Abstract: A method of removing spinning and finishing oils from fibers using supercritical carbon dioxide as an extraction media is provided. This process using carbon dioxide to remove oils from fiber surface operates at moderate pressures between 90 and 350 bar and at temperature levels ranghng from 40 to 120° C. The treated fibers have improved strength and elongation properties compared to those treated by conventional scouring. The treated fibers can be directly subjected to the subsequent dyeing processing.

Abstract: This invention relates to dry-cleaning systems which include anhydrous dry-cleaning compositions which contain polysulfonic acid, and a bag for the cleaning and containment of soiled fabric articles. In a first embodiment, the dry-cleaning compositions includes organic solvents, polysulfonic acid, and not more than about 10 wt % water. In a second embodiment, the dry-cleaning compositions includes organic solvents and polysulfonic acid, and not more than 1 about wt % water. The invention also relates to methods of using the dry-cleaning system and dry-cleaning composition.

Abstract: The invention provides dry cleaning compositions comprising hydrofluoroether, a cosolvent selected from the group consisting of glycol ethers, fluorocarbon surfactants, alkanols, and mixtures thereof, and water present in an amount of less than 1 percent by weight. In another aspect, the invention provides a method of cleaning fabric articles comprising the step of contacting an effective amount of the above dry cleaning composition with a fabric for a length of time sufficient to clean the article.

Abstract: A method of dry-cleaning garments which comprises treating the garments with a mixture of propylene glycol tertiary-butyl ether or propylene glycol n-butyl ether and water.

Abstract: A system for dry cleaning soils from fabrics comprising densified carbon dioxide and a surfactant in the densified CO.sub.2. The densified carbon dioxide is in a temperature range of about -78.5.degree. C. to about 100.degree. C. and a pressure range of about 14.7 to about 10,000 psi. At least 0.1% by volume of a modifier is preferably present. The surfactant has a polysiloxane, a branched polyalkylene oxide or a halocarbon group which is a functional CO.sub.2 -philic moiety connected to a CO.sub.2 -phobic functional moiety. The surfactant either exhibits an HLB of less than 15 or has a ratio of siloxyl to substituted siloxyl groups of greater than 0.5:1.

Abstract: Articles of manufacture comprising fabric appearance enhancing polyamines and methods for enhancing the appearance of fabric, said articles being applied in an automatic clothes dryer. These articles comprise:a) a fabric treatment composition comprising:i) at least an effective amount of a polyamine;ii) at least an effective amount of a carboxylic acid carrier;wherein the fabric treatment composition has a viscosity of less than about 2000 centipoise at 100.degree. C. and a melting point from about 25.degree. C. to about 95.degree. C.; andb) dispensing means which provides for release of an effective amount of said polyamine (i) and carboxylic acid carrier (ii) to fabrics in an automatic laundry dryer at operating temperatures.

Abstract: A bag for the cleaning and containment of soiled fabric articles is provided which comprises a fastening system that, when fastened provides a vapor impermeable container and an interior surface releasably impregnated with an effective amount of a gelled liquid dry-cleaning composition.

Abstract: A system for dry cleaning soils from fabrics comprising densified carbon dioxide and a surfactant in the densified CO.sub.2. The densified carbon dioxide is in a temperature range of about -78.5.degree. C. to about 100.degree. C. and a pressure range of about 14.7 to about 10,000 psi. At least 0.1% by volume of a modifier is preferably present. The surfactant has a polysiloxane, a branched polyalkylene oxide or a halocarbon group which is a functional CO.sub.2 -philic moiety connected to a CO.sub.2 -phobic functional moiety. The surfactant either exhibits an HLB of less than 15 or has a ratio of siloxyl to substituted siloxyl groups of greater than 0.5:1.

