(19)
(11) EP 0 553 217 B1

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION

(45) Mention of the grant of the patent:
12.01.2000 Bulletin 2000/02

(21) Application number: 91919216.1

(22) Date of filing: 15.10.1991
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC)7D06M 15/53, D06M 13/372, D06M 15/61
(86) International application number:
PCT/GB9101/792
(87) International publication number:
WO 9207/132 (30.04.1992 Gazette 1992/10)

(54)

SOFTENING AGENTS

WEICHMACHER

AGENTS ASSOUPLISSANTS


(84) Designated Contracting States:
AT BE CH DE ES FR GB IT LI NL SE

(30) Priority: 15.10.1990 GB 9022305

(43) Date of publication of application:
04.08.1993 Bulletin 1993/31

(73) Proprietor: PRECISION PROCESSES TEXTILES
Derby DE5 2EY (GB)

(72) Inventors:
  • CONNELL, David, Longley Ithersey
    Derby DE6 4PF (GB)
  • HUDDLESTONE, Kenneth, Michael 195 Allestree Lane
    Derby DE3 2PF (GB)
  • BAMFORD, Susan
    Derbyshire DE5 3JA (GB)

(74) Representative: Gaunt, Robert John 
Stevens, Hewlett & Perkins 1 Serjeants' Inn Fleet Street
London EC4Y 1NT
London EC4Y 1NT (GB)


(56) References cited: : 
EP-A- 0 414 377
FR-A- 1 165 287
US-A- 3 038 820
DE-A- 1 419 042
GB-A- 1 171 304
   
       
    Note: Within nine months from the publication of the mention of the grant of the European patent, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to the European patent granted. Notice of opposition shall be filed in a written reasoned statement. It shall not be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent Convention).


    Description


    [0001] This invention relates to the novel use of known polymers and prepolymers as softening agents to improve the handle of both natural and synthetic fibres other than wool fibres.

    [0002] Traditionally employed softening agents have as their basis either fatty acid or reactive siloxane chemistry. In both cases, the use of such agents imparts a degree of hydrophobicity to the treated fibres. While attempts have been made to overcome this effect by the incorporation of hydrophilic groups, such as amino, quaternary ammonium and polyethylene oxide groups, these generally have the effect of reducing the softness of handle that can be achieved and some hydrophobicity nevertheless remains. In addition, particularly in the case of fatty amide based softening agents, the effects are transitory and tend to be readily removed upon subsequent wet processing of the treated fibres or during domestic washing of the finished product. Consequently, it has been necessary either to re-soften the material by re-applying a softening agent (which is inefficient and uneconomic) or to tolerate a reduction in the level of softness following washing of the product.

    [0003] British Patent Nos. 1470243 and 1533343 describe compounds containing aziridine radicals and their use for reducing the shrinkage and felting of protein fibres. One of the compounds disclosed is that sold under the trade name Basolan SW, and which is marketed as a hydrophilic polymer that is said to achieve a soft hydrophilic finish when applied to synthetic fibres.

    [0004] DE-A-1419042 discloses the preparation of hardenable water-soluble synthetic resins which are useful in providing anti-static coatings during the finishing of various materials, including wool fibres and other textiles. Other uses mentioned include as delustring agents and as agents for improving the affinity of fibres for anionic dyestuffs.
    FR-A-1165287 relates to addition products of aliphatic polyamines with polyalkoxy compounds, and which are said to impart durable anti-static finishes and improved dyeing properties to textile materials.

    [0005] The present invention seeks to provide improved softening agents suitable for use with both natural and synthetic fibres. The polymers and prepolymers employed for this purpose are the subject of our co-pending EP-A-0414377.

    [0006] The present invention relates to the use as a softening agent or natural or synthetic fibres other than wool of a polymer or prepolymer having one of the following structural formulae:-

    i)

            Z-{[A]m-N(R1)n}r     (I)

    or

    ii)

    or

    iii)

            (K)x-(B)y-K     (V)

    wherein
       K represents the monofunctional or polyfunctional residue derived from partial reaction of a prepolymer of the formula:

            Z-([A]m-N(R1)n)r     (I)

    that is, it represents the shaded area in the following formula:

    B is

    a group

            -E-(R3)pN-[D]-N(R3)p-E-     (VI)

    a group

    a group resulting from the reaction of a bi- or polyfunctional species capable of reacting with amino groups, for example: epihalohydrins, alkyl di-and polyhalides, di- or polycarboxylic acids or their acyl halides and anhydrides, dicyandiamide, urea and formaldehyde,

    a group derived from low molecular weight reactive resins such as the Bisphenol A type,

    or a group derived from reaction of a cationic polymeric reactive species such as

    where R6 and R7 are selected from C1-C5 alkyl and C1-C5 hydroxyalkyl radicals,

    Y is selected from C2-C6alkylene radicals, 2-hydroxy-1,3-propylene radicals, and the radicals:

