Field of the invention

The invention relates to a solid multi-part composition for in situ production of a peroxy acid containing solution suitable for use as detergent and disinfection. In particular, the invention relates to a multi-part solid composition for use as detergent and/or disinfection for hard surfaces and/or soft surfaces. More particular, the invention relates to a multi-part solid composition for use as detergent and/or disinfection in the food/beverage processing and food/beverage service industry.

Background of the invention

Peroxy acid and especially peroxyacetic acid is for a long time known as highly effective disinfection. US 5,597,791 discloses an aqueous colloidal peroxygen composition comprising stable sols, gels and solids of C2 to C6 peroxycarboxylic acids with a polysaccharide gum, optionally with gum cross-linking agents such as boric acid, borate salts, urea and the like useful for delivering peracids in applications such as surface cleaners, detergent bleach and automatic dish washing formulations.

Commercial liquid products such as surface cleaners, detergent bleach, automatic dishwashing formulations and the like comprising peroxyacetic acid are hazardous, causes chemical "burns" if splashed onto the skin and have an offensive odor. Liquid peracid solutions have the disadvantage of transportation and storage because they are bulky.

Although said liquid products have an excellent disinfection effects the danger for humans and environment is still considerable, since the products are liquid.

DE 39 03 825 A1 discloses a solid multi-part composition containing peroxyacetic acid and urea, wherein the peroxyacetic acid is embedded in the urea. This solid composition can be used for disinfection and sterilization purposes. However, peracetic acid is an unstable compound prone to decomposition into acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, which upon further decomposition produces oxygen gas. The decomposition products have a minimal biocidal activity compared to peracetic acid. Further, peracetic acid has an offensive odor.

It is still a need in prior art to provide a solid multi-part composition that has a pleasant odor, is less harmless in its solid stage, not bulky, avoids the disadvantages of transport and storage of liquids, provides a rapid dissolution in water, develops after dissolution based on a low active concentration a good disinfecting effect.

Description of the invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a solid multi-part composition for use as detergent and disinfection that has a pleasant odor, is less harmless in its solid stage, not bulky, avoids the disadvantages of transport and storage of liquids, provides a rapid dissolution in water, develops after dissolution based on a low active concentration a good disinfecting effect. For example, the volume of the solid multi-part composition compared to a concentrated liquid equivalent can be reduced for at least 95%. The object of the present invention is solved by a multi-part solid composition described in detail below, which provides good cleaning and disinfecting properties.

According to the present invention a solid multi-part composition is provided comprising a compartment of a solid first part and a compartment of a solid second part, wherein the first solid part compartment comprises:

- urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% water,

- at least one organic acid, wherein the organic acid is embedded in said urea; and the second solid part compartment comprises:

- urea and at least one peroxide source and/or a percarbamide,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% water.

If not other way stated the wt.-% of the first solid part compartment is based on the total weight amount of the first solid part compartment and the wt.-% of the second solid part compartment is based on the total weight amount of the second solid part compartment. Further, the total weight all components of the solid multi-part composition including the components of the first solid part compartment and the second solid part compartment is 100 wt.-% or is selected such that it does not exceed 100 wt.-% based on the solid multi-part composition.

According to the present invention it can be more preferred that the all of the urea and the peroxide source of the second solid part compartment are present as percarbamide.

In general, the organic acid is a saturated or unsaturated, linear or cyclic, aliphatic or aromatic acid. Preferably, the organic acid is a saturated or unsaturated, linear or cyclic, aliphatic or aromatic acid of a Ci to Cio organic acid.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the solid multi-part composition comprises a compartment of a solid first part and a compartment of a solid second part, wherein

the first solid part compartment comprises:

≥ 0 wt.-% to < 60 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Cio organic acid,

> 0 wt.-% to < 5 wt.-% of water,

≥ 0 wt.-% to < 95 wt.-% of urea, wherein the Ci to Cio organic acid is embedded in said urea; the second solid part compartment comprises:

> 0 wt.-% to < 95 wt.-% of urea,

≥ 0 wt.-% to < 10 wt.-% of water

> 0 wt.-% to < 45 wt.-% of at least one peroxide source, preferably percarbamide; and the total wt.-% of all components of the solid multi-part composition is 100 wt.-%.

If not other where stated the amount of all components of the solid multi-part composition of the present invention is calculated on the total weight of the composition and is selected such that it does not exceed 100 wt.-%.

The solid multi-part composition of the present invention can contain additional components, for example at least one chelating agent, acid as catalyst and/or at least one auxiliary agent. The catalyst is used to speed up the equilibrium of the organic acid to the corresponding Ci to Cio peroxyacid at the time of dissolution in water.

The chelating agent is used to form a complex with metal ions and to increase the stability of the peroxyorganic acid. According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention of the solid multi-part composition can comprise a compartment of a solid first part and a compartment of a solid second part, wherein

the first solid part compartment comprises:

- urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of water,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one chelating agent,

- at least one Ci to Cio organic acid, wherein the organic acid is embedded in said urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one catalyst,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one auxiliary agent,

the second solid part compartment comprises:

- urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of water,

- at least one peroxide source, wherein

at least a part of the peroxide source and the urea, preferably all of the urea and the peroxide source, are present as a percarbamide; and the total wt.-% of all components of the solid multi-part composition is 100 wt.-%.

