Acidic cleaners
Acidic cleaners are an important component in the cleaning industry and are often used to remove stubborn dirt, limescale, rust and other mineral deposits. Unlike alkaline cleaners, which are based on alkalis such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, acidic cleaners contain acidic ingredients such as citric acid, acetic acid or phosphoric acid.
The acidic nature of these cleaners allows them to effectively dissolve and remove mineral deposits as they can break down the chemical structure of these deposits. This is particularly useful when cleaning surfaces. Acidic cleaners can also be used to remove rust from metal surfaces. The acid reacts with the iron oxide of the rust and dissolves it, making it easier to remove. This makes acid cleaners a preferred choice for cleaning metallic surfaces in industry, particularly in areas such as metalworking and vehicle repair.
Another advantage of acidic cleaners is their ability to remove grease and oil residues, as they can emulsify them effectively. This makes them ideal for cleaning kitchen appliances, work surfaces and other surfaces that come into contact with grease and oil.
Despite their effectiveness, acidic cleaners should be used with caution as they can damage surfaces if used incorrectly. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and wear suitable protective equipment such as gloves and goggles to avoid skin and eye irritation. In addition, they should not be used on delicate surfaces such as marble, natural stone or aluminum as the acid can damage them.
Back to listThis definition is taken from the surface technology encyclopedia from Surface Technology Online. You can find many more technical terms from the surface technology industry in our lexicon overview.
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