KAORU TACHIKAWA, KARSTEN HOLTIN, CARMEN HILDEBRAND,
NINA KALSBERGER, CHRISTOPH KOLANO*
*Corresponding author
Kolb Distribution Ltd., Maienbrunnenstrasse 1,
Hedingen, CH-8908,
Switzerland

Picture on the left: K.
Tachikawa

Abstract

A selected class of low foaming nonionic surfactants was tested for their suitability as rinse aids and the compatibility with commonly found enzymes in automatic dishwashing detergents. These surfactants,  belong to polyalkylether modified short- and mid-cut fatty alcohol types, were investigated for their suitability as rinse aids. Among the selection, RSPO certified nonionics were also to be found. Compatibility with protease and amylase was proven, whereby robust enzyme variations were similarly taken into consideration. This study demonstrated the importance of finding the right balance between the type of fatty alcohol, ethylene and propylene oxides to develop customised automatic dishwashing detergents or rinse aid formulations.

INTRODUCTION

Dishwashing detergents, with its primary purpose being the removal of food residues from kitchenware surfaces, play a crucial role in the consumers’ everyday life. Although domestic automatic dishwashers are still being perceived as luxury appliance, their market penetration have increased significantly in the last two decades because they offer convenience and fulfil demands such as soil cleaning, stain removal, anti-spotting and providing surface care and shine. Presently, approximately 50% of households own a dishwasher across the EU (1, 2).

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