            -CH2CH2NHCONHCH2CH2-

    and

            -CH2CH2CH2NHCONHCH2CH2CH2-

    and q is an integer of from 0 to 20, provided that when q is greater than 2, each of the symbols Y need not necessarily have the same significance;

    D represents a straight or branched chain hydrocarbon, polysiloxane or polyalkylene oxide residue, and which may also either bear functional groups or may contain functional groups, such as amino groups, which may in turn either bear one or more groups R1 or, where B is polyfunctional rather than bifunctional, may represent a further functional reaction point of the group B with the rest of the molecular structure;

    E represents a group resulting from the reaction of a bi- or polyfunctional species capable of reacting with amino groups, for example: epihalohydrins, alkyl di- and polyhalides, dicarboxylic acids or their acyl halides and anhydrides, dicyandiamide, urea and formaldehyde;

    R3 represents hydrogen or C1-C4 alkyl or hydroxyalkyl;

    R4 represents halogen or

    a group

       or one of alkylamino, hydroxyalkylamino, alkoxy, alkylarylamino or

    a group

            -(R3)pN-[D]-R5

       or a functional reaction point of the group B with the rest of the molecular structure, where B is polyfunctional rather than bifunctional;

    J represents a residue derived from a polyfunctional polyether;

    R2 represents a fibre reactive grouping such as the residue derived from monofunctional reaction of an epihalohydrin, an alkyl or alkyl aryl polyhalide or is a methylol grouping derived from monofunctional reaction of formaldehyde, or alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or hydrogen;

    R5 represents hydrogen or

    a group

            -N(R2)n or N(R3)n;

    p is 1 or 2, with the proviso that, where p is 2, the nitrogen atom involved also bears a formal positive charge;

    Z represents a residue of a polyol;

    A represents a polyalkylene oxide residue;

    R1 represents either a) a fibre reactive grouping such as the residue derived from monofunctional reaction of an epihalohydrin, an alkyl or alkyl aryl polyhalide, or a methylol grouping derived from monofunctional reaction of formaldehyde, or b) is alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or hydrogen, with the proviso that at least one group R1 per polyoxyalkyleneamine residue, and preferably at least one for each nitrogen, is fibre reactive

    m is between 4 and 50;

    n is 2 or 3, with the proviso that, where n is 3, the nitrogen atom involved also bears a formal positive charge;

    r is either 2 or 3;

    t is a number representing the functionality of reaction of the residue B;

    s is 1 when r is 2, and is 2 when r is 3;

    x is between 2 and 30; and

    y is from

    to x,

    with the general proviso that, in any given instance, the significance of a particular group Z, A, B, R or K in any given structure shall not be dictated by the significance of any other such group in the same formula, and further, wherever a formal positive charge is present in the structure, then an appropriate counter anion is taken to be present.

    [0007] The term "fibre reactive grouping" as used herein is to be understood as meaning a group having residual chemical reactivity such that it will be capable of causing a molecule to be bound to the surface of a fibre in such a way as not to be readily removable therefrom. Examples include the fibre reactive dyes in which a variety of reactive halogen groupings are sited on the molecule and which, during dyeing, react with hydroxy or amino functionalities on the fibre surface to produce a chemical bond. It will be understood that electrical bonding forces, rather than chemical forces, could be involved and that a "reaction" as such need not occur. The terminology further includes species which will be attracted to a fibre surface and bind themselves thereto by means of cross-linking mechanisms.

    [0008] The term "polyfunctional reactive group" as used herein is to be understood as meaning a group which is capable of reacting with the amino functionality of compounds of formula I or II. The reactivity of group B needs to be complimentary to that of group R1 in those compounds.

    [0009] It will be understood that the polymers and prepolymers may be derived from mixtures of one or more polyoxyalkyleneamines and that these may be joined by bridging groups. The bridging groups serve to link the polyoxyalkyleneamines and some examples of suitable groups were mentioned above. The bridging groups themselves could, of course, bear reactive species capable of reacting with fibres. It will also be appreciated that the bridging group B could be incorporated into the molecular structure, whilst the prepolymer is being applied to the fibre, as a separate reactive crosslinking agent.

    [0010] The softening agents and method of this invention may be applied to all types of natural and synthetic fibres, including nylon and acrylic. They are particularly suited to use with cotton, including 100% cotton terry loop towelling, and to cotton blends with synthetic fibres.

    [0011] The softening agents of the invention may be presented for use in solution in a non aqueous solvent, such as perchloroethylene. More preferably, however, they are in the form of an aqueous solution, optionally with the addition of suitable dispersing agents to reduce the viscosity of the solution. The total amount of polymer solids applied to the fibres is generally from 0.005 to 10.0% by weight, most preferably from 0.05 to 2.0%.

    [0012] The method of this invention can be performed as either a batch or continuous process using conventional equipment. For example, the softening agent may be applied aqueously by exhaustion on to the goods in a traditional long bath method using suitable machinery, or may be padded onto fabric continuously or applied in foam or by suction-slot techniques. In addition, the agent may be applied to piece goods or fabric from a solvent such as perchloroethylene in suitable machinery.

