surfactant

/sərˈfæktənt/
IPA guide

Other forms: surfactants

Definitions of surfactant
  1. noun
    a chemical agent capable of reducing the surface tension of a liquid in which it is dissolved
    synonyms: surface-active agent, wetter, wetting agent
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    types:
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    emulsifier
    a surface-active agent that promotes the formation of an emulsion
    detergent
    a surface-active chemical widely used in industry and laundering
    anionic, anionic detergent, non-ionic detergent
    a class of synthetic detergents in which the molecules do not ionize in aqueous solutions
    lecithin
    a yellow phospholipid essential for the metabolism of fats; found in egg yolk and in many plant and animal cells; used commercially as an emulsifier
    cationic detergent, invert soap
    a class of synthetic detergents in which the surface-active part of the molecule is the cation
    SLS, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulphate
    a caustic detergent useful for removing grease; although commonly included in personal care items (shampoos and toothpastes etc.) it can irritate skin and should not be swallowed
    type of:
    chemical agent
    an agent that produces chemical reactions
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