CN107466207A - Antimicrobial compositions - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to antimicrobial compositions, the antimicrobial compositions include：Amino acid, the derivative of amino acid, the salt of amino acid, amino acid derivative salt or its mixture；Include two or more antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds or at least one antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound and the antimicrobial components of Chlorhexidine or its salt；And polar solvent, and it is related to the formulation for including the antimicrobial compositions.In particular it relates to the antimicrobial compositions that can be used on skin.

Description

antimicrobial composition

The present invention relates to antimicrobial compositions and to formulations comprising antimicrobial compositions. In particular, the present invention relates to antimicrobial compositions for use on the skin.

Microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses such as norovirus, poliovirus and adenovirus are well known to present health hazards due to infection or contamination. Together with fungi, yeasts and other microorganisms, they can also cause spoilage of items such as food, clothing and produce unpleasant odours. When microorganisms are present on the surface of a substrate, such as skin, they can replicate rapidly to form colonies.

Many antimicrobial agents can destroy microorganisms present in various environments. For example, antimicrobial agents that are useful in medical, industrial, commercial, domestic and marine environments are known. Many known antimicrobial agents have previously been included in compositions in these environments for a variety of applications.

Antimicrobial agents and compositions containing these antimicrobial agents are known to act via a number of different mechanisms.

For example, many antimicrobial agents are toxic to microorganisms and, therefore, destroy microorganisms with which they come into contact. Examples of antimicrobial agents of this type include hypochlorite (bleach), phenols and their compounds, and salts of copper, tin, and arsenic.

However, while many of these antimicrobial agents are effective against microorganisms and suitable in certain circumstances, their mechanisms may make them unsuitable or disadvantageous for topical application to human skin due to their adverse effects on human health or skin condition. For example, hypochlorite bleach is very effective at killing microorganisms on solid surfaces, but is not suitable for application to the skin due to its caustic properties. Additionally, these materials tend to be effective for sterilization and cleansing in wet environments, but cease to function shortly after drying.

Many skin antiseptics are alcohols. These are generally ethanol-containing preparations designed for application to the hands for reducing the number of viable microorganisms on the hands. Such preparations typically contain 60% to 95% ethanol or isopropanol. However, while isopropyl alcohol has established antimicrobial properties, it has the disadvantage of causing dryness and skin irritation when used regularly. Some people may therefore be reluctant to use such creams, soaps, and other compositions that contain significant levels of isopropyl alcohol.

Some antimicrobials are highly toxic to humans and animals and dangerous to handle. Professional handling, therapy and equipment are therefore required in order to handle them safely. Therefore, the manufacture and disposal of compositions containing this type of antimicrobial agent can be problematic. There can also be problems associated with the use of compositions containing this type of antimicrobial agent, particularly in consumer product materials where it is difficult to secure their use for indicated purposes.

"Toxicity" herein is intended to mean toxicity to complex organisms, such as mammals, unless the context indicates otherwise. References to "toxic" will be understood accordingly.

Increased scrutiny of environmental certification of chemicals additionally defines the use of antimicrobials not just for topical application on the skin but for general use. For example, some antimicrobial agents can harm other organisms once they enter the environment. They can also be very stable over long periods of time and persist in the environment causing concerns around accumulation and residual levels.

Due to these factors, the list of effective and available antimicrobial agents, particularly for use on the skin, has become more restricted and the burden of registering new antimicrobial agents has been more inhibited. At the same time, the public has become increasingly concerned about the disinfection of both individuals and property following outbreaks such as MRSA in hospitals.

There is a need to provide compositions for various applications and uses, such as compositions for use on the skin, such as hand sanitizers, which have antimicrobial properties and which address one or more of the problems stated above. However, this cannot be done directly. There are regulations, such as the Biocidal Products Regulation (Directive 98/8/EC), which regulate the use of antimicrobial agents according to both the nature and the amount of a given usable antimicrobial agent. Furthermore, the potential reactivity of the antimicrobial agent once in the composition is important since some antimicrobial agents appear inert through chemical reactions. Even where the antimicrobial agent is not chemically deactivated, it may have its activity suppressed by other components of the composition.

The present inventors have surprisingly found that the above mentioned deficiencies can be overcome by certain combinations of components. It has also been discovered that compositions containing these combinations of components can have some surprising and unexpected properties.

The listing or discussion of apparently previously published documents in this specification should not be taken as an acknowledgment that said documents are part of the state of the art or are common general knowledge.

The present invention provides antimicrobial compositions comprising:

(i) amino acids, derivatives of amino acids, salts of amino acids, or salts of derivatives of amino acids or mixtures thereof;

(ii) an antimicrobial component comprising two or more antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds or at least one antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound and chlorhexidine or a chlorhexidine salt; and

(iii) Polar solvents.

Amino acids are well known organic compounds essential to life. It is characterized by having an amine ( _NH2 ) functional group attached to a carbon adjacent to the carboxylic acid ( _CO2H ) functional group, and a side chain specific to the amino acid. Amino acids have the general formula shown below.

Because amino acids have both amine and carboxylic acid groups, they can act as both bases and acids. At low pH, the predominant form will have a neutral carboxylic acid group and a positive ammonium ion (net charge +1). At high pH it will have negative formate and neutral amino groups (net charge -1). At intermediate pH, amino acids will generally contain both negative formate and positive ammonium groups and thus have a net zero charge.

Arginine is one of the most common amino acids and is shown below.

Some additional examples of common amino acids are glycine, lysine, glutamic acid, glutamine, aspartic acid, asparagine, histidine, proline, methionine, cysteine, serine , threonine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, tryptophan, valine and leucine. The structures of these amino acids are well studied.

The term "amino acid" also includes chains of amino acids, such as peptides and polypeptides. Peptides are formed when individual amino acids are linked together via peptide (amide) bonds formed by the reaction of the amine group of one amino acid with the carboxyl group of another amino acid. The shortest peptides are dipeptides consisting of two amino acids joined by a single peptide bond, followed by tripeptides, tetrapeptides, etc. Polypeptides are long, continuous and unbranched peptide chains.

The term "derivative of an amino acid" means an amino acid in which the α-amino and/or carboxyl functional groups are substituted by a substituted organic group, or an amino acid in which a functional group in the side chain of the amino acid is substituted by a substituted organic group, or wherein Amino acids in which the α-amino and/or carboxyl functional groups are substituted by substituted organic groups and/or functional groups in their side chains are additionally substituted by substituted organic groups. Alternative organic groups include, but are not limited to, alkenyl, phenyl, amide, ester, alcohol, and ether groups or combinations thereof. An example of a derivative of an amino acid is N-lauroyl-L-arginine ethyl ester, the structure of which is shown below.