Abstract: A piece of soiled fabric is cleaned by contacting it with a jet of an ionized soil-dislodging gas to dislodge the soil therefrom. The ionized gas and the use of an oppositely charged electrostatic filter aid in preventing redeposition of the soil onto the fabric. The fabric may be agitated while it is contacted with the gas jet. A portion of the piece of fabric may be treated with an electrostatic spotting compound that enhances the effect of the ionized gas and may also enhance the removal of the soil. An apparatus for accomplishing the cleaning includes a container having an interior in which the fabric is received, a gas jet nozzle directed into the interior of the container, a source of a pressurized gas communicating with an inlet of the gas jet nozzle, a gas jet manifold extending from the source to the gas jet nozzle, and a gas ionizer disposed to ionize the pressurized gas passing through the gas jet nozzle.

Abstract: A system for dry cleaning soils from fabrics is described which contains densified carbon dioxide combined with a selected surfactant. The densified carbon dioxide is used in a temperature range of about -78.5.degree. C. to about 100.degree. C. and a pressure range of about 14.7 psi to about 10,000 psi. The surfactant is selected from one of two groups of compounds having a formula ##STR1## as described in the text or a second group of siloxane compounds having a formula [AB].sub.y as described. A process for using the dry cleaning system is also described.

Abstract: This invention relates to dry-cleaning systems which include dry-cleaning compositions which contain polysulfonic acid and water, and a bag for the cleaning and containment of soiled fabric articles. The invention also relates to methods of using the dry-cleaning system and dry-cleaning composition.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for separating water from a solvent during dry cleaning. Included is an inlet capable of receiving a mixture of dry cleaning fluid and water from a basket of a dry cleaning apparatus. The dry cleaning fluid includes a siloxane composition. Also provided is a flow controller for urging a flow of the mixture received from the outlet. Coupled to the flow controller is a coalescent media that receives the mixture urged by the flow controller. A chamber is coupled to the coalescent media for receiving the mixture from the coalescent media to separate the water and the dry cleaning fluid. Also coupled to the chamber is an outlet to remove the dry cleaning fluid from the chamber in the absence of the water.

Abstract: An improved method for the removal of stains from textiles is disclosed. The method involves the use of novel mixtures of zeolites and imides. The method of the invention provides superior performance in the removal of stains, especially those from animal wastes or fluids. The zeolite/imide mixtures are useful to remove stains from various textile fabrics and fibers, e.g. carpets, clothing, and upholstered goods.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a dry cleaning system and method, in which dry cleaning machinery is used in conjunction with a specific solvent which is derived from an organic/inorganic hybrid (organo silicone). Such solvent is used in combination with an organic and/or organo-silicone-based detergent which is specifically tailored for working in conjunction with the solvent to afford optimal cleaning. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the steps of loading articles into a cleaning basket; agitating the articles in the solvent and detergent composition in which they are immersed; removing most of the solvent and detergent composition; centrifuging the articles; heating the articles and remaining composition and creating vapors, condensing vapors and optionally reducing the pressure to dry the articles, recovering and recycling solvent and removing the articles from the basket after cooling the articles.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for dry cleaning articles utilizing a siloxane solvent. The system includes a cleaning basket for receiving articles therein and a one or more tanks for containing a siloxane solvent. Coupled between the tank and the cleaning basket is a pump for immersing the articles in the cleaning basket with the siloxane solvent. Also included is a still for distilling the dirty siloxane solvent to recover the pure siloxane solvent. A condenser is coupled to the cleaning basket and/or the still for recovering condensed vapors. For decanting any water in the siloxane solvent received from the condenser, a separator is coupled to the condenser. A fan is coupled to the cleaning basket for circulating air past the condenser, then the heater coils and into the cleaning basket for drying and cooling the articles.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a closed loop dry cleaning system and method, in which dry cleaning machinery is used in conjunction with a specific solvent which is derived from an organic/inorganic hybrid (organo silicone). In this class of organo silicones is a group known as cyclic siloxanes. The cyclic siloxanes present the basis for material composition of the solvent chemistry which allows this dry cleaning system to be highly effective. The cyclic-siloxane-based solvent allows the system to result in an environmentally friendly process which is, also, more effective in cleaning fabrics and the like than any known prior system. The siloxane composition is employed in a dry cleaning machine to carry out the method of the invention.

