Surfactants
Surfactants
Surfactants (pronounced: sur-FAK-tants), also known as surface-active agents, are compounds that lower the surface tension (or interfacial tension) between two liquids, between a gas and a liquid, or between a liquid and a solid. Surfactants may act as detergents, wetting agents, emulsifiers, foaming agents, and dispersants.
Etymology
The term "surfactant" is a blend of "surface active agent". It was coined in 1950 by Antara Products, a company in the United States.
Types of Surfactants
There are four main types of surfactants, classified according to the polar head group:
Applications
Surfactants are used in a variety of applications, including but not limited to:
- Detergents and cleaning products
- Emulsifiers in food and cosmetics
- Foaming agents in beverages and fire extinguishers
- Dispersants in oil spills and paints
Health and Safety
Some surfactants can be harmful if ingested or inhaled, and may cause irritation to the skin and eyes. It is important to handle surfactants with care and to follow safety guidelines.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Surfactants
- Wikipedia's article - Surfactants
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