Abstract: In a hydrogen peroxide bleaching system it is known to use an activator which forms a peracid bleaching species; specific esters have been proposed previously as activators. The present invention defines esters having a substantive moeity which provides improved bleaching by giving peracid generation at or near the substrate surface.

Abstract: A solid detergent bleach composition adapted for use at substantially any washing temperature, comprising essentially a detergent active compound and a synergistic mixture of a solid organic peroxy acid compound e.g. diperoxyazelaic acid, an inorganic peroxy compound e.g. sodium perborate and a stabilizing sequestering agent. The composition which is preferably presented in the form of a particulate product, shows improved bleaching effect at substantially all washing temperatures. It has also advantages over compositions comprising bleaching activators in that it does not suffer from problems of in situ peroxy acid generation.

Abstract: Bleaching compositions comprising a hydrogen peroxide liberating persalt, such as sodiumperborate, and a preformed ferric ion complex with a polycarboxyamine-type chelating agent, selected from the group consisting of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid, and hydroxyethyl ethylene diamine triacetic acid, and mixtures thereof. The composition is used for cleaning fabrics.

Abstract: Transfer apparatus for a workpiece such as a metal slab, bloom or coil of metal strip comprises a carriage supported on a substantially horizontal beam. The beam is displaceable in the direction of its length and the ends of a flexible cable are connected to opposite ends of the carriage with a reach of the cable extending substantially parallel to the length of the beam. An intermediate point of the cable is firmly anchored so that displacement of the beam causes the carriage to be displaced along the beam as well as its movement with the beam. The beam can also be raised and lowered.