New surfactant risk management research website goes live
Research into risk assessment in one of the most important sectors of the European chemical industry has a new home following the launch of a dedicated website
For over 25 years, the ERASM research platform has been dedicated to enhancing our understanding of the effects of surfactants, carrying out important work on the risks to the environment and to human health. These substances are found in almost all detergents, as well as many other cleaning products in our homes. They are also widely used in professional cleaning products.
A new ERASM website www.erasm.org, showcases the outcome of such research projects, addresses the most relevant issues around surfactants, and provides a rich trove of reports, scientific publications, posters, and technical databases.
ERASM research involves some of Europe’s most prestigious research institutions and more than 30 companies. It is managed and jointly funded by the International Association for Soaps, Detergents and Maintenance Products (A.I.S.E.) and the European Committee of Surfactants and their Organic Intermediates (CESIO).
A.I.S.E. Director General Dr Susanne Zänker said she was delighted with the new site: "We want to share ERASM’s world class research and encourage further dialogue to ensure the health and wellbeing of end-users and the environment. Manufacturers of surfactants and detergents are keenly aware of the impact of their products on the environment and human health, which is why CESIO and A.I.S.E. support and manage the ERASM project.”
Chantal De Cooman, CEFIC’s Director of Performance Chemicals Group, echoed Dr Zänker’s remarks: "The safety and effectiveness of surfactants in detergent products is of tremendous importance to users, regulators and those working in industry. This is why ERASM has been supporting and carrying out this important research for more than 25 years, and this website will help disseminate that knowledge while also encouraging new ideas and collaboration.”
The site’s research section examines the five key aspects of the surfactant value chain, as well as numerous relevant issues and a host of completed research projects:
• Manufacturing
• Human health
• Wastewater treatment
• Freshwater environment
• Marine environment