    [0013] If desired, the softening agents may be applied in combination with other resins, further softening agents, emulsifiers, pigments, binders fluorescent whitening agents or other materials to confer additional properties or benefits to the material.

    [0014] It has surprisingly and advantageously been found that the use of polymers and prepolymers of this type as softening agents imparts rather different, and improved, properties to the treated fibres compared with conventional softeners. Not only is a very soft handle achieved, but the finish is also extremely hydrophilic and substantially more durable to subsequent washing or wet processing. The durable softness thus imparted results also in dimensional retention and elasticity in knit cotton structures without recourse to conventional cotton resin finishes. As will be appreciated, this results in considerable benefits for both manufacturers and users of, for example, cotton towelling, bathrobes, underwear and leisurewear.

    [0015] A further advantage of the softening agents of this invention arises from their extreme water dispersibility. Conventionally employed softening agents are emulsions which create problems of shear instability in such high shear situations as jet dyeing machines, suction slot evacuators, and filtration problems when treating yarn in package dyeing machines, when filtration effects can cause difficulties. These problems are reduced, or totally avoided, with the present softening agents.

    [0016] A still further surprising aspect of the invention is that these softening agents, when used in combination with one or more conventional softening agents, can result in finishes with considerably superior handle and performance than may be expected. Wash durability, handle and fuming during fabric heat setting, for example, are much improved. In some cases the improvement may be up to or above the levels achieved with either material alone, indicating a synergistic action. Examples of suitable "conventional" fabric softening agents include: oxidised polyethylene wax emulsions; silicone emulsions, especially emulsions of reactive organofunctional silicones, and more especially amonosilicones; fatty amide emulsions; and quaternised fatty amine emulsions.

    [0017] The present invention will now be illustrated by the following Examples.

    Example 1



    [0018] A solution was prepared containing 881 g of a bisaminopropyl polytetrahydrofuran of structure

    (where a is approximately 28 average) in 2418 g of a mixture of 70% isopropanol in water. To this solution was added 155.3g of epichlorohydrin with efficient stirring at room temperature in a reaction flask fitted with a water cooled reflux condenser. The mixture was then heated to boiling and reflux maintained for approximately 4 hours or until a clear or slightly turbid homogeneous solution is produced when 5 cm3 of the reaction mix is mixed with 30 cm3 water. The reaction mixture was then allowed to cool and used in subsequent experiments.

    Example 2



    [0019] Various textile samples were treated with the product of example 1 as follows: scoured goods were placed in a blank bath at a liquor ratio of 30:1 and the bath set to pH 6.5 to 7.0 at 25°C. The required amount of softener was added to the bath in prediluted form 1:10 with water. The bath was raised to 35°C and then allowed to exhaust, as indicated by the disappearance of the slight turbidity from the bath, which usually took between 15 and 30 minutes. The goods were then removed, hydroextracted and dried in a tumble dryer at between 70° and 100°C.

    [0020] The results of the tests are presented in Table 1.

    Example 3



    [0021] 
    (a) Formulation
    A formulation was produced containing 20 parts product from Example 1, 20 parts nonyl phenol 8 mole ethoxylate and 10 parts nonyl phenol 6 mole ethoxylate.
    (b) Application 1
    A Bowe P421 dry cleaning machine was loaded with 30 kg of 60% mercerised Cotton 40% nylon predyed mens socks. Then 130 litres of perchlorethylene was charged to the machine and the goods tumbled in solvent for 1 minute to wet out. 1.95 kg of the above formulation was then added to the machine via the button trap and the goods tumbled for 5 minutes, then the solvent drained to the still and centrifuged to 100% expression, then tumble dried.
    (c) Application 2
    The above procedure was repeated, but using 1.43 kg of the above mixture and 1.95 kg water placed in the button trap.
    (d) Results
    Example Wetting time* Handle Handle after 7xHLCC5
    3b 8 sec very soft soft
    3c 1 sec very soft soft


    [0022] In addition to the above, the changes in lateral stretching of the sock after washing were measured and compared with an untreated sock.
    Percent change in lateral stretch
      foot ankle leg welt
    Example 3c -2.8 -2.2 -1.3 -1.3
    Untreated -8.9 -8.5 -7.5 -2.3


    [0023] This further indicates retention of softness and springness of the knitted structure after washing.
    Table 1
    Article treated Amount of Product of Example 1 (o.w.f.) Wetting test* Handle Washing test** Handle after Washing
    100% cotton terry loop hand towels 1.73% instantaneous very soft and silky 7 washes to HLCC5 very soft
    60% cotton
    40% nylon intarsia pattern mens socks
    3.46% 9 seconds very soft 10 washes to HLCC5 very soft
    1.73% 3 seconds soft   soft
    60% cotton
    40% nylon plain dyed navy mens socks
    3.46% not determined very soft 10 washes to HLCC5 very soft
    100% cotton terry loop bathrobe fabric 1.73% 3 seconds very soft 10 washes to HLCC5 very soft
    3.46% 5 seconds very soft   very soft
    nil instant harsh   very harsh
    * time taken for a 0.1 cm3 drop of water to sink into the fabric
    ** in a Wascator FOM 7 according to Home Laundering Consultative Council procedures

