The four major functions of surfactants include:
1. Reduce surface tension: Surface active agents can reduce the tension of liquid surface, so that liquids are more likely to expand or penetrate into small pores when they come into contact with solid or other liquids, and improve the moisturizing performance of the liquid.
2. Diversified stability: Surface active agents can disperse solid particles or droplets in liquid and prevent them from re -converging, thereby stabilizing the decentralized system. Commonly used to prepare lotion, colloid and suspension.
3. Emulsification and collagen: Surface active agents have emulsification and collagen, and can mix the interdependent liquid phase to form emulsion or colloid. This role is often used in foods, medicines, cosmetics and coatings.
4. Cleaning and polluting: Surface active agents have good cleaning capabilities, can reduce the adhesion of dirt and the surface of the object, and make it easier for dirt to be washed or dissolved by water or other cleaners during the cleaning process. Commonly used in products such as detergent, laundry powder and detergent.