TITLE

CLEANING COMPOSITION

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention broadly relates to cleaning. More particularly, the invention relates (but is not limited) to cleaning compositions suitable for laundering material such as clothing material, including denim material. The invention also relates to manufacture and use of the compositions.

BACKGROUND

Laundering of materials is routinely performed worldwide. Clothing is laundered frequently, with individual items of clothing commonly washed hundreds or thousands of times over a full lifespan.

Various techniques for laundering exist. Generally, laundering involves placing material in a liquid solution, such as water-based solutions that may include soaps or detergents. Mechanical techniques such as mixing, rinsing, and/or rubbing are also typically used for laundering purposes.

In modem household settings, laundering is generally performed using domestic washing machines, which typically mix clothing etc. with water and detergent, perform mechanical mixing, and spin until partially dry. Washing machine-based laundering can have certain limitations or disadvantages. For example, access to a washing machine may not always be available, including in locations with minimal infrastructure or during temporary outages of power or water, etc. Additionally, the laundering process using domestic washing machines can cause unwanted wear or damage to certain materials.

In some cases, ‘dry cleaning’ techniques are used for laundering, wherein a non-water solvent is used in place of water and detergent. Dry cleaning may be appropriate for removing certain difficult stains, and/or for laundering material that is sensitive to the domestic washing machine process. However, dry cleaning generally requires specialised equipment, and is rarely performed outside of an industrial setting.

Laundering of denim clothing, such as jeans and jackets, can present particular challenges. Washing machine-based laundering of denim frequently results in colour bleeding and can disrupt the shape and integrity of the denim material. Denim material can also be sensitive to solvents and/or processing using for dry cleaning.

With the above in mind, new options for laundering would be desirable. It would be particularly desirable, in at least some circumstances, to develop new approaches adapted for laundering of denim clothing (such as denim jeans) or clothing incorporating other sensitive materials.

In some circumstances, it may be desirable to develop compositions that are desirable (or at least suitable) for laundering, and also desirable (or at least suitable) for various other cleaning purposes.

SUMMARY

A broad form of the present invention provides a cleaning composition that results in substantial effervescence when combined with a suitable solvent or liquid. Suitably, the effervescence results from release of carbon dioxide upon addition of the laundry composition to the solvent or liquid. Suitably, the solvent or liquid is water. In embodiments, the cleaning composition is adapted for laundering.

A first aspect of the invention broadly provides a cleaning composition comprising a carbonate -containing substance; and an acid. Optionally, the composition further comprises an antimicrobial substance.

The concentration of the carbonate -containing substance and the acid in the composition of this aspect may be any suitable concentration.

In embodiments, the total concentration of the carbonate -containing substance and the acid is between about 5% w/w and about 95% w/w.

In embodiments, the total concentration of the carbonate-containing substance is between about 5% w/w and about 95% w/w.

In embodiments, the total concentration of the acid is between about 5% w/w and about 95% w/w.

The composition of the first aspect may comprise one, one or more, or a plurality of carbonate-containing substance(s), acid(s), and, optionally, antimicrobial substance(s).

Suitably, the carbonate-containing substance of the first aspect is substantially soluble in water.

Suitably, the carbonate-containing substance of the first aspect comprises a cation. In embodiments, the cation has a valence of one.

In embodiments, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition of the first aspect comprises a metal. In embodiments, the metal is an alkali metal. In an embodiment, the metal is sodium.

In embodiments, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition of the first aspect is or includes a bicarbonate. In an embodiment, the carbonate-containing substance is or includes sodium bicarbonate. In embodiments, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition of the first aspect is or includes an adduct. In embodiments, the adduct is a perhydrate. In an embodiment, the perhydrate is sodium percarbonate.

In embodiments, the composition of the first aspect comprises at least two carbonate- containing substances.

In embodiments, each of the two carbonate-containing substances comprise a metal, such as an alkali metal. In an embodiment, the metal is sodium.

In embodiments, the composition comprises sodium bicarbonate and sodium percarbonate.

In embodiments, the total concentration of the carbonate-containing substance(s) of the composition of the first aspect is about 40% w/w to about 95% w/w. In an embodiment, the total concentration of carbonate-containing substance(s) is about 50% w/w to about 70% w/w, such as about 60% w/w.

In embodiments, the composition of the first aspect comprises a first carbonate- containing substance at a concentration of about 25% w/w to about 75% w/w. In an embodiment, the concentration of the first carbonate-containing substance is about 40% w/w to about 60% w/w, such as about 45% w/w, about 50% w/w, or about 55% w/w. In an embodiment, the first carbonate-containing substance is sodium bicarbonate.

In embodiments, the composition comprises a second carbonate-containing substance at a concentration of about 5% w/w to about 45% w/w. In an embodiment, the concentration of the first carbonate-containing substance is about 5% w/w to about 25% w/w, such as about 10% w/w, about 15% w/w, or about 20% w/w. In an embodiment, the second carbonate- containing substance is sodium percarbonate.

In embodiments, the acid of the composition of the first aspect is or includes a weak acid.

In embodiments, the acid is or includes an organic acid.

In an embodiment, the acid is or includes citric acid.