    Example 4



    [0024] The product of Example 1 can be prepared as an aqueous solution by distilling out the isopropanol and replacing it with water, thereby minimising fire hazard. 797 parts of the product of Example 1 is distilled at atmospheric pressure until 391 parts of an isopropanol: water distillate is collected. Then, 710 parts of water and 80 parts monoethylene glycol is added to the flask and stirred. The resulting product contains about 20% w/w active solids and only 4-5% isopropanol.

    [0025] The product was applied to acrylic socks by an exhaustion method as in Example 2. Excellent handle and good durability was achieved.

    Example 5



    [0026] The softening agent can be mixed with conventional fatty quaternary ammonium-type softeners to give a product which has excellent handle, good durability and superior hydrophilicity to conventional softeners. Such a product is particularly useful for softening cotton/nylon socks.
    a) Formulation
    797 parts of the productive of Example 1 were distilled at atmospheric pressure until 391 parts of an isopropanol: water distillate were collected. 391 parts of water were added to this, stirred and this product blended with 341 parts of a commercial fatty quaternary ammonium softener (PPT Ltd).
    b) Application
    The performance of this softener was compared against conventional types on cotton/nylon socks. The softeners were applied as described in Example 2. The results are presented in Table 2.
    Table 2
    Softeners applied to cotton/nylon socks
    Application Wetting Handle
        before wash 3 x MSB III
    2% Example 5 13 sec 3 1
    2% Ceranine PNP1 140 sec 4 4
    1.2% Permavel R2 35 sec 1 3
    1.5% Permavel H2 270 sec 2 2
    Scour only 60 sec 5 5
    1. Fatty amide softener, Sandoz Products Ltd.
    2. Durable silicone softeners, PPT Ltd, prepared as described in EP-A-0 372 782.

    Example 6



    [0027] 

    a) To a solution of 254g bisaminopropyl polytetrahydrofuran (of the structure in Example 1) in 700g of a mixture of 70% isopropanol in water was added 39g DER732 (Dow Chemical Co.) and 7.8g epichlorohydrin. The mixture was refluxed for 4 hours or until a clear or slightly turbid solution was obtained when 5cm3 of the product was added to 30cm3 of water.

    b) A solution containing 238g bisaminopropyl polytetrahydrofuran (of the structure in Example 1) in 712g isopropanol was prepared. To this was added 27g DER732 (Dow Chemical Co.), 16.6g Tego OF3010 (Th. Goldschmidt Ltd) and 7.3g epichlorohydrin. The mixture was refluxed for 4 hours or until a homogeneous, but turbid, solution was obtained when 5cm3 of the product was added to 30cm3 of water.


    Example 7



    [0028] The products of Example 4 and Examples 7a and 7b were applied to a variety of knitted cotton fabrics (double jersey, single jersey, loopback interlock and pique). The softeners were applied by a) padding: the softeners were applied wet-on-wet to the fabrics from a solution containing 25g/l product, PH7, 25°C at 100% pick-up and b) exhaustion: as given in Example 2 using 2.5% o,w,g. product. The fabrics were stenter dried and commercially finished then compared for handle and durability to washing against a standard fatty amide softener. A co-applied mixture of the product of Example 4 and a polyethylene wax emulsion (Bradsyn G, Hickson & Welch Ltd) was also evaluated. The relative handle and durability assessments were as follows.

    [0029] In general, the handle before and after wash was superior when softeners were applied by a padding technique compared in exhaustion. Before washing the softeners were comparable in softness to the standard silicone softener (Edunine SE, ICI Colours & Fine Chemicals); after wash, (3 x HLCC4), the standard softener could be readily distinguished by its harsher handle. The Example 4/polyethylene wax mixture performed particularly well on all fabric types, giving a cool, soft handle and excellent drape.

    Example 8



    [0030] The softening agents of the invention are particularly suited to use on towels and towelling fabric as a consequence of their superior hydrophilicity. The products were applied by a wet-on-wet continuous pad treatment at 80% pick-up, from solutions containing 20-40g/l softener to Egyptian combed cotton towelling. The fabrics were tumble tried and finished as towels. A warm, soft handle is achieved with excellent rewettability, as compared with silicone- and fatty amide-type softeners. The new softeners impart a fuller, more luxurious feel to towelling and a silkier handle. The durability of the softeners was assessed by subjecting the towels to seven domestic washes, without additional fabric conditioner and line dried. The towels treated with the new softeners retain their original appearance, with a full, soft handle.