The term "salt of an amino acid" means the cationic or anionic form of an amino acid in combination with a counterion (which is an ion of opposite charge). The cationic form of an amino acid is formed by transferring a positively charged hydrogen ion from the acid to the amino group in the amino acid. The counterion is derived from the acid from which the hydrogen ion is transferred. The anionic form of an amino acid is formed by the loss of a positively charged hydrogen ion from a carboxylic acid group in the amino acid. In this case, the counterion is derived from the base to which the hydrogen ion is transferred. An example of an amino acid salt is arginine lactate, which is commercially available as AH Care L65. AH Care L65 is composed of lactic acid; arginine mixture. The structure of arginine lactate is shown below.

The term "salt of a derivative of an amino acid" means a cationic or anionic form of an amino acid derivative as defined above in combination with a counterion (which is an ion of opposite charge). The cationic form of an amino acid is formed by transferring a positively charged hydrogen ion from the acid to the amino group in an amino acid derivative. The counterion is derived from the acid from which the hydrogen ion is transferred. The anionic form of the amino acid derivative is formed by the loss of positively charged hydrogen ions from the carboxylic acid group in the amino acid derivative. In this case, the counterion is derived from the base to which the hydrogen ion is transferred. An example of a salt of a derivative of an amino acid is N-lauroyl-L-arginine ethyl ester mono-hydrochloride, which is commercially available as Aminat G whose structure is shown below.

Salts of amino acids or amino acid derivatives useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, hydrochloride, tartrate, malonate, succinate, succinamate, malate, glutamate, pyro Glutamate and Aspartate. In one aspect, the salt of an amino acid or amino acid derivative is not a phosphonate or phosphorus-containing salt, such as a monoalkylphosphate ion, a monoalkenylphosphate ion, a monoalkylphosphonate ion, or a monoalkenylphosphonate ion , such as those having straight or branched chain alkyl or alkenyl groups with 8 to 20 carbon atoms.

Component (i) may comprise hydrophilic amino acids or salts or derivatives of such amino acids or salts of such derivatives. A hydrophilic amino acid can have a hydrophilic side chain or can be positively or negatively charged with a hydrophilic side chain.

For example, component (i) may comprise positively charged amino acids or salts or derivatives of such amino acids or salts of such derivatives.

Derivatives of amino acids may be hydrophilic due to modifications made to the amino acids. For example, amino acids can be modified so that they are positively or negatively charged.

A hydrophilic amino acid as defined above is generally water soluble.

Water-soluble means that the amino acid or a salt or derivative of such an amino acid or a salt of such a derivative generally has a solubility in water of at least about 0.5 g per kg of water at 25°C. For example, at least about 1 g per kg of water, such as at least about 10 g per kg of water, or at least about 50 g per kg of water.

Salts and derivatives of amino acids suitable for use in the present invention and salts of such derivatives are generally water soluble.

Amino acids suitable for use in the present invention can also be classified by their wateriness index. This index is described in, for example, Kyte, J. and Doolittle, R., 1982, "A simple method for displaying the hydropathic character of a protein" in the Journal of Molecular Biology (Jmol Biol.) "157:105-132 described. As the experienced reader will understand, the more positive the value of the wateriness index, the more hydrophobic the amino acid. Suitable amino acids for use in the present invention include amino acids having a water index value of 0 (zero) or less, such as -2 or less. Salts and derivatives of such amino acids and salts of such derivatives are suitable for use in the present invention. Arginine and its salts and derivatives and salts of such derivatives are suitable for use in the present invention. Arginine has a water index value of -4.5.

Alternatively or additionally, amino acids suitable for use in the invention can be classified by their isoelectric point (pi); this is the pH at which the net charge on the amino acid is zero. At a pH below its isoelectric point, an amino acid will be positively charged. In certain compositions of the invention, it is preferred that the amino acid be positively charged. In this aspect, amino acids having a pl greater than the pH of the composition are used.

Amino acids suitable for use in the present invention include those with a pI of 5 or greater, such as 6 or 6.25 or greater; or 8 or 10 or greater. Salts and derivatives of such amino acids and salts of such derivatives are suitable for use in the present invention. Arginine and its salts and derivatives and salts of such derivatives are suitable for use in the present invention. The pl of arginine is 10.76.

Amino acids particularly suitable for use in the present invention include water index values of 0 (zero) or less, such as -2 or less and a pI of 6 or greater, 6.25 or greater or 8 or greater or 10 or greater of those. Salts and derivatives of these amino acids and salts of such derivatives are moreover particularly suitable for use in the present invention.

The compositions of the present invention comprise chlorhexidine or a salt of chlorhexidine. Examples of suitable chlorhexidine salts include the acetate, formate, gluconate, hydrochloride, isoethanedisulfonate, lactate and succinamate salts of chlorhexidine. For example, suitable salts include, but are not limited to, chlorhexidine diphenylphosphate, chlorhexidine digluconate, chlorhexidine diacetate, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, Chlorhexidine, Chlorhexidine Dihydroiodide, Chlorhexidine Diperchlorate, Chlorhexidine Dinitrate, Chlorhexidine Sulfate, Chlorhexidine Sulfite, Chlorhexidine Thiosulfate, Chlorhexidine Chlorhexidine diacid phosphate, chlorhexidine difluorophosphate, chlorhexidine dicarboxylate, chlorhexidine dipropionate, chlorhexidine diiodobutyrate, chlorhexidine di-n-valeric acid Salt, Chlorhexidine Dicaproate, Chlorhexidine Malonate, Chlorhexidine Succinate, Chlorhexidine Succinamate, Chlorhexidine Malate, Chlorhexidine Tartrate, Chlorhexidine Chlorhexidine di-monoglycolate, Chlorhexidine monoglycolate, Chlorhexidine di-lactate, Chlorhexidine di-alpha-hydroxyisobutyrate, Chlorhexidine diglucoheptonate, Chlorhexidine Diisethionate, Chlorhexidine Dibenzoate, Chlorhexidine Dicinnamate, Chlorhexidine Dimandelate, Chlorhexidine Diisophthalate, Chlorhexidine Isoethanedisulfonate chlorhexidine di-2-hydroxy-naphthoate and chlorhexidine embolate.

A specific example of a chlorhexidine salt useful in the compositions of the present invention is chlorhexidine digluconate.

The quaternary ammonium antimicrobial agent(s) used in the present invention are generally water soluble at room temperature and pressure.

Suitable antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds include compounds of formula (A) shown below.

Wherein R ¹ and R ² are each independently a linear, unsubstituted and uninterrupted C _8-12 alkyl group. ^{In one} aspect, the groups R1 and R2 contain the same number of carbon atoms, but this is not required and ^compounds in which R1 and R2 contain different numbers ^of carbon atoms can be used. X ^- is a halogen anion such as chloride, bromide, fluoride, iodide or sulfonate, saccharinate, carbonate or bicarbonate.

In one aspect, X ^- is not a phosphonate or phosphorous salt, such as a monoalkylphosphate ion, a monoalkenylphosphate ion, a monoalkylphosphonate ion, or a monoalkenylphosphonate ion, such as with Those of straight or branched chain alkyl or alkenyl groups of 8 to 20 carbon atoms.

