Biological odour control:
Biological cleaning products are highly effective in controlling and eliminating unpleasant odours. These products work by breaking down the source of the odour, thereby eliminating the smell. It is commonly observed that odours in kitchens, washrooms, and similar environments are caused by organic matter. In order to completely get rid of the odour, this organic matter needs to be broken down.
Biological cleaning products employ plant extracts that have the ability to either absorb unpleasant odours or bind to and neutralize the molecules that cause the odour. Simultaneously, these products contain microbes that produce enzymes or provide free enzymes. These enzymes are specifically designed to target the organic matter responsible for the odour.
Enzyme technology plays a vital role in biological cleaning and odour removal. Enzymes used in biological cleaning products can be categorized as "Free" enzymes or bacterial enzymes. "Free" enzymes are added directly to product formulations, similar to biological washing powders. Bacterial enzymes, on the other hand, are produced by beneficial bacteria.
It is essential to understand that enzymes are not living organisms but rather proteins that accelerate biological reactions. In the case of biological cleaning, they break down organic matter into smaller and simpler compounds. Examples of "Free" and bacterial enzymes include:
Amylase – breaks down starch
Cellulase – digests plant and vegetable matter
Lipase – degrades fats, oils and greases
Protease – breaks down proteinaceous material
Uricase – degrades uric acid
"Free" enzymes are specifically used when an instant effect is desired. For instance, Odour Stopper contains free protease, which is highly effective in tackling protein-based stains and associated odours. This makes it an ideal choice for households with babies or young children who may encounter milk or vomit stains.
Another approach to odour control is introducing beneficial bacteria into problem areas. These bacteria naturally produce the required enzymes. Once introduced into an area with a suitable food source and favourable conditions, these bacteria colonize the area. They rapidly multiply, with one bacterium dividing into two "daughter" cells every 20 minutes under ideal conditions. In a short span of time, a healthy population of beneficial bacteria can be established. These bacteria break down organic matter by producing and secreting enzymes into their cells, which they utilize for energy and growth.
Biological products possess two pivotal characteristics that make them highly efficient in eliminating odours. Firstly, the small size of bacteria coupled with their growth nature allows them to reach areas that traditional cleaning methods cannot access. For instance, they can deeply penetrate the fibres of carpets, the gaps between tiles, and the cracks in grouting, which are challenging or even impossible for humans to reach. Additionally, these bacteria have the ability to form biofilms in plumbing systems and drains, which are notorious for being difficult to access.
On the other hand, products containing "free" enzymes may offer instantaneous results, but their effectiveness is limited to the duration in which the product is present. In contrast, bacteria continue to degrade organic matter for an extended period of time. Therefore, there is a remarkable aspect of long-term action, where bacteria continue to "clean" and prevent odours long after the actual cleaning process is completed.
Similar to the consideration for "free" enzymes, the selection of bacterial strains is tailored to the specific product. It is crucial for a company to possess a significant strain bank, allowing them to choose bacteria with diverse enzyme capabilities.
For instance, a kitchen floor product would contain bacteria that produce amylase, cellulase, lipase, and protease enzymes, as a wide range of organic matter is typically encountered in such an environment. On the other hand, a washroom product would primarily focus on protease to tackle protein from urine, as well as uricase to break down uric acid, which commonly leads to uric acid scale in toilet areas.
In summary, biological cleaning products are ideal for effectively absorbing, inactivating, and eliminating odours at their source. However, their development necessitates significant investment in research and development to deliver the most efficient and effective products.
The Enzyme product line includes three primary products supported by a wider range of supplementary options tailored to meet the specific needs of the customer. This is achieved through the utilization of special microbial strains, enzymes, plant extracts, and organic acids, paired with environmentally friendly technologies.