    Example 9



    [0031] The product of Example 4 was compared for yellowing at high temperatures against standard silicone- and fatty amide-type softeners. The products were applied to 50/50 polyester/cotton by padding from solutions containing 1 g/l wetting agent (Fullwet PPT Ltd) and 10-40 g/l softener. The fabrics were padded to 100% pick-up then dried. Yellowing of the fabrics was assessed by heating the fabrics on an electrically-heated press for up to 3 minutes.
    Temperature Comments
    180°C Little difference between products
     
    200°C Example 4 showed no yellowing at 1,2,3 mins at all levels. Other products yellowed slightly.
     
    220°C Slight yellowing of Example 4. Other products were markedly yellowed.



    Claims

    1. Use as a softening agent for natural or synthetic fibres other than wool fibres of a polymer or prepolymer having one of the following structural formulae:

    i)

            Z-{[A]m-N(R1)n}r

    or

    ii)

    or

    iii)

            (K)x-(B)y-K

    wherein

    K represents the monofunctional or polyfunctional residue derived from partial reaction of a prepolymer of the formula:

            Z-([A]m-N(R1)n)r

    that is, it represents the shaded area in the following formula:

    B is

    a group

            -E-(R3)pN-[D]-N(R3)p-E-

    a group

    a group resulting from the reaction of a bior polyfunctional species capable of reacting with amino groups, for example: epihalohydrins, alkyl di- and polyhalides, di- or polycarboxylic acids or their acyl halides and anhydrides, dicyandiamide, urea and formaldehyde,

    a group derived from low molecular weight reactive resins such as the Bisphenol A type,

    or a group derived from reaction of a cationic polymeric reactive species such as

    where R6 and R7 are selected from C1-C5 alkyl and C2-C5 hydroxyalkyl radicals,

    Y is selected from C2-C6alkylene radicals, 2-hydroxy-1,3-propylene radicals, and the radicals:

            -CH2CH2NHCONHCH2CH2-

    and

            -CH2CH2CH2NHCONHCH2CH2CH2-

    and q is an integer of from 0 to 20, provided that when q is greater than 2, each of the symbols Y need not necessarily have the same significance;

    D represents a straight or branched chain hydrocarbon, polysiloxane or polyalkylene oxide residue, and which may also either bear functional groups or may contain functional groups, such as amino groups, which may in turn either bear one or more groups R1 or, where B is polyfunctional rather than bifunctional, may represent a further functional reaction point of the group B with the rest of the molecular structure;

    E represents a group resulting from the reaction of a bi- or polyfunctional species capable of reacting with amino groups, for example: epihalohydrins, alkyl di- and polyhalides, dicarboxylic acids or their acyl halides and anhydrides, dicyandiamide, urea and formaldehyde;

    R3 represents hydrogen or C1-C4 alkyl or hydroxyalkyl;

    R4 represents halogen or

    a group

       or one of alkylamino, hydroxyalkylamino, alkoxy, alkylarylamino or

    a group

            -(R3)pN-[D]-R5

       or a functional reaction point of the group B with the rest of the molecular structure, where B is polyfunctional rather than bifunctional;

    J represents a residue derived from a polyfunctional polyether;

    R2 represents a fibre reactive grouping such as the residue derived from monofunctional reaction of an epihalohydrin, an alkyl or alkyl aryl polyhalide or is a methylol grouping derived from monofunctional reaction of formaldehyde, or alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or hydrogen;

    R5 represents hydrogen or

    a group

            -N(R2)n or -N(R3)n;

    p is 1 or 2, with the proviso that, where p is 2, the nitrogen atom involved also bears a formal positive charge;

    Z represents a residue of a polyol;

    A represents a polyalkylene oxide residue;

    R1 represents either a) a fibre reactive grouping such as the residue derived from monofunctional reaction of an epihalohydrin, an alkyl or alkyl aryl polyhalide, or a methylol grouping derived from monofunctional reaction of formaldehyde, or b) is alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or hydrogen, with the proviso that at least one group R1 per polyoxyalkyleneamine residue, and preferably at least one for each nitrogen, is fibre reactive

    m is between 4 and 50;

    n is 2 or 3, with the proviso that, where n is 3, the nitrogen atom involved also bears a formal positive charge;

    r is either 2 or 3;

    t is a number representing the functionality of reaction of the residue B;

    s is 1 when r is 2, and is 2 when r is 3;

    x is between 2 and 30; and

    y is from

    to x,

    with the general proviso that, in any given instance, the significance of a particular group Z, A, B, R or K in any given structure shall not be dictated by the significance of any other such group in the same formula, and further, wherever a formal positive charge is present in the structure, then an appropriate counter anion is taken to be present.
     
    2. Use as claimed in claim 1, wherein the total amount of polymer solids applied to the fibres is from 0.005% to 10.0% by weight.
     
    3. Use as claimed in claim 1, wherein the total amount of polymer solids applied to the fibres is from 0.05% to 2.0% by weight.
     
