Cleaning agents are liquids used to remove dirt, grime and deposits from different surfaces. They are normally water solutions of different surfactants that might be acidic, alkaline or neutral depending on the use.
System cleaning agents are designed for washing of industrial equipment. Cleaning agents are often diluted to a washing solution before use. The type of surfactants in a formulation have to be adapted to the general properties of the cleaning formulations itself, as well as to the type of application.
Acidic cleaning agents are mainly used for removal of inorganic deposits such as scaling. The active ingredients are normally strong mineral or organic acids combined with chelants. Acidic cleaning agents are often added surfactants and corrosion inhibitors.
Alkaline cleaning is used to remove grease, oil, fat and protein based deposits. The active components are strong bases such as sodium hydroxide and/or potassium hydroxide. Alkaline cleaning agents might have dispersing agents added to prevent redeposition of dissolved dirt and/or chelants to attack corrosion on metal parts.
Neutral cleaning agents are pH-neutral and based on non-ionic surfactants that disperse different types of dirt.
Degreasers are cleaning agents specially made for removal of grease. These are often solvent based or solvent containing, combined with surfactants. Solvents have a dissolving action on grease and similar dirt. Surfactants are used to disperse the dissolved dirt. The solvent containing a degreaser may have an alkaline washing agent added to promote further degreasing. Degreasing agents may also be made solvent free based on alkaline chemicals and/or surfactants.
Nopco has various products for cleaning activities in the paper industry and will help you to find the correct product for your individual need.