Softener active derived from acylated triethanolamine

Abstract

Fabric softener compounds having the formula: [RC(O)] N (R ) X wherein each R in a compound is a C -C hydrocarbyl group, preferably having an IV from about 70 to about 140 based upon the IV of the equivalent fatty acid, n is a number from 1 to three on the weight average in any mixture of compounds, each R in a compound is a C alkyl or hydroxy alkyl group, the total of n and the number of R groups that are hydroxyethyl groups equaling 3, n+m=4 and X is a softener compatible anion, preferably methyl sulfate, the compound, or mixtures of such compounds, having (a) either a Hunter “L” transmission of at least about 85, typically from about 85 to about 95, preferably from about 90 to about 95, more preferably above about 95, if possible, (b) only non-detectable levels, at the conditions of use, of odorous compounds selected from the group consisting of: isopropyl acetate, which should be, less than about 5, preferably less than about 3, and more preferably less than about 2, &eegr;g/L.; 2,2′-ethylidenebis(oxy)bispropane, which should be less than about 200, preferably less than about 100, more preferably less than about 10, and even more preferably less than about 5, &eegr;g/L.; 1,3,5-trioxane, which should be less than about 50, preferably less than about 20, more preferably less than about 10, and even more preferably less than about 7, &eegr;g/L.; and/or each short chain fatty acid (4-12, especially 6-10, carbon atoms) ester, especially methyl esters, which should be less than about 4, preferably less than about 3, and more preferably less than about 2, &eegr;g/L. or (c) preferably, both. The fabric softener actives are preferably prepared in the presence of chelating agent and/or antioxidant, as disclosed herein. Such materials are new. Solvents can be present.