Dispersing Agents in Household Detergents
For formulators and manufacturers, the selection of the right raw materials for creating formulations is a daunting task. This article aims to delve into the subject of dispersing agents. These amazing components revolutionize the way we clean, making household detergents more effective and efficient.
Dispersing agents for detergents:
Dispersing agents, also known as dispersants, are chemical compounds designed to enhance the distribution of particles within a liquid.
Detergents must be able to disperse different types of materials within the washing liquid. In a detergent, a dispersing agent has the task of keeping the dirt in suspension, and preventing it from being redeposited on the substrates or surfaces to be cleaned.
Acrylic dispersing agents
Acrylic dispersing agents have been incorporated into formulations as a partial substitution for the various phosphates commonly found in detergents. They are acrylic and acrylic-maleic polymers designed to improve the properties of household, industrial and institutional detergents.
These polymers protect surfactants and other components against inactivation by ions, prevent redeposition of dirt and scale and keep washing machines in better conditions.
Water-soluble copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid (acrylic-maleic copolymers) prevent the redeposition of dirt on fabrics and of limescale inside the washing machine. This results in the prevention of stiffening and solidifying of fabrics due to limescale build-up and prolongs the life of the washing machines.
It is possible to formulate industrial laundry detergents based on acrylic-maleic copolymers together with other sequestrants.
Advantages and Challenges of Dispersing Agents:
They are also useful to economize on manufacturing and to solve the flowability problems of powder detergents.
Redeposition of dirt, transfer of dyes, appearance of fabric stiffness or limescale build-up are indications of poor detergent performance which can be solved by the addition of appropriate dispersing agents.
Dispersing agents offer many advantages, but they also come with some challenges:
Advantages:
- Improve the homogeneity of mixtures.
- Enhance product quality and durability.
- Prevent separation over time, increasing shelf life.
Challenges:
Selecting the right dispersing agent isn’t always easy; different products require different chemical properties.
- Incorrect use can lead to harmful environmental and health effects.
- The cost of dispersing agents can be a determining factor for some industries.
What makes polynils a preferable choice?
The Padideh Shimi Jam Company manufactures two varieties of Polynil that exhibit excellent dispersing capabilities.
- Maleic Acrylic Copolymer or Polynil CP:
Polynil CP is a high-molecular-weight copolymer used as a powerful dispersing agent and strong chelating agent for heavy metal ions and alkaline earth metal ions. It has excellent thermal and chemical stability, which helps enhance the shelf-life and performance of the products. This biodegradable and non-toxic ingredient is compatible with skin and environment and prevents the reversibility of stains on fabrics. It is also stable in a wide pH range and can be used in aquatic systems.
- Sodium Polyacrylate or Polynil HP
Polynil HP is a liquid homopolymer known for its ability to chelate ions, disperse formulation ingredients, and increase the viscosity of liquids. This stabilizer is non-toxic and compatible with both skin and the environment, making it a safe choice. Additionally, it has high thermal and physical stability, ensuring its effectiveness in various conditions.
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