SANITARY COMPOSITION FOR TOILET CLEANING, DISINFECTING AND/OR DEODORIZING

Abstract

 The invention is directed to a sanitary composition comprising:
- at least one anionic surfactant selected from alkoxylated alkyl sulphate,
- at least one anionic surfactant selected from alkyl sulphate,
- one or more fillers selected from sulphate salts, bicarbonate salts, chloride salts, and mixtures thereof.
The invention also relates to the use of the composition according to the invention as a solid block in a toilet rim block in a toilet rim block holder.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to sanitary compositions for cleaning and/or disinfecting and/or deodorizing sanitary elements, especially toilets. In particular, the invention relates to sanitary compositions of natural origin that do not have reduced or no harmful effect on the health or on the environment.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] Several solutions exist for cleaning and/or disinfecting and/or deodorizing sanitary elements, especially toilets.

[0003] An existing solution involves a gelified liquid which is directly applied over the faience of the toilet, where the liquid is substantially viscous. Yet another solution is an adhesive gel that is applied locally to the toilet and is successively spread into the water of the basin with the flushes.

[0004] Another solution involves a composition which is placed in cage or a specific delivery system and attached to the wall of the basin.

[0005] The present invention aims at providing a composition for the cage solution.

[0006] Regulations exist in order to classify compositions depending on their ingredients and impact on the health and environment. In Europe, there is the Ecocert label.

[0007] The present invention aims at providing compositions mainly of natural origin for solid block that have an improved solubility, a reduced swelling tendency and an improved foaming capability during the whole life of the product. There is also a need that the compositions do not last more than 4 weeks that is the expected duration of the consumers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention is directed to a sanitary composition comprising:

• at least one anionic surfactant selected from alkoxylated alkyl sulphate,
• at least one anionic surfactant selected from alkyl sulphate,
• one or more fillers selected from sulphate salts, bicarbonate salts, chloride salts, and mixtures thereof.

[0009] According to an embodiment:

• the alkoxylated alkyl sulphate represents from 1 to 15% by weight, preferably from 2 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 2 to 6% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition, and/or
• the alkyl sulphate represents from 2 to 40% by weight, preferably from 5 to 30% by weight, more preferably from 10 to 20% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition, and/or
• the filler(s) represent(s) from 45 to 97% by weight, preferably from 60 to 93% by weight, more preferably from 65 to 90% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0010] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition according to the invention comprises at least 95% by weight, preferably at least 98% by weight, more preferably at least 99% by weight of ingredients of natural origin, based on the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0011] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition according to the invention comprises as fillers:

• a sulphate salt, preferably in an amount ranging from 20 to 50% by weight based on the total weight of the sanitary composition, and
• a bicarbonate salt, preferably in an amount ranging from 20 to 50% by weight based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,
• and preferably, a chloride salt, preferably in an amount ranging from 0.5 to 10% by weight based on the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0012] According to an embodiment:

• the alkoxylated alkyl sulfate is selected from ethoxylated alkyl sulfate, wherein the alkyl group preferably has from 10 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms, and/or wherein the number of ethoxy groups ranges from 1 to 10, preferably from 1 to 6 ethoxy groups; and/or
• the alkyl sulfate is selected from alkyl sulfate having from 10 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms; and/or
• the counter cation of the anionic surfactants and/or of the filler(s) is sodium; and/or
• the sanitary composition is substantially free, or free, of nonionic surfactants.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition according to the invention comprises, based on the total weight of the sanitary composition:

• from 2 to 6% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate,
• from 10 to 20% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt,

wherein the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5,

wherein the sulphate salt, the bicarbonate salt and the chloride salt represent from 65 to 90% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition is in the form of a solid block.

[0015] The present invention is also directed to a solid block comprising the composition according to the invention.

