What is another word for detergent builder?
Pronunciation: [dɪtˈɜːd͡ʒənt bˈɪldə] (IPA) 
A detergent builder is a substance added to cleaning products to enhance their effectiveness. It works by counteracting the hardness of water and making it easier to emulsify dirt and grease. Synonyms for detergent builder include water softener, chelating agent, sequestrant, and soil suspending agent. Water softeners like sodium tripolyphosphate and tetrasodium pyrophosphate prevent the buildup of mineral deposits in the washing machine and on fabrics. Chelating agents, such as EDTA and NTA, sequester metal ions to prevent them from interfering with the cleaning action. Soil suspending agents, such as carboxymethyl cellulose and polyethylene glycol, prevent soil from redepositing on fabrics. Each of these substances plays an important role in ensuring that detergents are effective in removing dirt and stains from clothes and other surfaces.