Also preferred is an embodiment of the present invention of the solid multi-part composition that can comprise a compartment of a solid first part and a compartment of a solid second part, wherein

the first solid part compartment comprises:

- urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of water,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one chelating agent,

- at least one Ci to Cio organic acid, wherein the organic acid is embedded in said urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one catalyst,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one auxiliary agent,

the second solid part compartment comprises:

- percarbamid,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of water,

- at least one peroxide source, wherein

the total wt.-% of all components of the solid multi-part composition is 100 wt.-%. Another preferred embodiment of the present invention of the solid multi-part composition can comprise a compartment of a solid first part and a compartment of a solid second part, wherein the first solid part compartment comprises:

- > 5 wt.-% urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of water,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one chelating agent,

- at least one Ci to Cio organic acid, wherein the organic acid is embedded in said urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one catalyst,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% of at least one auxiliary agent,

the second solid part compartment comprises:

- percarbamide,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% water, wherein the total wt.-% of all components of the solid multi-part composition is 100 wt.-%.

Also preferred is a solid multi-part composition that comprises a compartment of a solid first part and a compartment of a solid second part, wherein

the first solid part compartment comprises:

- ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 99 wt.-%, preferably≥ 1 wt.-% to < 98 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 2 wt.-% to < 96 wt.-% urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 15 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.1 wt.-% to < 10 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.2 wt- % to < 5 wt.-% water,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 10 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.01 wt.-% to < 8 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.02 wt.-% to < 7 wt.-% chelating agent,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 15 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.01 wt.-% to < 10 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.02 wt.-% to < 8 wt.-% of at least one auxiliary agent,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 75 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.1 wt.-% to < 70 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.2 wt- % to < 65 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Cio organic acid, wherein the organic acid is embedded in said urea,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 15 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.01 wt.-% to < 10 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.02 wt.-% to < 8 wt.-% of a catalyst,

the second solid part compartment comprises:

- ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 99 wt.-%, preferably≥ 1 wt.-% to < 98 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 2 wt.-% to < 96 wt.-% urea,

- ≥ 1 wt.-% to < 100 wt.-%, preferably≥ 1 wt.-% to < 99 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 2 wt.-% to < 98 wt.-% percarbamide and/or a peroxide source,

- ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 15 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.1 wt.-% to < 10 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.2 wt- % to < 5 wt.-% water, wherein the total wt.-% of all components of the solid multi-part composition is 100 wt.-%. The solid multi-part composition of the present invention comprises the active ingredients in a high concentration. The concentration of the active ingredients is calculated on the total weight of the solid multi-part composition of the present invention, if not otherwise stated. Further, water can be added to a mixture of the components of the solid multi-part composition to reach a total of 100 wt.-% (percent by weight) of the solid multi-part composition.

The water content of the solid multi-part composition can be in the range of≥ 0 wt- % and < 1 5 wt.-% and includes crystal water, based on the total weight of the solid mu lti-part composition. However, it can be preferred that the multi-part solid composition of the present invention is anhydrous. Preferably, the second solid part compartment containing the peroxide source can be anhydrous or contains crystal water only. However, most preferred is that the first solid part compartment of the solid multi-part composition containing the organic acid and/or second solid part compartment containing the peroxide source contains water.

According to the invention the second part compartment of the multi-part solid composition comprises an adduct of hydrogen peroxide and urea, which is also called carbamide peroxide, urea peroxide, urea hydrogen peroxide, and percarbamide. All names are synonymous used. The carbamide is a white crystalline solid that releases oxygen if dissolved in sufficient water.

References herein to a "solid" composition or compartment are to those, which are solid at < 40° C. Preferably, the multi-part solid composition of the present invention can be form-stable and/or rigid.

The term "peroxyacid" or "peracid" as used in the present specification are synonyms and refer to the reaction product of the organic acid of the first part compartment of the solid multi-part composition with the peroxide source, preferably hydrogen peroxide, of the second part of the multi part solid composition.

Chelating agents can be selected from the group comprising ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), tris(carboxymethyl)amin (NTA), glutamic acid diacetic acid (GLDA), methylglycin diacetic acid (MGDA), phosphonic acid. Most preferred is phosphonic acid. Preferred is an shortfall of the peroxide source to obtain a high conversion rate of said Ci to Cio organic acid into the corresponding peracid at the time of dissolution. This can be improved by adding a catalyst. The catalyst that can be added to the solid first part compartment of the multi part solid composition can be sulphuric acid. The catalyst is used to speed up the equilibrium of the organic acid to the corresponding Ci to Ci ₀ peroxyacid, for example acetic acid to POAA.

Preferably, the Ci to Cio organic acid of the solid first urea compartment and the peroxide source of the solid second urea compartment are arranged apart from each other in order to avoid that the Ci to Cio organic acid reacts with the peroxide source at storage and before dissolution in water.

