How increased performance saves money and chemicals
More isn’t always better, especially when it comes to harsh chemicals. Due to their unique functionality, polyitaconates offer an alternative to acrylates, styrene, and fossil-based additives. At Itaconix, we developed our proprietary TSI (Threshold Scale Inhibition) 322 ingredient to offer a safe, high-performing alternative for brands and formulators. TSI 322 fits seamlessly into detergent formulations and enables the removal of common fossil-based ingredients.
But we didn’t stop there. As we developed our technology, we saw an opportunity to augment our scale inhibition capabilities, and in 2024 we announced the launch of our TSI 422—a powerful, compact ingredient that is already helping brands find success in their detergent formulations.
To understand the value of TSI 422, let’s first look at what this ingredient replaces in everyday products.
The Problem: Harsh Chemicals
In the 1960s, formulators began using sodium triphosphates (STPP) in detergents, due to its ability to mitigate scale buildup in hard water. While highly effective, STPP has many downsides, from having adverse health effects on humans to causing algae blooms due to runoff. As a result, STPP is widely regulated in formulations.
More contemporary formulations use chemicals such as acrylates and MGDA to replace STPP. The problem? These chemicals are not only less effective, but they present their own health and environmental concerns.
The Solution: TSI 422
In 2024, Itaconix introduced TSI 422: a plant-based, biodegradable polymer that delivers industry-leading scale inhibition and dispersion in dish and laundry detergents. This ingredient advances the capabilities we achieved with Itaconix TSI 322, giving formulators the option to create even more powerful, compact doses for their detergent products. With TSI 422, brands can achieve with 9-gram doses what takes leading brands 16 grams to achieve.
We believe that the safest, best chemical is the one you don’t use. With TSI 422, you can do more with less, create products that rival industry leaders, and offer your customers a safe, high-performance, affordable, and renewable option for their detergent products.
