Abstract: Novel block copolymers comprising from 20 to 95 mole % of monomer units derived from itaconic acid or a homologue thereof and from 5 to 80 mole % of monomer units derived from vinyl alcohol or a lower vinyl ester are excellent binders of divalent or polyvalent metals and are useful as potentially biodegradable builders in detergent compositions as well as in machine dishwashing compositions and anti-scaling rinse compositions.

Abstract: A laundry treatment product, in the form of a sachet containing a particulate bleaching detergent composition containing sodium percarbonate, has at least two compartments to enable the sodium percarbonate to be segregated from certain other ingredients, particularly zeolites. The sachet product exhibits improved bleach stability on storage. Sachets of water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol film are not insolubilized in the wash liquor since no sodium perborate is present to generate insolubilizing borate ions.

Abstract: A laundry treatment product, in the form of a single-compartment of multicompartment sachet capable of releasing its contents into the wash liquor during the laundry process, contains a particulate laundry treatment composition including a quaternary ammonium- or phosphonium-substituted bleach precursor, for example, cholyl-4-sulphophenyl carbonate, optionally together with a peroxy bleach compound and optionally together with one or more detergent ingredients. The sachet may be a self-contained whole wash product, or a bleach adjunct for use in conjunction with a separate detergent composition.