The solid multi-part composition of the present invention it less hazard, avoids the pungent odor of a peroxyacid. Further, a high amount of Ci to Cio organic acid as well as of the peroxide source, such as percarbamide, can be embedded in urea that forms a solid compartment. Thus, the solid multi-part composition of the present invention can be described as a solid multi-part concentrate composition. The solid multi-part composition can be in one-piece, in two-piece or a in multi-piece. Most preferred can be that a two-part composition, a third part-composition, a fourth-part composition or a multi-part composition according to the present invention is in form of a one-piece shaped article. The solid multi-part composition of the present invention can comprise at least two compartments, three compartments or four compartments. Most preferred can be two compartments, wherein the first compartment comprises the Ci to Cio organic acid and the second compartment the peroxide source and/or the percarbamide. The compartments of the solid multi-part composition of the present invention can be in form of a multi-layer. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the solid multi-part composition of the present invention can comprise two compartments in form of a first and second layer. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention the first compartment in form of a layer comprises the Ci to Cio organic acid and the second compartment in form of a layer comprises the peroxide source and/or the percarbamide. Before use, the solid multi-part composition of the present invention needs to be dissolved with a liquid solution, preferably water, to obtain a ready-to-use solution. Preferably, the solid multi-part composition is dissolved first-time at the time of application.

Compared to a prior art peracetic acid liquid concentrate composition the peroxide source embedded in the urea is more stable and no decomposition of peroxyorganic acid takes place, because the peroxyorganic acid is formed first time at the time of dissolution. Surprisingly, it has been found that the use of the solid multi-part composition of the present invention, wherein Ci to Cio organic acid and the peroxide source are separately embedded from each other. Thus the solid multi-part composition of the present invention has a much better anti-microbiological effectiveness compared to products wherein both parts are not separately embedded from each other in urea. This means that a substantially lower concentration of Ci to Cio peroxy organic acid is required in the ready-to-use solution to obtain equal biocidal effects.

It is assumed by the inventors that a chelating effect of the urea and the Ci to Cio organic acid as well as a chelating effect of the urea and the peroxy source formed at the time of dissolution are responsible for the increased disinfecting effect of the ready-to-use solution. The observed improved disinfecting effect seems to be increased further by the presents of urea. Maybe, a retard formulation is formed, which is responsible for the improvement. However, it seems to be important that both active components are separate embedded in different solid compartments of urea.

The solid multi-part composition of the present invention as well as the ready-to-use solution of the present invention has also a less corrosion potential. Especially the classification of hazardous materials can be changed from class 5.2 for organic peroxide oxidizing agent to class 5.1 of oxidizing agents, which results in an advantage for safety with respect to transport, storage and handling.

The solid first compartment can comprise at least one chelating agent, at least one catalyst and/or at least one auxiliary agent. It can be preferred that the chelating agent, the catalyst and/or the auxiliary agent are present in the solid first part compartment only. Where else the solid second part compartment or other solid compartments except the second compartment are free of a chelating agent, a catalyst and/or an auxiliary agent However, according to a less preferred embodiment a third compartment that is free of organic acid and/or a peroxide source may contain at least one chelating agent and/or at least one auxiliary agent. The amount of the at least one Ci to Cio organic acid in the solid first part compartment, based on the total weight amount of the multi-part solid composition, can be≥ 0 wt.-% to < 60 wt.-%, preferably≥ 5 wt.-% to < 55 wt.-%, and more preferred≥ 10 wt.-% to < 50 wt.-%.

The amount of the peroxide source in the solid second part compartment, based on the total weight amount of the multi-part solid composition, can be≥ 1 wt.-% to < 50 wt.-%, preferably ≥ 2 wt.-% to < 45 wt.-%, and more preferred≥ 3 wt.-% to < 40 wt.-%.

In order to keep the components stable in the solid second part compartment it can be preferred that at least a part, preferably all, of the peroxide source is present as a percarbamide.

For the solid multi-part composition of the present invention it can be preferred that≥ 0% to < 100%, preferably≥ 5% to < 90%, preferred≥ 7% to < 80%, further preferred≥ 10% to < 70%, also preferred≥ 20% and < 60%, additional preferred≥ 30% and < 50% and more preferred ≥ 40 % of the peroxide source has formed with the urea a percarbamide in the second solid part compartment.

For the solid multi-part composition of the present invention it can be preferred further that the mol ratio of peroxide source, including the peroxide of the percarbamide, to the Ci to Cio organic acid is in the range of 1 : 1 to 1 : 5, preferably 1 : 1 to 1 : 3 and more preferred 1 : 1 to 1 .2 : 1 .5.

The multi-part solid composition according to present invention may be present in different shapes. The multi-part solid composition can comprise at least multi compartments in form of cylinders and/or cuboids.

At least one compartment, preferably both compartments of the multi-part solid composition according to present invention can be a mold of a powder and/or granulate. It can be preferred that at least one compartment, more preferred both compartments of the multi-part solid composition is a cast. In order to avoid a chemical reaction between the Ci to C ₁₀ organic acid and the peroxide source and/or the percarbamide to the corresponding peracid/s, the reactive components can be arranged spaced apart from each other. Thus, it can be preferred that the Ci to C ₁₀ organic acid is in a first compartment and the peroxide source is in a second compartment, wherein the first compartment has a core area comprising the Ci to Cio organic acid and urea and said core area is completely covered by an urea layer that is free of a Ci to Cio organic acid ; and/or it can be preferred that the second compartment has a core area comprising the peroxide source and urea and/or percarbamide and the core area is completely covered by an urea layer that is free of a peroxide source or a peroxide source and percarbamide.

