Liquid Detergents: Composition, Types, and Manufacturing Process

Water Hardness and Detergent Formulation Challenges

Liquid detergents often rely on high soap content to mask water hardness, unlike powders that use insoluble silicates like Zeolith A.

Surfactant Categories Used in Liquid Detergents

• LAS: Linear alkyl-benzene-sulfates (main anionic).
• FAS: Fatty alcohol-sulfates (used for sensitive fabrics and dishwashing).
• APG: Alkyl-poly-glycosides (biodegradable non-ionics).
• Esterquats: Cationics for wool care and fabric softening.

Growth in Liquid Detergent Demand

Rising energy costs have made liquid detergent production more profitable, resulting in a diverse product range for consumers.

Types of Consumer Liquid Detergents

• General purpose detergent
• For colored fabrics
• For sensitive fabrics
• For wool garments

Key Additives in Liquid Detergent Formulation

• Enzymes (protease, amylase, lipase)
• Optical brighteners
• Disinfectants and antibacterial agents
• Foam-control agents
• Color-protecting substances
• Fragrances
• Ethanol for viscosity control

Three-Step Manufacturing Process

Step 1: Initial Neutralization

Combination of aqueous caustic and sulfonic acid in a static mixer for near-complete neutralization.

Step 2: Fatty Acid Addition and Cooling

Fatty acids are mixed dynamically, triggering an exothermic reaction; a cooling loop ensures safe temperature before injecting additives.

Step 3: Final Mixing and Quality Control

Remaining formulation ingredients are added; viscosity and pH are actively monitored, and the product is cooled for filling.