[0016] The present invention is also directed to a process for manufacturing the solid block according to the invention, comprising the steps of:

a) Mixing the filler(s) and other optional ingredients in the form of a powder in a mixer,

b) Pre-mixing the anionic surfactants and other optional ingredients in the form of a liquid,

c) Adding the pre-mix of step b) in the mixer and mixing in order to obtain a mass,

d) Extruding the mass obtained at the end of step c), preferably the mass is at a temperature of less than 40°C during extrusion,

e) Providing the solid block.

[0017] The present invention is also directed to a toilet rim block holder comprising:

• a cage and
• at least one composition according to the invention in a solid block or at least one solid block according to the invention, the solid block being within the cage,

the toilet rim block holder being adapted to release a part of the solid detergent composition(s) when it is in contact with water.

[0018] The present invention is also directed to the use of the sanitary composition according to the invention as a toilet rim block in a toilet rim block holder.

[0019] The present invention is also directed to a process for cleaning and/or disinfecting and/or deodorizing a toilet, comprising the steps of (i) placing the toilet rim block holder according to the invention in said toilet and (ii) flushing it.

[0020] The sanitary composition of the invention may comprise more than 99% by weight of ingredients of natural origin.

[0021] The sanitary composition of the invention may have the Ecocert label for natural detergents.

[0022] The sanitary composition of the invention has a reduced swelling tendency and an improved foaming capability.

[0023] The sanitary composition of the invention allows a very good block dissolution while having foam capability along the product uselife.

[0024] The sanitary composition of the invention has a uselife of no more than 300 flushes and has an improved foaming capability all along the product uselife.

[0025] The sanitary composition of the invention has a very good solubility, a very good foaming capability and is mainly of natural origin.

[0026] The sanitary composition of the invention further has improved cleaning properties.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The present invention is disclosed in more details into the following description.

[0028] The invention is depicted in relation to the generic composition that is provided below as an example of a possible, non-limiting, composition.

[0029] The sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• at least one anionic surfactant selected from alkoxylated alkyl sulphate,
• at least one anionic surfactant selected from alkyl sulphate,
• one or more fillers selected from sulphate salts, bicarbonate salts, chloride salts, and mixtures thereof.

[0030] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 1 to 15% by weight, preferably from 2 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 2 to 6% by weight, of alkoxylated alkyl sulphate,
• from 2 to 40% by weight, preferably from 5 to 30% by weight, more preferably from 10 to 20% by weight, of alkyl sulphate,
• from 45 to 97% by weight, preferably from 60 to 93% by weight, more preferably from 65 to 90% by weight, of filler(s) selected from sulphate salts, bicarbonate salts, chloride salts, and mixtures thereof,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0031] The inventors observed that the sanitary composition comprising the specific combination of anionic surfactants and inorganic salts leads to improved foaming capabilities and a reduced swelling tendency, as well as improved cleaning properties.

[0032] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the surfactants and the inorganic salts are at least partially or totally of natural origin.

[0033] The expression "natural origin" includes biological origin and renewable origin.

[0034] The expression "natural origin" is to be distinguished from fossil origin and from petroleum origin.

[0035] The ingredients of natural origin can be derived from plant resources.

[0036] Any raw material recognized from natural origin as defined by international standards such as Ecocert or similar can be used.

[0037] They are commercially available.

Alkoxylated alkyl sulphate

[0038] The alkoxylated alkyl sulphate of the invention comprises at least one alkoxy group, an alkyl group and a sulphate function.

[0039] Preferably, the alkyl group comprises from 10 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms, even more preferably from 12 to 14 carbon atoms.

[0040] Preferably, the alkoxylated alkyl sulphate of the invention has from 1 to 10 alkoxy groups, preferably from 1 to 6 alkoxy groups, even more preferably from 1 to 3 alkoxy groups.

[0041] Preferably, the alkoxylated alkyl sulfate is an ethoxylated alkyl sulfate of formula R-[OCH₂CH₂]_nOSO₃^-, where R is an alkyl group and n is an integer of at least 1.

