LG Electronics tests eco-friendly ‘Mineral Wash’

(LG Electronics)

LG Electronics will explore the potential of an eco-friendly laundry detergent ingredient made using glass in collaboration with water industry partners.

The company signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Korea Water Cluster and the Korea Water Forum on Thursday for a pilot project focused on low carbon “Mineral Wash” that aims to achieve Water Positive goals. The agreement was signed at the Korea Water Cluster business center in Daegu.

Mineral Wash, developed by LG Electronics, is a water-soluble functional glass powder that releases mineral ions when mixed with water to support laundry cleaning. The mineral ions are alkaline and help break down fabric contaminants such as oil, fat, and protein. They also reduce the size of water molecules to penetrate between fabric and dirt, effectively lifting away grime.

As Mineral Wash does not produce foam, it reduces the number of rinse cycles needed and thus lowers both water and electricity consumption. LG Electronics noted that safety testing conducted by the Korea Conformity Laboratories (KCL) confirmed the material is safe for both human health and the environment.

The company expects Mineral Wash could be a sustainable alternative to surfactants, which are widely used in conventional laundry detergents. Although surfactants are cost-effective and efficient, they are chemical-based and have been linked to environmental pollution and skin irritation, which prompted ongoing research into replacements.

If the pilot project is successful, LG Electronics sees potential for Mineral Wash to expand into both the household and commercial detergent ingredient markets.