| abstract |
The disclosure relates to an antiredeposition agent to be used in detergents. The antiredeposition agent consists of a low-molecular, multi-functional ester having from 1 to 6, preferably from 1 to 3 acid units which are esterified with alcohol units. The ratio of the ester between free hydroxyl and carboxyl groups is 2-30, preferably 5-15. This is attained in that the ester contains 1-3, preferably 2-3 free hydroxyl groups/mol and 0.1-0.5, preferably 0.2-0.4 free carboxyl groups/mol. The acid units of the ester are preferably formed from phthalic acid anhydride, isophthalic acid, adipic acid, maleic acid and trimellitic acid, or mixtures thereof. The alcohol units of the ester are preferably formed from ethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol and diethylene glycol, or mixtures thereof. |