In embodiments, the concentration of the acid in the composition of the first aspect is about 15% w/w to about 50% w/w. In an embodiment, the concentration of the acid is about 20% w/w to about 40% w/w, such as about 25% w/w, about 30% w/w, or about 35% w/w.

In embodiments, the antimicrobial substance of the composition of the first aspect is or includes a plant-derived or plant-derivable antimicrobial substance.

In embodiments, the plant-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance of the composition of the first aspect is a tree-derived or derivable substance. In embodiments, the tree-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance is, or is of, aspen bark.

In embodiments, the tree-derived or derivable substance is or includes one or more salicylates.

In embodiments, the plant-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance is a cereal- derived or derivable substance. In embodiments, the cereal -derived or derivable antimicrobial substance is derived or derivable from com.

In embodiments, the cereal-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance is or includes one or more lactones. In an embodiment, the lactone is glucono delta-lactone.

In embodiments, the antimicrobial substance of the composition of the first aspect is or includes an aromatic antimicrobial substance.

In embodiments, the aromatic antimicrobial substance is a benzoate-containing substance. In embodiments, the benzoate-containing substance is sodium benzoate.

In embodiments, the composition of the first aspect comprises at least two antimicrobial substances. In embodiments, the composition of the first aspect comprises at least three antimicrobial substances.

In embodiments, the composition comprises at least two plant-derived or derivable antimicrobial substances.

In embodiments, the composition comprises at least one plant-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance; and at least one aromatic antimicrobial substance.

In an embodiment, the composition comprises a salicylate-containing antimicrobial substance, such as aspen bark; a lactone-containing antimicrobial substance, such as glucono delta-lactone; and a benzoate-containing antimicrobial substance, such as sodium benzoate.

The concentration of the one or more antimicrobial substances of the composition of the first aspect may be any suitable concentration.

In embodiments, the total concentration of the antimicrobial substance(s) of the composition is about 0.1% w/w to about 10% w/w. In an embodiment, the total concentration of the antimicrobial substance is about 0.2% w/w to about 5% w/w, such as about 0.5% w/w, about 1% w/w, or about 2% w/w.

In embodiments, the composition comprises a first antimicrobial substance at a concentration of about 0.05% w/w to about 5% w/w. In an embodiment, the concentration of the first antimicrobial substance is about 0.1% w/w to about 2.5% w/w, such as about 0.25% w/w, about 0.5% w/w or about 1% w/w. In embodiments, the first antimicrobial substance is a salicylate-containing antimicrobial substance, such as aspen bark. In embodiments, the composition comprises a second antimicrobial substance at a concentration of about 0.05% w/w to about 5% w/w. In an embodiment, the concentration of the second antimicrobial substance is about 0. 1% w/w to about 2.5% w/w, such as about 0.25% w/w, about 0.5% w/w, or about 1% w/w. In embodiments, the second antimicrobial substance is a lactone antimicrobial substance, such as glucono delta-lactone.

In embodiments, the composition comprises a third antimicrobial substance at a concentration of about 0.05% w/w to about 5% w/w. In an embodiment, the concentration of the third antimicrobial substance is about 0.1% w/w to about 2.5% w/w, such as about 0.25% w/w, about 0.5% w/w, or about 1% w/w. In embodiments, the third antimicrobial substance is a benzoate-containing antimicrobial substance, such as sodium benzoate.

Embodiments of the composition of the first aspect may include one or more fragrance substance(s).

In embodiments, the fragrance substance is or includes a plant-derived substance. In an embodiment, the fragrance substance is or includes one or more essential oils.

In embodiments, the total concentration of the fragrance substance(s) of the composition of the first aspect is about 1% w/w to about 20% w/w. In an embodiment, the total concentration of the fragrance substance(s) is about 3% w/w to about 10% w/w, such as about 4% w/w, about 6% w/w, or about 8% w/w.

Embodiments of the composition of the first aspect may include one or more mineral substance(s).

Suitably, the mineral substance comprises a metal. In an embodiment, the metal is calcium.

In embodiments, the mineral substance comprises a sugar or sugar derivative. In embodiments, the sugar derivative is gluconic acid or gluconate. In an embodiment, the mineral substance is calcium gluconate.

The concentration of the one or more mineral substances of the composition of the first aspect may be any suitable concentration.

In embodiments, the concentration of the one or more mineral substance(s) of the composition is less than about 1% w/w. In an embodiment, the concentration of the one or more mineral substance(s) is less than about 0.1% w/w.

In an embodiment, the composition of the first aspect comprises: a first carbonate-containing substance at a concentration of about 40% w/w to about 60% w/w, optionally wherein the first carbonate-containing substance is sodium bicarbonate; a second carbonate -containing substance at a concentration of about 5% w/w to about 25% w/w, optionally wherein the second carbonate-containing substance is sodium percarbonate; an acid at a concentration of about 20% w/w to about 40% w/w, optionally wherein the acid is citric acid; at least one antimicrobial substance at a concentration of about 0.5% w/w to about 2.5% w/w, optionally wherein the at least one antimicrobial substance comprises salicylate, glucono delta-lactone, and/or sodium benzoate; and at least one fragrance substance at a concentration of about 3% w/w to about 10% w/w, optionally wherein the at least one fragrance substance comprises an essential oil.

The composition of the first aspect may be a solid composition or a liquid composition. In an embodiment, the composition of the first aspect is a powder or the like.