Suitable antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds further include benzalkonium compounds having the formula (B) shown below.

wherein m is 8 to 18, and X ⁻ is a halogen anion such as chloride, bromide, fluoride, iodide, sulfonate, saccharinate, carbonate or bicarbonate. Compounds of formula (B) are generally referred to as benzalkonium compounds. Provides benzalkonium chloride and/or mixtures thereof for use as C _8-18 alkyl, specifically linear, unsubstituted and uninterrupted alkyl n-C ₈ H ₁₇ to n-C ₁₈ H ₃₇ , mainly n- Mixture of C ₁₂ H ₂₅ (dodecyl), n-C ₁₄ H ₂₉ (tetradecyl) and n-C ₁₆ H ₃₃ (hexadecyl). Preferably, m is 8, 10, 12, 14 and/or 16. Most preferably, m is 8 to 12, such as 8, 10 and/or 12 or 12 to 16, such as 12, 14 and/or 16.

In the compound of formula (A), each group R ¹ and R ² is independently a linear, unsubstituted, uninterrupted C _8-12 alkyl group, for example containing 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 an alkyl group of carbon atoms. R ¹ and R ² may be the same, eg R ¹ and R ² may both be alkyl groups containing 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 carbon atoms.

The benzalkonium compounds furthermore include derivatives of the benzalkonium compounds, whereby the alkyl C _m H _2m+1 indicated below may be substituted by another organic group. Such organic groups include, but are not limited to, alkenyl, phenyl, amide, ester, alcohol, and ether groups or combinations thereof.

An example of such a derivative of a benzalkonium compound is diisobutylphenoxyethoxyethyl-xylyl ammonium chloride, which has the INCI name benzethonium chloride (often abbreviated as BENZ). The structure of benzethonium chloride is shown below.

The anions of each quaternary ammonium compound in the compositions of the present invention may be the same or different. For example, the anion of the compound of formula (A) may be the same or different from the anion of the compound of formula (B). In one aspect, the anion for each compound is chloride.

In one aspect of the invention, wherein the composition comprises two or more antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds, a compound of formula (A) and a compound of formula (B) may be present, or the composition may comprise more than one compound of formula (A) ) compound or more than one compound of formula (B).

Examples of the quaternary ammonium compound of formula (A) include di-n-decyldimethylammonium chloride, octyldecyldimethylammonium chloride, and dioctyldimethylammonium chloride.

Examples of compounds of formula (A) that are commercially available include Acticide DDQ 40 from Thor, Bardac 2240 from Lonza, Bardac 2280 from Lonza, and Bardac 2280 from Mason Chemical Company, USA. ) Maquat 4480E.

Examples of quaternary ammonium compounds of formula (B) include N,N-benzyl dimethyl octyl ammonium chloride, N,N-benzyl dimethyl decyl ammonium chloride, N-dodecyl- N-benzyl-N,N-dimethylammonium chloride, N-tetradecyl-N-benzyl-N,N-dimethylammonium chloride, N-hexadecyl-N,N- Dimethyl-N-benzyl ammonium chloride, N,N-dimethyl N-benzyl N-octadecyl ammonium chloride and mixtures thereof.

It should be understood that a single CAS number generally refers to more than one blend or mixture. CAS classifications for commercial preparations generally cover blends containing the specified compounds in amounts within defined ranges. Compositions with CAS numbers cited above are only examples of compositions with a given CAS number that can be used in the present invention.

In the compositions of the present invention, the antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound is generally not polymerized.

Examples of commercially available compounds of formula (B) include Acticide BAC 50M ex Sol, Barquat MB50/80 ex Lonza, Lonzagard benzethonium chloride USP ex Lonza.

Typically, the one or more antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds used in the compositions of the present invention are selected from the group consisting of: Di-n-decyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC (CAS No. 7173-51-5)) . Benzalkonium chloride (BAC), such as benzalkonium chloride of formula (B) above, wherein m is 8. This benzalkonium chloride has CAS number 68424-85-1, and benzethonium chloride (BENZ).

The amount of component (i) and antimicrobial component (ii) present in the compositions of the invention will vary depending on factors such as the intended use of the composition and the particular compound(s) employed.

For example, higher concentrations of (i) and/or (ii) may be required in order to provide sterilization than to provide cleaning or disinfection, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

The antimicrobial component (ii) may consist essentially of at least one antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound and chlorhexidine or a chlorhexidine salt.

The antimicrobial component (ii) may consist of at least one antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound and chlorhexidine or a chlorhexidine salt.

The alternative antimicrobial component (ii) may consist essentially of two or more antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds without chlorhexidine.

The compositions of the present invention may contain two or more antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds or at least one antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound and chlorhexidine, or a salt of chlorhexidine, as the only antimicrobial compound in the composition. Alternatively, the compositions of the present invention may comprise other suitable (one or more) antimicrobial agents (b) as listed in the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the EC Biocides Directive Those described in Annex I and Annex 3.

Typically, the compounds included in the antimicrobial component (ii) are those suitable for application to the skin. For example, compounds meeting the necessary regulatory approvals for human health, such as those approved by the European Commission, when used in products of product type 1, as specified in Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No. 1062 of 4 August 2014 Those listed in Annex II of No./2014 and/or approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Suitable antimicrobial agents (b) that may be included in antimicrobial component (ii) include antimicrobial agents that are not quaternary ammonium compounds. Preferably, one or more of these additional antimicrobial agents are water soluble at room temperature and pressure.

Examples of suitable additional antimicrobial agents include, but are not limited to, polymeric biguanides such as polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), lactic acid, silver, silver salts such as silver chloride, silver carbonate, lemon silver acid, silver dihydrocitrate, octenidine HCl, amphoteric compounds, iodophor, phenolic compounds, amine antimicrobials and nitrogen heterocyclic compounds, o-phenylphenol (OPP) and nitrobromopropane (e.g. bronopol (INN), 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol), naturally derived antiseptic compounds (such as honey and honey extracts such as those containing methylglyoxal), flavonoids Antiseptics and essential oils.

In one aspect, the compositions of the invention are free of inorganic antimicrobial agents such as those comprising silver. In this aspect, any additional antimicrobial agent is an organic antimicrobial agent.

In one aspect, the composition of the invention does not comprise PHMB or it may be free of polymeric biguanides. For example, it contains no biguanides other than chlorhexidine.

In one aspect of the invention, the antimicrobial composition does not comprise any isothiazolones and/or any nitrobromopropanes such as bronopol and/or any hypochlorite.

In one aspect of the invention, the antimicrobial composition is free of poorly water-soluble antimicrobial compounds, such as phenolic compounds.

Typically, when formulated as a ready-to-use composition, the amount of component (i) may range from about 0.0005% to 10% by weight of the composition, for example from about 0.005% to about 5% by weight of the composition, such as about 0.01% by weight to about 1% by weight of the composition. These compositions may contain about 0.5% by weight of the composition or less of component (i), such as 0.02% to 0.3% by weight of the composition, such as about 0.2% or 0.1% by weight.

