Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a natural polysaccharide derivative widely used in various products in daily life. It forms a viscous solution by combining with water, and has good thickening, stability and emulsification, which makes it play an important role in cleaning and washing products. The unique properties of CMC make it a common ingredient in detergents, washing powders, shampoos, facial cleansers and other personal care products.
1. Application of CMC in washing powder
Washing powder is a common product for daily household cleaning. The application of CMC in it is mainly reflected in thickening, dispersion, improving foam stability and enhancing washing effect. Since CMC can absorb water and form a viscous solution, it can help washing powder form uniform foam in water, avoid direct contact between washing powder particles and clothing surface, thereby reducing wear on clothing. In addition, the thickening effect of CMC can improve the suspension performance of the washing liquid, so that the dirt can be suspended in the water for a long time and is not easy to adhere to the surface of clothing, thereby enhancing the washing effect.
2. Application of CMC in dishwashing liquid
In dishwashing liquid, CMC is widely used as a thickener and stabilizer. Dishwashing liquid contains surfactants. CMC enhances its adhesion and stability, allowing the dishwashing liquid to be more evenly distributed on the washing surface. The thickening properties of CMC make the dishwashing liquid more ductile, avoid excessive loss, and provide more lasting foam during the cleaning process. In addition, CMC also has good decontamination ability, which can help dishwashing liquid better decompose oil and other difficult-to-remove stains.
3. Application of CMC in shampoo
In shampoo, CMC is widely used as a thickener, stabilizer and conditioner. It can improve the fluidity of shampoo, making the product smoother and easier to apply when used. CMC can also help shampoo better retain moisture and prevent moisture from evaporating too quickly, thereby maintaining the softness and gloss of hair. On the other hand, CMC also has a certain protective effect on the scalp and hair, and can form a protective film to reduce the damage of the external environment to the hair. Since CMC has good biocompatibility, it is suitable for shampoos of various hair types, especially for users with sensitive skin.
4. Application of CMC in facial cleansers
Facial cleansers are usually used to clean the skin and remove facial dirt, and the application of CMC in them is mainly focused on improving the touch and cleaning effect of facial cleansers. As a thickener, CMC can increase the viscosity of facial cleansers, so that the product can be applied more evenly on the face when used and is not easy to lose. It can also help facial cleansers better remove dirt on the surface of the skin, avoid excessive friction, and reduce irritation and damage to the skin. In addition, CMC also has strong moisturizing properties, which can help the skin retain moisture during the cleansing process and avoid dryness and tightness after washing.
5. Application of CMC in laundry detergents
Unlike traditional laundry detergents, laundry detergents are in liquid form, and CMC is usually used in liquid detergents to enhance the performance of the product. The application of CMC in laundry detergents is mainly reflected in improving the viscosity, stability and suspension effect of surfactants. The thickening effect of CMC makes the laundry detergent have better adhesion when used, which can effectively remove stains and cover the surface of clothes more evenly. In addition, CMC’s affinity for water enables it to effectively disperse oil and other stubborn stains during the laundry process, thereby enhancing the washing effect.
6. Application of CMC in other cleaning products
In addition to common products such as laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, shampoo and facial cleanser, CMC can also be applied to other types of cleaning products. For example, in car cleaning, floor cleaning agents and kitchen cleaning agents, CMC can improve the cleaning effect by enhancing the thickness and stability of the cleaning agent. Its thickening properties enable the cleaning agent to better adhere to the cleaning surface, thereby improving the decontamination ability. In cosmetics and household cleaning agents, CMC is also often used to improve the touch of the product, making it smoother and avoiding discomfort to the skin or the cleaning surface.
7. Environmental advantages of CMC
With the improvement of environmental awareness, many consumers pay more attention to the impact of cleaning products on the environment when choosing them. As a natural polysaccharide derivative, CMC is derived from plant fibers and has good biodegradability. Compared with some synthetic chemical ingredients, CMC has less negative impact on the environment and conforms to the concept of green chemistry. Therefore, CMC is considered to be an environmentally friendly cleaning additive that can effectively reduce pollution to the environment and conform to the trend of sustainable development.
As an efficient, environmentally friendly and multifunctional chemical, the application of CMC in various washing products is of great significance. Whether in washing powder, dishwashing liquid, shampoo, facial cleanser or laundry detergent, CMC can significantly improve the cleaning effect and user experience through its thickening, stabilization, emulsification, moisturizing and other properties. As consumers’ requirements for environmental protection and product quality increase, the application prospects of CMC will be broader and become an indispensable part of the cleaning products industry.