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[Chemical Knowledge]：Alkali and surface active agent: two great heroes in the washing industry

Read： 700 Time：17months ago Source：Transform the World with Simplicity

In daily life, detergent is indispensable, and the two main ingredients-alkali and surface active agent, play an important role. This article will focus on the difference between alkali and surface active agents, as well as their different effects in the field of washing, to help us better understand and choose detergents.

1. the role of alkali
alkali is a chemical substance, common alkali sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide. Alkali has an alkaline pH and can neutralize acidic substances, making water more alkaline. In the washing process, alkali can make the detergent play a better role, especially for the removal of organic substances such as fat, oil and protein. In addition, the alkali can also soften water quality, reduce the formation of scale, improve the cleaning ability of detergent. However, excessive amounts of alkaline substances may be irritating to the skin, so you should pay attention to the dosage when using detergents.

2. The role of surface active agent
surfactant, usually referred to as surface active agent, is a kind of interface active substance, can reduce the surface tension between two kinds of immiscible medium and promote mixing. The surface active agent can make the washing liquid easier to spread, penetrate and disperse, so as to better clean stains. Compared with alkali, surface active agent has better decontamination ability, and can protect the clothing fiber in the washing process, reduce damage. In addition, the surface active agent also has the effect of wetting, emulsifying, dispersing and antistatic, making the clothes softer, brighter and easier to iron.

comprehensive comparison
Although alkali and surface active agent have different effects in the washing process, they usually need to cooperate with each other to achieve the best washing effect. In the choice of detergent, according to the material of clothing and the nature of stains to determine the required alkaline and surface active agent content. For common stains on clothing such as grease, sweat, etc., the role of surface active agent is more prominent. For some white cotton fabrics resistant to decolorization, alkaline substances are more important. In addition, it should be noted that excessive use of detergent may cause laundry residue and environmental pollution, so it is important to use it in an appropriate amount.

Summary
Alkali and surfactant are indispensable components in detergents, and they play an important role in cleaning and protecting clothing, respectively. Alkali mainly plays the role of neutralizing acidic substances and softening water quality, while the surface active agent has the characteristics of reducing surface tension and strong decontamination ability. By choosing detergents reasonably and paying attention to the appropriate amount of use, we can better protect our clothes and enjoy a clean and comfortable life.

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