Typically, when formulated as a ready-to-use composition, the total amount of antimicrobial component (ii) and component (b) (if present) (i.e. antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound and chlorhexidine or its salt and any additional antimicrobial The combined amount of component (b)) may be from about 0.001% to about 10% by weight of the composition, such as from about 0.005% to about 5% by weight of the composition, such as from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of the combination thing.

When the composition of the present invention is formulated for use as a hand sanitizer, the amount of antimicrobial component (ii) may range from 0.05% to about 0.5% by weight.

The antimicrobial component (ii) may comprise equal amounts of a quaternary ammonium compound and chlorhexidine or a salt thereof. For example, if the total amount of antimicrobial component is about 0.2% by weight of the composition, then the amount of quaternary ammonium compound will be about 0.1%, and the amount of chlorhexidine or a salt thereof will be about 0.1%.

Alternatively, the antimicrobial component may contain varying amounts of quaternary ammonium compounds and chlorhexidine.

Typically, in the compositions of the invention, the ratio of component (i) to antimicrobial component (ii) is in the range of 10:1 to 1:10.

The composition of the invention comprises a polar solvent (iii). Suitable polar solvents include, but are not limited to, water, alcohols, glycol ethers, and mixtures thereof.

Suitable alcohols include, but are not limited to, straight chain or branched _C1 to _C5 alcohols such as methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, mixtures of propanol isomers, n-butanol, sec-butanol, tert-butanol, isobutanol, mixtures of butanol isomers, 2-methyl-1-butanol, n-pentanol, mixtures of pentanol isomers and amyl alcohol (amyl alcohol) body mixtures) and mixtures thereof.

Preferred polar solvents for use in compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, water, ethanol, isopentyl glycol, monopropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol (MMB), n-propanol, isopropanol, glycol ethers, propylene glycol ethers, butyldiglycol (BDG) and mixtures thereof. In one aspect, the composition comprises water or a mixture of water and one or more alcohols selected from the alcohols mentioned above. In such mixtures, water is preferably the main component. The polar solvent can consist essentially of or consist of water.

If the composition of the invention includes alcohol, the alcohol is generally present in an amount lower than that necessary to provide an antimicrobial effect, but at a level believed to improve dryness of the composition on the skin. For example, the compositions of the present invention may comprise up to about 30% by weight alcohol, such as between 20% and 30% by weight alcohol or less than about 20% by weight alcohol, such as from about 15% to about 20% by weight alcohol.

It will be appreciated that the percentage of alcohol may depend on the use of the composition. For example, when used on wipes, the compositions of the present invention may contain up to 20% alcohol.

In one aspect, the compositions of the invention are substantially free of alcohol. For example, the composition may contain 1% by weight or less alcohol. For example, the composition may contain less than 1% by weight, or less than 0.5% by weight, or 0.1% by weight or less of an alcohol, such as isopropanol. As an example, compositions of the present invention may contain no isopropanol or may contain no alcohol.

In another aspect, the composition of the invention may comprise alcohol at a level of up to 70% by weight, for example up to about 50% by weight.

The composition may comprise water or a mixture of water and one or more alcohols selected from the alcohols mentioned above. In such mixtures, water is preferably the main component.

For example, a polar solvent can consist or consist essentially of water. As another example, the polar solvent can be water and from about 0% to about 20%, such as from about 15% to about 20%, by weight of an alcohol, such as ethanol or isopropanol.

The compositions of the invention may be provided in concentrated form for dilution prior to use or in ready-to-use form. Preferably, the compositions of the invention are provided in ready-to-use form and, unless otherwise stated, information provided in this document regarding amounts (eg % by weight or ppm) relate to ready-to-use compositions.

Typically the concentrate is provided such that when diluted the concentrate is 5% to 30% by weight, eg 10% or 20% by weight of the resulting diluted product.

Typically, but not substantially, the compositions of the present invention have a concentration of amino acid component (i) of from about 0.0005% to about 10% by weight, such as from about 0.005% to about 5% by weight, or from 0.01% to 1.0% by weight and a concentration of the antimicrobial component (ii) of about 0.001% to about 10% by weight, such as about 0.005% to about 5.0% by weight, or 0.01% to 1% by weight. These compositions may contain about 0.5% by weight of the composition or less of component (i), such as 0.02% to 0.3% by weight of the composition, such as about 0.2% or 0.1% by weight.

The pH of the compositions and formulations used may vary within wide ranges, for example from about pH 2 to about pH 12, more preferably from about pH 3 to about pH 10 or from about pH 4.5 to 8. The pH of the formulations used in the present invention may be similar to the pH of known formulations intended for the same purpose or a similar purpose. For example, formulations intended to come into contact with the skin, such as personal care or primary adjunct formulations, will generally have a pH that will not irritate the skin, for example about pH 3 to about pH 8, such as about pH 4.5 to about pH 7.5 or about pH 5 to about pH 6.

When used as a hand sanitizer, the compositions of the present invention generally have a pH of from about 5 to about 6.

It will be appreciated that the compositions of the present invention may contain other ingredients commonly used in the art. The nature of any other ingredients employed will depend on the nature and intended purpose of the composition. Those of ordinary skill in the art will know which additional ingredients are suitable for use in compositions for different applications.

The compositions of the present invention may contain additional materials such as surfactants, complexing agents, buffers, thickeners, skin care compounds, polar solvents and fragrances.

The choice of surfactant will depend on the nature and intended purpose of the composition. Suitable surfactants for formulations intended for different purposes will be within the knowledge of a person of ordinary skill in the art. Likewise, selection of an appropriate amount of surfactant will be within the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art. Suitable surfactants may be selected from nonionic, cationic or amphoteric and mixtures thereof.

Some compositions of the present invention may contain nonionic surfactants. Suitable nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, amine oxides, alkyl polyglycosides, linear and branched 1° and 2° alcohol ethoxylates and ethoxylated/propoxylated (EOPO) blocks polymer.

In one aspect, the composition is substantially free or free of anionic surfactants. In another aspect, the compositions of the invention do not contain amphoteric surfactants.

Some compositions of the present invention may contain amphoteric surfactants. Suitable amphoteric surfactants include, but are not limited to, _C6 to _C20 alkyl amphoacetates or amphodiacetates (such as cocoamphoacetates), _C10 to _C18 alkyl dimethyl betaines, C ₁₀ to C ₁₈ alkyl amidopropyl dimethyl betaine. Examples include, but are not limited to, the coconut amphoteric surfactant cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) (Surfac B4, CAS 61789-40-9), cocoimidazoline betaine, oleamidopropyl betaine, and pine oil imidazoline.

Some compositions of the present invention may contain cationic surfactants. Suitable cationic surfactants include, but are not limited to, undecylenamidopropyltrimethylammonium methosulfate and cetrimonium chloride.

Typically, surfactants are present in the compositions of the present invention in amounts ranging from about 0.01% to 20% by weight. The amount of surfactant will depend on factors such as the pH of the composition and the intended use of the composition.

