CPS LG 315 Correlation between the phase behavior of ternary systems and removal of oil in the washing process

The correlation between the phase behavior of aqueous solutions of nonionic surfactants and the removal of oil from fabrics has been determined. Model washing experiments with pure and technical grade nonionic surfactants indicated that, in the dispersion ranges of liquid crystals, oil removal is substantially more temperature-dependent compared to micellar or surfactant liquid phases. In this phase region, interfacial tension does not seem to play a substantial role. The results are discussed in terms of the macroscopic properties of mesophases.The publications on which this report is based were promoted with funds of the Federal German Ministry of Research and Technology (No. 03 C 219 2). However, the authors alone are responsible for its contents.