Surface Energy Analysis of the Detergency Process — Surface Tension Components of Binary Mixtures of Organic Liquids and Aqueous Solutions of Surfactants

Abstract

The applicability of the surface energy analysis method to the detergency system is discussed. This method involves multicomponent washing liquids, such as binary mixtures of organic liquids and aqueous solutions of surfactants. The surface tension and its components of these mixtures and surfactant solutions, which were calculated from contact angle measurements, were not linearly proportional to the molar ratio or concentration. Oily dirt/washing liquid interfacial tensions were estimated from surface tension components. The interfacial tension tended to be overestimated compared with that observed in the systems using surface active materials. The results of a rolling-up test of oil drops suggest a correlation between the work of adhesion and washability.