Whether you make detergent powder, cakes or liquid detergent, your formula draws on the same small group of raw materials. Knowing what each one does helps you compare quotations and keep quality consistent.
Surfactants: the cleaning agents
LABSA 96%
Linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid is the workhorse anionic surfactant in detergent powders and cakes. It is a dark brown, viscous acid. During manufacture it is neutralised, often with soda ash or caustic soda, to form the active cleaning agent. Buyers usually specify a minimum active matter of 96% and low free oil.
SLES 70%
Sodium lauryl ether sulphate is milder and foams strongly. It is supplied as a thick paste and diluted to make dishwash liquids, liquid detergents, shampoos and hand wash. The "2 EO" in many specifications refers to the average degree of ethoxylation.
Builders: helping the surfactant work
Soda ash light
Sodium carbonate softens water by tying up calcium and magnesium, raises alkalinity and adds bulk. The light grade is preferred for detergent powders because it absorbs liquid surfactant well.
STPP
Sodium tripolyphosphate is a highly effective builder that binds hardness minerals and keeps soil suspended in the wash water. Some markets restrict phosphates in household detergents, so check local rules before you formulate.
Sodium silicate
Adds alkalinity, protects washing machine parts from corrosion and helps bind powder granules.
Alkalis and fillers
- Caustic soda flakes (sodium hydroxide) neutralise LABSA and are the key alkali in soap making.
- Sodium sulphate anhydrous is a neutral filler that makes powders free-flowing and gives volume.
A typical sourcing checklist
- Active matter or assay for each material (for example LABSA 96% minimum, soda ash 99% minimum).
- Physical form and bulk density, which affect your mixing and spray-drying.
- Packing: LABSA in HDPE drums or IBC tanks, SLES in drums, powders in 25 kg or 50 kg bags.
- Dangerous goods status: LABSA and caustic soda are corrosive and are shipped as dangerous goods.
- Consistency from lot to lot, confirmed by a COA with each shipment.
Rudra International exports detergent and home care raw materials from India, including LABSA, SLES, caustic soda, soda ash, STPP, sodium sulphate and sodium silicate. View the home care and detergent range.