Bioethanol Used in Cleaning Agents for First Time

Clariant, a Swiss specialty chemicals producer, and Werner & Mertz (W&M), the producer of Frosch cleaning products, has launched a project which expands the possible applications of bioethanol.

Clariant's sunliquid cellulosic ethanol, made from agricultural residues such as straws, will be processed into detergents, cleansers and cleaning agents at W&M's facilities. The ethanol, also called bio-spirit, was supplied from Clariant's pre-commercial plant in Straubing, Germany.

"Bio-based chemicals from local straw, such as cellulosic ethanol, are truly sustainable and advanced active ingredients," said Andre Koltermann, head of the biotechnology group at Clariant.

Alcohol has been known for its grease and dirt-dissolving properties for decades, and through the use of cellulosic alcohol in cleaning products these properties are coupled with sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing.