Abstract:
Embodiments relate to passive liquid air freshener systems that allow fragrances to evaporate through use of a wicking element where fluid moves by capillary action towards the emanating surface, as well as the fragrance stabilizing compositions used therein and to active liquid air freshener systems that assist the evaporation of the fragrances through use of electrical devices, heated elements or forced air units. Cyclomethicone-based liquid compositions, preferably clear, provide an improved rate of evaporation of perfume materials from the air freshener device emanating surface and allow the use of fragrance materials with a wide range of characteristics. Embodiments utilize cyclomethicone in combination with other solvents specifically to increase solubility, enhance performance, maintain consistent fragrance character and maximize the range of aromatic materials that can be used.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 12/902,198, filed on Oct. 12, 2010, and claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/254,276, filed on Oct. 23, 2009. Both of those documents are incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present subject matter relates to apparatuses and chemical mixtures for delivering fragrances within an area. More specifically, the present subject matter relates to the formulations developed to be used as a volatile organic compound (VOC) for delivery of fragrances by diffusion in both active and passive delivery systems. Also discussed is a method of releasing the fragrances into the air using porous materials that wick up the fragrances via capillary action. 
         [0004]    2. Background of the Related Art 
         [0005]    Many different forms of fragrance delivery systems have been in use for years. Such systems include candles, heated oils, atomizers, electric and reed diffuser devices. These devices may be used in a number of applications ranging from imparting a pleasant aroma within an area, aromatherapy, and environments odor control as well as insect repellant and insecticides. 
         [0006]    Individual known fragrance delivery systems may each have their own respective drawbacks, or overlapping or related drawbacks. Candles, for example, while effective to deliver fragrances within an environment and while often having various esthetically pleasing qualities, employ a flame which may be inappropriate in certain environments. Heated oils may also require either a flame or an electric heating element, which may pose similar drawbacks or others in particular circumstances. 
         [0007]    Atomizer type devices may generally avoid various flame-related drawbacks associated with candles and heated oils, but such devices may require either of automated spray mechanisms (in turn requiring electrically operated pumps) or periodic manual operations that may be inconvenient or undesirable in certain environments. 
         [0008]    Static diffuser type delivery systems avoid many of the noted drawbacks as they generally do not require heat, flame, or external energy to affect fragrance delivery, however, these too may be less effective if the diffuser liquid is not designed to provide maximum evaporation potential, to promote complete solubilization of fragrance materials and to use diluents that do not demonstrate a tendency for clogging the capillary tubes. Most diffuser devices will wick up the fragrance through capillary action. Often the fragrance liquids clog the pores of the diffuser material. The clogging of the pores may be caused by a variety of reasons, including but not limited to use of surfactants that contribute to clogging, crystalline fragrance materials that are not completely soluble in the diffuser liquid or to chemical reactions that can cause the fragrance liquid to increase in viscosity, hindering the capillary flow of the fragrance liquid in the pores of the wicking substrate. 
         [0009]    Creation of effective diffuser systems is further complicated by the requirement of compliance with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules on atmospheric emissions. More particularly, the EPA has defined so-called “volatile organic compounds” (VOC) for purposes of preparing state implementation plans relative to attaining the national ambient air quality standards for ozone under Title I of the Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. §7401. VOCs include, for example, ethyl alcohol, Ethyl Acetate, Methyl Amyl Keytone, Ethyl Nonafluoroisobutyl Ether, 3-methyl-3-methoxy-1-butinol, Amyl Acetate and Benzyl Formate. As an adjunct to such defined compounds, certain compounds are excluded from the definition of VOC on the basis that they make negligible contribution to any ozone formation in the troposphere. In other words, they are considered to be VOC exempt. VOC-exempt compounds include, for example linear or completely methylated siloxanes, cyclic siloxanes, branched siloxanes, methane, methylene chloride, acetone and completely fluorinated ethers. 
         [0010]    While VOC&#39;s may have a variety of potential uses including as heat-transfer fluid or substitutes for ozone depleting substances and substances with high global warming potentials (such as hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and perfluoropolyethers), states regulate VOC emissions as precursors to ozone formation per the above-referenced national ambient air quality standards. The desire for such regulation is based in part on the fact that tropospheric ozone (commonly known as smog) occurs when VOC and nitrogen oxides (NOX) react in the atmosphere. Because of the harmful health effects of ozone, the EPA and state governments variously limit the amount of VOC and NOX that can be released into the atmosphere. Generally speaking, the VOC&#39;s are those particular compounds of carbon (excluding certain ones) which form ozone through atmospheric photochemical reactions. Compounds of carbon (also known as organic compounds) have different levels of reactivity. In other words, they do not react at the same speed or do not form ozone to the same extent. 
