Scanning electron microscopy in the detergent industry

Abstract

In 1965, scanning electron microscopes became available commercially. The use of these instruments and other new equipment (such as X‐ray microanalysis and cathodoluminescence) created new possibilities for evaluation of detergent qualities permitting further insights into the morphology and inorganic chemical composition of powder particles, including the surfaces and the inside regions. The new instruments also can be used in testing procedures during product development. Use of scanning electron microscopy in evaluation of detergents was discussed using selected examples related to investigations concerning (a) stability of bleaching activator prills, (b) coating of enzyme marums, (c) distribution of optical brighteners, (d) distribution of the inorganic constituents of powder particles, (e) thermal stability of sodium triphosphate hexahydrate, and (f) development of sodium aluminum silicates (SASIL) as phosphate substitutes. The examples were chosen to show the possibilities of scanning electron microscopy. Together with its additional features and in combination with other methods of physical and chemical analysis, scanning electron microscopy can provide important information concerning solid surfaces, which are relevant in the field of detergent chemistry.