[0042] Preferably, the alkyl group comprises from 10 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms, even more preferably from 12 to 14 carbon atoms.

[0043] Preferably, n (number of alkoxy group) ranges from 1 to 10, preferably from 1 to 6, even more preferably from 1 to 3 alkoxy groups.

[0044] The counter cation can be sodium. In that case, the alkoxylated alkyl sulphate will be sodium alkoxylated alkyl sulphate.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the alkoxylated alkyl sulphate comprises at least an ethoxylated C12-C14 alkyl sulphate, preferably consists of ethoxylated C12-C14 alkyl sulphate.

[0046] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the alkoxylated alkyl sulphate is of natural origin.

[0047] Preferably, the alkoxylated alkyl sulphate represents from 1 to 15% by weight, preferably from 2 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 2 to 6% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

Alkyl sulphate

[0048] Within the meaning of the present invention, the "alkyl sulphate" is different from the "alkoxylated alkyl sulphate". In particular, the "alkyl sulphate" does not have alkoxy groups.

[0049] Typically, the alkyl sulphate replies to formula R'-SO₃^-, where R' is an alkyl group.

[0050] Preferably, the alkyl group comprises from 10 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms, even more preferably from 12 to 14 carbon atoms.

[0051] The counter cation can be sodium. In that case, the alkyl sulphate will be sodium alkyl sulphate.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, the alkyl sulphate comprises at least a C12-C14 alkyl sulphate, preferably consists of C12-C14 alkyl sulphate.

[0053] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the alkyl sulphate is of natural origin.

[0054] Preferably, the alkyl sulphate represents from 2 to 40% by weight, preferably from 5 to 30% by weight, more preferably from 10 to 20% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

Fillers/Inorganic salts

[0055] The sanitary composition comprises inorganic salts, also named fillers. At least one filler is selected from sulphate salts, bicarbonate salts, and chloride salts.

[0056] Within the meaning of the invention, inorganic salts (also named fillers) are different from anionic surfactants. In particular, the inorganic salts typically do not comprise alkyl groups.

[0057] Preferably, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises at least two different fillers selected from sulphate salts, bicarbonate salts, and chloride salts, preferably at least sulphate salts and bicarbonate salts.

[0058] According to a more preferred embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises a sulphate salt, a bicarbonate salt and a chloride salt.

[0059] The inventors found that the combination of these fillers further improve the block solubility and provide appropriate consistency of mass intended for extrusion.

[0060] The inorganic salt is preferably sodium salt.

[0061] Preferably, the filler(s) represent(s) from 45 to 97% by weight, preferably from 60 to 93% by weight, more preferably from 65 to 90% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition comprises:

• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0063] Preferably, the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt ranges from 0.25 to 4, preferably from 0.5 to 1.5.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition comprises:

• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0065] Preferably, the weight ratio chloride salt/ sulphate salt ranges from 0.01 to 0.5, preferably from 0.02 to 0.1.

[0066] Preferably, the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the sulphate salt is sodium sulphate, the bicarbonate salt is sodium bicarbonate, and the chloride salt is sodium chloride.

[0068] Typically, the inorganic salts (also named fillers) are in powder form.

Sanitary composition

[0069] Further commonly used components can be used as additives into the composition, such as stabilizers, dies, viscosity regulators, thickeners, disinfectants, enzymes, biocides, limescale removing agent, chelating agent, preservatives, fragrances, etc. If further additives are present in the sanitary composition, these additives are preferably of natural origin.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the further additives represent from 0.01 to 25% by weight, preferably from 0.1 to 15% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0071] Preferably, the sanitary composition of the invention is substantially free, or free, of nonionic surfactants.

[0072] Within the meaning of the invention, "substantially free" means in an amount of less than 0.1 % by weight, preferably less than 0.01 % by weight.