More preferred is, that between the surface of the first compartment containing the Ci to Cio organic acid and the surface of the second compartment containing the peroxide source and/or percarbamide that are faced to each other a separation layer can be sandwiched, wherein the separation layer is free of an acid and a peroxide source or a peroxide source and percarbamide. It is preferred that the separation layer completely covers all surface/s of the first compartment containing the Ci to Cio organic acid and the surface of the second compartment containing the peroxide source that could contact each other. I n a more preferred embodiment the separation layer may extend over the edge/s of surfaces of the first and/or second compartment that could contact each other.

The separation layer can be urea and/or a water-soluble salt, preferably NaCI. The thickness of the separation layer should be selected such that the layer substantially prevents or prevents a migration of the Ci to Cio organic acid as well as of the peroxide source and/or percarbamide to avoid a chemical reaction thereof.

The separation layer can be a water soluble polymer selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl acetates, polyethylene glycol, polymers resulting from alpha, beta unsaturated carboxylic acid monomers, polymers resulting from alkyl esters of alpha, beta unsaturated carboxylic ester monomers, polyethylene oxides and/or copolymers thereof. Most preferred is polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).

It is preferred that the separation layer covers at least one surface, preferably all surface/s, where a surface of a compartment containing Ci to Cio organic acid could come into direct contact with a surface of a compartment containing a peroxide source and/or percarbamide. In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, all surfaces where a compartment containing Ci to C ₁₀ organic acid could come into direct contact with a surface of a compartment containing a peroxide source and/or a percarbamide are completely covered by a separation layer.

In a most preferred embodiment of the present invention all surfaces of a compartment containing Ci to Cio organic acid adjacent arranged to a surface of a compartment containing a peroxide source and/or a percarbamide can be completely covered by a separation layer. Further, the outer surface of the solid multi-part composition can be at least partly, preferred completely, covered and/or wrapped by a separation layer.

A suitable separation layer can be urea and/or a water-soluble polymer. The water soluble polymer can be selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl acetates, polyethylene glycol, polymers resulting from alpha, beta unsaturated carboxylic acid monomers, polymers resulting from alkyl esters of alpha, beta unsaturated carboxylic ester monomers, polyethylene oxides and/or copolymers thereof. Most preferred, as a separation layer is polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).

The advantage to cover and/or wrap the outer surface of the solid multi-part composition of the present invention is that a contact by a user is harmless and avoids skin irritation. For example, urea is odourless, neither acidic nor alkaline, highly soluble in water and practically non-toxic.

Further, the cover as well as the wrap is completely water soluble and no residue remains if dissolved in water.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a concentrated solution obtained from dissolving the solid multi-part composition of the present invention. organic acid

The multi-part solid composition according to present invention, preferably the first solid part compartment, can comprise at least one organic acid. According to the present invention, the organic acid can be selected from the group comprising Ci to Cio organic acids including formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, iso-propionic acid, butanoic acid, pentanoic acid, hexanoic acid, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid, nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, itaconic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, salicylic acid, and/or succinic acid. However, most preferred is acetic acid. peroxide source

The multi-part solid composition according to present invention, preferably the second solid part compartment, can comprise at least one peroxide source. The peroxide source is suitable to oxidize a Ci to Cio organic acid to the corresponding Ci to Cio peroxyorganic acid. According to the present invention, the peroxide source can be selected from the group comprising H ₂ 0 ₂ , cumene hydroperoxide, potassium superoxide, percarbamide and/or potassium hydrogen monopersulphate. Most preferred is percarbamide. urea

Urea also known as carbamide is an organic compound with the chemical formula (Nh^CO. The urea is used for solidification and functions as an activator for the formation of peroxyacid at the time of dissolution of the multi-part solid composition according to present invention in water. chelating agent

The multi-part solid composition according to present invention can comprise at least one chelating agent. The chelating agent is selected from the group comprising phosphonates, biphosphonates, phosphonic acids, EDTA: ethylendiamintetraacetat, dimercaptosuccinic acid, DMPS: 2,3-dimercapto-1 -propanesulfonic acid, ALA: alpha lipoic acid, AEPN: 2- aminoethylphosphonic acid, DMMP: dimethyl methylphosphonate, HEDP: 1 -hydroxy ethylidene-1 ,1 -diphosphonic acid, ATMP: amino tris(methylene phosphonic acid), EDTMP: ethylenediamine tetra(methylene phosphon ic acid , TDTM P : tetramethylenediamine tetra(methylene phosphonic acid), HDTMP: hexamethylenediamine tetra(methylene phosphonic acid), DTPMP: diethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid), PBTC: phosphonobutane-tricarboxylic acid, PMIDA: N-(phosphonomethyl)iminodiacetic acid, CEPA: 2-carboxyethyl phosphonic acid, HPAA: 2-hydroxyphosphonocarboxylic acid, AMP: amino- tris-(methylene-phosphonic acid), NTA: tris(carboxymethyl)amin, MGDA: methylglycin diacetic acid and GLDA: glutamic acid diacetic acid. However, phosphonates, and more preferred 1 -hydroxy ethylidene-1 ,1 -diphosphonic acid (HEDP) can be used. However, most preferred is phosphonic acid. catalyst

