Major changes in laundry technology have influenced the use of chemicals in wash processes. Two drivers have been the move towards lower temperature washing and the use of much less water, both of which need to be considered by launderers looking to protect their margins.

Low temperature washing

Washing at a lower temperature doesn't necessarily mean that more chemical action is needed to remove soiling. What is does mean is that detergents need to be smarter and specifically formulated so that they include new chemicals or activation agents.

An example of this is oxygen-based bleaching agents, known as per bleaches. Traditionally, these required temperatures of around 65 degrees Celsius (149 Fahrenheit) to function efficiently but using activating agents, such as TAED, means they can provide good results on oxidisable soiling in cooler conditions. 

In the last few years, washing machines have reduced their water use significantly thanks to technological advancements. One potential problem with this is that there is not much water left for diluting chemicals during rinsing, and with high alkaline levels, detergents struggle to reach neutrality by rinsing alone. However, this issue can be countered by using extremely efficient, near-neutral pH detergents, which eliminate the risk of yellowing or - worse still - causing skin rashes on textile users.

Synthetic fabrics

The increasing use of synthetic and synthetic mix fabrics creates challenges for laundry detergency. Most synthetics are petrochemical-based so are very prone to oil-based soiling. Traditional oil removal processes are not applicable for low temperature laundering, therefore, detergent suppliers need good low temperature emulsifiers in their arsenals to ensure efficient oil and grease removal takes place.

On the plus side, synthetics are more resistant to the effects of oxidising agents, such as sodium hypochlorite or hydrogen peroxide, than other types of fabric. This means they are much less susceptible to chemical damage, and consequently, likely to remain in good condition for longer. 

One of the main advantages for launderers using the Xeros system is the fact that the polymer beads, which replace up to 80 per cent of water, are a much more effective cleaning agent than traditional methods. They eradicate even the most challenging work wear stains, for example. However, the beads' gentler action also enables clothes of all compositions to remain looking newer for longer. The system also enables launderers to reduce their detergent consumption by 50 per cent, compared to traditional machines.

distributed by