Auhentic

Liquid fabric detergents are the most widely used liquid cleaning agents, designed for washing and maintaining cotton, cotton/synthetic blends, and synthetic fabrics. They effectively remove human-derived soils (e.g., sebum), particulate soils (e.g., dust), and greasy stains (e.g., animal/plant oils).  

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Core Requirements for General-Purpose Detergents

1. Strong detergency: Efficient removal of diverse stains.  

2. Hard water adaptability: Stable performance in high-mineral water.  

3. Controlled foaming: Low foam for machine washing to ease rinsing; moderate foam for handwashing.  

4. pH optimization:  

   - Heavy-duty detergents: Mild alkalinity (compliant with standards) to enhance cleaning.  

   - Delicate fabric detergents: Neutral pH to protect silk, wool, and other natural fibers.  

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Key Components of Liquid Detergents

1. Surfactants

- Primary anionic surfactants (1–2 types):  

  - Sodium alcohol ether sulfate (AES)  

  - Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS)  

  - Sodium alkyl sulfonate (SAS)  

  - Alpha-olefin sulfonate (AOS)  

- Nonionic surfactants (auxiliary/enhancers):  

  - Fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ethers (AEO7, AEO9) for penetration.  

  - Alkyl (6501) or amine oxides for thickening/stabilizing.  

- Industry standards: Total surfactant content ≥15% (standard) or ≥25% (concentrated formulations).  

2. Builders

- Enzymes: Protease, lipase, cellulase (enhance stain removal).  

- Anti-redeposition agents: Polyacrylate sodium, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).  

3. pH Regulators

- Alkaline: NaOH, KOH, triethanolamine, sodium silicate.  

- Acidic: Citric acid, sodium citrate, sodium succinate.  

4. Chelating Agents

- Sodium citrate, polyacrylate, or polyacrylic acid/maleic anhydride copolymer salts (soften water, prevent mineral buildup).  

5. Functional Additives  

- Anti-redeposition agents: Polyacrylate sodium.  

- Color-protection agents: Anti-dye-transfer polymers.  

- Antimicrobials: Plant extracts (e.g., tea tree oil).  

- Softening agents: Quaternary ammonium compounds (optional).  

6. Viscosity Modifiers  

- Thickeners: NaCl (primary), sulfates (e.g., Na₂SO₄).  

- Solvents/co-solvents: Ethanol, propylene glycol, urea (enhance solubility).  

7. Foam Control  

- Silicone-based: High efficiency but may reduce transparency.  

- Polyether-based: Suitable for clear formulations (activated above cloud point).  

- Mineral oil: Cost-effective.  

8. Preservatives  

- Isothiazolinones (e.g., Kathon CG), bronopol.  

9. Aesthetics  

- Fragrances, dyes (ensure visual appeal and long-lasting scent).  

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Industry Trends  

1. Concentrated formulations: Higher surfactant/enzyme content (≥25%) for reduced packaging and transportation costs.  

2. Low-temperature/water-saving: Energy-efficient performance in cold water.  

3. Eco-friendly & biodegradable: Shift toward plant-derived surfactants (e.g., APG) and phosphate-free builders.  

4. Multifunctionality:  

   - Antibacterial/antiviral properties.  

   - Color protection, anti-pilling, fabric softening.  

   - Extended fragrance retention (microencapsulated scents).  

5. Transparency/stability: Improved compatibility of additives (e.g., enzymes, silicones) in clear formulations.  

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Note: Formulations must balance performance, safety, and regulatory compliance (e.g., pH limits, biodegradability). Innovations focus on sustainability, user customization, and enhanced fabric care.