The catalyst that can be added to the first part compartment of the multi part solid

composition. The catalyst can be selected from the group comprising inorganic acids, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfamic acid, nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, methane sulphonic acid, perchloric acid and/or sulphuric acid. However, most preferred is sulphuric acid. The catalyst is used to speed up the equilibrium of the organic acid to the corresponding Ci to Ci ₀ peroxyacid, for example acetic acid to POAA. auxiliary agent

The multi-part solid composition according to present invention can comprise at least one additional auxiliary agent. The auxiliary agent is selected from the group comprising at least at least one pH regulator agent, for example phosphate salts, sodium bicarbonate and carbonate salts, ammonium bicarbonate and carbonate salts, sodium or potassium acetate salts, and combinations thereof; at least one surfactant for example a anionic tenside, a cationic tensid, a betaine tenside, a non-ionic tenside, polyethylenglycol (PEG), poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), polyoxyethylene (POE); at least one antifoam agent comprising antifoams such as those of the silicon type and/or polypropylene glycol type; at least one perfume; at least one cationic, at least one builder selected from the group comprising an inorganic phosphate and/or zeolithe,

The auxiliary agent/s listed above may be used either individually or in the form of mixtures to solve the problem addressed by the invention.

Another object of the present invention is directed to a method of manufacture the solid multi- part composition of the present invention.

An organic acid containing solid compartment of the present invention can be obtained by mixing urea and at least one Ci to Cio organic acid, preferably acetic acid. The Ci to Cio organic acid can contain water. The concentration of the acid in said aqueous solution can be in the range of 60 wt.-% to 100 wt.-%, and preferably in the range of 80 wt.-% to 100 wt- %. The obtained mixture, can be dried if necessary and thereafter a shaped article is formed.

A peroxide source containing solid compartment of the present invention can be obtained by mixing urea and at least one peroxide source, preferably H ₂ 0 ₂ . The peroxide source can be an aqueous solution. The concentration of the peroxide in said aqueous solution can be in the range of 1 wt.-% to 60 wt.-%, and preferably in the range of 5 wt.-% to 50 wt.-%.

At least a part, preferably all of the peroxide source, can form a percarbamide. The percarbamide can be obtained in form of white crystals. If necessary, the white percarbamide crystals can be dried, mixed with urea and formed into a shaped article. More preferred, percarbamide can be used to form the solid second part compartment of the present invention. Most preferred, percarbamide only can be used to completely form the solid second part compartment of the present invention. A solid multi-part composition can be manufactured by a method including the steps for the first part compartment of mixing urea and at least one Ci to Cio organic acid, and optional drying the obtained mixture and for the second part compartment of mixing urea and at least one peroxide source, optional drying said obtained mixture and forming a shaped article of the first and second part compartment.

The first and second part compartment can be formed as a one piece or a separate article of the first and second part compartment is formed. Preferred is a one-piece article, because its facilitate the handling. Additional components can be added to said urea mixture. For example, at least one chelating agent, at least one catalyst and/or at least one auxiliary agent can be added to the urea.

At least one shaped article of the solid first part compartment containing at least one Ci to Cio organic acid and at least one shaped article of the solid second part compartment containing at least one peroxide source can be formed to a one-piece shape article.

Alternative embodiments of the solid multi-part composition for cleaning and disinfection comprising at least one separation layer, wrapped and/or covered by a water soluble material are already described before. All components that can be used in that process of manufacture are already defined for the solid multi-part composition of the present invention.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a concentrated solution obtained via dissolution of the solid multi-part composition.

The solid multi-part composition for cleaning and disinfection of the present invention can be dissolved in an aqueous solution, preferably water, to form a concentrated solution. At the time of dissolution the peroxy source and/or the percarbamide reacts in-situ with at least one of the Ci to Cio organic acid to the corresponding peroxy organic acid. The concentrated solution of the solid multi-part composition of the present invention can have a pH in the range of about 1 to 5.

The concentrated aqueous solution of the present invention needs to be diluted before it can be used as a cleaning agent and/or disinfection agent. However, the grade of aqueous dissolution of the solid multi-part composition can differ with respect to its purpose of use.

A preferred embodiment of a concentrated solution according to the present invention comprises the components (a) to (e) in an amount of:

(a)≥ 0 wt.-% to < 1 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 0.75 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002wt.-% to < 0.5 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Ci ₀ peroxyorganic acid,

(b)≥ 0 wt.-% to < 10 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0 001 wt.-% to < 8 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 6 wt.-% of a peroxide source,

(c) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 15 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001wt.-% to < 12.5 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002wt.-% to < 1 1 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Ci ₀ organic acid,

(d) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 35 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 30 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002wt.-% to < 25 wt.-% of urea,

(e) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 95 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 85 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002wt.-% to < 70 wt.-% of water.

