Patent ID: 6177397
Filing Date: 2001-01-23
Classification: C11D

Abstract:
A process for producing a free-flowing agglomerated powder detergent composition comprising the steps of:a. preparing a homogeneous surfactant coated alkali metal carbonate premix comprising:i. from about 5% to about 80% by weight of an alkali metal carbonate;ii. from about 5% to about 50% by weight of a detergent surfactant, wherein the detergent surfactant is selected from the group consisting of anionics, nonionics, zwitterionics, ampholytics, cationics, and mixtures thereof;b. subsequently admixing a carboxylic acid with the premix to provide a mixture, wherein below a first temperature, which is less than about 42.degree. C., the carboxylic acid has a greater water solubility than the water solubility of its corresponding alkali metal salt, the carboxylic acid being admixed in an amount up to about 18% by weight; andc. subsequently adding water to the mixture whereby the carboxylic acid solubilizes and reacts with the alkali metal carbonate below the first temperature.