Detergent

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The term detergent (plural detergents , also outdated detergents or detergents , from the Latin detergere ' to wipe off') is used synonymously with either surfactant or detergent .

  • Surfactants are substances that facilitate a cleaning process. They reduce the surface tension between the surface to be cleaned, the dirt and the solvent (usually water). It is understood to mean both naturally occurring and synthetically produced surfactants ( emulsifiers and wetting agents ). In addition to the concept of detergents and the made-up word in the German language is syndet for Syn thetic Det ergenzien used.
  • Cleaning agents and detergents : In terms of Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council, the term “detergent” refers to a substance or preparation which contains soaps and / or other surfactants and is used for washing and cleaning processes is determined. Detergents can take a variety of forms (liquid, powder, paste, bar, slab, shaped pieces, figurines, etc.) and can be sold or used for household or institutional or industrial purposes. Other products that count among the detergents include
    • Washing aid for soaking (pre-washing), rinsing or bleaching items of clothing, household linen, etc.
    • Fabric softener for changing the handle of textiles in processes that complement textile washing
    • Cleaning agents, such as household all-purpose cleaners and / or other means for cleaning surfaces (e.g. materials, products, machines)

Individual evidence

  1. Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004 (PDF) .

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