A further preferred embodiment of the concentrated solution according to the present invention comprises the components (a) to (h) in an amount of:

(a) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 1 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 0.75 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 0.5 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Ci ₀ peroxyorganic acid,

(b)≥ 0 wt.-% to < 10 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 8 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 6 wt.-% of a peroxide source,

(c) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 15 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 12.5 wt.-% and more preferred ≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 1 1 wt.-% of at least one C1 to C10 organic acid,

(d) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 35 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 30 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 25 wt.-% of urea,

(e) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 95 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 85 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 70 wt.-% of water,

(f) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 8 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 5 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 3 wt.-% of at least one chelating agent,

(g) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 1 0 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0 001 wt.-% to < 7 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 5 wt.-% of at least one auxiliary agent,

(h) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 1 0 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.001 wt.-% to < 7 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.002 wt.-% to < 5 wt.-% of at least one catalyst. According to the invention the concentration of the in situ produced peroxyacid in the concentrated solution can be≥ 1 ppm to < 10000 ppm, preferably≥ 2 ppm to < 5000 ppm, more preferred≥ 3 ppm to < 3000 ppm and most preferred≥ 5 ppm to < 2500 ppm.

According to the invention the concentration of the peroxide source and/or percarbamide in the concentrated solution can be≥ 1 ppm to < 100000 ppm, preferably≥ 2 ppm to < 90000 ppm, more preferred≥ 3 ppm to < 75000 ppm and most preferred≥ 5 ppm to < 65000 ppm. A concentrated solution can be obtained from a solid multi-part composition of the present invention by a method including the steps of:

(i) Positioning in a product dissolving chamber that is connected to a water source a solid multi-part composition according to the invention,

(ii) Obtaining a concentrated solution by dissolving the solid multi-part composition with sufficient water.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a ready-to-use solution.

The solid multi-part composition of the present invention or the concentrated solution of the present invention can be diluted further to obtain a ready-to-use solution.

In a first step the solid multi-part composition can be placed into a container.

In a second step, the solid multi-part composition can be dissolved to a concentrated solution by adding water into the container.

In a third step, the concentrated solution can be diluted to a ready-to-use solution by adding water. However, the solid multi-part composition can be directly diluted in a container to a ready-to- use solution.

The solid multi-part composition of the present invention or the concentrated solution of the present invention can be dissolved with sufficient water to form a cleaning and/or an antimicrobial disinfecting ready to use solution having a pH in the range of about 1 to 8, and preferably a pH in the range of about 1 to 7. The disinfection and/or cleaning solution can be used effectively to clean or sanitize facilities and equipment used in the food processing, food service and health care industries.

A preferred embodiment of the ready-to-use solution according to the present invention comprises the components (a) to (e) in an amount of:

(a)≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.043 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.000001 wt.-% to < 0.032 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.00001 wt.-% to < 0.0215 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Cio peroxyorganic acid,

(b)≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.43 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.00001 wt.-% to < 0.344 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.0001 wt.-% to < 0.258 wt.-% of a peroxide source,

(c) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.645 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.00001 wt.-% to < 0.5375 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.0001 wt.-% to < 0.473 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Cio organic acid,

(d) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 1.5 wt.-%, preferably ≥ 0.00005 wt.-% to < 1.29 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.0005 wt.-% to < 1.075 wt.-% of urea,

(e) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 99.99 wt.-%, preferably≥ 10 wt.-% to < 98 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 20 wt.-% to < 97 wt.-% of water.

A further preferred embodiment of the ready-to-use solution according to the present invention comprises the components (a) to (h) in an amount of:

(a)≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.043 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.000001 wt.-% to < 0.032 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.00001 wt.-% to < 0.0215 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Cio peroxyorganic acid,

(b)≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.43 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.000001 wt.-% to < 0.344 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.000001 wt.-% to < 0.258 wt.-% of a peroxide source,

(c) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.645 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.00001 wt.-% to < 0.5375 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.0001 wt.-% to < 0.473 wt.-% of at least one Ci to Cio organic acid,

(d) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 1.5 wt.-%, preferably ≥ 0.00005 wt.-% to < 1.29 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.0005 wt.-% to < 1.075 wt.-% of urea,

(e) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 99.99 wt.-%, preferably≥ 50 wt.-% to < 98 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 80 wt.-% to < 97 wt.-% of water,

(f) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.344 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.000001 wt.-% to < 0.215 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.00001 wt.-% to < 0.129 wt.-% of at least one chelating agent,

(g) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.43 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0.000001 wt.-% to < 0.301 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0.00001 wt.-% to < 0.215 wt.-% of at least one auxiliary agent,

(h) ≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.43 wt.-%, preferably≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.301 wt.-% and more preferred≥ 0 wt.-% to < 0.215 wt.-% of at least one catalyst. According to the invention the concentration of the in situ produced peroxyacid in the ready- to-use solution can be≥ 10 ppm to < 5000 ppm based on the total ready-to-use solution, preferably≥ 20 ppm to < 400 ppm, more preferred≥ 40 ppm to < 100, most preferred≥ 40 ppm to < 80 ppm.

