Glossary

Formula stabilizing agent

11.16.21

An ingredient used to provide product stability or desirable physical properties without necessarily adding to performance.

A number of formula stabilizing ingredients are used in detergents.  The most common is sodium sulfate.  This is present in most detergent granules, partly because it is formed in processing, but also because it improves physical qualities and standardizes density.  Ethyl alcohol serves as a stabilizing agent in liquid detergent formulas by controlling viscosity, improving solubility of solid ingredients, and providing anti-freeze properties.  Phosphoric acid is used in small quantities for adjustment of finished product pH.  Sodium silicate gives granules crispness in addition to its other contributions as a detergent ingredient.