[0073] Preferably, the sanitary composition of the invention is substantially free, or free, of nonionic surfactants and of cationic surfactants.

[0074] Among nonionic surfactants, mention may be made of glycoside nonionic surfactants or glucamide nonionic surfactants.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention further comprises one or more additives selected from fragrances, limescale removing agent, and mixtures thereof.

[0076] Among limescale removing agent, mention may be made of citrate compounds, such as citrate, citrate monohydrate, citrate dihydrate, citrate trihydrate.

[0077] Among fragrances, mention may be made of essential oils, plant extracts or plant essences. Combination of perfumes may be implemented.

[0078] According to an embodiment, limescale removing agent represents from 0.5 to 15% by weight of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0079] According to an embodiment, fragrances represent from 0.1 to 10% by weight of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0080] According to a preferred embodiment, the sanitary composition comprises less than 10% by weight of water, preferably less than 5% by weight of water, based on the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0081] Water may come from the ingredients of the composition or may be separately added (external water), preferably, the composition comprises no added (external) water.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the weight ratio between the alkoxylated alkyl sulphate anionic surfactant and the alkyl sulphate anionic surfactant ranges from 0.02 to 1, preferably from 0.05 to 0.8, more preferably from 0.1 to 0.5.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 60 to 93% by weight of filler(s) selected from sulphate, bicarbonate, chloride, and mixtures thereof, preferably of at least two fillers selected from sulphate, bicarbonate, chloride, and mixtures thereof,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition.

[0084] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt, preferably sodium sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt, preferably sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt, preferably sodium chloride,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,
wherein preferably the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt, preferably sodium sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt, preferably sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt, preferably sodium chloride,
• from 0.1 to 15% by weight of one or more additives selected from limescale removing agents, fragrances, and mixtures thereof, based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention consists of:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt, preferably sodium sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt, preferably sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt, preferably sodium chloride,
• from 0.1 to 15% by weight of one or more additives selected from limescale removing agents, fragrances, and mixtures thereof,
• from 0 to less than 5% by weight of water,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,
wherein preferably the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 60 to 93% by weight of filler(s) selected from sulphate, bicarbonate, chloride, and mixtures thereof, preferably of at least two inorganic salts selected from sulphate, bicarbonate, chloride, and mixtures thereof,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,
wherein the composition is free of nonionic surfactants.

[0088] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt, preferably sodium sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt, preferably sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt, preferably sodium chloride,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein the composition is free of nonionic surfactants,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt, preferably sodium sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt, preferably sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt, preferably sodium chloride,
• from 0.1 to 15% by weight of one or more additives selected from limescale removing agents, fragrances, and mixtures thereof,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein the composition is free of nonionic surfactants,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 60 to 93% by weight of filler(s) selected from sulphate, bicarbonate, chloride, and mixtures thereof, preferably of at least two inorganic salts selected from sulphate, bicarbonate, chloride, and mixtures thereof,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,
wherein the composition comprises at least 98% by weight of ingredients of natural origin.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt, preferably sodium sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt, preferably sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt, preferably sodium chloride,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein the composition comprises at least 98% by weight of ingredients of natural origin,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt, preferably sodium sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt, preferably sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt, preferably sodium chloride,
• from 0.1 to 15% by weight of one or more additives selected from limescale removing agents, fragrances, and mixtures thereof,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein the composition comprises at least 98% by weight of ingredients of natural origin,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0093] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention consists of:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt, preferably sodium sulphate
• from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt, preferably sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt, preferably sodium chloride,
• from 0.1 to 15% by weight of one or more additives selected from limescale removing agents, fragrances, and mixtures thereof,
• from 0 to less than 5% by weight of water,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein the composition comprises at least 98% by weight of ingredients of natural origin,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably ethoxylated C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate, preferably C10-C16 alkyl sulphate,
• from 60 to 93% by weight of sodium filler(s) selected from sulphate, bicarbonate, chloride, and mixtures thereof, preferably of at least two inorganic sodium salts selected from sulphate, bicarbonate, chloride, and mixtures thereof,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,
wherein the composition comprises at least 98% by weight of ingredients of natural origin.

