Determination of the fate and behavior of a commercial surfactant in a water recycle system (WRS)

Bioreactor studies and microcosm experiments were conducted to determine the degradation potential of a commercial cleansing formulation. With the possible replacement of the current cleansing formulation under consideration (Ecolab whole body shampoo containing Igepon TC-42™ as an active ingredient), determination of the degradation characteristics of the alternative formulation is necessary. The commercial formulation currently being evaluated is a modified version of Pert Plus^® for Kids (PPK). The degradation potential of the PPK and main surfactant Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) was determined in a packed bed denitrifying bioreactor. Results from the bioreactor studies led to the development of stoichiometric relationships to help predict and monitor SLES degradation. In addition to the degradation rates of Ecolab, the PPK formulation, as well as the four leading constituents contained in the PPK formulation was determined under denitrifying conditions in microcosm studies.