         [0011]    While various implementations of fragrance delivery systems have been developed, no design has emerged that generally encompasses all of the desired characteristics as hereafter presented in accordance with the subject technology as it relates to effective diffusion of fragrance. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    Embodiments presented herein provide a liquid diffuser system designed to facilitate the stabilization and solubilization of fragrance materials. These fragrance materials may be, for example, crystals and terpenoids. It has been found that these and other perfumery raw materials, known to those skilled in the art, are difficult at best to solubilize. The liquid diffuser system described herein has been designed to increase the evaporation rate of these and other fragrance materials in a cost effective, performance oriented formulation. 
         [0013]    We have further discovered that the solvent blend helps stabilize some specific fragrance materials during freeze/thaw conditions. Thus, without the select solvent combination described, some fragrance materials can exhibit a tendency to drop out of solution, causing a phase-separation that does not reconstitute. 
         [0014]    Solubilizing systems of embodiments of the invention may include, for example, dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether, 5-8% w/w, C13-14 isopariffin, 5-11% w/w, tripropylene glycol methyl ether, 2-8% w/w, bis(1-methylethyl)ester, 3-6% wt/wt and dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate, 10-30% w/w. 
         [0015]    For exemplary reasons, examples herein employ a reed diffuser system and wood block configuration. The invention has been designed so that it can be used effectively in static and active diffuser platforms. Those of skill in the art will recognize that other diffusion devices may be used. 
         [0016]    In some embodiments, diffuser oil formulations have been developed using volatile organic content (VOC) exempt carriers for fragrances. The VOC-exempt carriers may be odorless, and they may be configured so that they and do not alter or obscure combined fragrances. 
         [0017]    Air freshening diffuser compositions of the invention may provide an extended release profile for perfumes and fragrances relative to a similar delivery system that does not include the solubilizing and stabilizing compositions. 
         [0018]    Another positive aspect of the invention is consistency of the fragrance character during evaporation over the product life. Measurements of diffuser liquid during performance testing at specific intervals, using GC/MS, shows the fragrance does not change during evaporation. 
         [0019]    The combination of silicone, a select solvent blend and fragrance provides the synergy to maintain the fragrance character. Another present exemplary embodiment relates to an increased performance, measured by evaporation rate. The invention can be modified through blending variations in the formulation to achieve different evaporation performance profiles that are requirements of active or passive diffuser products. Testing alongside current market (2008-2009) static diffuser products, an embodiment of the invention—fragrance diffuser liquid system—consistently exhibited a higher evaporation rate, and in some cases a linear evaporation, than all other products tested. 
         [0020]    One skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications and variations to the specifically illustrated, referred and discussed features, elements, and steps hereof may be practiced in various embodiments and uses of the present subject matter without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter. Variations may include, but are not limited to, substitution of equivalent means, features, or steps for those illustrated, referenced, or discussed, and the functional, operational, or positional reversal of various parts, features, steps, or the like. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         [0021]      FIG. 1  demonstrates increased performance as depicted by evaporation rate provided by an embodiment of the invention as described in Example 3. 
           [0022]      FIG. 2  shows results of weight loss comparison tests in Example 4. 
           [0023]      FIG. 3  shows head-to-head comparison of the same fragrance oil placed in a solubilizing composition that is an embodiment of the invention vs. a typical solvent blend used in the marketplace. It shows the improved evaporation rate provided by the demonstrated embodiment, which is a 67% increased rate of evaporation. 
           [0024]      FIG. 4  shows a Woodwick® brand diffuser. 
           [0025]      FIG. 5  shows a typical static diffuser. 
           [0026]      FIG. 6  shows results of Example 8. 
           [0027]      FIG. 7  shows results of Example 9. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0028]    As referenced in the Summary of the Invention section, the present subject matter is particularly concerned with improved methodologies, compositions, and corresponding apparatuses for delivering fragrances to environments by diffusion. 