In embodiments, the composition is a substantially anhydrous solid composition, such as a substantially anhydrous powder.

A second aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing a composition, broadly including a step of combining at least one carbonate-containing substance, at least one acid, and, optionally, at least one antimicrobial substance, to thereby produce the composition.

The method of the second aspect may include a step of combining at least one fragrance substance with the at least one carbonate-containing substance, at least one acid, and, optionally, at least one antimicrobial substance.

The method of the second aspect may include a step of combining at least one mineral substance with the at least one carbonate-containing substance, at least one acid, and, optionally, at least one antimicrobial substance.

In embodiments, the method of the second aspect includes steps of: mixing the at least one carbonate-containing substance with the at least one acid; and mixing the at least one antimicrobial substance and, optionally, the at least one fragrance substance and/or the at least one mineral substance with the mixture of the at least one carbonate-containing substance and at least one acid.

A third aspect of the invention provides a composition produced according to the method of the second aspect. Suitably, the composition produced according to the method of the second aspect is the composition of the first aspect.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides an effervescent cleaning composition comprising a liquid solvent; at least one carbonate-containing substance; at least one acid; and, optionally, at least one antimicrobial substance. In embodiments, the liquid solvent of the effervescent cleaning composition is water.

In embodiments, the effervescent cleaning composition of the fourth aspect is an effervescent laundering composition.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a method of preparing an effervescent cleaning composition, including a step of combining at least one carbonate-containing substance; at least one acid; and, optionally, at least one microbial substance, with a liquid solvent. Suitably, the liquid solvent is water.

In embodiments of the fifth aspect, the step of combining is a step of combining the composition of the first aspect with the liquid solvent.

In embodiments of the fifth aspect, the composition of the first aspect is combined with the liquid solvent in a ratio of about 1 : 50 to about 1 : 1000. In an embodiment, the ratio is about 1:250.

In embodiments, the method of the fifth aspect is a method of preparing an effervescent laundering composition of the fourth aspect.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a method of cleaning an article, including a step of contacting the article with a composition of the first aspect or the effervescent cleaning composition of the fourth aspect.

In embodiments, the article contacted according to the method of the sixth aspect is an article of clothing or an article of linen.

In embodiments, the article comprises denim, elastane, silk, or wool. In an embodiment, the article is a denim clothing article, such as denim jeans.

In embodiments of the sixth aspect, the method includes substantially immersing the article in the effervescent cleaning composition of the fourth aspect.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is at least partly predicated on identification of combinations of agents suitable to form an effervescent composition effective for cleaning. At least certain typical aspects and embodiments of the invention have been found to be particularly effective for cleaning of clothing, particularly denim clothing.

In this specification, reference is made to various components, agents, and substances. It will be understood that general terms such as "component" , “agent”, and “substance” may be used interchangeably and are to be broadly interpreted unless the context requires otherwise.

It will be further understood that aspects and embodiments of the invention may comprise analogues or derivates of the specific components, agents, and substances as described herein. As used herein, the term “analogue” refers to a chemical agent, such as a chemical compound, that is structurally similar to a ‘parent’ or ‘original’ agent, but differs slightly in composition (e.g., one atom or functional group is different, added, or removed).

An analogue may or may not have different chemical or physical properties than the parent agent and may or may not have improved biological and/or chemical activity. For example, the analogue may be more hydrophilic or it may have altered reactivity as compared to the parent agent. The analogue may mimic the chemical and/or biologically activity of the parent agent (i.e., it may have similar or identical activity), or, in some cases, may have increased or decreased activity.

An analogue may be a naturally or non-naturally occurring (e.g., recombinant or synthetic) variant of the parent agent. Other types of analogues include isomers (enantiomers, diasteromers, stereoisomers, and the like) and other types of chiral variants of an agent, as well as structural isomers. The analogue may be a branched or cyclic variant of a linear compound. For example, a linear compound may have an analogue that is branched or otherwise substituted to impart certain desirable properties (e.g., improve hydrophilicity or bioavailability).

As used herein, the term “derivative” refers to a chemically or biologically modified version of a chemical agent, such as a compound, that is structurally similar to a parent or original agent and (actually or theoretically) derivable from that parent or original agent. A “derivative” differs from an “analogue” in that the parent compound can (actually or theoretically) be used as starting material to generate a “derivative” , whereas the parent compound may not necessarily be capable of being used as the starting material to generate an “analogue” .

A derivative may or may not have different chemical or physical properties of the parent agent. For example, the derivative may be more hydrophilic or it may have altered reactivity as compared to the parent compound. Derivatization (i.e., modification) may involve substitution of one or more moieties within the molecule (e.g., a change in a functional group). For example, a hydrogen may be substituted with a halogen, such as fluorine or chlorine, or a hydroxyl group (-OH) may be replaced with a carboxylic acid moiety (-COOH).