The compositions of the present invention may contain complexing agents. The term chelating agent or chelate is sometimes used interchangeably with the term complexing agent. For purposes of describing the present invention, the term complexing agent includes both chelating agents and chelates. Complexing agents can be used to help provide clear compositions even when the compositions of the present invention are used with hard water. Examples of suitable complexing agents include, but are not limited to, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), gluconate, glutamic acid diacetic acid (GLDA) - trade name Dissolvine GL, ethylenediamine-N,N'-dibutyl Salts of diacids (EDDS), citrates and gluconates or glutaric, adipic and succinic acids and mixtures thereof. If the complexing agent contains a counterion, the counterion is preferably a metal. Suitable metal counterions include, but are not limited to, Na, Ca, Fe, K, Zn, Mg, and Mn.

Preferred complexing agents are GLDA (Dissolvine) and EDTA.

Complexing agents are typically present in an amount of about 100 to 10,000 ppm, preferably about 400 to 3,000 ppm, for example about 500 to 2000 ppm.

Buffering agents can be included to adjust the pH of the composition to the necessary value and maintain it at or near the pH during storage and use.

Suitable pH modifiers include, but are not limited to, acids such as citric acid, sulfamic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, lactic acid, formic acid, acetic acid glycolic acid, or gluconic acid, or other mineral or organic acids or bases, such as sodium hydroxide Or potassium hydroxide, triethanolamine and carbonates and mixtures thereof.

Thickeners may be included to adjust the viscosity of the composition to the value necessary for such purposes, to make the composition more stable; to facilitate application of the composition; or for aesthetic benefit. Examples of thickeners include, but are not limited to, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose stearyl ether commercially available under the trade name Sangelose 90 from Daido chemical corporation, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose stearyl ether from Rheo Lab. Polyquaternium 37 available under the tradename Kleasol 200ST.

Compositions of the present invention may contain skin care compounds. Suitable skin care compounds include, but are not limited to, panthenol, tocopherol, acetates, glycerol, polyquaternium compounds, PEG-7-glyceryl cocoate, and silicones and mixtures thereof. Typically, the compositions of the invention do not contain mucopolysaccharides.

The compositions of the invention may alternatively or additionally contain salts, such as halides of alkali or alkaline earth metals, eg NaCl or KCl. In some cases, the use of salts can facilitate the formation of stable compositions.

The compositions of the present invention may also contain other ingredients that are standard in the art, such as colorants, fragrances, emollients, antioxidants, and mixtures thereof.

The compositions of the present invention may be free of anionic materials. Counterions that may be present in any of the ingredients used in the present invention, such as those associated with quaternary ammonium compounds, are not included within the meaning of anionic materials. The compositions of the invention may, for example, be free of anionic polyelectrolytes, such as high molecular weight anionic mucoid polymers, polystyrene sulfonic acid polymers and cation exchange resins.

It has been found that the compositions of the present invention have an advantageous antimicrobial effect when in use, and in particular when applied to the surface of the skin. For example, such compositions have an antimicrobial effect when initially applied to a surface (so-called "wet kill"), and they may also have a residual antimicrobial effect within their control, reducing or preventing Formation of new microbial colonies (so-called "dry kill") can additionally lead to the formation of more persistent biofilms.

The compositions of the invention are moreover resistant to washing and wiping with water. This means that the composition of the invention provides a residual antimicrobial effect even when the treated surface is subsequently wiped and/or washed or rinsed with water.

The compositions of the invention are particularly suitable for use as skin or hand sanitizers or on other surfaces. Some compositions are suitable for use on other surfaces. Compositions of the invention generally provide residual antimicrobial effect.

Such compositions can be used in a wide variety of forms and applications for the purpose of skin antiseptics. For example, the compositions of the present invention are particularly suitable for formulation into mousses, gels, creams, lotions, liquids, sprays and wipes to be used for body or skin disinfection, such as hand sanitizers.

When used in the form of a wipe, the substrate used to make the wipe may be made from any suitable woven or nonwoven material. Suitable wipe materials include, but are not limited to, nonwoven fibrous sheet materials and those made from fibers from natural sources such as wood pulp, and rayon or other cellulose-based materials, silk fibers, and keratin fibers. The material comprises from 1% to 100% by weight cellulosic material. For example, 100% cellulosic materials such as rayon or wood pulp may be used. Other preferred materials include blends of cellulosic and non-cellulosic materials, such as blends of rayon and synthetic substrates such as polyester or polypropylene. The blend material may comprise from 1% to 99.9% by weight of a cellulosic material, such as rayon, eg, from 20% to 80% or from 30% to 70% by weight of a cellulosic material, such as rayon.

The compositions of the invention can be used in humans and animals for both therapeutic and non-therapeutic purposes. Examples of products for non-therapeutic use include personal care and personal hygiene products. Examples of products for therapeutic purposes include first aids and skin care products.

The compositions of the invention may also be in liquid form and packaged in suitable dispensers to provide a foam, mousse or spray at the time of use. The compositions of the present invention are useful in foot hygiene products, including those used directly on the feet and those used in the treatment/deodorization of footwear, in particular athletic footwear. The compositions of the present invention can also be used in other personal care products for direct application to the skin or hair, such as soaps, shower products, hair care products including shampoos and anti-dandruff shampoos, conditioners hair Styling products such as hair mousses, gels and sprays, skin care products such as shaving products, make-up and products for hair removal, deodorant and antiperspirant products, baby products including baby cleansing and cleansing products such as Baby washes, soaps, wipes, moisturizers, diaper rash creams, products for cleaning surfaces that babies and young children touch with routine and high incidence.

The compositions of the present invention are useful as pet products for direct application to the skin surface of an animal or its coat or fur for the purpose of removing or inhibiting microorganisms that could otherwise have an adverse effect on the health, well-being or cleanliness of the animal sanitation cleaners. Such compositions can also be applied to materials such as surfaces that come into contact with animals and microorganisms that can be transferred from animals. The benefits of such applications are in addition to eliminating or inhibiting such microorganisms, which could otherwise be transferred to another animal or human, and also controlling or removing by-products, such as malodor, that such organisms may generate. Such pet applications may include, but are not limited to, stain and odor removal sprays, germicide sprays and wipes, outdoor box cleaners, cage cleaners, antibacterial cat litter sprays and wipes, dog shampoos and spritzers and dog ear cleaning wipes.

The compositions of the present invention may be used as a first adjunct to topical application to the skin to disinfect abrasions or wounds on the surface of the skin to prevent or arrest infection, or to prevent minor infections such as athlete's foot, warts, warts, spots /Acne Prevention/Treatment Products. Accordingly, the present invention provides a product for such uses, such as wound care or a first adjunct product comprising a composition of the invention.

The compositions of the invention are also useful in medical applications such as the sterilization of catheters, dialysis and other medical equipment; inhibition or elimination of viruses such as norovirus, poliovirus or adenovirus; and prevention or elimination of persistent biofilms.

