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In search of more sustainable alternatives, Chinese scientists have created a biodegradable detergent made from natural components such as wood and corn. The innovative formula cleans efficiently and significantly reduces the environmental damage caused by conventional products.
Researchers have developed a new biodegradable, plant-based detergent that could replace conventional cleaning products. The product was created using wood fibers and corn protein. In tests, it outperformed chemical detergents at higher concentrations.
Cleaning products are essential in our daily lives. They are used to wash clothes, dishes and other hygiene tasks. However, the chemical ingredients that make them effective are harmful to the body. environment.
Many of these compounds are difficult to break down. They build up in water systems and cause algae blooms. This disrupts the ecosystem, harms aquatic life, and reduces oxygen levels in the water.
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To address this challenge, scientists funded by the China Key Technologies R&D Program under the Ministry of Science and Technology have developed a biodegradable detergent.
It is made with wood cellulose nanofibers and corn zein protein. According to the researchers, the new product is as effective as traditional commercial detergents.
Natural ingredients with efficient performance
Eco-friendly cleaning products can be tricky to use. They can be difficult to rinse off, expensive, and even damage fabrics or surfaces.
But the new biodegradable detergent developed by Pengtao Liu's team proved to be different. It is made from abundant, renewable ingredients and has no such limitations.
The cellulose present in the formula attracts and repels water. This helps in the formation of the emulsion and in the removal of various stains. The zein protein stabilizes the mixture and keeps the oils attached to the emulsion.
The tests were carried out on cotton fabrics and on dishes soiled with paint, chili oil and tomato paste. For comparison, the researchers used commercial laundry detergent and dish soap solutions diluted in deionized water.
Superior results at higher concentrations
On cotton, the vegetable detergent was slightly less effective than the washing powder when both were diluted at 1%. However, when the concentration of the vegetable product was increased to 5%, it removed stains more effectively than the washing powder diluted at 1%.
Microscopic analysis showed that the cellulose and zein detergent did not leave any residue on the fabrics after use. This indicates that it is not very aggressive to the material, which can be an important advantage for delicate garments.
In tests with dishes, the results were also positive. Scientists used ceramic, glass, stainless steel and plastic dishes. The natural detergent, in its most concentrated form, was able to clean almost as well as regular dish soap. And in some cases, such as stainless steel dishes, it was even more effective.
For example, a solution with 5% vegetable detergent removed 92% of the stains on these dishes. Dish soap, with a 1% concentration, removed 87%. The researchers highlight this data as a sign that the new product can compete with the synthetic agents most commonly used today.
Biodegradable Detergent: sustainable alternative gains ground
The search for sustainable solutions has been gaining momentum. The public is more aware of the environmental impact of everyday items. Ingredients such as phosphates and alkylphenols, found in many cleaning products, are a cause for concern. As a result, there is a growing interest in more natural alternatives.
According to researchers, this new plant-based detergent is part of this change. It can offer an efficient, cost-effective solution with less impact on the environment. At the same time, it meets basic cleaning needs for clothes and household items.
With information from Interesting Engineering.
