Optimization of detergent formulation from different types of plant-based surfactants using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

The aim of this study was to formulate and optimize the mixing ratio of three different types of plant-based surfactants for liquid detergent. The surfactants used were sodium laureth sulphate (SLES), coconut fatty acid diethanolamide (CDE) and cocamidopropyl betaine (betaine). The physical responses of the detergent formulations were tested based on the following properties: pH, foaming ability, viscosity and washing performance. A statistical analysis method that is Response Surface Methodology was used to generate the formulation compositions. Seventeen combination components were selected according to the criterion. Contour graphics and perturbation graphs were obtained to assess the changed in the response surface in order to understand the effect of the mixture composition to the physical properties studied. The method proved to be efficient to determine the mixing ratio of the three surfactants that gives optimum foaming ability, viscosity and washing performance. The optimum formulation composition was 2.00 % wt of CDE, 8.31 % wt of SLES and 1.00 % wt of betaine that gives 7.16 cm³ volume of foam, with the viscosity 3.39 mm² s^-1 and washing performance up to 98%. Comparison study with existing detergent products in the market showing a comparable washing performance despite there is no additives such as builders has been added to the formulations studied.