         [0029]    There are several particular aspects to fragrance delivery systems as herein described in accordance with the present technology that contribute to commercial as well as functional success for such corresponding products. For example, more generally speaking, it is significant for users that any volatile components used be VOC-exempt or used at levels within the guidelines relative to EPA requirements and regulations, as referenced above. Further, it is desirable that such fluids themselves be odorless so as not to obscure or add to any combined fragrance. Additionally, room temperature evaporation rates should preferably be such that any corresponding or resulting product will be effective for an extended period of time while maintaining sufficient fragrance transport into a surrounding environment. It is generally preferred that such fragrance transport formulations should be effective for relative duration of time, such as, for example, one to two months. 
         [0030]    Applicants have found that cyclomethicone fluids, when presented and used per the present technology, demonstrate properties that contribute toward such aspects. One example of a particular such cyclomethicone fluid is produced by Dow Corning® and commercially available as Dow Corning® 245 Fluid. DC-245 Fluid is a volatile cyclomethicone fluid that is clear, odorless, VOC exempt, has low toxicity and low surface tension fluid, and evaporates completely at room temperature. Other cyclomethicone fluids suitable for use with the present technology include, but are not limited to: Dow Corning® 344 Fluid, Dow Corning® 246 Fluid, Dow Corning® 345 Fluid, and Dow Corning® 200 Fluid. 
         [0031]    While those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the general concepts of reed diffusers, our present technology provides significantly improved fragrance delivery achieved through exemplary formulations of diffuser oil composition. More specifically, our present technology may make advantageous use of volatile cyclomethicone fluids, blended with other fluids as described herein, as a fragrance transport mechanism. Such fluids are particularly useful because they are odorless, volatile organic content (VOC) exempt, low in toxicity, low in surface tension, and highly effective for complete evaporation at room temperature. As a result, a fragrance can be dissolved into such fluids resulting in a desired product having similar advantageous properties. 
         [0032]    Evaporation is the transition of a liquid to a gas at a temperature below the boiling point of the liquid. Evaporation characteristics are important to determining the fragrance release of a delivery system. Some liquids evaporate quickly, some evaporate slowly, and some do not evaporate at all. This phenomenon is caused by a difference in vapor pressure, which determines the rate at which a liquid evaporates. A number of factors help determine a liquid&#39;s vapor pressure. Two of them are temperature and intramolecular forces of attraction. 
         [0033]    Usually, the higher the temperature the faster a liquid evaporates when at constant pressure. The intramolecular forces of attraction are governed by the polarity of the molecule. Some molecules, which are polar, have a positive end and a negative end, which others do not. When a molecule is highly polar there is much attraction between the molecules and the evaporation rate is low or even nonexistent, since the attraction tends to hold the molecules together. If the polarity or forces of attraction are weak, the evaporation rate is high because little prevents the molecules from escaping the liquid. 
         [0034]    Fragrances are typically made of mixtures of ingredients, usually including natural and synthetic essential oils. This is referred to as a “neat oil.” Often a diluent is added to the fragrance to decrease the cost of the mixture. The diluent may be a single compound or a mixture of compounds. The mixture of diluents and fragrance ingredients is usually referred to as a “fragrance.” Often the phrase “solubilizing composition” will be used in place of the word “diluent,” which represents that the fragrance should be soluble in the diluent so that it is better distributed throughout the fragrance distributor. 
         [0035]    Normally, when a fragrance evaporates, the more volatile components will escape faster than the less volatile components. This occurs because the less polar, more volatile compounds escape first while the more polar, less volatile compounds evaporate last, if at all. As a result, the smell of the fragrance will change over time since, initially, the fragrance will smell like the more volatile components and, later on, will smell like the less volatile components. 
         [0036]    We understand that in a mixture of fragrance components containing both polar and non-polar molecules, typical diluents/carriers will be less attractive to the non-polar fragrance molecules. This allows the non-polar molecules to evaporate more quickly and completely than the polar fragrance molecules. This differential evaporation, in turn, results in a change in the character of the fragrance over time, as the amount of polar components present in the fragrance begins to predominate. We also recognized that the opposite could occur if the diluent/carrier were designed to retain preferentially the non-polar molecules, the opposite undesirable effect (eventual predominance of the non-polar fragrance component) would occur. 