The term “derivative” is also used herein to describe all solvates, for example hydrates or adducts (e.g., adducts with alcohols), active metabolites, and salts of the parent agent. The type of salt that may be prepared depends on the nature of the moieties within the agent. For example, acidic groups, for example carboxylic acid groups, can form, for example, alkali metal salts or alkaline earth metal salts (e.g., sodium salts, potassium salts, magnesium salts and calcium salts) and also salts with physiologically tolerable quaternary ammonium ions and acid addition salts with ammonia and physiologically tolerable organic amines such as, for example, triethylamine, ethanolamine or tris-(2-hydroxyethyl)amine). Basic groups can form acid addition salts, for example with inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid, or with organic carboxylic acids or sulfonic acids, such as acetic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, tartaric acid, methanesulfonic acid or p- toluene sulfonic acid. Agents which simultaneously contain a basic group and an acidic group, for example a carboxyl group in addition to basic nitrogen atoms, can be present as zwitterions. Salts can be obtained by customary methods known to those skilled in the art, for example by combining an agent with an inorganic or organic acid or base in a solvent or diluent, or from other salts by cation exchange or anion exchange.

It will be understood that analogues or derivatives may be included in place of or in addition to the specific components, substance, and agents referred to herein.

One aspect of the invention provides a composition comprising a carbonate -containing substance; and an acid. Typically, the composition also comprises an antimicrobial substance. Suitably, each of the carbonate -containing substance, the acid, and (where included) the antimicrobial substance, is a different component of the composition of this aspect.

The total concentration of the carbonate-containing substance and/or the acid of the composition of this aspect may be any suitable concentration, such as between about 0.5% w/w to about 99.5% w/w, including about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, and 99% w/w.

Typically, the composition of this aspect is a concentrated composition for preparation of an effervescent cleaning composition as further described hereinbelow.

The composition of this aspect may be a solid composition or a liquid composition. Typically, the composition is a solid composition. In typical embodiments, the composition of this aspect is a powder or the like. Typically, the composition is a substantially dry composition, such as a substantially anhydrous powder.

The composition of this aspect may comprise one, one or more, or a plurality of carbonate-containing substances. As will be understood by the skilled person, the term “carbonate” generally refers to salts of carbonic acid (H2CO3) comprising a carbonate ion (CO3 ² ).

Typically, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition of this aspect is soluble in water. The skilled person will appreciate that solubility in general, and water solubility specifically, can be quantified using various parameters or scales. In some typical embodiments, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition of this aspect is ‘soluble’ (10 to 30 mass parts of solvent required to dissolve 1 mass part of solute), freely soluble (1 to 10 mass parts of solvent required to dissolve 1 mass part of solute), or very soluble (<1 mass part of solvent required to dissolve 1 mass part of solute) according to the scale described in United States Pharmacopeia.

Typically, the carbonate-containing substance of this aspect comprises a cation. Typically, the cation has a valence of one.

In some typical embodiments, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition comprises a metal. It will be understood that metals are present in carbonates in cationic form. In embodiments, the metal is an alkali metal, inclusive of lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, and caesium. Typically, the metal is sodium.

In a typical embodiment, the carbonate-containing substance is or includes a bicarbonate (HCO ). In some typical embodiments, the carbonate-containing substance is selected from ammonium bicarbonate ((NH^HCCh), potassium bicarbonate (KHCOs), and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCOs).

In atypical embodiment, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition of this aspect is or includes sodium bicarbonate (NaHCOs).

In embodiments, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition of this aspect is or includes an adduct. As will be understood by the skilled person, the term “adduct” generally refers to a product of a direct addition of two or more distinct molecules, the product comprising all atoms of all components.

Typically, the carbonate-containing adduct of the composition of this aspect is a perhydrate. In some typical embodiments, the adduct is selected from and sodium percarbonate (Na2CC>3- 1.5 H2O2) and potassium percarbonate (BUCOs- I.5H2O2).

In atypical embodiment, the carbonate-containing substance of the composition of this aspect is or includes sodium percarbonate (Na2CC>3 1.5 H2O2).

Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises at least two carbonate-containing substances. In a typical embodiment, the composition comprises sodium bicarbonate (NaHCCh) and sodium percarbonate (Na2CC>3 1.5 H2O2).

Typically, the total concentration of the carbonate-containing substance(s) in the composition of this aspect is about 40% weight/weight (w/w) to about 95% w/w, including about 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, and 90% w/w.

More typically, the total concentration of the carbonate-containing substance(s) is about 50% w/w to about 70% w/w, including about 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, 66, and 68% w/w. In a typical embodiment, the total concentration of the carbonate -containing substance(s) is about 60%.

Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises a first carbonate-containing substance at a concentration of about 25% w/w to about 75% w/w, including about 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, and 70% w/w.

More typically, the concentration of the first carbonate-containing substance is about 40% w/w to about 60% w/w, including about 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, and 58% w/w.

In a typical embodiment, the concentration of the first carbonate-containing substance is about 50% w/w.

It will be understood that the first carbonate-containing substance may be any suitable carbonate-containing substance, such as those hereinabove described. In atypical embodiment, the first carbonate-containing substance is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCOs).

Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises a second carbonate-containing substance at a concentration of about 5% w/w to about 45% w/w, including about 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40% w/w.

More typically, the concentration of the second carbonate-containing substance is about 5% w/w to about 25% w/w, including about 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 and 24% w/w.

In a typical embodiment, the concentration of the second carbonate-containing substance is about 10% w/w.

It will be understood that the second carbonate-containing substance may be any suitable carbonate-containing substance, such as those hereinabove described. In a typical embodiment, the second carbonate-containing substance is sodium percarbonate (Na2CO3 1.5 H2O2).

