ABSTRACT

The use of detergent powders in cleaning clothing and other kinds of fabrics has been
very common today. These are mainly composed of surfactants or those that reduce the surface
tension of a liquid. Other than surfactants, it is also consist of water softeners that remove
Calcium, Magnesium and other metal cations in water; bleach that helps remove stains; enzymes
that break down protein, starches and fat; brighteners that make clothing appear whiter, brighter
and cleaner; fragrances that give its aromatic smell; and many other agents. In this experiment,
the production of detergent powders was done and thoroughly observed. The proportions of the
components of the products were significantly measured and used in the experiment. No
significant methods were used since manual mixing of the materials was only needed. The
experiment only lasted for a short period of time making it simple and easy to do.

INTRODUCTION

Synthetic detergents have developed in the beginning of 20thCentury and started making
in-roads into the area earlier served by washing compounds i.e. soaps made traditionally from
oils/fats and caustic soda. Since soaps have comparatively lesser washing characteristics in
hardwater than synthetic detergents, synthetic washing compounds have been able to occupy a
significant market which was enjoyed by washing soaps earlier. The term detergent originated
from the latin word detergine (i.e. wipe off), is now-a-days applied to all synthetic washing
compounds. Synthetic detergent is not only used as household cleaning material but also have
industrial applications in textiles, pesticide industry as carriers, etc.

Reference:
Small Industries Service Institute (2003) Detergent Powder and Cake. Retrieved from
https://smallb.sidbi.in
EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURES

For powdered detergent experiment, the raw materials that will be needed are as follows:
linear alkyl benzene sulfonate powder also known as LABS powder, coconut fatty alcohol
sulfate powder also known as CFAS powder, soda ash, sodium sulfate, speckles and scent oil. In
a basin, mix 76 grams of LABS powder and 153 grams of soda ash. After mixing, add 76 grams
of CFAS powder and 576 grams of sodium sulfate then mix. Place 11 grams of speckles in the
mixture. Mix the scent oil in a10 ml water and sprinkle it to the mixture.

Documentation:

i. Materials needed iii. CFAS and sodium sulfate

ii. LABS powder and soda ash iv. Speckles

v. Preparation of scent oil with water

viii. Final product

vi. Sprinkle the solution

vii. Press and mix well.