Three Essential Ingredients for Biobased Laundry Detergents
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable household products, including laundry detergents. Biobased laundry detergents have emerged as a viable alternative to their conventional counterparts, offering effective cleaning power while minimizing environmental impact. At the heart of these biobased formulations lie three essential ingredients: enzymes, surfactants, and solvents.
Enzymes: Nature's Cleaning Catalysts
Enzymes are naturally occurring proteins that act as powerful catalysts, accelerating the breakdown of complex organic compounds into simpler forms. In biobased laundry detergents, enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down tough stains and dirt particles, enhancing the overall cleaning performance. By harnessing the natural power of enzymes, biobased detergents can deliver exceptional cleaning results even in lower wash temperatures, which results in energy and water savings.
Surfactants: Surface-Active Agents for Superior Cleaning
Surfactants are surface-active agents that help to remove dirt and stains and can mitigate the redeposition of soils back onto clothing. They enable the detergent solution to spread evenly across fabrics, allowing water to penetrate and lift away the dirt particles. In biobased laundry detergents, surfactants derived from renewable resources, such as plant-based or biobased materials, are used to replace petroleum-based alternatives. These eco-friendly surfactants are biodegradable and have a reduced environmental impact. They are not only effective in cleaning but can also help to maintain the softness and integrity of fabrics, and aid in improving the stability of formulations.
Solvents: Safe and Sustainable Cleaning Solutions
Solvents in laundry detergents act as carriers for the active ingredients and help to dissolve and disperse soils and stains. In biobased formulations, the focus is on using solvents derived from renewable sources, such as plant-based alcohols or organic acids. These sustainable solvents are non-toxic, readily biodegradable, and present a superior carbon footprint when compared to traditional petroleum-based solvents. By using biobased solvents, laundry detergents can effectively remove stains and maintain their cleaning efficiency while promoting sustainability.
Biobased laundry detergents have revolutionized the way we approach laundry care by offering effective cleaning power while reducing our environmental impact. The essential ingredients of enzymes, surfactants, and solvents work synergistically to deliver outstanding cleaning results. By choosing to produce biobased laundry detergents, you can make a positive impact on our planet without compromising on cleanliness. Let's embrace the power of nature in our laundry rooms and contribute to a greener and cleaner future.
A key focus for Barentz’ laboratory is sustainability. We have an extensive portfolio of environmentally preferred ingredients for laundry detergents. If you would like to make the switch to a biobased formulation, our lab can help. We offer the following high-powered raw materials for the formulation of biobased laundry detergents.
Lavergy® Enzymes from BASF: high-powered laundry applications that get the perfect clean, even at low temperatures. Lavergy enzymes offer stability, efficiency, and consistency in your laundry formulations. These ingredients work synergistically to improve your products in a wide range of pH and temperatures.
BioNat™ Performance Detergent Additives: innovative detergent additives that power the performance of liquid laundry detergents, pre-spotters, and manual dish formulations. These uniquely designed biobased additives are tailored to meet the needs of eco-conscious formulators and consumers in the homecare, institutional & industrial markets.
In addition to the BioNat™ performance benefits, BioNat™ also provides formulation flexibility and simplicity, more efficient manufacturing, and easier procurement.
Aquanate™ COT: 20% active, versatile liquid mild anionic surfactant with high flash foaming, excellent detergency, and tolerance to hard water and electrolytes. It remains chemically stable in acidic and alkaline conditions. Ideal for manual dish wash, hard surface cleaners, toilet care, laundry care, car care, and carpet cleaning.
ELOTANT™ Milcoside APG’s: derived from renewable resources such as plant-based materials, these surfactants are biodegradable and have a reduced environmental impact compared to conventional surfactants. These ingredients possess excellent cleaning properties, effectively removing dirt and stains while maintaining the integrity and softness of fabrics, making them an ideal choice for sustainable and efficient laundry care.
Rhodasurf® NAT Series: high renewable carbon index & biobased content surfactants with the ability to reduce your carbon footprint. These ingredients are not only biodegradable but also provide highly sought-after benefits such as high foaming & cleaning power.
Spectradet LHS: potassium soap of edible grade coconut oil, not only versatile but also highly suitable for various applications. Excels as a key ingredient in high-foaming "natural" soaps & detergents, creating rich and luxurious lather for a truly indulgent cleansing experience. Additionally, its effectiveness extends to all-purpose cleaners as well, providing a powerful cleaning action for various surfaces, making it a top choice that delivers exceptional results.
Spectrum SCS: derived from 100% natural coconut oil, this sodium coco-sulfate offers outstanding lathering, thickening, and conditioning properties. It effortlessly disperses in water, forming a dense and creamy foam that enhances the washing experience. As an excellent replacement for most anionic surfactants, Spectrum SCS not only provides exceptional cleaning power but also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly laundry routine.
Augeo® Clean Multi: offers exceptional cleaning performance while adhering to sustainability principles. It is a multifunctional ingredient that acts as a solvent, aiding in the dissolution and removal of dirt and stains. This ingredient is derived from renewable resources, making it an environmentally friendly choice for biobased laundry detergents.
Zemea® 1,3-Propanediol: derived from corn, it is a natural and sustainable solvent that offers excellent cleaning power. Zemea effectively dissolves and removes stains and soils, ensuring thorough cleaning results. It is also biodegradable and environmentally friendly, minimizing its impact on ecosystems.