The compositions of the present invention may also be used on surfaces other than the skin. Examples of application of the present invention to surfaces other than skin include, but are not limited to: surface cleaners, such as those intended for use in bathrooms, kitchens, living areas; hard floor cleaners; carpet cleaners; furniture Cleaners; glass/mirror cleaners; toilet care products, including solid toilet cleaners, such as rim units and those designed to be placed in tanks; liquid toilet cleaners, excluding those containing hypochlorite bleach ; dishwashing products, such as washing liquids and prepared by dishwashing machines, such as dishwashing solids (in powder or tablet form) and liquids; laundry products, such as solid detergents (in powder or tablet form); liquid detergents detergents; fabric conditioners and "2-in-1" products containing detergent and fabric conditioner; cleaning products intended for use outside, such as those used to clean wood, stone, concrete or plastic, such as yard cleaning cleaners/treatments for garden furniture, BBQ cleaners, wall and fence cleaners/treatments; plant sprays such as those intended to remove insects such as aphids from plants; food sprays such as those suitable for use in food preservation Those ones.

For the avoidance of doubt, in this specification when the term "comprising or comprises" is used, it is meant that the described composition or formulation or component must contain one or more of the listed ingredients, but may optionally contain Additional ingredients. When the term "consisting essentially of or consists essentially of" is used, it is meant that the composition or formulation or component being described must contain one or more of the listed ingredients and may also contain minor amounts such as up to 5% by weight, or up to 1% or 0.1% by weight) of other ingredients, provided that any additional ingredients do not affect the essential properties of the composition, formulation or component. When the term "consisting" is used it is meant that the composition or formulation or component being described must contain only one or more of the listed ingredients. These terms apply in a similar manner to processes, methods and uses.

"Substantially free" means that the described composition or formulation or component contains less than 3% by weight, preferably less than 1% by weight, more preferably 0.1% by weight or less of the stated ingredient. For example, substantially alcohol-free compositions of the invention contain less than 3% by weight alcohol, preferably less than 1% by weight alcohol, more preferably 0.1% or less alcohol.

The term "antimicrobial" means a compound or composition that kills and/or inhibits the growth of microorganisms (microbes, microorganisms). The term "microbicide" is used to refer to a compound or composition that kills microorganisms. The compositions of the invention are antimicrobial and/or microbicidal.

The term "disinfectant" or "disinfectant" means to reduce the population of microorganisms on a surface.

The term "sterilize" means to eliminate the organisms of microorganisms to achieve sterility (sterilized microbial environment).

Microbes or microorganisms are tiny (too small to be seen by the human eye) living things. Examples of microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, yeasts, molds, mycobacteria, algal spores, archaea, and protists. Microorganisms are generally single-celled or unicellular organisms. However, as used herein, the term "microorganism" also includes viruses.

The compositions of the present invention are antibacterial, antifungal, antialgal, antispore, antiviral, antiyeast and/or antimold.

The compositions of the invention are particularly suitable for use against bacteria, such as E. coli.

As used herein, the terms antibacterial, antifungal, antialgal, antiviral, antiyeast and antimycotic agents are intended to mean agents that inhibit the growth of, but not necessarily kill, the corresponding microorganisms, and agents that kill the corresponding microorganisms. Thus, for example, agents that inhibit the growth of bacteria, but may not necessarily kill bacteria, and bactericidal agents that do kill bacteria are included within the term antibacterial.

Examples of antibacterial agents include myobactericides and tuberculocides. Preferably, the composition of the present invention comprises at least one agent selected from the group consisting of antibacterial, antifungal, antialgal, antispore, antiviral, antiyeast and antimycotic agents and mixtures thereof. More preferably, the composition of the invention comprises at least one antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and/or antimycotic agent.

The compositions of the present invention are effective against a variety of organisms, including Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, fungi, yeasts, viruses and some spore-forming bacteria

An advantage of the present invention is that it is possible to prevent a wide range of microorganisms from adhering and attaching to surfaces, and thus, preventing the formation of biofilms. Furthermore, massive colony formation is substantially prevented. Thus, the ability to grow colonies is substantially reduced or even prevented. The present invention is thus generally in the control of microorganisms.

In one aspect of the invention, the compositions are useful for reducing or controlling biofilm formation.

As previously described, the compositions of the present invention advantageously provide a residual antimicrobial effect whereby the antimicrobial effect continues for a substantial period of time after the initial application of the composition.

In general, the compositions of the present invention need not contain materials that are highly toxic to mammals. Antimicrobial agents used in antimicrobial compositions are generally well known and widely understood and tested antimicrobial agents. The efficacy of known antimicrobial agents is amplified in the formulations of the present invention. Therefore, antimicrobial agents with low toxicity can be used in antimicrobial compositions. In contrast, many "new" antimicrobials for known disinfection technologies use "stronger", more toxic and/or minimally tested materials.

The antimicrobial compositions of the present invention are free of materials that create highly persistent residues or rinses or products containing heavy metals and their salts. Therefore, the risk of long-term harm is greatly reduced.

The antimicrobial compositions of the present invention do not interfere with the biochemical propagation pathways of the microorganisms they control. Therefore, the risk of resistance accumulation and development of resistant strains is low.

The antimicrobial composition of the present invention can be dual-purpose, since it not only provides an antimicrobial effect when used, but also has a preservative effect on the composition. This means that it is generally not necessary to include additional preservatives in the formulations of the invention.

The compositions of the present invention generally do not impart a greasy feel to the surface to which they are applied.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided the use of a composition of the invention to control, reduce or prevent the formation of colonies of microorganisms on a surface on which it is provided.

The present invention provides a method for providing a residual antimicrobial benefit to a surface such as a hard surface or skin, the method comprising applying a composition as defined herein to the surface or skin. The composition can be applied to the surface or skin, for example, by spraying the composition on the surface or wiping the composition onto the surface or skin. In one method of the invention, it is not necessary for the method to include any steps other than simply applying the composition to a surface. Accordingly, methods are provided that consist essentially of or consist of applying the composition to a surface or skin.

In one aspect of the invention, the surface to which the composition of the invention is applied is a surface of the body, such as the skin.

The antimicrobial composition of the present invention is generally degradable when submerged in water to provide a rinse/leach solution of low toxicity and which has a short residence time in the environment.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the use of an antimicrobial composition of the present invention to reduce or prevent the formation of colonies of microorganisms on a surface provided therefor, such as the skin.

The antimicrobial compositions of the present invention are generally prepared by the methods described below.

The method for preparing the antimicrobial composition as described herein comprises:

(i) combining component (iii) and component (ii) under stirring; and

(ii) Adding component (i) to components (iii) and (ii).

In some aspects it may be necessary to adjust the pH of the solution obtained after step (ii). Accordingly, the present invention furthermore describes a process wherein (iii) the pH of the solution is adjusted after step (ii).

Unless the context dictates otherwise, preferences and options for a given aspect, feature or parameter of the invention should be considered disclosed in combination with any and all preferences and options for all other aspects, features and parameters of the invention.

