Surfactant Analysis
Surfactants, are active substances used to lower the surface tension of a liquid. Surfactants are organic compounds containing hydrophobic groups and hydrophilic groups. Thus, molecules are provided to interact with both water and oils.Examples of commonly used surfactants are:
• Sodium stearate
• 4-(5-dodecyl)benzenesulfonate
• Docusate (dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate)
• alkyl ether phosphates
• Benzalkaonium chloride (BAC)
• Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS)
Surfactants are of 4 different types. Surfactants are used in different products depending on their types.
- Nonionic Surfactants: Polishes, cleaners, fragrances and even some food products.
- Anionic Surfactants: Laundry and dishwashing detergents, toothpaste, shampoo, body soaps and other bath products.
- Cationic Surfactants: They are antimicrobial and antifungal products.
- Amphoteric Surfactants: Used in paints and latex products to help them dry or coagulate faster.
Surfactant Tests are carried out on many products in accredited and authorized laboratories.