The composition of this aspect may comprise one, one or more, or a plurality of acid(s).

Typically, the acid of the composition is or includes a weak acid. As will be understood by the skilled person, a weak acid partially dissociates when dissolved in a suitable solvent, typically water. Generally, weak acids have pKa > 1.

Typically, the acid of the composition is or includes an organic acid. As will be understood by the skilled person, an organic acid is an organic (i.e. carbon-containing) compound with acidic properties. Organic acids include, by way of non-limiting example, carboxylic acids and sulfonic acids.

In some typical embodiments, the organic acid of the composition of this aspect is selected from lactic acid, acetic acid, formic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid, uric acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid. In a typical embodiment, the organic acid of the composition of this aspect is citric acid.

Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises an acid at a concentration of about 15% w/w to about 50% w/w, including about 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45% w/w.

More typically, the concentration of the acid is about 20% w/w to about 40% w/w, including about 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, and 38% w/w.

In a typical embodiment, the concentration of the acid is about 30% w/w.

The composition of this aspect may comprise one, one or more, or a plurality of antimicrobial substance(s). As used herein, an “antimicrobial” substance will have at least some ability to inhibit or prevent growth, reproduction, or propagation of at least certain groups of microorganisms, such as bacteria, microscopic fungi or algae, and/or viruses or prions etc. It will be appreciated that antimicrobial substances may, but need not necessarily, be capable of killing microorganisms.

Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises at least one plant-derived or plant- derivable antimicrobial substance. As used herein, a “plant-derived” substance will be understood to broadly include any substance, chemical, or agent, or combination thereof, that is removed from a plant, plant cell, or plant tissue. Plant-derived substances may be obtained from any suitable plant tissue or plant part etc. , including structural tissues such as roots, stem, branches, leaves, and bark; and reproductive tissues such as flowers, fruit, and seeds. Plant- derived substances may, but need not, be processed using extraction and/or purification steps as are known in the art.

As used herein, a “plant-derivable” substance will be understood to broadly include any substance, chemical, or agent, or combination thereof, that can be removed from a plant, plant cell, or plant tissue . It will be understood that plant-derivable substances differ from plant- derived substances in that plant-derivable substances need not be removed from a plant. By way of non-limiting example, plant-derivable substances include synthetically produced substances that are substantially the same as plant-derived substances, and substances obtained from other biological sources (e.g. microbes or animals) that are substantially the same as plant- derived substances.

In a typical embodiment, the plant-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance of the composition of this aspect is a tree-derived or derivable substance.

Typically, the tree-derived or derivable substance is derived or derivable from a tree of the Salicaceae family. More typically, the tree-derived or derivable substance is derived or derivable from a tree of the Populus genus. In some typical embodiments, the tree-derived or derivable substance is derived or derivable from a tree selected from poplar, aspen, or cottonwood. More typically, the tree is poplar.

In a typical embodiment, the tree-derived or derivable substance is derived from Populus tremuloides .

In some typical embodiments, the tree-derived or derivable substance is bark, or an extract thereof. In a typical embodiment, the bark or bark extract is aspen bark, or aspen bark extract.

Typically, the tree-derived or tree-derivable substance is or includes one or more salicylates or salicylic acids. As will be understood by the skilled person, salicylic acid is a phenolic acid with IUPAC name 2-hydroxybenzoic acid and formula C7H6O3. Salicylates include salts and esters of salicylic acids.

In some typical embodiments, the plant-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance of the composition of the first aspect is a cereal-derived or derivable substance. As will be understood by the skilled person, cereals broadly include grass species cultivated for edible grain components.

In some typical embodiment, the cereal-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance is derived or derivable from com.

Typically, the cereal-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance comprises one or more lactones. As will be understood by the skilled person, lactones are cyclic carboxylic esters, containing a l-oxacycloalkan-2-one structure (-C(=O)-O-), or analogues having unsaturation or heteroatoms replacing one or more carbon atoms of the ring.

In a typical embodiment, the cereal-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance is glucono delta-lactone.

In some typical embodiments, the composition of this aspect comprises an aromatic compound-containing antimicrobial substance. As will be understood by the skilled person, aromatic compounds are organic compounds containing ring structures featuring pi electrons.

Typically, the aromatic compound-containing antimicrobial substance of the composition of this aspect is a benzoate-containing antimicrobial substance.

In a typical embodiment, the aromatic compound-containing antimicrobial substance is sodium benzoate.

Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises at least two antimicrobial substances. In some typical embodiments, the composition comprises at least three antimicrobial substances. In a typical embodiment, the composition comprises at least two plant-derived or derivable antimicrobial substances, such as hereinabove described.

In a typical embodiment, the composition comprises at least one plant-derived or derivable antimicrobial substance such as hereinabove described, and at least one aromatic antimicrobial substance such as hereinabove described.

In a typical embodiment, the composition comprises a salicylate -containing antimicrobial substance, such as aspen bark or aspen bark extract; a lactone-containing antimicrobial substance, such as glucono delta-lactone; and a benzoate-containing antimicrobial substance, such as sodium benzoate.