         [0037]    During our research into this question, we surprisingly found that the combination of silicone and a proper amount of Isopar-M (“ISOPAR” is a trademark of ExxonMobile Chemical) provided an exceptional diluent solution that allowed for a more measured release of both polar and non-polar fragrance components. This allowed the desirable fragrance character to persist over a significant period of time due to the homogeneity of the mixture of fragrance components. This also allowed the evaporation rate of the combined fragrance composition to be increased significantly, thereby further increasing the pleasurable properties of the released fragrance. “Isopar M” is a trade name for a C13-C14 isoparaffin containing less than 1 ppm benzene and 1 ppm sulfur. The lack of change in the fragrance over time was recorded by fragrance evaluators who are skilled in the art of observing differences (if any) in smell characteristics. 
         [0038]    Although not wishing to be bound by theory, we believe that the diluents used in embodiments of the invention must have a mixed polarity. At least one polar component of the diluent attracts the polar fragrance component(s) and helps to govern their release, while at least one non-polar component of the diluent attracts the non-polar fragrance component(s) and helps to govern their release. When the mixture of diluents and fragrance compounds evaporate from the liquid, they are carried away together equally or nearly equally. 
         [0039]    An exemplary formulation in accordance with our present technology includes fragrance, 10-18% w/w; cyclomethicone fluid, 50-60% w/w; dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate, 18-23% w/w, C13-14 isoparaffin, 7-11% w/w, dimethyl siloxane hydroxyalkyl-terminated, 2-4% w/w and 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 8-13% w/w. 
         [0040]    Optional materials that may be include in the formulation are propylene glycol n-butyl ether, 5-14% w/w, 2-(2-butoxy-ethoxy)ethanol, bis(1-methylethyl)ester, 3-6% wt/wt, 2-7% w/w and dipropylene glycol n-butyl ether, 1-5% w/w. Those skilled in the art will recognize that additional materials may be added as desired. 
         [0041]    The select solvents, cyclomethicone and fragrance blend is employed not only to address costing aspects but also to address desired solubility, stability and performance aspects of the invention. Suitable solvent/carriers may be selected from materials including, but not limited to, cyclopentasiloxane, C13-14 isoparaffin, 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, cyclotetrasiloxane, tripropylene glycol monomethyl ether, bis(1-methylethyl)ester, cyclomethicone, dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate or a mixture thereof. 
         [0042]    Stability tests were conducted throughout the development period where current market reed diffuser products were used for comparison against the invention. The market diffuser products exhibited stability issues with spice, citrus and vanilla fragrance compositions. Initially, the invention exhibited similar, but reduced instability. Further development and combination of C13-14 isopariffin, 28-32% wt/wt and dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate, 67-75% wt/wt, resolved these stability problems. 
         [0043]    Embodiments of the invention may provide diffusers with enhanced fragrance release profiles. For example, the increased stabilization and solubilization of the fragrance may allow a fragrance release having a linear profile that is constant or relatively constant over time. 
         [0044]    A variety of diffusing devices may be used. For example, a diffuser comprised of rattan reeds of 6-10″ length, a glass container with an opening at the top approximately 1″ in diameter and solvent or solvent blend may be used. Static or passive diffuser systems in basic format must have a container with an opening at the top, a solvent or solvent blend and some device for transport (rattan reed, wood dowel, membrane) of the solvent/solvent blend to the emanating surface. 
         [0045]    Diffusers constructed from wood blocks or different types of wood laminated together are also suitable. In one embodiment the diffuser construction may be comprised of a container, dowel and wooden lid. 
         [0046]    Active diffusion devices may also be used in embodiments of the invention. For example, an electrically-powered forced air diffuser may be used. Such a diffuser may both heat the diluent/fragrance combination (enhancing evaporation) and provide a fan or other device to further spread the fragrance. 
         [0047]    Various fragrances may be used. They include, for example, but are not limited to Vanilla Bean, Cinnamon Chai, Frasier Fir, Linen, Spice Clove, Fireside, Redwood, Pumpkin Butter, Applewood and Citrus &amp; Herbs. Typically these fragrances include one or more of the following compounds, as will be recognized by one of skill in the art: Vanillin, Tonka Bean, Cinnamic Aldehyde, Euganol, Orange Oil, Pine Oil, Aldehyde C-12, Cedarwood Va., Indol, Castoreum and Eucalyptus Oil. 
       EXAMPLES 
     Example 1 
     Preparation of a Solubilizing Composition 
       [0048]    This example reports the preparation of a solubilizing composition that are in embodiments of the invention. The embodiment prepared in this example was then used in the testing presented in the further examples in this application. 
         [0049]    The solubilizing system may be prepared without any external heat required. The process begins with a fragrance (10-18% by weight of the total composition) added to C13-14 isoparaffin (7-11% by weight) and allowed to mix thoroughly. This mixture is blended with dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate (10-19% by weight) and dimethyl siloxane hydroxyalkyl-terminated (2-4% by weight). Another example of a solubilizing composition of similar effect is achieved by combining fragrance (10-18% by weight), tripropylene glycol methyl ether (10-14% by weight) and 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol (8-13% by weight). 
