashing machine.

Another object of the present invention is also the use of a detergent, preferably a dishwashing agent, in particular an automatic dishwashing agent, as described above, for cleaning hard surfaces, in particular tableware, in particular in automatic dishwashing machines.

For the use or method, what is specifically described above for detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, applies accordingly.

Insofar as it is stated in the present application that the detergent according to the invention, preferably the dishwashing detergent, in particular the automatic dishwashing detergent, comprises something in its entirety or in gel form, it should also be considered disclosed that the detergent, preferably the dishwashing detergent, in particular the automatic dishwashing detergent, or the respective phase thereof may comprise something. In the following exemplary embodiment, the detergent according to the invention, preferably the dishwashing detergent, in particular the automatic dishwashing detergent, is described in a non-limiting manner.

Examples of implementation:

Detergents according to the invention, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, were produced, which comprised a solid, preferably granular, phase and a gel phase. Different geometries were realized. Furthermore, detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, were produced, which comprised two solid, preferably granular, phases and a gel phase. Likewise, detergents, preferably dishwashing detergents, in particular automatic dishwashing detergents, were produced, which comprised a solid, preferably granular, phase and 3, 4 and 5 gel phases (of the same or different composition). The following data relate to % by weight of active substance based on the total weight of the respective phase (unless otherwise stated).

Table 1: Granular solid mixtures of solid composition, in particular the powder and free-flowing phases, had the following preferred composition:

Table 2: The gels had the following compositions (data based on the total amount of gel phase):

continued

The solid granular phases and the gel could be combined with each other as desired. The spatial configuration of the gel phase, which was liquid after mixing the ingredients and was dimensionally stable within a maximum solidification time of 5 minutes, was determined by the spatial configuration of the solid phase and by molds available on the market or designed by the user. A water-soluble coating in the form of an open bag was manufactured by thermoforming a film containing PVOH. A liquid composition was poured into this open cavity, which produced the gel after curing, the solid phases in the form of a free-flowing solid were filled into a bag containing polyvinyl alcohol and the open bag was sealed by applying a second film and sealing by heat sealing.

T l : m i i n l f l

The corresponding formulations were prepared according to Table 3.

The gel was stirred at temperatures of 110 °C.

These gel phases were then packaged as described in Table 2 together with solid granular phases according to Table 1 in single-use portions with a total weight of 18.5 g. The gel phases prepared in this way were found to have particularly good processing properties with solidification times of less than 5 min. The gel phases prepared in this way were found to have particularly good processing properties with solidification times of less than 5 min.

Claims (13)

1. Detergent comprising a gel, preferably a gel that is solid at room temperature (20 °C), comprising, in each case based on the total weight of the gel: a. from 4 to 40% by weight, preferably from 6 to 30% by weight, in particular from 7 to 24% by weight, more preferably from 8 to 22% by weight, most preferably from 12 to 20% by weight of PVOH and/or derivatives thereof; b. 20 to 80% by weight of at least one organic solvent, preferably selected from the group consisting of 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, polyethylene glycols and/or alkanetriols, preferably glycerol, 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, and mixtures thereof; c. from 0.1 to 30% by weight of at least one polypropylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 500 to 10,000 g/mol, in particular from 1,000 to 6,000 g/mol, wherein the gel comprises - based on the total weight of the gel - from 0.1 to 30% by weight of at least one polypropylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 1000 to 10,000 g/mol. 2. Detergent according to claim 1, characterized in that the polypropylene glycol is present in an amount of 0.6 to 25% by weight, preferably in an amount of 1 to 15% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the gel. 3. Detergent according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that glycerol is present as a preferred organic solvent, preferably in an amount of 5 to 50% by weight, preferably 10 to 45% by weight, particularly preferably 20 to 40% by weight of glycerol, based on the total weight of the gel. 4. Detergent according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a preferred organic solvent contains 2 to 20% by weight of polyethylene glycol, in particular 3 to 16% by weight of polyethylene glycol, preferably polyethylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 200 to 600. 5. Detergent according to claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the preferred organic solvent is 1,3-propanediol, preferably in an amount of 5 to 50% by weight, preferably 20 to 40% by weight, particularly preferably 28 to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel. 6. Detergent according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the water content of the gel is less than 30% by weight, less than 20% by weight, preferably less than 15% by weight, in particular less than 10% by weight, particularly preferably less than 5% by weight, very particularly preferably less than 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel. 7. Detergent according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one zinc salt, preferably zinc chloride, zinc sulphate and/or zinc acetate, in particular zinc acetate, particularly preferably zinc acetate anhydrate, is present in an amount of 0.05 to 3% by weight, preferably in an amount of 0.1 to 2.4% by weight, particularly preferably 0.2 to 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel. 8. Detergent according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the gel comprises at least one anionic polymer, in particular an acrylate homopolymer or copolymer, in particular a polyacrylate copolymer with at least one monomer containing a sulfonic acid group, in particular a monomer selected from acrylamidopropanesulfonic acids, methacrylamidomethylpropanesulfonic acids or acrylamidomethylpropane sulfonic acid, preferably in an amount of 0.1 to 15% by weight, more preferably 0.1 to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the gel in % by weight, particularly preferably 0.5 to 13.0% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the gel. 9. Detergent portion comprising at least one gel according to one of claims 1 to 8 in a water-soluble coating. 10. Detergent portion according to claim 9, characterized in that the water-soluble coating comprises polyvinyl alcohol, the coating preferably having a layer thickness of 30 to 100 µm, in particular 40 to 800 µm. 11. Detergent portion according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that it comprises at least one or more additional phase(s) selected from a liquid phase, a gelatinous phase and/or a solid phase, preferably granular, in particular particulate, preferably free-flowing. 12. Detergent portion according to claim 11, characterized in that at least one additional phase comprises at least one, preferably several, ingredients selected from the group consisting of builders (preferably carbonates, citrate, aminopolycarboxylates and/or aminocarboxylates, preferably MGDA and/or GLDA or salts thereof, and/or bleaching agents), and salts thereof, and/or bleaching agents (in particular percarbonate), and/or bleach activators and/or bleach catalysts, and/or silver protecting agents, and/or enzymes (preferably protease(s) and/or amylase(s)), and/or nonionic surfactants and/or other processing aids. 13. Use of a gel according to claims 1 to 8, or of a detergent portion according to one of claims 9 to 12 for the automated cleaning of dishes, in particular of persistent and/or greasy food residues.