Surfactants

Surfactants

Surfactants are chemical compounds that lower the surface tension between two liquids, a gas and a liquid, or a liquid and a solid.

Main type of Surfactants

Anionic: Carry a negative charge; great for cutting grease and making rich foam in laundry soaps and shampoos (e.g., Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Surfactant). 
Cationic: Carry a positive charge; used for disinfecting, softening fabrics, and conditioning hair (e.g., Benzalkonium Chloride). 
Nonionic: Carry no electrical charge; versatile and low-foaming, often used in dish soaps and cosmetics. 
Amphoteric (Zwitterionic): Can change their charge based on acidity (pH); very mild and often found in baby shampoos or facial cleansers. 

Two most commonly used surfactant 

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): A powerful anionic surfactant known for strong cleaning and rich foam production. It is common in shampoos, body washes, and toothpastes. 

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): A milder, ethoxylated version of SLS. It provides excellent foaming with less skin irritation and is widely used in personal care and household cleaning products.

Common Used in 

Cleaning: Laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and body washes.

Industrial: Textile manufacturing, enhanced oil recovery, and agrochemical sprays. 

Which Surfactant cause more damage?

Anionic surfactants produce the highest volume of dense, stable foam, while cationic surfactants produce the least foam.

Monitoring Surfactant in product and reducing their usage would be good start. 

Compiled by

Ms Naresh kuwar