Are There Different Types of Surfactants?

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Are there different types of surfactants and what are they used for? The answer is yes, there are four different types of surfactants which are nonionic, anionic, cationic, amphoteric. These surfactants differ in composition and polarity. Surfactants also known as surface active agents, are used to lower the surface tension between liquids.  The four different types of surfactants are all used to lower surface tension, but as they have differing compositions, they do serve different purposes. The various applications surfactants can be used in are vast as surfactants can be used as emulsifiers, wetting agents, foaming agents, anti-foaming agents, and dispersants. Products including inks, soaps, detergents, waxes, paints and so much more require some type of surfactant for production. If you are in need of surfactants, but need help finding the right surfactants for your particular needs, Ecolink can help. 

What are different types of surfactants used for?

  • Nonionic Surfactants – These surfactants are often used as wetting agents or in coatings. Various products that make use of nonionic surfactants are polishes, cleaners, fragrances, and even some food products. 
  • Anionic Surfactants – Anionic surfactants are also often used as wetting agents and can be found in products such as laundry & dish detergents, toothpaste, shampoo, body soaps, and other bath products. 
  • Cationic Surfactants – Cationic surfactants have the ability to disturb and penetrate the cell membrane of viruses and bacteria, due to their positive charge. For this reason, cationic surfactants are often used in antimicrobial and antifungal products. 
  • Amphoteric Surfactants – Also known as Zwitterionic surfactants, these surfactants possess properties of both cationic and anionic surfactants. Amphoteric surfactants have quick dry properties and often used in paint and latex products to help them dry or coagulate quicker. 

Need to find a reliable surfactant supplier?

If you need to find high quality, affordable surfactant, contact Ecolink here! Ecolink is a long time, trusted provider of high quality chemical products, including surfactants. Ecolink and their knowledgeable team of experts is ready to help you find the right surfactants and other chemical products for your needs.