Environmentally friendly surfactants for sustainable cleaning

Environmentally friendly surfactants for sustainable cleaning

Monday, 14 April, 2025

The increasing demand for environmentally responsible cleaning technologies has driven the adoption of fatty alcohol ethoxylates (FAEs) within the surfactants sector. Comindex is actively aligned at the citting edge of this market, continuously investigating the potential of these fatty-alcohol-ethoxylate products to deliver sustainability-oriented cleaning solutions.

Source: Royalty-free photography

Fatty alcohol ethoxylates (FAEs) are non-ionic surfactants obtained from natural fats and oils through an ethoxylation process, wherein fatty alcohols undergo a controlled reaction with ethylene oxide. This process yields compounds that effectively lower surface tension in liquids, making them highly efficient as cleaning, emulsifying, and dispersing agents.

A key advantage of FAEs is their ecological performance. They are readily biodegradable and decompose into environmentally benign substances, contributing to reduced aquatic toxicity and a diminished ecological footprint for cleaning formulations.

In collaboration with Jiahua Chemicals, Comindex leverages the multifunctionality of FAEs across a broad spectrum of applications.

In household cleaning, FAEs are incorporated into formulations for both manual and automatic dishwashing liquids, as well as general-purpose cleaners.
In industrial contexts, they are utilised in degreasers and floor cleaning products. Additionally, within the textile industry, FAEs function as wetting agents, emulsifiers, and softeners, enhancing fabric processing and finish quality.

Comindex remains firmly committed to advancing sustainable chemistry. The company continues to drive innovation in product development to deliver solutions that not only meet stringent performance benchmarks but also support broader environmental goals.

Source: Pixabay

Ethoxylated fatty alcohols represent a viable and sustainable alternative to conventional surfactants. Comindex maintains its strategic focus on sustainable product innovation, contributing to a cleaner and greener future.

Our Technical-Commercial Advisory Team is ready to guide you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re here to support your journey.

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