| abstract |
The present invention relates to a process for preparing a powder comprising:n (i) anionic detersive surfactant; (ii) from 0 wt % to 10 wt % zeolite builder; (iii) from 0 wt % to 10 wt % phosphate builder; and (iv) from 0 wt % to 15 wt % silicate salt;n nwherein the process comprises the steps of:n (a) forming a slurry that comprises a volatile compound; and (b) spraying the slurry through a nozzle into a drying apparatus; and (c) drying the slurry to form a powder,n nwherein the slurry enters the nozzle at conditions such that either:n (I) at the temperature at which the slurry enters the nozzle, the slurry is at a pressure that is equal to or greater than the vapour pressure of the volatile component, and wherein, the slurry enters the nozzle at a temperature such that the vapour pressure of the volatile compound is above the pressure in the drying apparatus; or (II) the volatile component is in supercritical form when the slurry enters the nozzle, and wherein, the conditions in the drying apparatus are such that when the volatile component enters the drying apparatus, at least a portion of the volatile component is in gaseous form. |