Surfactants Testing

Surfactants in Detergents: Role and Types in Cleaning

What are Surfactants?

Surfactants are compounds that reduce the surface tension of liquids such as water, allowing liquids to mix better. They are often used in cleaning products, emulsions and various industrial applications. These substances break the tension on the surface of the water, making it easier to remove dirt and grease.

Applications of Surfactants

Surfactants are used in many fields:

• Cleaning Products: They are essential ingredients in detergents, soaps and surface cleaners.
• Cosmetics: Used as an emulsifier in products such as shampoos and lotions.
• Food Industry: Mixing of food products as an emulsifier.
• Agriculture: Improves the effectiveness of pesticides and fertilizers.

What are Surfactants in Detergents?

Surfactants are one of the main components of detergents and are chemical compounds that improve cleaning functionality. They help the interaction between water and dirt or oil, reducing surface tension and making it easier to remove dirt. The effectiveness of detergents depends on the type and amount of surfactants they contain.

Types of Surfactants in Detergents

Surfactants used in detergents can be divided into different categories according to their function:

• Anionic Surfactants: These negatively charged substances effectively remove grease and dirt. They are usually found in liquid and powder detergents.
• Cative Surfactants: These positively charged substances are widely used, especially in emollient products and disinfectants.
• Nonionic Surfactants: These non-charged substances are found in soaps and liquid detergents, making it easier to mix with water.
• Amphoteric Surfactants: These substances, which can show both negative and positive properties, are used in special formulations and are included in various cleaning products.

The Role of Surfactants in Cleaning

Surfactants facilitate cleaning processes by enhancing the effect of detergents. Functions include:

• Grease and Dirt Removal: Surfactants break the bonds between water and oil, allowing oil and dirt to mix with water.
• Emulsion Forming: They help different ingredients to form a homogeneous mixture.
• Hard Water Softening: Surfactants in detergents reduce the hardness of water for more effective cleaning.

Determination of Anionic Active Substance	TS ISO 2271
Determination of Free Alkali or Free Acidity	ISO 4314
Alkalinity Determination	ISO 4315
Quantification of Inorganic Sulfates	ISO 8214
High Molecular Mass Cationic Active Substance Determination	TS EN ISO 2871-1
Low Molecular Mass Cationic Active Substance Determination	TS EN ISO 2871-2
Nonionic Active Substance Determination	ISO 2268

Nano-lab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Surfactants in Detergents.