This paper is intended to introduce a new type of biodegradable suspension-aid known as microfibrous cellulose or MFC. MFC is produced by the fermentation of the bacterium, Acetobacter xylinum.
The organism is typically grown in glucose syrup- (eg corn-syrup) based media and produces cellulose that is chemically identical to plant-derived cellulose. However, though identical in chemical structure, MFC fibres are much smaller in diameter than plant-derived cellulose which leads to a far higher surface area by weight of the cellulose. This high surface area allows the MFC to create a three-dimensional network that produces a true yield value in solution at low use levels. Also, because the MFC is completely insoluble, it does not compete for water and, therefore, has a wide range of compatibility. Applications for MFC include adding suspension properties to surfactant-thickened bodywashes, shampoos, and liquid hand soaps, as well as to ‘ultra’ liquid dish soaps and concentrated liquid laundry detergents.
Two trends that continue to gain momentum in the personal care and household care markets are:
• The move to incorporating more biodegradable ingredients into new and existing formulations.
• The move to more concentrated products.
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