[0095] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C12-C14 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C12-C14 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sodium sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of sodium chloride,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein the composition comprises at least 98% by weight of ingredients of natural origin,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sodium sulphate / sodium bicarbonate/ sodium chloride ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention comprises:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C12-C14 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C12-C14 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sodium sulphate
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of sodium chloride,
• from 0.1 to 15% by weight of one or more additives selected from limescale removing agents, fragrances, and mixtures thereof,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein the composition comprises at least 98% by weight of ingredients of natural origin,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sodium sulphate / sodium bicarbonate / sodium chloride ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the sanitary composition of the invention consists of:

• from 2 to 10% by weight of ethoxylated C12-C14 alkyl sulphate,
• from 5 to 30% by weight of C12-C14 alkyl sulphate,
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sodium sulphate
• from 20 to 50% by weight of sodium bicarbonate,
• from 0.5 to 10% by weight of sodium chloride,
• from 0.1 to 15% by weight of one or more additives selected from limescale removing agents, fragrances, and mixtures thereof,
• from 0 to less than 5% by weight of water,

based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

wherein the composition comprises at least 98% by weight of ingredients of natural origin,

wherein preferably the weight ratio sodium sulphate / sodium bicarbonate / sodium chloride ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5.

[0098] The sanitary composition of the invention is in the form of a solid block when it is used.

[0099] By "solid", it is to be understood that the composition can be manipulated by hand, without flowing. In particular, the solid composition according to the invention is not in the form of a gel composition which can flow.

[0100] Preferably, the sanitary composition in the form of a solid block according to the invention is obtained by the following process:

a) Mixing the filler(s) and other optional ingredients in the form of a powder in a mixer,

b) Pre-mixing the anionic surfactants and other optional ingredients in the form of a liquid,

c) Adding the pre-mixed liquid ingredients in the mixer and mixing in order to obtain a mass,

d) Extruding the mass obtained at the end of step c), preferably the mass is at a temperature of less than 40°C during extrusion,

e) Providing the solid block.

[0101] The present invention is also directed to a solid block based on the sanitary composition of the invention.

[0102] The invention also relates to a process for manufacturing the solid block of the invention, the process comprising the steps of:

f) Mixing the filler(s) and other optional ingredients in the form of a powder in a mixer,

g) Pre-mixing the anionic surfactants and other optional ingredients in the form of a liquid,

h) Adding the pre-mixed liquid ingredients in the mixer and mixing in order to obtain a mass,

i) Extruding the mass obtained at the end of step c), preferably the mass is at a temperature of less than 40°C during extrusion,

j) Providing the solid block.

[0103] According to an embodiment of the process of the invention, the mixing of step a) is performed for 5-10 minutes.

[0104] According to an embodiment of the process of the invention, the mixing of step c) is performed for 10-15 minutes. Longer times may lead to undesired heating.

[0105] According to an embodiment of the process of the invention, the mixing of step c) is performed until formation of a homogeneous mass.

[0106] The process of the invention may comprise a cutting step to obtain the solid block with the desired shape of the solid block.

[0107] Preferably, the process for manufacturing the solid block does not comprise a step of adding water (external water).

[0108] Preferably, in the process for manufacturing the solid detergent composition, water is added only along with the water-containing surfactant(s). Preferably, each surfactant comprises less than 15% by weight of water, preferably less than 10% by weight of water, more preferably less than 7% by weight of water, based on the total weight of the surfactant.

[0109] The present invention is also directed to a toilet rim block holder comprising a cage and at least one solid block according to the invention, the solid block being within the cage, the toilet rim block holder being adapted to release a part of the solid detergent composition(s) when it is in contact with water.