Abstract: A process for treating liquids to improve their usefulness without the use of traditional soaps or detergents, primarily through the treatment of a solution by the use of a holding tank and agitator, and treatment therein by a non-soap, non-detergent device such as activated ceramic filled floating containers, floating structured water filled containers, a magnetic liquid treatment pipe, electrodes, and/or other chargers. The liquid is then transported by way of a hose A to a pressure pump, then to hose B, and to a spray wand; or to a container for later use. Cleaning of on-site carpets and upholstery, floors and the like are taught.

Abstract: A safety lock-out apparatus for an access door of a pressure vessel which operates automatically without relying on external power sources is provided. The lock-out apparatus includes a locking assembly having a lock member which is supported in a hollow lock chamber for movement between a retracted position and an extended position. The lock member and a complementary recess being arranged such that when the lock member is in the extended position it engages the complementary recess so as to prevent the access door from being opened. The lock housing chamber is in fluid communication with the interior of the pressure vessel such that when the interior of the pressure vessel is pressurized, the increased pressure bears on the lock member and moves it counter to the bias of a spring into the engaged position thereby locking the door. When the increased pressure is removed from the pressure vessel, the spring moves the lock member into the retracted position.

Abstract: The invention provides dry cleaning liquid formulations and methods for their use based on a highly fluorinated organic solvent which contains at least one hydrogen atom per molecule, in particular, highly fluorinated hydrocarbons or highly fluorinated ethers. In a preferred embodiment the cleaning liquid contains an HFC or HFE in combination with dichloroethylene. The addition of a surfactant enhances the ability of the liquid to remove water-soluble soils.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a continuous processing apparatus and method for cleaning articles with a liquified compressed gaseous solvent mixture. The continuous processing apparatus includes three processing chambers including an entrance chamber, a cleaning chamber, and an exit chamber. The chambers are provided with hatches which are opened and closed at appropriate times to allow the articles to be cleaned to pass into and out of the chambers. The entrance chamber is used for evacuation of the incoming articles to remove the majority of the air and moisture from the articles. After evacuation of the incoming articles, the entrance chamber is pressurized and the articles pass into the cleaning chamber. The cleaning chamber is maintained at a temperature and a pressure at which the liquified compressed gaseous solvent mixture is in a subcritical state and a liquid/gas interface exists between a liquid and a gas portion of the liquified compressed gaseous solvent mixture.

Abstract: The present invention provides a more effective method of treating a spot or stain on a textile fabric, the method comprising the steps of: applying a detergent composition to the spot or stain; placing an absorbent layer adjacent to one side of the textile fabric in the region of the spot or stain; and applying heat, pressure, or heat and pressure, to the opposing side of the textile fabric in the region of the spot or stain, preferably in the presence of a hydrophilic solvent, or water, so that some or all of the spot or stain is absorbed into the absorbent layer. The detergent composition can be applied to the textile fabric using a container having a cap to which a foam pad is secured. The cap has a small opening through which the detergent composition can pass.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for washing fabric loads without water or using water only as a co-solvent are disclosed. One method of non-aqueous clothes washing includes the steps of disposing clothing in a wash container, delivering a wash liquor to the fabric load, the wash liquor comprising a substantially non-reactive, non-aqueous, non-oleophilic, apolar working fluid and at least one washing additive, applying mechanical energy to the clothing and wash liquor for a sufficient amount of time to provide fabric cleaning and, thereafter, substantially removing the wash liquor from the fabric load. The working fluid may be selected from the group consisting of perfluorocarbons, hydrofluoroethers, fluoronated hydrocarbons and fluoroinerts.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a dry cleaning system and method, in which dry cleaning machinery is used in conjunction with a specific solvent which is derived from an organic/inorganic hybrid (organo silicone). In this class of organo silicones is a group known as cyclic siloxanes. The cyclic siloxanes present the basis for material composition of the solvent chemistry which allows this dry cleaning system to be highly effective. The cyclic-siloxane-based solvent allows the system to result in an environmentally friendly process which is, also, more effective in cleaning fabrics and the like than any known prior system. The siloxane composition is employed in a dry cleaning machine to carry out the method of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a dry cleaning system and method, in which dry cleaning machinery is used in conjunction with a specific solvent which is derived from an organic/inorganic hybrid (organo silicone). In this class of organo silicones is a group known as cyclic siloxanes. Such cyclic-siloxane-based solvent allows the system to result in an environmentally friendly process which is, also, more effective in cleaning fabrics and the like than any known prior system. The siloxane composition is employed in a dry cleaning machine to carry out the method of the invention. In order to enhance the cleaning capabilities of the cyclic-siloxane-based solvent, such solvent is modified with a chemical that is selected from the group of chemicals including 2-ethylhexyl acetate, esters, alchohols, and ethers.