The concentration of the one or more antimicrobial substances of the composition of this aspect may be any suitable concentration, such as between about 0.05% w/w to about 70% w/w, including about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, and 65% w/w.

Typically, the total concentration of the one or more antimicrobial substances of the composition of this aspect is about 0.2% w/w to about 10% w/w, including about 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, and 9.5% w/w.

More typically, the total concentration of the one or more antimicrobial substances is about 0.25% w/w to about 5% w/w, including about 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3, 3.25, 3.5, 3.75, 4, 4.25, 4.5, and 4.75% w/w.

In a typical embodiment, the total concentration of the one or more antimicrobial substances is about 0.5% w/w or about 1% w/w.

Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises a first antimicrobial substance at a concentration of about 0.05% w/w to about 5% w/w, including about 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, and 4.5% w/w.

More typically, the concentration of the first antimicrobial substance is about 0. 1% w/w to about 2.5% w/w, including about 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, and 2.25% w/w.

In a typical embodiment, the concentration of the first antimicrobial substance is about 0.25% w/w or about 0.5% w/w.

It will be understood that the first antimicrobial substance may be any suitable antimicrobial substance, such as those hereinabove described. In embodiments, the first antimicrobial substance is a salicylate-containing antimicrobial substance, such as aspen bark or an extract thereof. Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises a second antimicrobial substance at a concentration of about 0.05% w/w to about 5% w/w, including about 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2,

2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, and 4.5% w/w.

More typically, the concentration of the second antimicrobial substance is about 0.1% w/w to about 2.5% w/w, including about 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, and 2.25% w/w.

In a typical embodiment, the concentration of the second antimicrobial substance is about 0.25% w/w or about 0.5% w/w.

It will be understood that the second antimicrobial substance may be any suitable antimicrobial substance, such as those hereinabove described. In embodiments, the second antimicrobial substance is a lactone-containing antimicrobial substance, such as glucono delta- lactone.

Typically, the composition of this aspect comprises a third antimicrobial substance at a concentration of about 0.05% w/w to about 5% w/w, including about 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3,

3.5, 4, and 4.5% w/w.

More typically, the concentration of the third antimicrobial substance is about 0.1% w/w to about 2.5% w/w, including about 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, and 2.25% w/w.

In a typical embodiment, the concentration of the third antimicrobial substance is about 0.25% w/w or about 0.5% w/w.

It will be understood that the third antimicrobial substance may be any suitable antimicrobial substance, such as those hereinabove described. In embodiments, the third antimicrobial substance is a benzoate-containing antimicrobial substance, such as sodium benzoate.

In some typical embodiments, the composition of this aspect includes one or more fragrance substances. As used herein a “fragrance substance” will be understood to refer to a substance added to the composition for the purposes of changing, adjusting, or modifying the fragrance, smell, or aroma of the composition. Typically, the fragrance agent will be selected to be desirable, or at least substantially inoffensive, to a human subject.

The fragrance substance of the composition of this aspect may be any suitable fragrance substance, including solid and liquid substances, and natural and synthetic substances.

Suitably, the one or more fragrance substances is a different component of the composition of this aspect than the carbonate -containing substance, the acid, and the antimicrobial substance as hereinabove described.

Typically, the fragrance substance of the composition of this aspect is a plant-derived or plant-derivable substance. In some typical embodiments, the fragrance substance is or includes one or more essential oils. As will be understood by the skilled person, an essential oil generally refers to a solution containing volatile plant compounds within a (typically hydrophobic) solvent.

In some typical embodiments, the essential oil or fragrance thereof is selected from bay, cardamom, citrus, cypress, eucalyptus, hyssop, mint, pine, rosemary, sage, vanilla, yarrow, pepper, cedarwood, chamomile, cinnamon, clove, geranium, jasmine, juniper, myrtle, myrrh, niaouli, nutmeg, rose, frankincense, patchouli, sandalwood, valerian, vetiver, mandarin, lavender, green tea, and ginger.

More typically, the essential oil or fragrance thereof is selected from mandarin, lavender, green tea, ginger, and jasmine.

The concentration of the one or more fragrance substances of the composition of this aspect may be any suitable concentration, such as between about 0.1% w/w to about 40% w/w, including about 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35% w/w.

Typically, the total concentration of the one or more fragrance substances of is about 1% w/w to about 20% w/w, including about 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19% w/w.

More typically, the total concentration of the one or more fragrance substances is about 3% w/w to about 10% w/w, including about 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10% w/w.

In atypical embodiment, the total concentration of the one or more fragrance substances is about 4% w/w, about 6% w/w, or about 8% w/w.

In some typical embodiments, the composition of this aspect includes one or more mineral substance(s). As will be understood by the skilled person, a mineral substance broadly refers to a substance with specific solid crystal structure that occurs naturally in substantially pure form, and typically includes inorganic elements.

Suitably, the one or more mineral substances of the composition of this aspect is a different component of the composition of this aspect than the carbonate-containing substance, the acid, the antimicrobial substance, and the fragrance substance as hereinabove described.

Typically, the mineral substance of the composition of this aspect comprises a metal. In typical embodiments, the metal is an alkaline earth metal. In some typical embodiments, the metal is selected from beryllium, magnesium, calcium, and barium. Typically, the metal is calcium.