A ready-to-use solution can be obtained from a solid multi-part composition of the present invention by a method including the steps of:

(i) Positioning in a product dissolving chamber that is connected to a water source a solid multi-part composition according to the invention,

(ii) Obtaining a concentrated solution by dissolving the solid multi-part composition with sufficient water,

(iii) Flushing-out said concentrated solution, preferably step-wise,

(iv) Dissolving said concentrated solution by adding additional water to obtain a ready-to-use solution,

(v) Transmitting the ready-to-use solution to the place of operation.

Further, a ready-to-use solution can be obtained from a solid multi-part composition of the present invention by a method including the steps of:

(i) Positioning in a product dissolving chamber that is connected to a water source a solid multi-part composition according to the invention,

(ii) Preparing a ready-to-use solution by dissolving water into the dissolving chamber to dissolve the solid multi-part composition, preferably completely dissolving the solid multipart composition in the dissolving chamber

(iii) Flushing-out said ready-to-use solution, preferably step-wise,

(iv) Transmitting said ready-to-use solution to the place of operation.

Preferably, a ready-to-use solution can be obtained from a solid multi-part composition of the present invention by a method including the steps of:

(i) Positioning in a product dissolving chamber that is connected to a water source at least one solid composition,

(ii) Obtaining a concentrated solution by dissolving water into the dissolving chamber to dissolve the solid multi-part composition, preferably completely dissolving the solid multi-part composition in the dissolving chamber,

(iii) Flushing-out the concentrated solution, preferably step-wise, and

(iv) Diluting said concentrated solution to a ready-to-use solution for use at the place of operation. The dissolving chamber may receive at least one or more solid multi-part compositions, preferably in a molded solid form. It can be preferred that the water in the dissolving chamber is recirculated to completely dissolving the solid multi-part composition of the invention in order to obtain a concentrated solution and/or a ready-to-use solution. However, it is preferred to provide a concentrated solution in said container.

It is obvious that the advantages of the solid multi-part composition according to cleaning and disinfection effects are also obtained when the solid multi-part composition is dissolved with water as necessary for the devices to be cleaned and/or disinfected.

The solid multi-part composition can be dissolved with service water, deionized water or such like at a sufficient proportion to obtain the concentrated solution and/or diluted ready-to-use solution set forth above. According to a preferred embodiment, the dissolving chamber may have the size for receiving at least one solid multi-part composition with a total weight of 50 g to 100 Kg, preferably 1 Kg to 50 Kg and further preferred 2 Kg to 5 Kg and more preferred 3 Kg to 4 Kg. Then, water is added, preferably step-wise to dissolve the solid multi-part composition. A ready-to-use solution can be obtained by diluting the solid multi-part composition according to the invention with water in a weight ratio of 1 : 3 to 1 : 100, preferably in a weight ratio of 1 : 10 to 1 : 70 for disinfection and cleaning purposes.

For disinfecting purposes a concentrated solution obtained from the solid multi-part composition will be further diluted at the time of use, for example in a milking robot.

The concentration of the solid multi-part composition of the invention in the ready-to-use solution can be≥ 1 .0 to < 25 g of solid composition dissolved in≥ 250 g to < 2000 g water at a water hardness in the range of 0-32°dh.

In order to provide a cleaning and/or disinfection concentrated solution it may be preferred that about 1 Kg of solid composition is dissolved in about 2 liter to 10 liter, preferably 3 liter to 5 liter water. In order to provide a cleaning and disinfection ready-to-use solution it may be preferred that about 1 .5 Kg of solid composition is dissolved in about 90 liter to 150 liter, preferably 95 liter to 125 liter water. The amount of concentrated solution and/or ready-to-use solution that is flushed-out from the dissolving chamber can be regulated. Depending on the desired need the concentrated solution and/or ready-to-use solution can be flushed-out at once or portion-wise. Preferably, a concentrated solution is flushed-out from the dissolving chamber and is subsequently diluted to the ready-to-use solution. Instead of flushed-out, the concentrated solution and/or ready-to-use solution can be sprayed.

In case of spraying portion-wise, for example 15 liter of a concentrated solution and/or a ready-to-use solution, the spraying cycle takes place for about 4 h to 5 h and spraying is for 1 min to 2 min and stop for 20 sec to 30 sec before repeating the process.

The solid multi-part composition of the present invention forms after complete dissolution with water a concentrated solution and/or a ready-to-use solution, which can be stable and clear at ≥ 0 ° C and < 40° C and preferably at≥ 5° C and < 23° C. Preferably, the concentrated aqueous solution can be stable in the range of≥ 0°C to < 40° C.

The term "stable" means that the concentrated solution and/or the ready-to-use solution does not show a phase separation for a time period of at least 48 hour, preferably of at least 1 week at a temperature of 35° C, and preferably at a temperature of 5° C. However, even at 0° C a stable concentrated solution and/or ready-to-use solution can be achieved.

Another object is directed to the use of the solid multi-part composition, the concentrated solution and/or the ready-to-use solution.

The solid multi-part composition, the concentrated solution and/or the ready-to-use solution can be used for cleaning and disinfecting of beverage, foodstuff and other residues containing and/or contacting facilities. In particular, the solid multi-part composition, the concentrated solution and/or the ready-to- use solution can be used for cleaning and disinfection of food and/or beverage container, medical instruments, hard surfaces and/or soft surfaces.

