The Third Henkel “Laundry & Home Care Research Award,” which comes with a check for 3,000 euros has been awarded to scientist Dr. Peggy Heunemann in recognition of her exceptional PhD thesis relating to the occurrence and the structures of nano-emulsions.
Dr Peggy Heunemann investigated the possibilities for better combining fat and water molecules. Her thesis reveals how it is possible to produce an emulsion – i.e. a combination of fat and water molecules – at low temperatures and with minimal mechanical effort. The knowledge gained provides an important basis for the development of sustainable laundry and home care detergents. With easier emulsification, fat-containing dirt can be removed from textiles and surfaces with a lower level of energy input.
The award aims at providing an incentive to researchers to conduct scientific investigations into the world of washing and cleaning.