⚗️ Thickened Acidic Cleaner – Production, Formulation and Properties
Overview:
Thickened Acidic Cleaners are specialized gel-like cleaning formulations developed to remove lime scale, rust, mineral deposits, and soap scum from hard surfaces such as tiles, ceramics, stainless steel, and sanitary fixtures.
The thickened structure ensures extended contact time with contaminated areas, enhancing the acid’s effectiveness while minimizing splashing and waste.
These cleaners are widely used in industrial facilities, food processing plants, bathrooms, kitchens, and maintenance operations where alkaline residues or mineral build-up must be removed efficiently.
They combine high cleaning power, controlled viscosity, and safe acid technology, ensuring strong performance with user safety in mind.
Production and Formulation:
Thickened acidic cleaners are formulated by dispersing thickening agents (such as xanthan gum, acrylate polymers, or cellulose derivatives) in an aqueous solution of organic or inorganic acids (e.g., citric acid, phosphoric acid, or sulfamic acid).
Surfactants and corrosion inhibitors are added to improve wetting, penetration, and metal protection.
The formulation is mixed under controlled agitation until a uniform gel texture and stable viscosity are achieved.
Fragrances or colorants may be incorporated to enhance consumer appeal.
The final pH is typically adjusted to 1.5–3.5, depending on the desired strength and target application.
Properties:
-
Appearance: Clear or opaque gel
-
Color: Transparent or light-colored (often tinted)
-
Odor: Mild acid or fresh fragrance
-
pH Range: 1.5–3.5 (acidic)
-
Viscosity: High – thixotropic, non-drip consistency
-
Foam Level: Low to moderate
-
Cleaning Efficiency: Excellent for mineral scale and rust removal
-
Corrosion Resistance: Enhanced with inhibitors
-
Shelf Life: 24–36 months
Advantages:
-
Effectively dissolves lime scale, rust, and hard water stains
-
Non-drip gel provides longer contact time and better cleaning
-
Safe for tiles, ceramics, and stainless steel (non-reactive metals)
-
Reduces product waste and improves user control
-
Fast-acting and residue-free finish
-
Available in both industrial and household strengths
-
Enhanced safety through controlled acid release
-
Can be colored or fragranced for easy identification
Summary:
Thickened Acidic Cleaners deliver superior descaling and rust removal through a controlled, gel-based system.
Their optimized viscosity ensures effective cleaning even on vertical surfaces, providing deep cleaning with maximum efficiency and minimal effort.
These advanced formulations represent modern acid cleaning technology, offering high power with safety and precision in both industrial and domestic environments.
