Detergent Chemicals

Detergent chemicals are surfactants or a mixture of surfactants with cleansing properties when they are diluted with water. Among the variety of detergent chemicals or powder, most of them that are in use contain sodium salts of long chain alkyl hydrogen sulphate or a long chain of benzene sulphonic acid. Alkyl benzene sulfonates are the most common substance used in detergent chemicals or powders that are even soluble in hard water.

Components of Detergent Chemicals:

The surfactants used in detergent chemicals and powders include petrochemical solutions, oleo chemicals, sulfurtrioxide, sulphuric acid and ethylene oxide. In addition to using components such as alkali potassium and sodium, the manufacturers also use plant ashes to produce alkalis. In modern times, detergent chemicals are produced in industries by running electricity through salt water to produce sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or caustic soda and potassium hydroxide (KOH). 

Major Application of Detergent Chemicals:

Household Cleaning: One of the most important applications of detergent chemicals is household cleaning works such as dish washing and washing laundry. These detergent chemicals commonly contain the components such as surfactants, foam regulators, builders bleach, bleach activators, enzymes, dyes and fragrances.

Fuel Additives: Detergent chemicals are applied both as carburettors and fuel injector components of internal combustion engines that prevent them from fouling. Since detergent chemicals contain long-chain amines and amides like poly isobutene amine and poly iso butane amide or succinimide, they work as duel additive.

Biological Reagent: Detergent chemicals that are of reagent grade are used for the isolation and purification of integral membrane proteins found in biological cells. While making soluble of cell membrane bilayers, the process requires a detergent chemical that can enter the inner membrane monolayer that could add purity and sophistication.  

Advantages of Detergent Chemicals:

Detergent chemicals help extend the life of clothes. When detergent chemicals or powders are used such as Surf Excel, or Easy Wash, the chemicals eliminate the insoluble salts which could stay on clothes and by removing insoluble salts they help increase the life of clothes. Detergent chemicals can scrub off difficult stains and it is very safe to use these chemicals or powder since they do not contain any harsh chemical which can cause skin problem. 

Disadvantages of Detergent Chemicals:

One major disadvantage of detergent chemicals or powder is the fact that they are non-biodegradable and hence real bad for the environment. These chemicals or powder cause soil and water pollution that can be risky for animals which rely on soil for food and water. Some detergent chemicals use excessive alkali that can damage the fabric and your clothes can start losing colour if your use cheaper quality of detergent chemicals or powder.