Bentonites in powder detergents: softness and perfum

Abstract

The sodium bentonite is a mineral composed by hydrated aluminium silicates with a great capacity for absorbing several types of substrates. In cotton articles, softeners are added after the washing process. Softeners are organic products which are absorbed within the last rinse. These types of softeners can present some disadvantages as the possible lack of biodegradability, solidity and higher hydrophobicity which might reduce the sensation of comfort in the clothes as water absorption is diminished. Previous researches evidenced bentonites could get adhered to cotton fibres giving a softening effect during the washing when used together with the detergent. This is the so-called softergent effect. Fragrances can be absorbed on bentonites surface. So, if adhered on clothing fibres it is reached an increase in the olfactory perception once the clothes are dry. Therefore, it is intended to add into detergents an additive as the bentonite with a fragrance incorporated in order to achieve a softening and perfuming effect amongst the washed products.