Degreasers are basically cleaning agents, acting like a solvent. They are chemical substances that dissolve water-insoluble materials from surfaces such as floors, appliances, concrete, tools and machines.
Examples of those water-insoluble substances are greases, oils, waxes, lubricants, corrosion dust, paints etc.Degreasers have a wide range of uses.
It can be utilized in various sectors such as aviation, printing, marine, vehicles, construction and metal fabrication.
Degreasers can also be used in kitchens, restaurants and other heavy duty cleaning services. Some degreasers, particularly the chlorine based ones, can act as disinfectants.
There are different types of degreasers based on its composition, water-based, flammable, non-flammable, emulsifying degreasers etc.
However, the most common degreasers are made from hydrocarbon solvents such as kerosene and xylene. In this article, we will be discussing how to make an industrial degreaser, particularly for kitchen use.
Before venturing into production, the producer must first determine the type of ingredients to use.Environmental regulations and safety measures should be put in consideration.
An important characteristic of a good degreaser is its ability to erase a water-insoluble substance, furthermore, disintegrating it to an environmentally friendly substance.
The most popular active constituents of a degreaser may include sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium meta silicate, sodium carbonate, Ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) etc.Depending on choice of application, a sprayer might be purchased.
When making a degreaser, there are different methods applicable. Depending on your choice, a vinegar, sodium carbonate or a solution of ammonia.
These ingredients, when used alone, produces excellent and effective degreasers, however, for better and more efficient cleaning. Below are various ways to produce degreaser for kitchen use:
- The use of vinegar solution as a degreaser: Vinegar, having a cleaning ability, can be used for cleaning greasy or oily surfaces in the kitchen.
- After cooking, there is a high probability of oil stains on surfaces where cooking was done. To prepare this type of degreaser, mix water with vinegar in a ratio of four to one. Allow it to stand for about six to eight minutes before applying the mixture (degreaser).
- After usage, clean and dry the surface adequately to reduce the odor produced by the vinegar.
- The use of sodium carbonate: Sodium carbonate can also be used in producing a degreaser. The sodium carbonate when used should be mixed with water at a ratio of one cup to five cups.
- A reduction in the quantity of water added will result in a thick and more efficient solution. For cleaning purpose, wet a cleaning cloth with the mixture(degreaser) and rub it on the surface to be cleaned. After washing, use water to remove left over.
- The use of ammonia solution: To prepare an ammonia-based degreaser, pour the ammonia into a large bowl, up to a half of the bowl. Add water to fill it up to the top.
- Mix the solution properly and apply, with a cloth or a spray bottle, to the surface. Rinse the surface with water after application
- It is advisable to prepare your degreaser making use of different combinations of ingredients to help improve its cleaning ability.