Powdered Detergents at 10% Concentration?

Q:  I’m looking for information regarding the pH and conductivity of Alconox at 10% Wt, or 100g/mL dilution.

A:  Approximately 10% is the theoretical maximum concentration before saturation occurs of our powdered detergents.  However, if you heat the solution and add Alconox® Powdered Precision Cleaner, you may be able to get to or slightly above 10% as long as you keep the solution heated.  Note that the high concentration does not appreciably increase efficacy but does significantly increase detergent capacity.    

(Please also note that the first rinse should be done at the same temperature to avoid thermal shocking micelles, and generally rinsing will require a longer rinse time due to the high detergent concentration.) 

Alconox powdered detergent concentrations above 5% are typically not needed and might indicate something else in the process can be tweaked or perhaps a more suited to the application detergent is needed.  ALthough there can certainly be applications where 10% is indeed required. 

Note that our other powdered detergents: Alcojet® Low Foaming Powdered Detergent, Tergajet® Low-Foaming Phosphate-Free Detergent, and Tergazyme® Enzyme-Active Powdered Detergent, can be thought of similarly.

We are happy to work with you to project what the pH at 10% is.  The pH is only marginally affected by concentration as it is a logarithmic relationship.

Do you have a critical cleaning question for the experts at Alconox Inc.?  Search TechNotes to see if it’s been answered before or Ask Alconox.

To request any Alconox Inc. detergents for free, please complete the questionnaire at Get Sample. For more information about any one of our Alconox Inc. detergents, consult the technical bulletin for each product. Or click here to access each of our detergent’s Safety Data Sheets

Featured Product:

Alconox is a concentrated, anionic detergent for manual and ultrasonic cleaning. Free rinsing to give you reliable results without interfering residues. Ideal for cleaning contaminants from glassware, metals, plastics, ceramic, porcelain, rubber and fiberglass. Excellent replacement for corrosive acids and hazardous solvents. USDA authorized. Dilute 1:100. pH 9.5

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