       Example 2 
     Testing of a Solubilizing Composition of the Invention with Vanilla Fragrance 
       [0050]    Typically, fragrances having high crystal, spice, citrus and terpene levels have, in the past, presented solubility and stability issues in the past in typical static diffuser liquids. Embodiments of the invention may resolve these issues to allow higher levels of these materials be used in the fragrance oil. 
         [0051]    Vanilla type fragrances typically incorporate high levels of crystals that present solubility issues in evaporative systems. Therefore, vanilla fragrances seemed to be an ideal candidate to test the efficacy of embodiments of the invention. 
         [0052]    Full stability testing was conducted to insure no permanent adverse effects were observed. Test parameters included exposure in the following stability chambers; 25° C., 37° C., 45° C., 50° C., 5° C., UV Light, CWL Light and 3 Cycles freeze/thaw [−20° C./25° C.]. 
         [0053]    An example of a vanilla fragrance with high crystal content that has successfully been incorporated; ingredients parts by weight: 1) Aldehyde C-18 0.4%, 2) Anisic Aldehyde 4%, 3) Coumarin 10%, 4 Ethyl Maltol 4% 5) Ethyl Vanillin 18%, 6) Oxyphenylon 0.5%, 7) Vanillin USP 17%, 8) Benzyl Benzoate 46.1%. 
       Example 3 
     Solvent Blend Comparative Testing of the Invention to Demonstrate Superior Performance 
       [0054]    A test was designed to compare existing market product solvent blend with the invention to demonstrate the superior performance achieved by embodiments of the invention. Evaporation rate trials were selected as the procedure for this evaluation. Test parameters and conditions: GC/MS analysis of static diffuser market products were performed to determine the solvent or solvent blends used in their product. Samples were prepared using a Linen fragrance oil (0066355A) at 15% w/w in the solvent or solvent blends representing 85% w/w. Five (5) test samples of each at 65 grams w/w were prepared in identical glass containers using 10 each of the same 3.0 mm diameter rattan reeds of 8″ length. Initial weights taken and samples weighed at 1 week intervals, evaporation test room conditions; 72° F., 63% RH. 
         [0055]    Analysis of static diffuser market products used for comparative testing showed the following compositions: Pier 1 products use Carbitol® blended with the fragrance; Febreze® product uses dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate, 80% w/w with tripropylene glycol methyl ether 20% w/w and this mixture is blended with fragrance at a ratio of 85:15 wt/wt.; Glade brand solvent blend is 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, 12% wt/wt with dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate, 88% wt/wt and blended with fragrance at a ratio of 88:12. 
         [0056]      FIG. 1  demonstrates increased performance in head-to-head comparison as depicted by evaporation rate provided by an embodiment of the invention as described by the testing above. 
       Example 4 
     Testing of a Solubilizing Composition of the Invention with Spice Fragrance 
       [0057]    Spice type fragrances exhibit different issues of stability in freeze/thaw conditions. Testing was conducted to evaluate and insure stability in freeze/thaw conditions; 3 cycles, 24 hours @ −20° C. then 24 hours @ 24° C. No permanent adverse effects were observed. 
         [0058]    An example of a Spice Clove fragrance with high levels of spice related materials that exhibits stability and compatibility issues in silicone and silicone blends, but has successfully been incorporated into the invention without exhibiting any of the stated stability issues; fragrance ingredients parts by weight: 1) Acetophenone 0.2%, 2) Acetyl Pyrazine 0.1%, 3) Cyclotene 0.7%, 4) Cinnamic Alcohol 5.5%, 5) Indolal 0.3%, 6) Amyl Phenyl Acetate-Iso 0.3%, 7) Nutmeg Oil East Indian 0.3%, 8) Tetrahydro Linalool 0.2%, 9) Terpinyl Acetate 4.0%, 10) Phenyl Acetaldehyde @ 50% PEA 0.2%, 11) Coumarin 2.2%, 12) Eugenol USP 12.0%, 13) Hedione 0.2%, 14) Hexyl Cinnamic Aldehyde 0.2%, 15) Methyl Cinnamic Aldehyde 6.5%, 16) Dermol DOA 35.3%, 17) Cinnamic Aldehyde 11.5%, 18) Benzyl Benzoate 20.0%, 19) Methyl Anthranilate 0.3%. 
       Example 5 
     Testing of Fragrance Character Consistency of the Invention Over Functional Life 
       [0059]    Testing was conducted to confirm fragrance character consistency does not during the functional life of static diffuser products using and embodiment the invention. WoodWick® Spill Proof diffuser samples were prepared using an embodiment of the invention with fragrance level at 15% w/w. The WoodWick® Spill Proof diffuser consists of a cube-like glass container ( FIG. 4 ) to hold the diffusing solution, a dowel for transport of the liquid to the emanating surface and a wood block as the emanating surface. Evaporation trials were conducted and at specific intervals, small samples of the product inside the container were extracted and submitted for analysis the using a Gas Chromatograph (GC). Analytical results demonstrated that the fragrance character did not change over the life of the product. 
         [0060]    Tables 1-3 below are the results of analysis made by Gas Chromatograph of three (3) distinctly different fragrance compounds; a Linen Type, Herbal Type and Fruity Type, that were incorporated at 15% w/w into an embodiment of the invention. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Linen 0066355A (Linen Type) 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Standard 
               
