" X is an alkali metal or H; Q.sub.3 denotes that each silicon atom shares in three --Si--O--Si-- bonds, the remaining bond being an --Si--O--X end.Briefly, according to a first embodiment, the present invention features a builder for a detergent composition comprising an alkali metal silicate, in particular sodium silicate or potassium silicate, containing at least 30% and preferably atleast" . . . .