detergent builder
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A substance added to soaps or detergents to increase their cleansing action: A "detergent builder" is a chemical compound that enhances the cleaning power of a detergent or soap. It works by softening water, which allows the detergent to work more effectively, and by helping to remove dirt and stains.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Phosphates were once a common detergent builder in laundry powders.
- Modern formulations often use zeolites as an environmentally friendly detergent builder.
- The primary function of a detergent builder is to inactivate hard water minerals.
Advanced Usage
- Technical Context: In industrial and chemical contexts, a "detergent builder" is a critical component of cleaning formulations, specifically engineered to sequester metal ions.
- Citrates serve as an effective biodegradable detergent builder in many eco-friendly products.
Variants and Related Words
- Builder (n): In the context of detergents, this is often used as a shorter form.
- The builder in this soap helps it lather in hard water.
- Sequestrant (n): A substance that binds to and deactivates metal ions; this is a technical synonym for the function of many detergent builders.
- Water Softener (n): A common descriptive term for the primary action of a detergent builder.
Synonyms
- Chelating agent: A substance that forms soluble complexes with metal ions, preventing them from interfering with cleaning.
- Complexing agent: Similar to chelating agent, a compound that binds metal ions.
Related Phrases
- Build a detergent: This phrase is not standard. The term "detergent builder" is a fixed noun compound.
- Built detergent (adj): A detergent that contains a builder.
- A built detergent is essential for washing in areas with very hard water.
Noun
- a substance added to soaps or detergents to increase their cleansing action