From the idea to the finished cleaning product

Phase 1

At the beginning of a development process, it is necessary to define:

The surface to be cleaned
The soiling to be removed
Ready-to-use solution or concentrate
Desired cleaning performance
Desired ecology
Expected classification according to CLP
Hazardous goods (yes or no)
Packaging
Can VOCs be avoided?

After we have drawn up a rough profile of the new cleaning product based on the above points, we start with the market study. If such or similar product is already offered (very likely nowadays), we collect data on relevant competing products. Here, the internet and/or various literature serve as important sources. Likewise, samples of relevant products are collected, which will be used as a reference for comparison tests at a later stage.

Phase 2

Now we are ready for the next step. Here, first and foremost, it is determined which raw materials are needed for the planned product. Ideally, we can work with raw materials that we already have in stock. If this is not possible, we contact our raw material suppliers. They make suggestions based on the defined performance profile. For surfactants, this can look as follows:

Type of surfactant (anionic, non-ionic, amphoteric, or cationic)
Basic surfactant or co-surfactant
Foaming behavior
Wetting behavior
Ethoxylation degree
Proportion of renewable raw materials
Organic odor
Classification ECHA (1)

Einstufung ECHA (1) Je nach Produktegruppe werden noch weitere Rohstoffe für die neue Formulierung benötigt.

Acids
Alkalis
Solvents
Polymers
Solubilizers
Inhibitors
Preservatives
Fragrances
Dyes

Phase 3

Based on the data collected, our own experience and recommendations from raw material suppliers, we are now preparing an indicative formulation. In the laboratory, a first laboratory sample is prepared. The focus here is on the solubility and compatibility of the individual raw materials. The first comparative tests are also carried out with reference products. Depending on the progress of the tests, fine-tuning now begins until the desired performance is achieved. During this process, the desired classification of the product must always be kept in mind. Depending on the ingredient, even a small change in quantity can mean a worse classification according to CLP (2). This is essential because the classification of a product has a direct influence on the occupational safety measures to be taken in practical use. Since ecology plays an increasingly important role in new formulations, the guidelines for the EU-Ecolabel are also included (3). This means, for example, that surfactants from renewable raw materials from certified cultivation are used, critical ingredients are avoided, and environmental compatibility of the packaging as well as application and dosage instructions are provided.

Phase 4

Finally, the finished formulation must pass stability tests. Now that the hardware is finished and ready for marketing, the regulatory requirements must still be met. With the help of a special database, the safety data sheet is now created. This data sheet also defines the classification according to CLP, i.e., which hazard symbols and hazard phrases must appear on the label. At the same time, we also create the operating instructions. The completed safety data sheet with the classification of the cleaning agent now serves as the basis for the registration with the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health.