Filing facilities, conveying devices and/or the devices connected thereto can be cleaned and/or disinfected at preselected time intervals and without interrupting the filling and conveying operation by using the solution for cleaning and/or disinfecting. Most preferred is the use of the solid multi-part composition, the concentrated solution and/or the ready-to-use solution for cleaning and disinfecting of milk containing and/or contacting facilities, such as present on a dairy plant, for example a milking device comprising milk vessel and/or milking robots.

A milking device can be cleaned and disinfected by providing a concentrated solution from a solid multi-part composition of the present invention by completely dissolving it in water, for example 4 kg, that means 2 kg of the solid first part compartment and 2 kg of the solid second part compartment, in 7.5 I of water. The solid multi-part composition also referred to as solid capsule can be placed into a container and 15 I water is added and recirculated to completely dissolve said solid composition. The water to dissolve the solid multi-part composition of the present invention is used in a closed loop, wherein water is flushed-out from the container in a cycle of 1 min to 2 min and returned through a spraying-nozzle. The water is sprayed with a cycle having 20 sec to 30 sec stop intervals, whereby the temperature of the water remains constant and is at least 0° C. Cyclical recirculation of the concentrated solution ensures that the solution remains homogeneous. A product dispenser that can be used is a SOLVEXX ^® CUBE from ECOLAB ^® . The concentrated solution can be further diluted to the ready-to-use solution in the milking equipment. The ready-to-use solution can be used for cleaning and disinfection of the brushes of a milking robot. The aqueous dilution of the concentrated solution to the ready to-use solution takes place preferably in the milking robot.

The present invention may be better understood with reference to the following examples. These examples are intended to be representative of specific embodiments of the invention, and are not intended as limiting the scope of the invention.

Examples

1 . Solid multi-part composition according to the present invention

Table 1

Ingredient 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

First part compartment ^*1

Urea 57 55 53 50 49 57 50 53

Acetic acid (100%) 41 43 45 47 44 — —

Propionic acid (100%) — — — — — 41 45

Octanic acid (100%) — — — — — — 42 —

Water — — 1 — — — — — weight % of the components based on the total weight of the solid first part compartment according to the present invention.

weight % of the components based on the total weight of the solid second part compartment according to the present invention.

the urea and the peroxide source H ₂ 0 ₂ forms a percarbamide.

2. Concentrated solution according to the invention

Table 2

^*4 = 4kg of 2kg of the solid first part compartment and 2kg of the solid second part compartment.

The added water is the amount of water that is additional added to the solid multi-part compositions of examples 1 to 8 mentioned in table 1 to obtain the concentrated solution.

3. Ready-to-use cleaning and/or disinfection solution according to the invention

Table 3

Solid composition 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 of table 1

Added water in liter ^*5 4kg 4kg 4kg 4kg 4kg 4kg 4kg 4kg in in in in in in in in

2681 334I 668I 268I 334I 668I 268I 268I water water water water water water water water

POAA in ppm 100 80 40 100 80 40 100 100

^*5 = 4kg of 2kg of the solid first part compartment and 2kg of the solid second part compartment. The added water is the amount of water added to the solid multi-part compositions 1 to 8 mentioned in table 1 to obtain the ready-to-use solution.

1 . Quantitative analysis of microorganisms Determination of microorganisms and the colony forming units per ml (CFU/ml) on a used teat brushes of a milking robot.

Teat brushes of a milking robot in use are cleaned with a ready-to-use solution of examples 1 , 2 and 3 of table 3 and test solution Astri-L of A and B containing peroxyacetic acid but no urea. Thereafter, the treated brushes are collected each and washed in a vessel containing 200 ml of an inactivator solution (buffered dist. water containing 3 wt.-% Tween80, 0.3 wt.-% lecithin, 0.1 wt.-% histidine, 0.5 wt.-% Na-thiosulfate). A 1 ml probe of the remaining inactivator solution is placed on a culture media, i.e. agar-plate and incubated for 7 days at 30°C (standard agar).

Table 4

POAA stands for peroxyacetic acid and the concentration in ppm means the total

concentration of the in situ produced POAA in the ready-to-use solution based on the total amount of the use solution. Astri -L, obtainable from (ECOLAB) is a composition comprising peracetic acid without urea.

Table 5 clearly shows that a minor concentration of POAA (ppm) in the presence of urea has an improved disinfection effect compared to a prior-art solution containing POAA and no urea.

Especially, disinfecting compositions having low peroxide acid concentrations, for example a ready-to-use solution with a peroxide acid concentration of < 100 ppm, which effectively kill microbes are desirable. Low concentrations minimize use cost, surface corrosion, odor, carryover of biocide into foods and potential toxic effects to the user.

The reaction temperature for the formation of the peroxyacid, the concentration data given if relevant are based on a temperature of 20° C, if not otherwise stated.

Conclusion

The solid multi-part composition and the ready to use composition provides improved cleaning and disinfecting properties and shows much lower skin irritation due to its low POAA concentration. Additionally the solid technology is an economic way of handling chemistry due to lower packaging volumes, transport volumes and storage.

It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a composition containing "a compound" includes a mixture of two or more compounds. It should also be noted that the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including "and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The invention has been described to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the invention.