Homecare

Rheology is the study of the flow of materials, in home care products the measurement of a fluids resistance to flow, or viscosity, is essential to product performance and user experience. Rheology modifiers enhance the performance of hard surface cleaners by enabling the product to achieve optimal texture and controlling the thinning or thickening behaviour of the product. Having the desired viscosity assists in processability, shelf stability and application ease.

Fragrances in homecare products do not play an active role in cleaning or disinfecting but do have functional benefits. Fragrances create a pleasant user experience by masking harsh chemical scents. Fragrances may enhance the perception of cleanliness and have been known to influence mood and emotional wellbeing.

Surfactants and emulsifiers work differently to achieve similar goals. They enable water and oil or other liquids to be combined. Surfactants and emulsifiers lower the surface tension between two liquid interfaces, liquid air interfaces and liquid solid interfaces. Emulsifiers enable rinsing solutions to penetrate deep into the surfaces and remove grime, oils and dirt. Similarly surfactants allow detergents and water to mix enabling the cleaning agents to effectively remove dirt from the surface.

Preservatives prevent the unwanted microbes from growing and multiplying in products. Preservatives actively kill microbes and their spores ensuring the product remains stable and safe to use. Products containing water and products likely to encounter water regularly are at risk of microbial growth.

Natural fats and oils derived from plant and animal triglycerides are essential raw materials in the production of oleochemicals. These chemical compounds are produced from renewable resources, are biodegradable and have little toxicity, making them a more sustainable choice than fossil-fuel based petrochemicals. Oleochemicals are used in the production of homecare products such as surfactants, cleansing agents, emulsifiers, foam boosters, and degreasers.

Chelating agents play a major role in the manufacturing process of home care products where the presence of metal ions may have a negative impact on the application. Chelating agents bind to metal ions and prevent them from interfering with desired reactions.

Cleaning agents and detergents are complex products. They need to deliver results in hygiene and cleanliness, be easy to use and reduce water consumption. Too much foam can significantly reduce the ability to clean surfaces. Excessive foaming may interfere with production, processing and packaging. Foaming issues exist in a variety of industries, while each situation appears to be unique, there are a variety of antifoams available to assist in reducing foam during production and use.