               
                 RI Value 
                 (Day 0) 
                 (Day 7) 
                 (Day 21) 
                 (Day 28) 
                 Deviation 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 517.8 
                 12.78 
                 13.13 
                 11.84 
                 12.93 
                 0.57 
               
               
                 639.4 
                 1.50 
                 1.51 
                 1.46 
                 1.55 
                 0.04 
               
               
                 676.2 
                 1.52 
                 1.54 
                 1.47 
                 1.53 
                 0.03 
               
               
                 704.9 
                 2.01 
                 2.04 
                 2.07 
                 1.98 
                 0.04 
               
               
                 707.4 
                 1.01 
                 1.05 
                 0.75 
                 1.02 
                 0.14 
               
               
                 757-791 
                 66.67 
                 66.50 
                 67.18 
                 66.66 
                 0.29 
               
               
                 839.8 
                 1.17 
                 1.20 
                 1.18 
                 1.13 
                 0.03 
               
               
                 892.7 
                 0.94 
                 0.95 
                 0.91 
                 0.96 
                 0.02 
               
               
                 937.8 
                 0.79 
                 0.76 
                 0.77 
                 0.78 
                 0.01 
               
               
                 960.6 
                 0.35 
                 0.34 
                 0.37 
                 0.35 
                 0.01 
               
               
                 974.4 
                 1.53 
                 1.55 
                 1.67 
                 1.56 
                 0.06 
               
               
                 1021.3 
                 0.84 
                 0.85 
                 0.82 
                 0.87 
                 0.02 
               
               
                 1053.3 
                 0.68 
                 0.69 
                 0.67 
                 0.71 
                 0.02 
               
               
                 1088.2 
                 0.92 
                 0.93 
                 0.90 
                 0.95 
                 0.02 
               
               
                 1197.1 
                 0.43 
                 0.43 
                 0.42 
                 0.44 
                 0.01 
               
               
                 1239.6 
                 1.22 
                 1.21 
                 1.21 
                 1.29 
                 0.04 
               
               
                 1352 
                 2.03 
                 2.00 
                 2.03 
                 2.21 
                 0.10 
               
               
                 1379.9 
                 0.63 
                 0.62 
                 0.63 
                 0.69 
                 0.03 
               
               
                 1607.6 
                 0.61 
                 0.59 
                 0.62 
                 0.69 
                 0.04 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Meadow 01271159B (Herbal Type) 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Standard 
               
               
                 RI Value 
                 (Day 0) 
                 (Day 7) 
                 (Day 21) 
                 (Day 28) 
                 Deviation 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 518.6 
                 13.43 
                 12.68 
                 12.53 
                 12.97 
                 0.39 
               
               
                 702-708 
                 6.55 
                 6.26 
                 5.96 
                 6.20 
                 0.24 
               
               
                 753-798 
                 67.89 
                 68.51 
                 69.31 
                 68.74 
                 0.59 
               
               
                 831.5 
                 0.58 
                 0.57 
                 0.60 
                 0.54 
                 0.02 
               
               
                 833.8 
                 0.30 
                 0.29 
                 0.34 
                 0.29 
                 0.03 
               
               
                 895 
                 0.38 
                 0.37 
                 0.30 
                 0.31 
                 0.04 
               
               
                 952.2 
                 0.99 
                 0.92 
                 0.88 
                 0.94 
                 0.05 
               
               
                 1021.9 
                 2.09 
                 1.98 
                 1.90 
                 2.04 
                 0.08 
               
               
                 1119.1 
                 0.29 
                 0.28 
                 0.26 
                 0.29 
                 0.01 
               
               
                 1171.8 
                 0.31 
                 0.31 
                 0.29 
                 0.31 
                 0.01 
               
               
                 1239.9 
                 1.30 
                 1.26 
                 1.23 
                 1.31 
                 0.04 
               
               
                 1352.3 
                 2.25 
                 2.24 
                 2.06 
                 2.31 
                 0.11 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Currant 00411147B (Fruity Type) 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Peak % 
                 Standard 
               
               
                 RI Value 
                 (Day 0) 
                 (Day 7) 
                 (Day 21) 
                 (Day 28) 
                 Deviation 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 517.7 
                 12.92 
                 12.38 
                 13.15 
                 12.06 
                 0.50 
               
               
                 639.6 
                 5.05 
                 4.93 
                 4.97 
                 4.79 
                 0.11 
               
               
                 678.4 
                 0.47 
                 0.47 
                 0.47 
                 0.46 
                 0.01 
               
               
                 703.4 
                 1.23 
                 1.21 
                 1.28 
                 1.18 
                 0.04 
               
               
                 763-800 
                 61.72 
                 61.99 
                 61.37 
                 62.41 
                 0.44 
               
               
                 807.5 
                 2.07 
                 2.07 
                 2.13 
                 1.98 
                 0.06 
               
               
                 836.7 
                 0.40 
                 0.45 
                 0.42 
                 0.37 
                 0.03 
               
               
                 855.4 
                 0.29 
                 0.37 
                 0.29 
                 0.36 
                 0.04 
               
               
                 859 
                 0.42 
                 0.45 
                 0.45 
                 0.51 
                 0.04 
               
               
                 863.3 
                 0.32 
                 0.31 
                 0.34 
                 0.32 
                 0.01 
               
               
                 898.8 
                 0.23 
                 0.28 
                 0.22 
                 0.28 
                 0.03 
               
               
                 950.8 
                 0.31 
                 0.29 
                 0.34 
                 0.29 
                 0.02 
               
               
                 1024.4 
                 1.04 
                 1.00 
                 1.09 
                 0.98 
                 0.05 
               
               
                 1088.5 
                 2.92 
                 2.84 
                 3.09 
                 2.75 
                 0.14 
               
               
                 1.618 
                 1.88 
                 1.85 
                 1.81 
                 1.62 
                 0.12 
               
