⚪ Enzyme-Enhanced White Laundry Powders: Overview and Properties
🔹 Overview
Enzyme-enhanced white laundry powders combine oxygen-based bleaching systems with biological enzymes to deliver superior whitening, stain removal, and fabric protection.
They effectively remove organic soils such as protein, starch, and fat at low to medium washing temperatures (30–60 °C), maintaining fabric whiteness and brightness without harsh chemicals.
These detergents are increasingly popular in modern household and professional laundry systems due to their energy-efficient and environmentally responsible performance.
⚗️ Chemical Composition
Typical enzyme-enhanced white laundry powder formulations contain:
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Anionic surfactants: LAS, α-olefin sulfonates – for soil and grease removal
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Nonionic surfactants: Alcohol ethoxylates – improve stain solubilization
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Builders: Sodium carbonate, sodium silicate, zeolite, or citrate – provide alkalinity and water softening
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Bleaching system: Sodium percarbonate + TAED – oxygen-based whitening without chlorine
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Enzymes:
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Protease – breaks down protein stains (blood, milk, egg)
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Amylase – removes starch and carbohydrate residues
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Lipase – targets fat and oily soils
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Cellulase – renews fabric surface, enhances brightness
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Optical brighteners: Stilbene derivatives for visual whiteness
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Anti-redeposition agents: CMC, acrylic copolymers
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Fragrance and stabilizers: Improve storage and user perception
⚙️ Physical and Technical Properties
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Appearance: Fine white to off-white free-flowing powder
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Bulk Density: 0.6 – 0.9 g/cm³
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Moisture Content: ≤ 5 %
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pH (1 % solution): 8 – 10 (mildly alkaline)
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Active Matter Content: 20 – 35 %
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Foam Level: Medium (machine compatible)
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Washing Temperature Range: 30 – 60 °C
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Enzyme Activity Range: Optimum pH 7 – 9, temperature 30 – 50 °C
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Bleaching System: Oxygen-based, chlorine-free
🔹 Performance Characteristics
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Provides dual cleaning power: enzymatic breakdown + oxidative bleaching
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Works effectively at low temperatures, saving energy
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Ensures long-lasting whiteness and softness
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Prevents fabric greying and fiber damage
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Compatible with optical brighteners and oxygen bleach systems
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Environmentally safer than high-alkaline or chlorine-based detergents
🔹 Applications
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Household laundry detergents for white and mixed fabrics
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Low-temperature washing formulations
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Industrial and institutional laundries seeking gentle, effective whitening
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Eco-friendly detergent lines emphasizing enzyme technology
⚠️ Storage and Handling
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Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated environment
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Avoid contact with moisture and high heat
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Prevent dust inhalation during handling
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Shelf life: 12 – 24 months depending on enzyme encapsulation system
💡 Summary
Enzyme-enhanced white laundry powders combine biological cleaning action with oxygen-based bleaching to achieve deep stain removal, lasting whiteness, and fabric care.
Their balanced formulation of surfactants, enzymes, builders, and brighteners provides efficient, eco-friendly, and fiber-safe cleaning for both domestic and professional laundry use.
