Abstract: A single-step process for the continuous preparation of a granular detergent composition or component, whereby 20 to 45% of a liquid acid precursor of an anionic surfactant, and at least an equivalent amount of a solid water-soluble alkaline inorganic material are continuously fed into a high-speed mixer/densifier, the mean residence time being from about 5 to 30 seconds, whereby the moisture content of the powder in the mixer is from 5 to 15%, and a degree of neutralization of at least 80% is attained.

Abstract: A process for preparing a granular detergent composition or component having a bulk density of at least 550 g/l, which comprises(i) feeding a liquid acid precursor of an anionic surfactant, a solid water-soluble alkaline inorganic material and optionally other materials into a high-speed mixer/densifier, the mean residence time being from about 5 to 30 seconds;(ii) subsequently treating the granular detergent material in a moderate-speed granulator/densifier, whereby it is brought into or maintained in a deformable state, the mean residence time being from about 1-10 minutes; and finally(iii) drying and/or cooling the detergent material.

Abstract: A granular detergent composition or component having a bulk density of at least 650 g/l can be prepared by treating a particulate starting material(i) in a first step in a high-speed mixer/densifier, the mean residence time being from about 5-30 seconds;(ii) in a second step in a moderate-speed granulator/densifier, whereby it is brought into, or maintained in, a deformable state, the mean residence time being from about 1-10 minutes and(iii) in a final step in drying and/or cooling apparatus.Preferably, the deformable state is induced in the first step.

Abstract: A granular low-phosphate detergent composition is prepared by spray-drying a slurry to give a base powder containing a low to moderate level of sodium tripolyphosphate and low levels of inorganic salts, then postdosing solid material, including sodium sulphate, of high bulk density and of smaller particle size than the base powder. The resulting product has a bulk density at least 150 g/liter greater than that of the base powder and shows improved dispensing properties in an automatic washing machine.

Abstract: An antifoam ingredient suitable for incorporation into a detergent powder comprises an antifoam material, for example, a hydrocarbon and/or a polysiloxane together with hydrophobic silica, enclosed within a matrix formed of a mixture of fatty acid and fatty acid soap.

Abstract: A process for making washing powder having a high content of sodium soap in which the tendency to form clots and gels is reduced. The reduction is effected by impregnating spray-dried or spray-cooled powder with a specified amount of a water-soluble sodium salt. The amount specified is sufficient to produce a solution of sodium ions having 0.5 to 4 molar initial concentration in the immediate locality of the individual spray-dried particles.