Biodegradable detergent with plant extracts, extremozymes, and nanobiosurfactant

Overview

This solution presents a novel biodegradable detergent that replaces conventional anionic chemical surfactants with biosurfactants derived from extremophilic (salt-loving) microorganisms. The formulation combines plant-based extracts from herbal waste, extremozymes sourced from extreme environments, and nanobiosurfactants to deliver effective cleaning with added skin-care benefits. Vegetable oils, including olive oil, provide a soothing moisturizing base, while herbal extracts contribute natural antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Together, these ingredients create a multi-functional cleaning product that is both environmentally responsible and effective across a range of stain types.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Nanobiosurfactant core: Biosurfactants produced by halophilic microorganisms, processed into nano-form to enhance surface activity and cleaning performance
• Herbal extract blend: Plant-based antioxidants and antimicrobials sourced from herbal waste streams, adding functional value while supporting circular use of agricultural byproducts
• Extremozymes: Enzyme additives capable of withstanding high pH and alkaline conditions, sourced from extreme environments such as Sambhar Lake and textile effluent isolates
• Moisturizing base: Olive oil and other vegetable oils deliver skin-friendly moisturization alongside cleaning action
• Validated stain removal: Tested on cotton fabric coated with blood, oil, tomato sauce, and egg albumin with demonstrated detergency
• Patent status: Patent Application No. 202011039946 A published in the Patent Office Journal No. 18/2022 dated 06/05/2022

Technology readiness level

The formulation has undergone laboratory validation, including detergency assessment of herbal liquid and solid soaps and testing of biosurfactant and nanobiosurfactant additives for cleaning and antimicrobial performance. The technology is at an early-to-mid stage of development, with proven proof-of-concept results on common household stains. Next steps include expanded testing of the herbal soap formulation for detergency and spot removal using additional biosurfactants isolated from Sambhar Lake and extremophilic bacterial isolates from textile effluent. These enzymes are expected to remain stable under highly alkaline conditions, broadening the formulation's applicability to heavy-duty laundry and industrial cleaning contexts.