FOCUS increased by 37% to €64 M in 1H 2006 primarily due to expansion in Asia and Eastern Europe. Chemische Rundschau, 24 Oct 2006, 59 (10), 9 (in German)
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technology, focusing on finding ways to release the encapsulated enzymes into the wash cycle. Study showed that a mere 1% of the enzyme seeped out of the beads in storage.
natural oils, resulting in longer storage life. SPC, Soap Perfumery and Cosmetics, Oct 2006, 79 (10), 73
Chemical Engineering Progress, Sep 2006, 102 (9), 10
New from Sanyo Chemical: Lauromacrogol 100 Lauromacrogol 100 is a polyoxyethylene lauryl ether nonionic surfactant product from Sanyo Chemical Industries Ltd, launched recently in Japan for use in bactericidal cleansers for medical applications. Demand in Japan is estimated at Yen 500 M/y. With a superior cleansing action, Lauromacrogol 100 is expected to achieve sales of Yen 16 M in fiscal 2006. Pharma Japan, 2 Oct 2006, (2010), 15
Chemtura announces price increases on sulfonates, fatty acids From 1 Oct 2006, or as contracts allow, Chemtura Corporation increased the price of its sulfonate detergent and emulsifier product lines, due to rising raw materials costs. The global increase of $0.04/lb affects the LoBase, HyBase, Petronate, Surchem and Calcinate product lines. The company has also raised all fatty acid prices by $0.02/lb from 15 Oct because of increasing costs and declining by-product glycerin prices. Press release from: Chemtura Corporation, 199 Benson Rd, Middlebury, CT 06749, USA. Tel: +1 203 573 2220. Fax: +1 203 573 2800. Website: http://www.chemtura.com (6 & 22 Sep 2006)
ASSOCIATED PRODUCTS A swell idea to brighten your wardrobe Researchers at the Southern Illinois University have developed a gelbased material that discharges enzymes as needed in the wash cycle. The formulation, which stabilizes enzymes, may extend the useful life of laundry detergents. Genencor International has collaborated with the university researchers to develop the 4
APPLICATIONS One key ingredient, five powerful laundry claims Adding enzymes to detergents can help maximize a brand’s value while providing customers with a detergent that performs, is convenient and is kind to the environment. According to Novozymes, enzyme addition can support five environmentally beneficial ‘brand claims’: lower wash temperatures; shorter wash cycles; reduced water consumption; reduced energy consumption; and fewer chemical ingredients. The company has been conducting Life Cycle Assessments that compare the environmental impact of an existing domestic laundry practices with an alternative practice that provides the same user benefits. For example, the wash performance of a standard detergent at 40 deg C was compared with that of a detergent with additional enzymes at 30 deg C; the latter was found to provide equal or improved performance, offering the potential for significant energy savings. Novozymes calculated that for every kilo of enzyme used there is a net downstream reduction of 100 kilos of carbon emissions. Currently the company supplies 130,000 tonnes/y of detergent enzymes. BioTimes (Novozymes’ Enzyme e-zine), Sep 2006, (3), 4-5 (Novozymes A/S, Krogshoejvej 36, 2880 Bagsvaerd, Denmark. Tel: +45 8824 9999. Fax: +45 8824 9998. Website: http://www.novozymes.com/biotimes)
Hard water soap The addition of a unique chelating agent, Octaquest E30, helped a Croatia-based natural soap maker to work out the problem of hard water soap scum and too little lather. An online search led to the discovery of the award-wining biodegradable chelant by Sympatico. The use of the chelant in soap manufacture addresses the hard water problem, increases the amount of bubbles and minimizes residue. The chelant also preserves the freshness of the soap’s
Personal care products HBA: innovation and naturals stand out Among the highlights of the recent Health & Beauty America (HBA) expo was the expanding market in natural and organic personal care products. Many present spoke of the functional properties of many fruits and botanicals. The health and wellness concept is now a big trend in cosmetics. Several companies launched new products. AarhusKarlshamn launched its shea butterbased waxes and surfactants for hair and skin care products. Bio-Botanica’s Orac Super 7, a blend of berry and fruit extracts that provides high antioxidant value, is said to enhance skin healing activities. Meanwhile, Arizona Chemical’s Sylvaclear polymeric gellants are low-molecularweight polymers with gel actives that are reported to be compatible with a broad range of cosmetic and personal care ingredients. Engelhard exhibited its Reflecks Multidimensions colourchanging pigments; the pigments change colour as the visual angle changes. Sabinsa presented turmeric oil, which is said to have wound healing and antibacterial properties. Aquea Scientific won the best new technology award for its Aquea SPF delivery system. The technology can incorporate sunscreen actives into cleansing products such as face wash, body wash, shampoo or conditioning products. ICIS Chemical Business Americas, 25 Sep 2006, (Website: http://www.icbamericas.com)
Laundry products New P&G detergent helps clothes keep their fit In the US, Procter & Gamble have launched a new liquid laundry detergent, Cheer® True Fit™, which is specially formulated to help clothes DECEMBER 2006