Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a common water-soluble cellulose ether. Adding sodium carboxymethyl cellulose to detergents can mainly play the following roles:
1. Anti-redeposition effect: During the washing process, dirt is detached from the fabric and dispersed in the detergent. Without anti-redeposition agents, these dirt particles may reattach to the surface of the cleaned fabric, causing the fabric to become dirty again. Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose can adsorb on the dirt particles and the surface of the fabric, so that the dirt particles remain in a stable dispersed state, preventing the dirt from re-depositing on the fabric, thereby improving the washing effect and keeping the fabric white and bright.
2. Thickening effect: Properly adjust the viscosity of the detergent to give it good fluidity and stability. Appropriate viscosity can make the detergent better adhere to the surface of the fabric, prolong the contact time between the detergent and the dirt, and facilitate the removal of dirt. At the same time, the thickened detergent is not easy to flow during use, which is convenient for application and operation.
3. Dispersion: Solid particles (such as dust, soil, etc.) can be dispersed in the detergent to prevent them from aggregating to form larger particles and precipitating. By dispersing these particles into smaller particles, the contact area between the particles and the active ingredients in the detergent is increased, thereby removing dirt more effectively.
4. Emulsification: For some oily dirt, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose can reduce the surface tension of oil droplets, making it easier for the oil droplets to be emulsified by water to form a stable emulsion. The emulsified oil droplets can be evenly dispersed in the detergent, preventing the oil droplets from reaggregating and attaching to the fabric, which helps to improve the removal ability of oily dirt.
5. Protective colloid effect: In detergents, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose can act as a protective colloid to protect other ingredients (such as surfactants, enzymes, etc.) from external factors (such as temperature, pH changes, etc.), maintain the stability of the detergent system, and extend the service life of the detergent.
6. Good compatibility with other ingredients: Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose is well compatible with other ingredients in detergents (such as surfactants, builders, flavors, etc.) and will not produce chemical reactions or precipitation, ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the detergent formula.