The invention will now be illustrated by the following non-limiting examples.

Example 1 - Preparation of Test Samples and Controls

Compositions as described in Table 1 were prepared using the method of Example 1. Commercially available compounds useful in the compositions are listed below.

Aminat G is a 20% solution of N-lauroyl-L-arginine ethyl ester monohydrochloride in glycerol supplied by Seppic. Its main component is a salt of a derivative of the amino acid L-arginine.

AH Care L65 is an amphoteric hydroxyl complex containing amino acids, arginine and lactic acid. It is supplied by BASF. Aminat G and AH Care L65 are both commercially available examples containing component (i) of the present invention.

Acticide DDQ 40 supplied by Sol contains 40% di-n-decyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC). This is an example of component (ii) of the present invention, having formula A type.

Acticide BAC 50M supplied by Sol contains 50% benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and is also an example of component (ii) of the present invention, having formula B.

Chlorhexidine digluconate (CHDG) supplied by Evonik as a 20% solution is another example of component (ii) of the present invention.

Lonzagard Benzethonium Chloride USP supplied by Lonza is a benzalkonium derivative and contains 100% diisobutylphenoxyethoxyethyl-xylyl ammonium chloride (BENZ), otherwise known as Benzethonium Chloride. It is another example of component (ii) of the present invention.

The polar solvent (component (iii)) is placed in an appropriately sized container (typically 1 liter capacity). A small amount of polar solvent was reserved to allow for final weight adjustment. The requisite amount of one or more biocides (component (ii)) is then added to the container with the container agitated for 5 minutes after the addition of each biocide before adding the next biocide. The necessary amount of amino acid, derivative or salt (component (i)) is then added and the vessel is stirred for a further 5 minutes. Check the pH and adjust if necessary with lactic acid or sodium hydroxide solution. The solution was then made up to 100% by weight by addition of the remaining polar solvent and stirred for the final 10 minutes.

Control samples were prepared in the same manner, but omitting one or more components (i), (ii) or (iii) of the invention.

In Table 1, the weight % of the combined component (i), Aminat G and AH Care L65 of the present invention refers to the amount of commercially available materials and the weight % of the component (ii) of the present invention refers to the active chemical group DDAC-di-decyldimethylammonium chloride, CHDG-chlorhexidine digluconate; BEHZ-benzethonium chloride; or the amount of BAC-benzalkonium chloride.

Table 1

Example 2 - Evaluation of Residual Antimicrobial Efficacy of Test Samples

25 microliters (0.025 ml) of test samples were applied to 2 cm x 2 cm sections of skin ex vivo (as supplied by IMS Corporation) in duplicate in petri dishes. Test samples in Spread over the surface with a sterile inoculation loop ensuring that the perimeter approximately 0.5 cm from the edge remains untreated. In an oven at 20°C, the test samples were * ₂ on drying, with the petri dish lid kept closed for one hour. The petri dish was then removed from the oven, and a strip of polypropylene swab was saturated with sterile tryptone/saline solution placed inside. The lid was closed and then placed back in the oven at 20°C for 4 hours. Thereafter, the petri dish was removed from the oven, and 10 ul of a 1 to 1.5 x 10^8 cfu/ml suspension of E. coli K12* ₁ prepared in tryptone/saline solution was added to the pan containing the test sample and diffused. The surface where the sterile inoculation loop ensures that the suspension remains within the treated area of ex vivo skin. The bacterial suspension was kept in contact with the ex vivo skin for 5 minutes. Thereafter, remove from the petri dish And placed in a test tube containing 10ml of neutralizing solution. The tubes were shaken gently and the tubes were vortexed for 1 minute followed by an additional 5 minutes to recover bacteria from the surface of the ex vivo skin. A 1 ml sample of this suspension was then plated with tryptone soy agar and incubated at 37°C for 48 hours. Thereafter, the log reduction of E. coli K12 was calculated compared to the water-treated control.

* ₁ NB. E. coli K12 suspension was prepared from '2a' broth grown on Tryptone Soy Agar for 24 hours at 37°C as described in BSEN Microbiology Standards eg EN1276:2009)* ₂ A test substrate that mimics the surface properties of human skin. It is a synthetic non-biological product that has been formulated to have topography, pH, critical surface tension and ionic strength similar to human skin. It is well known to those trained in the art and uses substrates to assess the benefits of topological application of skin care products to the skin, which includes assessing the germicidal efficacy of active agents applied to the skin. Peer-reviewed examples of publications acting on skin in vitro include US 20090202463A1, which describes methods for evaluating antimicrobial compositions that provide enhanced immediate and residual antiviral and antibacterial efficacy on the surface of the skin; as described in Antibiotic Evaluation of the efficacy of organic acids in hand sanitizers for the prevention of rhinovirus infection in Journal of Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy; 48(7); July 2004; 2595-2598; US 20120141396 A1, which describes antimicrobial compositions providing long-term antimicrobial properties to various surfaces, including skin, was evaluated using skin in vitro.

Results of Example 2

Formulation 1

Formulation 1 and Control Samples 1, 2, 3, 6, 8 and 9 The compositions described in Table 1 were prepared according to the method described in Example 1. Samples of Formulation 1 and control samples were then tested for antimicrobial efficacy using the method described in Example 2. The results of these tests are shown in Table 2 below.

Table 2

combination Logarithmic R E. coli K12 standard error Formulation 1 4.58 0.26 Control 1 2.98 0.06 Control 2 Tntc* - Control 3 2.64 0.04 Control 6 3.54 0.00 Control 8 Tntc* - Control 9 Tntc*

*Tntc=too many to count

The results in Table 2 show that the composition of the invention, DDAC in combination with CHDG and Aminat G, has superior antimicrobial properties compared to Control 3 without Aminat G (component (i) of the invention) .

Formulation 1 also had superior resistance to Microbial performance.

Control 2 shows no antimicrobial activity of Aminat G.

Formulation 2

Formulation 2 and Control Samples 1, 2, 4, 6 and 7 The compositions described in Table 1 were prepared as described in Example 1. Samples of Formulation 2 and control samples were then tested for antimicrobial efficacy as described in Example 2. The results of these tests are shown in Table 3 below.

table 3

combination Logarithmic R E. coli K12 standard error Formulation 2 3.88 0.04 Control 1 2,98 0.06 Control 2 Tntc* - Control 4 1.88 0.02 Control 6 3.54 0.00 Control 7 2.42 0.12

*Tntc=too many to count

The results in Table 3 show that the composition of the invention, DDAC in combination with BAC and Aminat G, has superior antimicrobial properties compared to Control 4 without Aminat G (component (i) of the invention) .

Formulation 2 also had superior antimicrobial properties compared to Controls 6 and 7, which used DDAC and BAC alone, respectively, with Aminat G, and Control 1, which used DDAC alone without Aminat G.

Control 2 shows no antimicrobial activity of Aminat G.