    4. Use as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the polymer or prepolymer is presented for use in the form of an aqueous solution.
     
    5. Use as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the polymer or prepolymer is presented for use as a solution in a non-aqueous solvent or is applied from a non-aqueous solvent of an aqueous solution.
     
    6. Use as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the fibres being treated comprise cotton.
     
    7. Use as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the fibres being treated comprise nylon or acrylic.
     
    8. Use as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the fibres being treated comprise a cotton blend with synthetic fibres.
     
    9. Use as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the polymer or prepolymer is applied in conjunction with one or more other softening agents.
     
    10. Use as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, and which is carried out as a continuous process.
     
    11. Use as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, and which is carried out as a batch process.
     


    Ansprüche

    1. Verwendung eines Polymers oder Prepolymers mit einer der nachstehenden Strukturformeln:

    i)

            Z-{[A]m-N(R1)n}r

    oder

    ii)

    oder

    iii)

            (K)x-(B)y-K

    worin

    K den monofunktionellen oder polyfunktionellen Rest, abgeleitet von einer Teilreaktion eines Prepolymers der Formel:

            Z-{[A]m-N(R1)n}r

       darstellt, das heißt, er gibt die schattierte Fläche der nachstehenden Formel wieder:

    B ist eine Gruppe

            -E-(R3)pN-[D]-N(R3)p-E- ,

    eine Gruppe

    eine Gruppe, die sich aus der Reaktion einer bi- oder polyfunktionellen Spezies, die mit Aminogruppen reagieren kann, beispielsweise: Epihalogenhydrine, Alkyldi- und -polyhalogenide, Di- oder Polycarbonsäuren oder deren Acylhalogenide und -anhydride, Dicyandiamid, Harnstoff und Formaldehyd, ergibt;

    eine Gruppe, abgeleitet von reaktiven Harzen mit niederem Molekulargewicht, wie vom Bisphenol A-Typ;

    oder eine Gruppe, abgeleitet von einer Reaktion einer kationischen polymeren reaktiven Spezies, wie

    worin R6 und R7 ausgewählt sind aus C1-C5-Alkyl- und C2-C5-Hydroxyalkylresten;

    Y ausgewählt ist aus C2-C6-Alkylenresten, 2-Hydroxy-1,3-propylenresten und den Resten:

            -CH2CH2NHCONHCH2CH2-

    und

            -CH2CH2CH2NHCONHCH2CH2CH2-

    und q eine ganze Zahl von 0 bis 20 ist, mit der Maßgabe, daß wenn q größer als 2 ist, jedes der Symbole Y nicht notwendigerweise die gleiche Bedeutung aufweisen muß;

    D einen geradkettigen oder verzweigtkettigen Kohlenwasserstoff-, Polysiloxan- oder Polyalkylenoxidrest bedeutet, und der entweder auch funktionelle Gruppen tragen kann oder funktionelle Gruppen enthalten kann, wie Aminogruppen, die ihrerseits entweder eine oder mehrere Gruppen R1 tragen können, oder wenn B polyfunktionell statt bifunktionell ist, einen weiteren bifunktionellen Reaktionspunkt der Gruppe B mit dem Rest der Molekülstruktur wiedergeben kann;

    E eine Gruppe wiedergibt, die sich aus der Reaktion einer bi- oder polyfunktionellen Spezies, die mit Aminogruppen reagieren kann, beispielsweise: Epihalogenhydrine, Alkyldi- und -polyhalogenide, Dicarbonsäuren oder deren Acylhalogenide und -anhydride, Dicyandiamid, Harnstoff und Formaldehyd, ergibt;

    R3 Wasserstoff oder C1-C4-Alkyl oder Hydroxyalkyl wiedergibt;

    R4 Halogen oder eine Gruppe

       oder einen der Reste Alkylamino, Hydroxyalkylamino, Alkoxy, Alkylarylamino oder eine Gruppe - (R3)pN-[D]-R5
       oder einen funktionellen Reaktionspunkt der Gruppe B mit dem Rest der Molekülstruktur, wenn B polyfunktionell statt bifunktionell ist, wiedergibt;

    J eine Rest, abgeleitet von einem polyfunktionellen Polyether, wiedergibt;

    R2 eine faserreaktive Gruppierung, wie den Rest, abgeleitet von einer monofunktionellen Reaktion eines Epichlorhydrins, eines Alkyl- oder Alkylarylpolyhalogenids wiedergibt, oder eine Methylolgruppierung, abgeleitet von einer monofunktionellen Reaktion von Formaldehyd oder Alkyl, Hydroxyalkyl oder Wasserstoff, darstellt;

    R5 Wasserstoff oder eine Gruppe

            -N(R2)n oder -N(R3)n

    wiedergibt;

    p 1 oder 2 ist, mit der Maßgabe, daß wenn p 2 ist, das einbezogene Stickstoffatom ebenfalls eine positive Formalladung trägt;