               
                 1133.3 
                 0.37 
                 0.39 
                 0.39 
                 0.41 
                 0.01 
               
               
                 1242.5 
                 4.50 
                 4.42 
                 4.66 
                 4.31 
                 0.15 
               
               
                 1456.4 
                 0.10 
                 0.10 
                 0.11 
                 0.94 
                 0.42 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0061]    In the charts above, RI Value is the relative index value of specific raw material in the fragrance compound as identified by Gas Chromatograph. Peak % represents the measured area under each of the peaks on the GC chart from analysis of this product. Standard Deviation relates to the average change in concentration of the material in the product over the duration of the test. These results document that the fragrance character does not change over the life of the product. 
       Example 6 
     Performance Evaluations Demonstrating Superiority of the Embodiments of the Invention Over their Functional Life 
       [0062]    Comparative evaporation studies were conducted against actual market reed diffuser products to evaluate evaporation potential and demonstrate the superior performance achieved by the invention. Market products selected were in 3 fragrance categories; Linen Type, Herbal Type and Fruity Type. Evaporation rate trials were selected as the procedure for this evaluation. Five (5) test samples of each product were purchased from various stores; Linen Type—Yankee Candle Brand Clean Cotton, Febreze® Willow Blossom, Glade Brand Sheer White Cotton and WoodWick® Linen; Herbal Type—Yankee Candle Sage &amp; Citrus, Febreze® Green Tea Citrus, Glade Lotus Bamboo and WoodWick® Meadow; Fruit Types—Yankee Candle Macintosh, Febreze® Pomegranate Mango, Glade Currants &amp; Acai and WoodWick® Currant were placed in a room measuring 10′ by 10′ with temperature set at 72° F. and RH 63%. Samples were evaluated for weight loss weekly. 
         [0063]    The WoodWick® reed diffuser uses the invention and was compared to the leading market reed diffuser samples listed above.  FIG. 2  shows the results of these weight loss comparison trials. 
       Example 7 
     Head-to-Head Comparative Evaluations Demonstrating Superiority of the Embodiments of the Invention Over their Functional Life 
       [0064]    A head-to-head comparative evaporation study as conducted using a Vanilla Bean fragrance oil (0057641) at 15% wt/wt in an embodiment of the invention having 8% Isopar M, 50% Silicone DC-245, 9% 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol (“MMB”) and 18% dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate and the same Vanilla Bean fragrance oil (0057641) at 15% wt/wt in a Glycol Ether/MMB blend consisting of 75% wt/wt Glycol Ether and 25% wt/wt MMB.  FIG. 3  shows the results after 63 days in test where the invention provided 67% a greater evaporation rate. 
       Example 8 
     Head to Head Comparison with Composition of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0022682 A1, to Licciardello (hereinafter “Licciardello”) 
       [0065]    A head to head comparative evaporation study was conducted using an English Ivy fragrance purchased from Greenleaf, Inc. Two trials were run for each of two formulations. One formulation included 15% fragrance in combination with 80% Isopar M and 5% Orange Terpenes, as reported in Example 4 of Licciardello. The other formulation, representing an embodiment of the invention, used 15% of the same fragrance composition in combination with 50% silicone DC-245, 8% Isopar M, 18% dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate and 9% 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol (“MMB”). In both cases the combinations were placed in a room (10′×10′) with temperature controlled at 72° F. and relative humidity at 65%. Each test sample was comprised of a standard 4 oz Boston round bottle filled with 100 grams of each test solution and 10 reeds of 3.25 mm diameter and 12″ length. All samples were weighed initially, then, at 1 week intervals. Differences in weight due to evaporation were noted and entered on a graph for visual comparison of the weight loss. 
         [0066]    The results of the comparison are shown in Tables 4 and 5 below, and graphically in  FIG. 6 . The trials using embodiments of the invention displayed a marked increase, measured over the course of several weeks, in total grams consumed over the course of the trials. This is indicative of a significant and unexpectedly high rate of evaporation, which resulted in an intense and uniform release of fragrance. Table 4 shows the actual loss of each composition over time, and Table 5 shows percent weight loss. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                 TABLE 4 
               
             
             
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 unit 
                 Data - Weight Loss 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 fill/ 
                 1/12 
                 1/19 
                 1/26 
                 2/2 
                 2/9 
                 2/16 
                 2/23 
                 3/2 
                 3/9 
                 3/16 
                 3/23 
                 3/30 
                 4/6 
               
               
                   
                 days 
                 0 
                 7 
                 14 
                 21 
                 28 
                 35 
                 42 
                 49 
                 56 
                 63 
                 70 
                 77 
                 84 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Embodiment 
                 100 
                 242.49 
                 221.92 
                 199.95 
                 184.09 
                 168.44 
                 153.60 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Sample #1 
               
