Abstract: Esters derived from alkanolamines, dicarboxylic acids and fatty alcohols and the cationic surfactants obtainable therefrom. Novel alkanolamine esters based on the esterification reaction of alkanolamines, optionally alkoxylated, dicarboxylic acids and fatty alcohols, optionally alkoxylated, as well as the cationic surfactants and esterquats obtainable therefrom, are described. The cationic surfactants and esterquats thus obtained exhibit a high degree of efficacy in softening and conditioning natural and synthetic fibers such as textiles, paper and hair, and are therefore usable in treatments for softening and conditioning the said fibers. Novel aqueous fabric-softening compositions which contain the cationic surfactants and esterquats mentioned, optionally in combination with other active softening substances, are also described.

Abstract: A tubular casing which is designed to be stable in an upright position it has a bottom portion with an axial opening into which is forcibly fitted an axial spigot on a base member which engages the bottom portion. An annular ballast weight is fitted around the spigot and is held in place on it by the bottom portion; the ballast weight may have claws on its inside to engage the spigot, which can be of tapering form and has latching members to hold it in the opening.