Trends and Technological Developments in Laundry Products in Japan

Since luancing the first compact powder detergent that had a dosage of 25 grams/30 liters, sales of these compact powders have taken over conventional powders and liquids. In the middle of 1990s have seen a further progress in compaction. At present ultra-compact detergents, having a dosage of 20 g/30 L and 15 g/30 L, have caputured a dominant market share. The spreading of compact and/or ultra-compact detergents has led to a change in consumption of surfactants. Although LAS is still a main ingredient for compact powders, alcohol ethoxylates and α-sulfo fatty acid esters have gained a stronger position in surfactant markets. Other recent developments and trends include detergents formulated with bleach employing various types of bleach activators, which meet hygiene requirements and bleaching performance. Also, in 2000, tablet detergents and sheet type detergent have also been introduced into the Japanese market. In the fabric softener market, concentrated products are gradually becoming dominant. Most of them are sold in eco-type packages, which make a significant contribution to save resources. As well, a readily biodegradable softening agent has been employed as a main ingredient in Japan. Another exciting major innovation has been seen in bleach. Since 1990, the use of liquid oxygen bleach has been increasing steadily. In 1996, the first liquid oxygen bleach, formulated with a long alkyl chain activator satisfying both superb bleaching performance and activator stability, was launched. It has gained a strong position in the market.