    Z einen Rest eines Polyols wiedergibt;

    A einen Polyalkylenoxidrest wiedergibt;

    R1 entweder a) eine faserreaktive Gruppierung, wie den Rest, abgeleitet von der monofunktionellen Reaktion eines Epihalogenhydrins, eines Alkyl- oder Alkylarylpolyhalogenids oder eine Methylolgruppierung, abgeleitet von der monofunktionellen Reaktion von Formaldehyd, wiedergibt oder b) Alkyl, Hydroxyalkyl oder Wasserstoff darstellt, mit der Maßgabe, daß mindestens eine Gruppe R1 pro Polyoxyalkylenaminrest und vorzugsweise mindestens einer für jedes Stickstoffatom faserreaktiv ist;

    m zwischen 4 und 50 ist;

    n 2 oder 3 ist, mit der Maßgabe, daß wenn n 3 ist, das einbezogene Stickstoffatom ebenfalls eine positive Formalladung trägt;

    r entweder 2 oder 3 ist;

    t eine Zahl bedeutet, die die Funktionalität der Reaktion des Restes B wiedergibt;

    s 1 ist, wenn r 2 ist und 2 ist, wenn r 3 ist;

    x zwischen 2 und 30 ist; und

    y

    bis x ist,

       mit der allgemeinen Maßgabe, daß in jedem gegebenen Fall die Bedeutung einer bestimmten Gruppe Z, A, B, R oder K in jeder gegebenen Struktur nicht durch die Bedeutung einer beliebigen anderen solchen Gruppe in der gleichen Formel bestimmt werden soll und weiterhin, wenn immer eine positive Formalladung in der Struktur vorliegt, dann ein geeignetes Gegenion als vorliegend angenommen wird,
       als Weichmacher für Natur- und Synthesefasern, die von Wollfasern verschieden sind.
     
    2. Verwendung nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Gesamtmenge der auf die Fasern angewendeten Polymerfeststoffe 0,005 % bis 10,0 Gew.-% ist.
     
    3. Verwendung nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Gesamtmenge der auf die Fasern angewendeten Polymerfeststoffe 0,05 % bis 2,0 Gew.-% ist.
     
    4. Verwendung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, wobei das Polymer oder Prepolymer zur Verwendung in Form einer wässerigen Lösung vorliegt.
     
    5. Verwendung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, wobei das Polymer oder Prepolymer zur Anwendung als eine Lösung in einem nichtwässerigen Lösungsmittel vorliegt oder aus einem nichtwässerigen Lösungsmittel einer wässerigen Lösung aufgetragen wird.
     
    6. Verwendung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, wobei die behandelten Fasern Baumwolle umfassen.
     
    7. Verwendung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, wobei die behandelten Fasern Nylon- oder Acrylfasern umfassen.
     
    8. Verwendung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, wobei die behandelten Fasern Mischfasern aus Baumwolle mit Synthesefasern umfassen.
     
    9. Verwendung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, wobei das Polymer oder Prepolymer in Verbindung mit einem oder mehreren anderen Weichmachern angewendet wird.
     
    10. Verwendung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 9, die als kontinuierliches Verfahren ausgeführt wird.
     
    11. Verwendung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 9, die als chargenweises Verfahren ausgeführt wird.
     


    Revendications

    1. Utilisation en tant qu'agent adoucissant pour des fibres naturelles ou synthétiques autres que des fibres de laine d'un polymère ou prépolymère ayant une des formules structurelles suivantes:

    i)

            Z-{[A]m-N(R1)n}r

    ou

    ii)

    ou

    iii)

            (K)x-(B)y-K

    dans lesquelles

    K représente le résidu monofonctionnel ou polyfonctionnel dérivé de la réaction partielle d'un prépolymère de formule:

            Z-([A]m-N(R1)n)r

    à savoir, elle représente la zone ombrée dans la formule suivante:

    B est

    un groupe

            -E-(R3)pN-[D]-N(R3)p-E-

    un groupe

    un groupe provenant de la réaction d'une espèce bi- ou polyfonctionnelle capable de réagir avec des groupes amino, par exemple, les épihalogénohydrines, les di- et polyhalogénures d'alkyle, les acides di- ou polycarboxyliques ou leurs anhydrides et halogénures d'acyle, le dicyandiamide, l'urée et le formaldéhyde,

    un groupe dérivé de résines réactives à masse moléculaire faible telles que le type Bisphénol A, ou

    un groupe dérivé de la réaction d'une espèce réactive polymère cationique telle que

    où R6 et R7 sont choisis parmi les radicaux alkyle en C1 à C5 et hydroxyalkyle en C2 à C5,

    Y est choisi parmi les radicaux alkylène en C2 à C6, les radicaux 2-hydroxy-1,3-propylène et les radicaux:

            -CH2CH2NHCONHCH2CH2-

    et

            -CH2CH2CH2NHCONHCH2CH2CH2-

    et q est un nombre entier de 0 à 20, à condition que quand q est supérieur à 2, chacun des symboles Y n'a pas besoin nécessairement d'avoir la même signification;

