Process for making thixotropic detergent compositions

Abstract

Process for making a thixotropic detergent slurry, particularly suitable for use in making compositions useful in household automatic dishwashers. A slurry of particles of alkaline water-soluble builder salt, particularly sodium tripolyphosphate, is formed in a liquid containing dissolved alkaline builder salt, such as alkali metal carbonate. The proportion of solid particles is so high that the slurry has a viscosity of about 20,000 to 60,000 centipoises. This viscous slurry is subjected to wet grinding with a high speed disperser. Water and powdered clay are then added and the clay is deagglomerated in the mixture by mechanical action. Improved compositions containing limited amounts of potassium compounds and water-soluble polymers are also disclosed.