Output details

A comparison of compacting and caking behaviour of carbonate-based washing powders

With phosphate-based detergents being banned across the world, spray-dried sodium carbonate is seen as an alternative but cakes very easily. A relatively new method of production, dry-neutralisation, has been patented by Unilever but data on the powder behaviour is scarce. These two types of sodium carbonate powder are compared for moisture uptake and compaction. This will contribute to a greater understanding of the suitability of each powder for different applications. Unilever Research supported the project at the submission stage and provided test materials and moisture analysis, organised by Dr Judith Bonsall. (Judith.Bonsall@unilever.com)