FMC Foret > Markets > Detergents

Detergents are substances or compounds that have the chemical ability to dissolve dirt or impurities in an object without corroding it. In other words, substances or products that clean. Detergents are created so that water is an essential part of the cleaning process.

The first (soapy) detergent was manufactured in Germany in 1907, and was made up of a mixture of traditional soap with added sodium perborate and sodium silicate. It was named using the first three letters of each addition, Persil.

Currently, detergents are complex and varied mixtures that can include anything from surfactants added to eliminate grease from textiles to substances to adjust pH or break down dirt particles, softeners, whiteners or enzymes.

FMC Foret supplies a wide range of products to detergent manufacturers.

Liquid Sodium Silicate is an additive used to control alkalinity and to inhibit corrosion.

Liquid Potassium Silicate: an ingredient in liquid detergents.

Sodium Metasilicate: ingredient in dishwasher products. Protects the color of ceramics and enamels. Used in the manufacture of industrial and institutional use detergents.

Zeolite A is an ionic exchange agent in the manufacture of detergents.

AOColor^®: stain remover. Bleach strengthener. Chlorine-free lye. Lye for colored clothing. Cleans/deodorizes drains and toilets.

Sodium Tripolyphosphate is one of the basic components of detergents. It acts as a sequestering and dispersing agent, preventing dirt redeposition itself on clothing.

Phosphoric Acid: acid type cleaners.

Perborate Tetrahydrate, Perborate Monohydrate and Sodium Percarbonate are used as bleaching agents and stain removers for textiles and dishes.

Peracetic Acid: Ecological bleach. Chlorine substitute in hypochlorite bleaches.