Analysis of fabric softeners and laundry perfumes with NIR spectroscopy

Importance of the Topic

Fabric softeners and laundry perfumes are widely used to enhance textile feel and scent. Rapid, non-destructive analysis of their critical quality attributes is vital to streamline production, ensure consistency, and reduce reliance on time-consuming chemical methods.

Study Objectives and Overview

This study demonstrates the application of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for fast determination of dry matter content, pH, and viscosity in concentrated fabric softeners and laundry perfumes. A comparative evaluation against reference techniques assesses the accuracy and precision of the proposed method for routine quality control.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Measurement performed with an OMNIS NIR Analyzer Solid in transflection mode (1000–2250 nm) using a 1 mm gap reflector and 28 mm disposable vials.
• Reference methods: loss on drying for dry matter, standard pH meter for pH, rotational viscometer for viscosity.
• Data acquisition and chemometric model development carried out in OMNIS Software.

Key Results and Discussion

Prediction models exhibited excellent correlation with reference values:

• pH: R²=0.997, SEP=0.15.
• Dry matter: R²=0.995, SEP=0.09 %.
• Viscosity: R²=0.994, SEP≈22 cP.

The low prediction errors and high coefficients of determination demonstrate the robustness of NIRS for these quality parameters.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Measurement completed within seconds without chemical reagents.
• A single NIR system replaces multiple traditional instruments, reducing capital and operational costs.
• Enables at-line or in-line monitoring to improve production efficiency and product consistency.

Future Trends and Applications

Integration of NIRS with automated production platforms and advanced chemometric algorithms will further enhance throughput and predictive accuracy. Expanding spectral libraries could allow simultaneous monitoring of additional formulation attributes and support real-time process control.

Conclusion

Near-infrared spectroscopy using the OMNIS NIR Analyzer Solid offers a rapid, reliable, and reagent-free approach for determining dry matter, pH, and viscosity in fabric softeners and laundry perfumes. Its high precision and speed make it an attractive solution for quality control throughout the manufacturing chain.