Module 4 Usage of Detergents

Introduction

The use of detergents in laundries is critical to the performance of the laundering process. Detergents are required to
perform a variety of functions in the wash process including conditioning of the water, maintaining optimum pH
conditions, wetting of the soiled fabrics, removal and suspension of particulate soils, emulsification of oily soils and
removal of stains. In addition, the detergent is required to maintain the whiteness and brightness of fabrics and to
assist in the providing a hygienically safe washed product.

The use of detergents can have a significant influence on the useful life of fabrics. The correct choice and usage of
detergent can minimise the effects of greying and fading as well as minimising chemical and mechanical damage.

Detergents eventually find their way into the laundry effluent stream and disposal is regulated by European and
National legislation. Detergent components must comply with legislative requirements such as biodegradability and
phosphorus content.

Modern detergent systems, both powder and liquid, can be automatically dosed into the washing machine. Automatic
dosing equipment can provide the benefits of reduced labour, reduced manual handling, minimised chemical
exposure, accurate repeated dosing and process validation.

Chapter Learning content Amount

method
No. duration: 1 day of charts

1 Background of ingredients 52 P/I

2 Effects of composition and dosage 13 I
3 Dosing systems 46 I
Module 4 will introduce you to the ingredients of detergents and the functions of these ingredients within the
wash process. The module will outline the effects of detergents composition and dosage level upon washing
performance and describe current dosing systems for powder and liquid detergents.

Learning Targets

After finishing the module you will :

Know the individual functional properties of detergent ingredients

Understand effects of detergent and dosing level upon washing performance

Be aware of the types of detergent dosing equipment currently available