Effect of Hydrophobic Plant Extract on the Physicochemical Properties of a Transparent Fabric Softener

Advanced Eco-Friendly Formulations of Guar Biopolymer-Based Textile Conditioners

Fabric conditioners are household products used to impart softness and fragrance to textiles. They are colloidal dispersions of cationic double chain surfactants that self-assemble in vesicles. These surfactants are primarily derived from palm oil chemical modification. Reducing the content of these surfactants allows to obtain products with lower environmental impact. Such a reduction, without adverse effects on the characteristics of the softener and its performance, can be achieved by adding hydrophilic biopolymers. Here, we review the role of guar biopolymers modified with cationic or hydroxyl-propyl groups, on the physicochemical properties of the formulation. Electronic and optical microscopy, dynamic light scattering, X-ray scattering and rheology of vesicles dispersion in the absence and presence of guar biopolymers are analyzed. Finally, the deposition of the new formulation on cotton fabrics is examined through scanning electron microscopy and a new protocol based on fluorescent microscopy. With this methodology, it is possible to quantify the deposition of surfactants on cotton fibers. The results show that the approach followed here can facilitate the design of sustainable home-care products.

Application of Newly Synthesized Sulfobetaine Based on Sweet Almond Oil in Bath Liquids for Sensitive Skin

Three formulations for bath liquids were developed, differing in the type of amphoteric surfactant applied. The formulations used Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamidpropyl Hydroxide and newly synthesized sulfobetaine based on sweet almond oil (Oleicamidopropyl Sultaine). The molecular structure of the surfactant used in the manufactured formulations has a negatively charged sulfonate group and a positively charged quaternary nitrogen atom. Such molecular structures suggest that the functional properties of this substance are mild. Based on the research, it was found that the bath fluid containing the newly synthesized sulfobetaine based on sweet almond oil had the lowest zein number, the lowest pH increase of bovine albumin solution and the lowest ability to emulsify fatty dirt. This indicates a very low irritant effect of the tested bath liquid.