Abstract: A process for dry cleaning using a cleaning composition for dry cleaning which includes 1 to 90% by weight of a surfactant containing fluorine and 10 to 99% by weight of a fluorohydrocarbon solvent and/or an auxiliary solubilizing agent, the surfactant containing fluorine being a salt of a phosphoric acid ester of a polyoxyalkylenealkylsulfonamide ether containing fluorine.

Abstract: This invention relates to dry-cleaning systems which include anhydrous dry-cleaning compositions which contain polysulfonic acid, and a bag for the cleaning and containment of soiled fabric articles. In a first embodiment, the dry-cleaning compositions includes organic solvents, polysulfonic acid, and not more than about 10 wt % water. In a second embodiment, the dry-cleaning compositions includes organic solvents and polysulfonic acid, and not more than 1 about wt % water. The invention also relates to methods of using the dry-cleaning system and dry-cleaning composition.

Abstract: A dryer dry cleaning and freshening system is provided with a containment bag, a dispenser means impregnated with liquid cleaning composition, and a absorber capable of absorbing loose particles and excess cleaning composition A process for cleaning a garment is also provided. The system and process may be used in a home clothes dryer for dry cleaning.

Abstract: A dry cleaning and freshening system is provided including a containment bag, a single unit dispenser having dispensing means, a container, and absorbing means. The container is adapted to contain a quantity of liquid cleaning composition. The single unit dispenser and absorber means includes a dispensing part with absorbent material and a container for holding liquid cleaning composition and a retaining part of absorbent material capable of entraining loose particles and/or absorbing excess liquid cleaning composition. The liquid cleaning composition may include a fragrance composition. In a preferred embodiment the single unit dispenser and absorber means may be in the form of a ball with two hemispheres that split and may be screwed together. The single unit dispenser and absorber means may be used in a home clothes dryer for dry cleaning.

Abstract: A method for dry-cleaning articles such as fabrics and clothing in carbon dioxide comprises contacting an article to be cleaned with a liquid dry cleaning composition for a time sufficient to clean the fabric. The liquid dry-cleaning composition comprises a mixture of carbon dioxide, water, and an end-functional polysiloxane surfactant. After the contacting step, the article is separated from the liquid dry cleaning composition. The method is preferably carried out at ambient temperature.

Abstract: A bag for the cleaning and containment of soiled fabric articles is provided which comprises a fastening system that, when fastened provides a vapor impermeable container and an interior surface releasably impregnated with an effective amount of a gelled liquid dry-cleaning composition.

Abstract: A method and means for cleaning silk fabric for the prompt and efficient removal of stains from silk fabric, for example a stain on a silk tie, without causing visible lasting changes in color and without unpleasant smell. By means of a cleaning tissue, made of, for example, a textile material, essentially in the form of a wet tissue, impregnated with a grease solvent and a neutralizing agent, a stain on a silk tie is easily removed without any traces by rubbing the stain with the tissue, whereby the stain is dissolved by the grease solvent and is absorbed by the tissue, the smell-neutralizing agent preventing any unpleasant smell from spreading. The grease solvent may be a special boiling point spirit of heptane type. The smell-neutralizing agent may be an oil of terpene type, such as lemon oil.