Typically, the mineral substance comprises a sugar or sugar derivative. In some typical embodiments, the sugar derivative is gluconic acid or gluconate. In a typical embodiment, the mineral substance of the composition of this aspect is calcium gluconate.

The concentration of the one or more mineral substances of the composition of this aspect may be any suitable concentration, such as between about 0.01% w/w to about 10% w/w, including about 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9% w/w.

Typically, the concentration of the one or more mineral substance(s) of the composition of this aspect is less than about 5% w/w or less than about 1% w/w, including less than about 0.9, 0.8, 0.7, 0.6, 0.5, 0.4, 0.3, 0.2, and 0.1% w/w.

In a typical embodiment, the concentration of the one or more mineral substance(s) is less than about 0.1% w/w.

As hereinabove described, the composition of this aspect comprises one or more carbonate-containing substances, one or more acids, and, optionally, one or more antimicrobial substances. Additionally, the composition of this aspect may comprise one or more fragrance substances and/or one or more mineral substances.

As set out above, the composition of this aspect typically comprises distinct components that are respectively: carbonate-containing substance(s); acid(s); and, optionally, antimicrobial substance(s),

The composition may comprise one or more further distinct components that are respectively: fragrance substance(s); and/or mineral substance(s).

However, to avoid doubt, it will be understood that a given component of the composition of this aspect may have shared or overlapping properties with one or more of the other respective components of the composition of this aspect. By way of non-limiting example, a fragrance substance of the composition may contain carbonate, or an acid of the composition may have antimicrobial properties.

It will be readily appreciated that the composition of this aspect may further include any other suitable substances, agent, or components. In some embodiments, the composition may include one or more fillers, buffers, preservatives, diluents, and/or excipients, as are known in the art. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing a composition, including a step of combining at least one carbonate -containing substance, at least one acid, and, optionally, at least one antimicrobial substance, to thereby produce the composition. Typically, the at least one carbonate-containing substance, at least one acid, and at least one antimicrobial substance are as hereinabove described.

The method of this aspect may include a step of combining at least one fragrance substance with the at least one carbonate-containing substance, at least one acid, and (where included) at least one antimicrobial substance. Typically, the at least one fragrance substance is as hereinabove described.

The method of this aspect may include a step of combining at least one mineral substance with the at least one carbonate-containing substance, at least one acid, and (where included) at least one microbial substance. Typically, the at least one mineral substance is as hereinabove described.

In some typical embodiments, the method of this aspect includes steps of: mixing the at least one carbonate-containing substance with the at least one acid; and mixing the at least one antimicrobial substance and, optionally, the at least one fragrance substance and/or the at least one mineral substance with the mixture of the at least one carbonate-containing substance and at least one acid.

A related aspect of the invention provides a composition produced according to the method of the preceding aspect. Suitably, the composition is a composition as hereinabove described, such as a concentrated composition for preparation of an effervescent cleaning composition.

Another aspect of the invention provides an effervescent cleaning composition comprising a liquid solvent; at least one carbonate-containing substance; at least one acid; and, optionally, at least one antimicrobial substance. Typically, the liquid solvent of the effervescent cleaning composition of this aspect is water.

As used herein an “effervescent” composition will be understood to be a liquid composition from which a substantial amount of gas escapes over a substantial period of time. Typically, the escaping gas of effervescent compositions as described herein is or includes carbon dioxide gas.

Typically, effervescent compositions as described herein will release an amount of gas that results in obvious bubbling, foaming, and/or fizzing over a surface area of the composition from which the gas escapes. Typically, obvious bubbling, foaming, and/or fizzing will continue for a minimum amount of time in the absence of external stirring or agitation etc. , such as about 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, or 10 minutes.

Typically, the effervescent cleaning composition of this aspect is an effervescent laundering composition. It will be appreciated that effervescent laundering compositions according to this aspect will be adapted for laundering or cleaning of clothing and/or linen.

Effervescent laundering compositions according to this aspect are typically adapted for laundering of clothing comprises material that is sensitive to washing using certain existing compositions or techniques, such machine washing and/or dry cleaning compositions or techniques. The compositions may be particularly adapted for laundering of clothing comprising denim, silk, wool, and/or elastane (Lycra), etc.

In typical embodiments, the effervescent cleaning composition is a raw wash denim composition. As used herein, a “raw wash denim composition" will be understood to be a composition adapted for laundering or cleaning of denim clothing, such as denim jeans, without the need for machine washing. That is, raw wash denim compositions are herein described are adapted to launder or clean denim clothing by contacting the clothing with the composition, without the need for machine processing such as using domestic or industrial washing machines.

To avoid doubt, however, compositions as described herein are not limited to use as raw wash denim composition or the like. Rather, compositions may be suitable for a range of other uses, including, in at least some instances, use for conventional laundering using washing machines.

Still another aspect of the invention provides a method of preparing an effervescent cleaning composition, including a step of combining at least one carbonate-containing substance; at least one acid; and, optionally, at least one microbial substance, with a liquid solvent. Suitably, the liquid solvent is water.

Typically, the step of combining according to the method of this aspect is a step of combining the concentrated composition for preparation of an effervescent cleaning composition as hereinabove described, with the liquid solvent.

In some typical embodiments, about 1 part concentrated composition is combined with at least about 50 parts liquid solvent, or at least about 100 parts liquid solvent.