[0110] The present is also directed to the use of the sanitary composition according to the invention as a toilet rim block in a toilet rim block holder.

[0111] The present invention also concerns a process for cleaning and/or disinfecting and/or deodorizing a toilet, comprising the steps of (i) placing the toilet rim block holder according to the invention in said toilet and (ii) flushing it.

[0112] The amounts are expressed by weight, unless indicated to the contrary. The following examples illustrate the invention without limiting it.

EXAMPLE

[0113] A sanitary composition in the form of a solid block (CInv) was prepared according to the process of the invention.

[0114] CInv comprises:

• 4% by weight of sodium ethoxylated C12-C14 alkyl sulphate having 2 ethoxy groups,
• 15% by weight of sodium C12-C14 alkyl sulphate,
• 35,9% by weight of sodium sulphate,
• 33% by weight of sodium bicarbonate,
• 2% by weight of sodium chloride,
• 10.1% by weight of citrate compounds and fragrances.

[0115] Two commercial sanitary compositions in the form of a solid block (CComp1 and CComp2) was compared with the solid block of the invention (Clnv).

[0116] CComp1 comprises:

• Sodium sulphate
• Sodium C12-C18 alkyl sulphate
• Sodium citrate sequestering agent
• Sodium C12-C14 alkyl sulphate
• Starch binding agent
• coco-glucoside nonionic surfactant
• Xantham gum binding agent
• perfume

[0117] CComp2 comprises:

• Sodium sulfate
• Sodium C12-C18 alkyl sulphate
• Sodium C10-C16 alkyl sulphate
• perfume
• Water binding agent
• Citric acid pH adjuster
• Hydrated silica
• Capryloyl/caproyl methyl glucamide nonionic surfactant
• Sodium carbonate
• Sodium phytate
• Sodium citrate

Example 1: Comparison of uselife and swelling properties

[0118] The duration of the product (solid block) under conditions simulating reality of product use was measured and compared between the three above detailed compositions CInv, CComp1 and CComp2. To do this, the product is placed in a WC, hanging on the rim near the arrival of the water flow (in a perfectly defined location). Toilets are fed with hard water at approximately 12°dH to simulate use in severe but realistic conditions. An automated cycle of 12 flushes per day distributed at irregular intervals (representative of the activity a family of about 3 persons) is triggered. The test is continued until complete consumption of the product that determines the duration of use.

[0119] For each solid block, 4 samples were tested to determine the variation of the solid block weight and the average product uselife.

[0120] Fig. 1 shows the percentage of initial weight of the solid block in function of the number of flushes for the three tested products (CInv, CComp1 and CComp2).

[0121] As can be seen in Fig. 1, the composition according to the invention do not lead to any product swelling. On the contrary, comparatives compositions CComp1 and CComp2 show swelling. CComp1 leads to a very important product swelling.

[0122] The average product uselife is of:

• 198 flushes for CInv.
• 429 flushes for CComp1.
• 366 flushes for CComp2.

[0123] The consumers expect a duration of the product to be around 4 weeks*, meaning that CComp1 and CComp2 will last longer than what is expected by the consumers.

[0124] *: Assuming 7 to 8 flushes per day the expected duration should be around 196 / 224 flushes.

Example 2: Comparison of foaming capability

[0125] The foaming capability of the above detailed compositions CInv, CComp1 and CComp2 was determined.

[0126] Foam was evaluated after every 50 flushes during lifespan, as shown in Fig. 2.

[0127] For each solid block, 4 samples were tested.

[0128] During the test, foam was evaluated according to the following scale:

1. No foam

2. Scattered foam (foam remaining)

3. Foam lightly scattered

4. Foam layer homogeneous

5. Thick foam / bulging

[0129] The average note is shown below:

• 4.83 for CInv
• 4.45 for CComp1
• 3.81 for CComp2

[0130] The sanitary composition of the invention shows the best foaming capability.