Abstract: A system for dry cleaning soils from fabrics is described which contains densified carbon dioxide combined with a selected surfactant. The densified carbon dioxide is used in a temperature range of about -78.5.degree. C. to about 100.degree. C. and a pressure range of about 14.7 psi to about 10,000 psi. The surfactant is selected from one of two groups of compounds having a formula ##STR1## as described in the text or a second group of siloxane compounds having a formula [AB].sub.y as described. A process for using the dry cleaning system is also described.

Abstract: A bag for the cleaning and containment of soiled fabric articles is provided which comprises a fastening system that, when fastened provides a vapor impermeable container and an interior surface releasably impregnated with an effective amount of a gelled liquid dry-cleaning composition.

Abstract: Sheets capable of developing a positive electostatic charge are used for a variety of surface cleaning operations. Polyester fabric, non-woven and chemically bonded with an acrylic latex is used to dust surfaces, to clean clothes, furniture and carpets. A light solvent such as isopropanol can be used with the sheets to loosen gummy soils. In one mode, the sheets are used in a hot air clothes dryer to remove soils and detritus from garments. Processes for cleaning a variety of fabric and hard surfaces are conducted using the sheets.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a dry-cleaning article suitable for use in the home. The article includes a sheet that is permeated with 51-98% by weight of organic solvent such as paraffins, olefins, acetylenes or mixtures thereof, 1-35% by weight of water, optionally with 1-14% by weight of emulsifier such as PEMULEN.TM., Carbopol.TM., Emuluin.TM. and/or Emulphor.TM. to allow the water to be uniformly mixed into the solvent. The composition can also include 1-5% by weight of perfume for scenting clothing, and 1-5 % by weight of nonionic and/or anionic surfactant to provide additional stain removal capability of the composition. The invented composition is thus organic-solvent-based and is particularly effective to remove body or cosmetic oil stains from garments. The invention is also directed to the composition and methods for using the sheet in a drying machine.

Abstract: A containment bag 1 which may be used in home dry cleaning is made of textile with an impermeable finish and an interior capable of absorbing loose particles and soil. The containment bag 1 is used in a home dryer dry cleaning and freshening system. The textile of the containment bag 1 has a layer of woven or knit fabric with an impermeable coating and a soft, hairy layer on its interior. The inside of the containment bag 1 is prewetted with cleaning composition. Preferably a liquid cleaning composition is employed and the cleaning composition may include a fragrance composition. A process for cleaning a garment is also provided.

Abstract: A dry cleaning system and method, in which specially designed or modified machinery is used in conjunction with a specific solvent which is derived from an organic/inorganic hybrid (organo silicone). In this class of organo silicones is a group known as cyclic siloxanes. The cyclic siloxanes present the basis for material composition of the solvent chemistry which allows this dry cleaning system to be highly effective. The cyclic-siloxane-based solvent allows the system to result in an environmentally friendly process which is, also, more effective in cleaning fabrics and the like than any known prior system. The siloxane composition is employed in a dry cleaning machine to carry out the method of the invention.

Abstract: Phase stable liquid compositions comprise water, butoxy propoxy propanol and alkyl sulfate or alkyl ethoxy sulfate surfactants. The compositions are used to clean fabrics.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of compositions comprising an organic chelator together with a soil suspending polycarboxylate or polyamine polymer for the cleaning of carpet. The compositions may be in liquid or granular form and they may also contain surfactants and oxygen bleaches.

Abstract: Enzymes are used in a dry cleaning composition and process. Cleaning compositions comprising lipase, protease and/or amylase enzymes are applied to soiled fabrics in the presence of an organic solvent such as butoxy propoxy propanol to clean the fabrics. In a preferred mode, an enzyme-containing dry cleaning composition is releasably contained in a sheet substrate. The sheet is tumbled with soiled fabrics in a conventional home clothes dryer to clean soiled garments.

