The Clorox Company
Intercalated bleach compositions, related methods of manufacture and use

Abstract:

The invention relates to compositions, methods of use, and methods of manufacture for an intercalated bleach compound and compositions thereof. The intercalated bleach compound has the formula M.sub.x(OCl).sub.y(O).sub.m(OH).sub.n where M is an alkaline earth metal such as magnesium, calcium or mixture thereof. The values of x and y independently equal any number greater than or equal to 1 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), and m and n independently equal any number greater than or equal to 0 (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), but m and n are not both 0. In addition, the molar ratio of the alkaline earth metal (e.g., magnesium or calcium) to hypochlorite is at least 3:1. In other words, x is .gtoreq.3y. The compounds exhibit excellent stability, little or no chlorine bleach odor, exhibit excellent pH buffering characteristics, and less reactivity with organic materials as compared to alternative chlorine bleach products.