But even mature segments of the market such as laundry detergent are focusing more on product innovation for fabric care. Last year saw the introduction of new agents for soil release, color protection, dispersion and even unique applications, such as UV protection. BioShield Technologies, of Norcross, Ga., has introduced OdorFree, which is apparently based on an antimicrobial organosilane patented by BioShield. A complement to dry cleaning rather than a replacement, Dryel contains a stain removal solution for spot cleaning, a dryer bag and a pre-treated cloth. The clothing and treated cloth are put into the bag, which is placed in a dryer.
Heat releases vapors that help remove odors, and moisture helps remove wrinkles.
They will also have created an entirely new set of conditions for the application of fabric care. For example, water repellency cannot be applied in a water-based wash, but it might be in a dryer bag. However, most advances are incremental and involve either the enhancement of an existing product's performance or the facilitation of new product forms. New product forms generally offer consumers added convenience, provide soapers a chance to extend their share of a mature, GNP-growth market, and allow chemical companies to showcase their technologies. For example, Rohm and Haas has directed its polymer expertise at detergent tablets, which have become extremely popular in Europe.