[0131] Finally, the visual aspect was also compared, and it is observed that the solid bloc composition of the invention had a better visual aspect after every 50 flushes since there is no swelling or remaining product on the cage.

Claims

1. A sanitary composition comprising:

- at least one anionic surfactant selected from alkoxylated alkyl sulphate,

- at least one anionic surfactant selected from alkyl sulphate,

- one or more fillers selected from sulphate salts, bicarbonate salts, chloride salts, and mixtures thereof.

2. The sanitary composition according to claim 1, wherein:

- the alkoxylated alkyl sulphate represents from 1 to 15% by weight, preferably from 2 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 2 to 6% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition, and/or

- the alkyl sulphate represents from 2 to 40% by weight, preferably from 5 to 30% by weight, more preferably from 10 to 20% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition, and/or

- the filler(s) represent(s) from 45 to 97% by weight, preferably from 60 to 93% by weight, more preferably from 65 to 90% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

3. The sanitary composition according to claim 1 or 2, comprising at least 95% by weight, preferably at least 98% by weight, more preferably at least 99% by weight of ingredients of natural origin.

4. The sanitary composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising as fillers:

- a sulphate salt, preferably in an amount ranging from 20 to 50% by weight based on the total weight of the sanitary composition, and

- a bicarbonate salt, preferably in an amount ranging from 20 to 50% by weight based on the total weight of the sanitary composition,

- and preferably, a chloride salt, preferably in an amount ranging from 0.5 to 10% by weight based on the total weight of the sanitary composition.

5. The sanitary composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the alkoxylated alkyl sulfate is selected from ethoxylated alkyl sulfate, wherein

- the alkyl group preferably has from 10 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms, and/or

- the number of ethoxy groups ranges from 1 to 10, preferably from 1 to 6 ethoxy groups.

6. The sanitary composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the alkyl sulfate is selected from alkyl sulfate having from 10 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms.

7. The sanitary composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the counter cation of the anionic surfactants and/or of the filler(s) is sodium.

8. The sanitary composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sanitary composition is substantially free, or free, of nonionic surfactants.

9. The sanitary composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising, based on the total weight of the sanitary composition:

- from 2 to 6% by weight of ethoxylated C10-C24 alkyl sulphate,

- from 10 to 20% by weight of C10-C24 alkyl sulphate,

- from 20 to 50% by weight of sulphate salt,

- from 20 to 50% by weight of bicarbonate salt,

- from 0.5 to 10% by weight of chloride salt,

wherein the weight ratio sulphate salt/ bicarbonate salt/ chloride salt ranges from 0.5-2/0.5-2/0.01-0.5,

wherein the sulphate salt, the bicarbonate salt and the chloride salt represent from 65 to 90% by weight, of the total weight of the sanitary composition.

10. The sanitary composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the composition is in the form of a solid block.

11. A solid block comprising the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. Process for manufacturing the solid block according to claim 11, comprising the steps of:

a) Mixing the filler(s) and other optional ingredients in the form of a powder in a mixer,

b) Pre-mixing the anionic surfactants and other optional ingredients in the form of a liquid,

c) Adding the pre-mix of step b) in the mixer and mixing in order to obtain a mass,

d) Extruding the mass obtained at the end of step c), preferably the mass is at a temperature of less than 40°C during extrusion,

e) Providing the solid block.

13. A toilet rim block holder comprising:

- a cage and

- at least one composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10 in a solid block or at least one solid block according to claim 11, the solid block being within the cage,

the toilet rim block holder being adapted to release a part of the solid detergent composition(s) when it is in contact with water.

14. Use of the sanitary composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10 as a toilet rim block in a toilet rim block holder.

15. Process for cleaning and/or disinfecting and/or deodorizing a toilet, comprising the steps of (i) placing the toilet rim block holder according to claim 13 in said toilet and (ii) flushing it.

Drawing