Chemicals: types of detergents

Surfactants

During the detergent action, surfactants perform at the molecular level by modifying the surface tension of the liquids or the interfacial tension between the solids and the liquids. These products work with a lipophilic component (tail), which attacks dirt, and a hydrophilic component (head) that acts on the water.

An example of surfactant molecule with its head and tail. The detergent action varies according to the dirt to be removed

Emulsification

The chemical detaches the adherent dirt from the surface and suspends it in the solution (an action of the surfactants contained in the detergent).

1. Aggression / 2. Molecular action / 3. Detachment / 4. Rinsing

Saponification

The alkaline detergent acts on greasy dirt, which is insoluble in water, and transforms it into a water-soluble product.

1. Aggression / 2. Molecular action / 3. Transformation / 4. Rinsing

Solvation

The chemical contains a solvent base that dissolves the dirt and surfactants holding the dirt molecules in suspension (an action of the diluent which dissolves the enamel and the surfactants which prevent it from depositing again onto the surface).

1. Aggression / 2. Molecular action / 3. Transformation / 4. Rinsing

Decalcification

A very acidic chemical dissolves limescale residues and saline crusts, having an effect on mineral components (an action of strong acids that remove the rising efflorescence on terracotta).

1. Aggression / 2. Molecular action / 3. Solubilization / 4. Rinsing

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