The viscosity of dishwashing liquid, or any liquid, is influenced by various factors and ingredients. Here are some of the most common ingredients responsible for increasing viscosity in dishwashing liquid:
Surfactants: Surfactants are the primary active ingredients in dishwashing liquid. They help to reduce the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread and penetrate more easily. Some surfactants, like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), can also contribute to the viscosity of the liquid.
Thickening agents: These are additives specifically designed to increase viscosity. Common thickening agents used in dishwashing liquids include:
Sodium chloride: Also known as table salt, it can be added to increase viscosity.
Xanthan gum: Derived from bacteria fermentation, xanthan gum is a natural thickener that can be used in dishwashing liquid formulations.
Carbomer: This synthetic polymer can absorb and retain water, thereby increasing viscosity.
Stabilizers: Stabilizers are additives that help maintain the desired viscosity and prevent the liquid from separating or thinning over time. They can include ingredients like:
Polyethylene glycol (PEG): PEG is commonly used as a stabilizer in dishwashing liquids and can help improve viscosity stability.
Cellulose derivatives: Substances like hydroxyethylcellulose or methylcellulose can act as stabilizers and thickeners in dishwashing liquids.
Other ingredients: Additional components, such as fragrance, colorants, preservatives, and pH adjusters, may also impact the viscosity of dishwashing liquid to some extent.
It's important to note that the specific formulation and combination of ingredients vary among different dishwashing liquid brands and products. Manufacturers carefully select and balance these ingredients to achieve the desired viscosity, cleaning performance, and stability for their specific product formulations.