               
                 Embodiment 
                 100 
                 243.19 
                 221.87 
                 203.77 
                 190.97 
                 177.98 
                 161.37 
               
               
                 Sample #2 
               
               
                 Rose sample L-1 
                 100 
                 242.35 
                 231.18 
                 221.49 
                 213.69 
                 205.79 
                 197.24 
                 190.13 
                 182.75 
                 177.72 
                 175.97 
                 172.13 
                 171.26 
                 170.91 
               
               
                 Rose sample L-2 
                 100 
                 244.01 
                 232.05 
                 222.20 
                 214.80 
                 207.39 
                 199.33 
                 192.47 
                 198.74 
                 186.58 
                 182.30 
                 180.31 
                 176.87 
                 174.72 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                 TABLE 5 
               
             
             
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Days 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 0 
                 7 
                 14 
                 21 
                 28 
                 35 
                 42 
                 49 
                 56 
                 63 
                 70 
                 77 
                 84 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Embodiment 
                 0 
                 22.8 
                 44.5 
                 60.1 
                 75.7 
                 92.8 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Average 
               
               
                 Rose “L” series 
                 0 
                 12.6 
                 23.2 
                 31.5 
                 39.8 
                 48.8 
                 56.4 
                 61.7 
                 66.3 
                 69.6 
                 72.8 
                 75.1 
                 76.5 
               
               
                 Average 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
       Example 9 
     Head to Head Comparison with Composition of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0022682 A1, to Licciardello (hereinafter “Licciardello”) 
       [0067]    A head to head comparative evaporation study was conducted using a Rose fragrance purchased from Greenleaf, Inc. Two trials were run for each of two formulations. One formulation included 15% fragrance in combination with 50% Isopar M, 5% Orange Terpenes, and 30% DC-244 (methylsiloxane) as reported in Example 1 of Licciardello. The formulation representing an embodiment of the invention used 15% of the same fragrance composition in combination with 50% methylsiloxane fluid (DC-245), 8% Isopar M, 18% dipropylene glycol methyl ether acetate, and 9% 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol (“MMB”). In both cases the combinations were placed in a room (10′×10′) with temperature controlled at 72° F. and relative humidity at 65%. Each test sample was comprised of a standard 4 oz Boston round bottle filled with 100 grams of each test solution and 10 reeds of 3.25 mm diameter and 12″ length. All samples were weighed initially, then, at 1 week intervals. Differences in weight due to evaporation were noted and entered on a graph for visual comparison of the weight loss. 
         [0068]    The results of the comparison are shown in Tables 6 and 7 below, and graphically in  FIG. 7 . The trials using embodiments of the invention displayed a marked increase, measured over the course of several weeks, in total grams consumed over the course of the trials. This is indicative of a significant and unexpectedly high rate of evaporation, which resulted in an intense and uniform release of fragrance. Table 6 shows the actual weight loss of each composition over time, and Table 7 shows percent weight loss. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                 TABLE 6 
               
             
             
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 unit 
                 Data - Weight Loss 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 fill/ 
                 1/12 
                 1/19 
                 1/26 
                 2/2 
                 2/9 
                 2/16 
                 2/23 
                 3/2 
                 3/9 
                 3/16 
                 3/23 
                 3/30 
                 4/6 
               
               
                   
                 days 
                 0 
                 7 
                 14 
                 21 
                 28 
                 35 
                 42 
                 49 
                 56 
                 63 
                 70 
                 77 
                 84 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Embodiment 
                 100 
                 242.49 
                 221.92 
                 199.95 
                 184.09 
                 168.44 
                 153.60 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 sample #1 
               
               
                 Embodiment 
                 100 
                 243.19 
                 221.87 
                 203.77 
                 190.97 
                 177.98 
                 161.37 
               
               
                 sample #2 
               
               
                 Rose sample L-1 
                 100 
                 242.35 
                 231.18 
                 221.49 
                 213.69 
                 205.79 
                 197.24 
                 190.13 
                 182.75 
                 177.72 
                 175.97 
                 172.13 
                 171.26 
                 170.91 
               
               
                 Rose sample L-2 
                 100 
                 244.01 
                 232.05 
                 222.20 
                 214.80 
                 207.39 
                 199.33 
                 192.47 
                 198.74 
                 186.58 
                 182.30 
                 180.31 
                 176.87 
                 174.72 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                 TABLE 7 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 0 
                 7 
                 14 
                 21 
                 28 
                 35 
                 42 
                 49 
                 56 
                 63 
                 70 
                 77 
                 84 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Embodiment Average 
                 0 
                 22.8 
                 44.5 
                 60.1 
                 75.7 
                 92.8 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Rose “L” series 
                 0 
                 12.6 
                 23.2 
                 31.5 
                 39.8 
                 48.8 
                 56.4 
                 61.7 
                 66.3 
                 69.6 
                 72.8 
                 75.1 
                 76.5 
               
               
                 Average