Formulation 3

Formulation 3 and Control Samples 5, 10, 11 and 12 The compositions described in Table 1 were prepared as described in Example 1. Samples of Formulation 3 and control samples were then tested for antimicrobial efficacy as described in Example 2. The results of these tests are shown in Table 4 below.

Table 4

combination Logarithmic R E. coli K12 standard error Formulation 3 >5.22 0.00 Control 12 2.48 0.03 Control 5 Tntc* - Control 10 2.75 0.25 Control 11 Tntc* -

*Tntc=too many to count

Compared to control 12 without AH Care L65 (component (i) of the invention), the results in Table 4 show that the composition of the invention, DDAC combined with CHDG and AH Care L65, has excellent resistance to Microbial performance.

Formulation 3 also had superior antimicrobial performance compared to controls 10 and 11 where DDAC and CHDG were used alone, respectively, with AH Care L65.

Control 5 showed no antimicrobial activity of AH Care L65.

Claims (41)

1. An antimicrobial composition comprising: (i) amino acids, derivatives of amino acids, salts of amino acids, or salts of derivatives of amino acids or mixtures thereof; (ii) an antimicrobial component comprising two or more antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compounds or at least one antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound and chlorhexidine or a chlorhexidine salt; and (iii) Polar solvents. 2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein component (i) is a hydrophilic amino acid or a salt or a derivative of such an amino acid or a salt of such a derivative or a hydrophilic derivative of an amino acid or a derivative of an amino acid Salts of hydrophilic derivatives or mixtures thereof. 3. Composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein component (i) is at least one amino acid having a water index of 2 or less or a salt or derivative of such amino acid or a salt of such derivative. 4. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein component (i) is at least one amino acid with an isoelectric point (pl) of 8 or greater, or 10 or greater, or a combination of such amino acids salts or derivatives or salts of such derivatives. 5. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein component (i) is a positively charged amino acid or a salt or derivative of such an amino acid or a salt of such a derivative or a mixture thereof. 6. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein component (i) is selected from arginine, lysine and histidine and salts thereof, derivatives thereof and salts of derivatives thereof, or its mixture. 7. The composition according to claim 6, wherein component (i) is selected from the group consisting of arginine lactate and N-lauroyl-L-arginine ethyl ester monohydrochloride or mixtures thereof. 8. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chlorhexidine is chlorhexidine digluconate. 9. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound of formula (A) wherein R1 and R2 are each independently straight _- chain, unsubstituted and uninterrupted _C8-12 alkyl, ^and X- is a halogen _anion such as chloride, bromide, fluoride, iodide or sulfonate , saccharinate, carbonate or bicarbonate and/or at least one benzalkonium compound of formula (B) wherein m is 8 to 18, and X ⁻ is a halide anion such as chloride, bromide, fluoride, iodide or sulfonate, saccharinate, carbonate or bicarbonate; and/or benzethonium chloride. 10. The composition according to claim 6, wherein the benzalkonium compound of formula (B) is benzyldimethyl-n-tetradecyl-ammonium chloride, benzyldimethyl-n-tetradecyl Lauryl-ammonium chloride, Benzyl-C _12-C16 -alkyl-dimethyl-ammonium chloride, diisobutylphenoxyethoxyethyl-xylyl ammonium chloride ( Also known as benzethonium chloride) or benzyl-cocoalkyl-dimethyl-ammonium chloride and/or said compound of formula (A) is di-n-decyldimethylammonium chloride, Octyldecyldimethylammonium chloride or dioctyldimethylammonium chloride. 11. The composition of claim 6, wherein the antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound is selected from the group consisting of di-n-decyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC), benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and benzethonium chloride (BENZ). 12. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the antimicrobial component (ii) comprises (a) chlorhexidine or chlorhexidine salt and (b) di-n-decyldimethyl Ammonium chloride and/or benzalkonium chloride of formula (B) according to claim 9. 13. The composition of claim 12 comprising benzalkonium chloride of formula (B) wherein m is 8, 10 or 12. 14. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a quaternary ammonium compound of CAS No. 7173-51-5 and/or 68424-85-1. 15. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims comprising an additional antimicrobial component (b). 16. The composition according to claim 15, wherein the additional antimicrobial component (b) is selected from the group consisting of polymeric biguanides, silver, octenidine HCl, amphoteric compounds, iodophores, phenolic compounds, isothiazoles Ketones, nitrobromopropanes, nitrogen heterocyclic compounds, alkyl betaines, alkylamine oxides, anionic amino acid surfactants and amine biocides and mixtures thereof. 17. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the amount of component (i) is from about 0.0005% to 10% by weight of the composition. 18. The composition of claim 17, wherein the amount of component (i) is from about 0.005% to about 5% by weight of the composition. 19. The composition of claim 18, wherein the amount of component (i) is from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of the composition. 20. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the total amount of component (ii) and component (b) (if present) is from about 0.001% by weight to about 10% by weight of the composition . 21. The composition of claim 20, wherein the total amount of component (ii) and component (b), if present, is from about 0.005% to about 5% by weight of the composition. 22. The composition of claim 21, wherein the total amount of component (ii) and component (b), if present, is from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of the composition. 23. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pH of the composition is from about 4.5 to about 8. 24. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises a complexing agent. 25. The composition according to claim 24, wherein the complexing agent is selected from the group consisting of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), gluconate, glutamic acid diacetic acid (GLDA), ethylenediamine-N,N '-Disuccinic acid (EDDS), diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DPTA), hydroxyethyl-ethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA), PDTA (1,3- propylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and ethanol diglycine (EDG) and mixtures thereof. 26. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polar solvent is selected from the group consisting of water, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, glycol ethers, propylene glycol ethers, butyldiglycol ( BDG) and dipropylene glycol methyl ether (trade name Dowanol DPM) and mixtures thereof. 27. The composition of claim 25 or 26, wherein the composition is substantially free of ethanol. 28. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims which, in use, provides a residual antimicrobial effect. 29. Use of a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 28 to substantially reduce or control the formation of microbial colonies on or at a surface. 30. Use according to claim 29, for reducing or controlling biofilm formation. 31. A method of substantially reducing or controlling the formation of microbial colonies on or at a surface, said method comprising applying a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 28 to said surface. 32. The method of claim 31, reducing or controlling biofilm formation. 33. A method of disrupting, preventing or reducing the adhesion and/or attachment of microorganisms to a surface, said method comprising applying a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 28 to said surface. 34. The use of claim 29, or the method of claim 30 or 31, wherein the surface is skin. 35. A hand sanitizer comprising the antimicrobial composition according to any one of claims 1 to 28. 36. A wound care product comprising the antimicrobial composition according to any one of claims 1 to 28. 37. An antimicrobial wipe comprising a substrate and the antimicrobial composition of any one of claims 1-28. 38. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 28 for use in the manufacture of a product to reduce or control said formation of microbial colonies on said skin or wound. 39. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 28, for reducing or controlling said formation of microbial colonies on said skin or wound. 40. A composition, use or method generally as herein described. 41. A composition, use or method generally as described herein with reference to the examples.