Another part of the molecule is attracted to water (the hydrophile). One end of the molecule has a long nonpolar chain that is attracted to oil, grease, and dirt (the hydrophobe). How does a surfactant work? All have a common molecular similarity. The word surfactant is short for “Surface Active Agent.” In general, they are chemicals that, when dissolved in water or another solvent, orient themselves at the interface (boundary) between the liquid and a solid (the dirt we are removing), and modify the properties of the interface.
But now, with new surfactant chemistries, it is possible to accomplish this cleaning with fewer ingredients.Ī surfactant is the most important part of any cleaning agent.
In the past, most combination soils were removed with a very concentrated, highly built cleaner that also contained solvent. bowl cleaners).Ĭombination soils often present the toughest challenge for a cleaner since the soil contains both organic and inorganic components. Minerals are often cleaned with general purpose or acid-type cleaner (ie. Oftentimes acids are used to remove inorganic deposits such as rust and scale. Inorganic soils include rust, scale, hard water deposits and minerals such as sand, silt and clay. Now, however, more modern, bio-based surfactants are used to cut organic soils. Traditionally, these soils have been removed using alkaline cleaners or solvents. Organic soils encompass a broad range and include food soils (such as fat, grease, protein, and carbohydrate), living matter (such as mold, yeast and bacteria) and petroleum soils (such as motor oil, axle grease and cutting oils). Soil can be broken down into three broad categories: organic, inorganic and combination.
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