Typically, the concentrated composition as hereinabove described is combined with the liquid solvent in a ratio of between about 1:50 and about 1: 1000. More typically, the concentrated composition is combined with the liquid solvent at a ratio of between about 1 : 100 and about 1:500, including about 1: 150, 1:200, 1:250, 1:300, 1:350, 1:400, and 1:450. In a typical embodiment, the concentrated composition is combined with the liquid solvent at a ratio of about 1 :250.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of cleaning an article, including a step of contacting the article with a composition as herein described.

Typically, the method of this aspect includes a step of contacting the article with the effervescent cleaning composition as hereinabove described. In an alternative embodiment, the method of this aspect includes a step of contacting the article with the concentrated composition for preparation of an effervescent cleaning composition as hereinabove described.

The article contacted according to the method of this aspect may be any suitable article.

In embodiments, the article is a household or commercial surface, or household or commercial appliance, or the like. The surface or appliance or the like may be a toilet, bathroom, kitchen, or laundry surface or appliance, although without limitation thereto.

In embodiments, the article may be of a subject, such as a human or animal subject. For example, the composition may be contacted with hair (e.g. as a shampoo) or skin (e.g. as a sanitiser or bodywash).

Typically, the article contacted according to the method of this aspect is an article of clothing or an article of linen. In a typical embodiment, the article contacted comprises a material sensitive to conventional laundering, such as laundering using a washing machine and/or dry cleaning.

In typical embodiments, the article contacted according to the method of this aspect is a clothing article comprising a material selected from elastane (Lycra), silk, wool, or denim. More typically, the article comprises denim. In atypical embodiment, the article is denim jeans.

Suitably, the article contacted according to the method of this aspect is contacted for a minimum duration.

In typical embodiments wherein the article is an article of clothing or an article of linen, the article is contacted for at least about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60 minutes. More typically, the article is contacted for at least about 15 minutes.

In a typical embodiment, the article is contacted for about 5 minutes to about 60 minutes, including about 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 55 minutes.

In some typical embodiments wherein the method of this aspect includes contacting the article with the effervescent cleaning composition as described herein, the method includes a step of substantially immersing the article in the effervescent cleaning composition.

Certain typical embodiments will now be further described by way of the following non-limiting examples. EXAMPLES

Example 1. Formula of typical composition

The following optimised formula for a concentrated, powdered composition for preparation of an effervescent raw wash denim composition has been developed.

Component Concentration (% w/w)

Sodium bicarbonate 48

Sodium percarbonate 10

Citric acid 35

Essential oils 6

Aspen bark extract 0.5

Naturagard 0.5

The aspen bark extract used for the composition is CAS Number: 90083-05-9, derived from Populus tremuloides .

A description of Naturagard used for the composition can be found at the following link: https://www.thesourcery.co.nz/shop/geogard-ultra-naturagard- ultra-100g/

Naturagard comprises glucon delta lactone and sodium benzoate, along with a trace amount of calcium gluconate.

Essential oils used for the composition include one or more of mandarin (Citrus madurensis)'. lavender (Lavandula officinalis)' , green tea (Camellia sinensis), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and jasmine (Jasminum spp.).

Example 2.

A typical protocol for manufacture of the composition of Example 1 involves the following steps:

Step 1

Sodium bicarbonate, sodium percarbonate, and citric acid are combined and mixed thoroughly.

Step 2

Aspen bark extract and Naturagard are combined with the mixture formed by Step 1 and mixed thoroughly.

Step 3

Essential oils are combined with the mixture formed by Step 2 and mixed thoroughly.

Example 3. A typical protocol for raw washing of denim jeans using the composition of Example 1 involves the following steps:

Step 1

Pour one sachet (25 g) of the composition of Example 1 into 6L of room temperature water.

Step 2

Place denim jeans into the wash solution prepared in Step 1 and soak for at least 15 minutes. Mild agitation may be desirable to remove difficult stains.

Step 3

After soaking, rinse jeans clean of wash residue using water.

Step 4

Drip dry fabric and hang for further drying in a well-ventilated environment.

Throughout this specification, the aim has been to describe typical aspects and embodiments without limiting the invention as disclosed herein to any one aspect, embodiment, or specific collection of features. It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications may be made relative to the exemplary disclosure provided herein without departing from the present invention.

In this specification, the use of the terms “ uitable" and “suitably”, and similar terms, is not to be read as implying that a feature or step is essential, although such features or steps referred to as “suitable” may well be preferred.

In this specification, the indefinite articles “a” and “an” are not to be read as singular indefinite articles or as otherwise excluding more than one or more than a single subject to which the indefinite article refers. For example, “a” compound includes one compound, one or more compounds, and a plurality of compounds.

In this specification, the terms “comprises”, “comprising” , “includes”, “including” , and similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a composition or method that comprises or includes a list of elements need not have those elements solely, and may well have other elements not listed.

In this specification, the terms “consisting essentially of and “consists essentially of are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion only to the extent that, if additional elements are included beyond those elements recited, the additional elements do not materially alter basic and novel characteristics. That is, a composition or method that “consists essentially of one or more recited elements includes those elements only, or those elements and any additional elements that do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the composition or method.

All documents and websites etc. referred to in this specification are incorporated in full by reference.