    D représente un hydrocarbure à chaîne droite ou ramifiée, un résidu polysiloxane ou poly(oxyde d'alkylène), et qui peut également porter soit un groupe fonctionnel, soit peut contenir un groupe fonctionnel, tel que les groupes amino, qui peuvent à leur tour soit porter un ou plusieurs groupes R1 ou, quand B est polyfonctionnel plutôt que bifonctionnel, peut représenter un autre point de réaction fonctionnelle du groupe B avec le reste de la structure moléculaire;

    E représente un groupe provenant de la réaction d'une espèce bi- ou polyfonctionnelle capable de réagir avec les groupes amino, par exemple, les épihalogénohydrines, les di- et polyhalogénures d'alkyle, les acides dicarboxyliques ou leurs anhydrides et halogénures d'acyle, le dicyandiamide, l'urée et le formaldéhyde;

    R3 représente un atome d'hydrogène ou un groupe alkyle en C1 à C4 ou hydroxyalkyle;

    R4 représente un atome d'halogène ou un groupe

       ou un élément des groupes alkylamino, hydroxyalkylamino, alcoxy, alkylarylamino ou

    un groupe -(R3)pN-[D]-R5

       ou un point de réaction fonctionnelle d'un groupe B avec le reste de la structure moléculaire, où B est polyfonctionnel plutôt que bifonctionnel;

    J représente un résidu dérivé d'un polyéther polyfonctionnel;

    R2 représente un groupement réactif de fibres tel que le résidu dérivé de la réaction monofonctionnelle d'une épihalogénohydrine, d'un polyhalogénure d'alkyle ou d'alkylaryle, ou bien représente un groupement méthylol dérivé de la réaction monofonctionnel de formaldéhyde, ou d'alkyle, d'hydroxyalkyle ou d'hydrogène;

    R5 représente un atome d'hydrogène ou

    un groupe

            -N(R2)n ou -N(R3)n;

    p vaut 1 ou 2, à condition que, quand p vaut 2, l'atome d'azote impliqué porte également une charge positive formelle;

    Z représente un résidu d'un polyol;

    A représente un résidu de poly(oxyde d'alkylène);

    R1 représente soit a) un groupement réactif de fibres tel que le résidu dérivé de la réaction monofonctionnelle d'une épihalogénohydrine, d'un polyhalogénure d'alkyle ou d'alkylaryle, ou un groupement méthylol dérivé de la réaction monofonctionnelle de formaldéhyde, soit b) est un groupe alkyle, hydroxyalkyle ou un atome d'hydrogène, à condition qu'au moins un groupe R1 par résidu polyoxyalkylène-amine, et de préférence au moins un élément pour chaque atome d'azote, est réactif avec les fibres,

    m vaut entre 4 et 50,

    n vaut 2 ou 3, à condition que, quand n vaut 3, l'atome d'azote impliqué porte également une charge positive formelle;

    r vaut 2 ou 3;

    t est un nombre représentant la fonctionnalité de réaction du résidu B;

    s vaut 1 quand r vaut 2, et vaut 2 quand r vaut 3;

    x vaut entre 2 et 30; et

    y vaut x/(t-1) à x;

    à la condition générale que, dans tout exemple donné, la signification d'un groupe particulier Z, A, B, R ou K dans toute structure donnée, ne sera pas dictée par la signification de tout autre tel groupe dans la même formule, et de plus, quand une charge positive formelle est présente dans la structure, alors un contre-ion approprié est considéré être présent.
     
    2. Utilisation selon la revendication 1, dans laquelle la quantité totale de solides polymères appliqués aux fibres est de 0,005% à 10,0% en poids.
     
    3. Utilisation selon la revendication 1, dans laquelle la quantité totale de solides polymères appliquée aux fibres est de 0,05% à 2,0% en poids.
     
    4. Utilisation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, dans laquelle le polymère ou prépolymère se présente, pour une utilisation, sous forme d'une solution aqueuse.
     
    5. Utilisation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, dans laquelle le polymère ou prépolymère se présente, pour une utilisation, sous forme d'une solution dans un solvant non aqueux ou est mis en oeuvre à partir d'un solvant non aqueux d'une solution aqueuse.
     
    6. Utilisation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, dans laquelle les fibres traitées comprennent le coton.
     
    7. Utilisation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, dans laquelle les fibres traitées comprennent le nylon ou l'acrylique.
     
    8. Utilisation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, dans laquelle les fibres traitées comprennent un mélange de coton avec les fibres synthétiques.
     
    9. Utilisation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8, dans laquelle le polymère ou prépolymère est appliqué conjointement avec un ou plusieurs agents adoucissants.
     
    10. Utilisation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 9, et qui est effectuée selon un procédé en continu.
     
    11. Utilisation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 9, et qui est effectuée selon un procédé en discontinu.