Laboratory Analysis of Detergents

Detergents are basic chemical products used to provide cleaning and hygiene in daily life. They have a wide range of uses, from laundry detergents to dishwashing detergents, from industrial cleaning agents to cosmetic products. The effectiveness, safety and environmental impact of detergents must be evaluated through comprehensive analysis and testing. EUROLAB As a laboratory, we offer comprehensive analysis services to ensure that your detergent products comply with quality standards and legal requirements.

Detergent Additives

The effectiveness of detergents is increased by using various additives. These substances are formulated to increase the cleaning power, fragrance properties, foaming capacity and ease of use of the detergent.

Main Additives

• Surface Active Agents (Surfactants): They are essential cleansing ingredients; It removes dirt and oils by reducing the surface tension of water.
• Enzymes: It is used to break down organic stains (protein, fat, starch); There are types such as protease, amylase and lipase.
• Optical Whiteners: It makes the laundry look whiter.
• Deodorizers and Perfumes: It gives a pleasant smell and neutralizes bad odors.
• Corrosive Substances: Provides mechanical friction for cleaning hard surfaces (for example, washing soda).
• Protectors: It extends the shelf life of products and prevents microbial contamination.

Qualities that Detergents Must Have

The basic qualities that an effective detergent must have directly affect the product's performance and user experience.

• Cleaning Power: Capacity to effectively remove different types of dirt and stains.
• Foaming Capacity: Ability to create sufficient foam, but excessive foaming is also undesirable.
• Biodegradability: Detergent can be rapidly degraded in nature for environmental sustainability.
• Dermatological Compatibility: It should not cause irritation or allergic reactions on the skin.
• Anti-Corrosion Properties: It should not cause corrosion on metals and other materials.
• Shelf Life and Stability: The ability of the product formulation to remain intact over time.

General Properties of Detergents

Some general characteristics of detergents determine the effectiveness and user experience of the products.

• PH value: The acidic or basic nature of detergents determines their cleaning effectiveness and effect on surfaces.
• Resolution: It should dissolve easily in water and leave no residue.
• Density and Viscosity: Concentration and fluidity of the product.
• Color and Smell: Visual and olfactory features of the product may affect user preference.

Raw Materials of Detergents

The raw materials used in detergent production determine the functionality and safety of the product.

• Petroleum Derivatives: Surfactants are generally derived from petroleum derivatives.
• Natural Oils and Fatty Acids: It is used in soap-based detergents.
• Phosphates: It is used to increase detergent effectiveness in hard water conditions, but limited use is encouraged due to environmental concerns.
• Sodium Carbonate and Sodium Silicate: It is used to increase cleaning power and balance pH.
• Enzymes: They are biological compounds produced by microorganisms and target specific types of stains.

Chemical Composition Analysis

The effectiveness of detergents depends on the active ingredients and chemical composition they contain. Chemical composition analysis determines the amount and purity of active substances and auxiliary ingredients contained in detergents.

Test Scope

• Active Ingredients: Anionic, cationic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants.
• Enzymes: Presence and activity of enzymes such as protein, amylase, lipase.
• Solvents and Excipients: Alcohol, glycerol, phosphates, carbonates, etc.

Applied Standards

• ISO 4325: Determination of surfactant content of synthetic detergents.
• ASTM D4251: Determination of phosphate content in detergents.
• ISO 4316: Determination of enzyme activity in detergents and soaps.

Performance Tests

The cleaning power of detergents is measured by their ability to remove dirt and stains from different surfaces. Performance tests are used to evaluate the effectiveness of detergents.

Test Scope

• Cleaning Effectiveness: Capacity to remove different dirt and stains.
• Foaming Capacity: Foaming ability of surfactants.
• Water Solubility: Dissolution rate and effectiveness of detergents in water.

Applied Standards

• ISO 939: Evaluation of the cleaning power of detergents.
• ASTM D2281: Determination of foaming capacity.
• ISO 4321: Water solubility test of detergents.

Safety and Toxicity Tests

Safety and toxicity tests are performed to determine the potential effects of detergents on human health and the environment. These tests are necessary to ensure the safe use of detergents.

Test Scope

• Dermal Irritation and Sensibilization: Assessment of the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions.
• Acute Toxicity: Determine potential for toxicity through ingestion or skin contact.
• Environmental Toxicity: Effect of detergents on aquatic ecosystems.

Applied Standards

• OECD 404: Skin irritation tests.
• OECD 429: Skin sensitization tests.
• ISO 7346: Aquatic toxicity tests.

Microbiological Analysis

Some detergent products carry antimicrobial properties and may be effective against bacteria, fungi or viruses. Microbiological analyzes evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these properties.

Test Scope

• Antibacterial Activity: Determination of activity against bacteria.
• Antifungal Activity: Measuring effectiveness against organisms such as fungi and mold.
• Virus Activity: Evaluating whether it is effective against viruses.

Applied Standards

• ISO 20743: Antibacterial activity of textile products.
• ASTM E2149: Antimicrobial activity test.
• ISO 21702: Antiviral activity test.

Environmental impact assessment

The environmental impacts of detergents are evaluated, especially in terms of biodegradability and toxicity. These analyzes aim to minimize the potential harm of detergents on ecosystems.

Test Scope

• Biodegradability: How long and how detergent ingredients break down in nature.
• Chemical Oxygen Demand (COI): Effect of detergents on oxygen consumption in aquatic environments.
• Toxic Substances: Presence of toxic chemicals and potential environmental impacts.

Applied Standards

• OECD 301: Biodegradability tests.
• ISO 9408: Biodegradability using activated sludge.
• ISO 11733: Chemical oxygen demand (COD) testing in detergents.

Conclusion

Detergent analysis is vital to ensure the safety, effectiveness and environmental compatibility of products. EUROLAB As a laboratory, we offer comprehensive analysis services to ensure that your detergent products comply with legal requirements and quality standards. Contact us to guarantee the reliability and environmental sustainability of your detergent products.