We are familiar with foams since we see them daily while washing clothes and applying soaps and shampoos. The bubbly thing we call foam plays an essential role in cleaning. However, we know little about this and keep using it. This article will answer all your queries related to foam. We will discuss the bubbly thing and its substances in the following.
What Is Foam?
The foam is a product created by chemical reactions. It forms as a contact between surfactant chemicals, water, and air. When the high foam surfactants mix with water and air, they create a reaction that we call lathering. Many of us do not know foam itself does not have cleaning power. But you need the surfactant chemicals to get a proper cleaning. You might be thinking about how it helps in cleaning without having any cleaning power.
You can imagine a surface and how it reacts while coming into contact with water. The water will react differently with different finishes. In the velvet, it will remain for a while and slide quickly from the glass. We call this reaction surface tension that gives shape to water on different surfaces. The surface material will decide the form of the water on that surface.
The water needs to penetrate the surface to clean it. It will require reduced surface tension to get the desired cleaning. Here surfactants come in. They will create foam and enable the formula to react with the surfaces to address stains, grease, and dirt. You can expect more benefits with prolonged exposure.
How Do Surfactants Help in Cleaning?
Surfactants have two opposite ends, similar to magnets. One end (hydrophilic) will mix with water, and another (hydrophobic) will stay away from it. The first one is water friendly, and the second one fears water. However, the second end will contain hydrocarbon chains and would like grease and oil instead of water. Hence, it will support the cleaning process and address stains more effectively.
Effects of High Foam Surfactants
Too many foam surfactants can result in poor washing. Many think that more foam means better cleaning. However, foaming is slippery and more means they will prevent rubbing. That will not help with effective cleaning. Also, over foaming is like wasting. When there are excessive suds, they will require more time to rinse. You will have to spend more energy and water. You might experience blocking problems if you follow the same process for a long time. In brief, there is no benefit to using excessive foam in many cases. However, there are a few occasions when you can consider using high-foaming detergent.
When High-Foaming Detergent Is More Effective
You can consider using low-foaming detergents for fully automated and ultrasonic laundry machines. Since the programs will take care of the entire process, you can expect the best outcome. However, you can use high-foam options for manual washing and older machines.
Wrapping It Up
More foam does not mean better cleaning or effective result all the time. Overloaded foams can cause problems and result in poor washing. Follow the instructions on the package to avoid any confusion.
Resources –
https://www.worldsalenow.com/chemical-products-industries/23606