Abstract: Spot pretreatment compositions useful as stain cleaning compositions useful prior to a subsequent cleaning operation, including laundering or dry-cleaning. The spot cleaning compositions feature a major proportion of water, and minor amounts of nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, and organic solvents selected from alcohols and glycol ethers. The spot pretreatment compositions exhibit excellent stain dissolution characteristics. Processes for producing the spot cleaning compositions, and methods for their use are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods for use of a towelette to clean stains from clothing and upholstery. The towelette is impregnated with a cleaning solution that is primarily water, but also contains a volatile cleaning agent and a surfactant. The pH and surfactant concentrations of the cleaning solution are regulated. The wipe reduces the incidence of readily visible rings around treated stains.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses a stain receiver article and its use in a fabric cleaning process. The invention also encompasses a kit, comprising: (a) an aqueous fabric cleaning/refreshment composition which is, optionally, releasably contained on a carrier substrate; a re-usable, preferably vapor-venting, containment bag; a stain receiver article according to this invention; optionally, but preferably, a fabric cleaning device, as disclosed herein; optionally, a re-usable holding tray; and optionally, a non-aqueous cleaning composition. The invention also encompasses the stain receiver article, itself.

Abstract: A method for dry-cleaning garments which comprises treating them with an azeotropic solvent of propylene glycol tertiary-butyl ether and water.

Abstract: A soil release agent for dry cleaning containing a copolymer having (A) a repeating unit derived from a polymerizable monomer having a fluorine atom; and (B) a repeating unit derived from a polymerizable monomer having a siloxane linkage and/or a polymerizable monomer (having no siloxane linkage) having a solubility parameter of 6 to 15 gives excellent soil release property using the dry cleaning.

Abstract: A dryer dry cleaning and freshening system is provided with a containment bag, a dispenser means formed of an absorbent polymeric material usually impregnated with liquid cleaning composition, and optionally means for absorbing loose particles and excess cleaning composition. A process for cleaning a garment is also provided. The system and process may be used in a home clothes dryer for dry cleaning.

Abstract: Method includes the steps of (1) treating the textile with a predetermined amount of a non-durable sacrificial repellent material before putting the textile in service; (2) cleaning the textile with a mixture of a non-polar solvent and at least one cleaning additive to remove non-polar solvent soluble, insoluble and resistant contaminants from the textile; (3) washing the textile with a mixture of a polar solvent and at least one washing additive to remove polar solvent soluble contaminants from the textile; and (4) maintaining a predetermined amount of a non-durable sacrificial repellent material on the textile. The non-polar solvent may be perchloroethylene or the like, while the cleaning additive is a mixture of a dialkyl ketone, a carboxylic ester and a glycol ether. A second cleaning additive may be used to enhance contaminant removal. The polar solvent used is water, while the washing additive is a blend of surfactants.

Abstract: Novel surfactants and drying, drycleaning and soil repellency compositions containing such surfactants which utilize such surfactants. The surfactants are fluorine containing quaternary ammonium salts, and the drying, drycleaning and soil repellency compositions contain at least one halocarbon component and at least one of the fluorine containing surfactants. These compositions have the ability to remove water or aqueous films from the surfaces of a broad range of substrates and impart soil repellency to fabrics.

Abstract: Home dry cleaning compositions useful in dry-cleaning of textiles and garments in a non-commercial environment are disclosed. The cleaning compositions useful in conjunction with a a domestic dry cleaning operation the cleaning compositions are contacted with a soiled garment or textile during a tumbling such as is possible with a domestic clothes dryer. The cleaning compositions contain a major proportion of water, and further include minor amounts of a nonionic alkoxylated alcohol, anionic surfactant selected from alkyl sulfosuccinates, alkyl ether sulfosuccinates, alkylamide sulfosuccinates, alkyl sulfosuccinamates, as well as salt forms thereof, organic solvent selected from alcohols and glycol ethers, as well as optional constituents including fluorosurfactants, pH adjusting agents, fragrances, fragrance solubilizers, and preservatives.

Abstract: A method of dry cleaning articles such as clothing and the like including the use of Dipropylene Glycol Monomethyl Etheracetate as the cleaning solvent and the use of vacuum to assist in the removal of solvent from the articles and the use of vacuum distillation of the solvent after a cleaning cycle.