The inability of one substance to dissolve in another. Interfacial Tension

The wearing away or cleaning by friction. Abrasion can also relate to the wearing away of a floor finish film by friction.

A product that works by abrasion. Products such as cleaners, polishes and pads may contain an abrasive. Acid

The ingredients in a product that are specifically designed to achieve the product performance objectives. Adhesion

Organic compounds that contain one or more hydroxyl groups (-OH functional groups) in each molecule. Alcohols used in cleaners include ethyl, methyl, propyl and butyl. Aliphatic Solvents

A surfactant that, in water solution, may be either anionic or cationic, depending upon the pH. Anhydrous

An ion with a negative charge, formed when an atom gains electrons in a reaction. The atom now has more electrons than protons. Anionic Surfactant

An ingredient used in detergents to help prevent soil from redepositing on surfaces or fabrics. Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is the most widely used. Aromatic Solvents-

The smallest particle of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element. The atoms of many elements are bonded together in groups to form particles called molecules. Atoms consist of [..]

The ability of a substance to be broken down into simpler, smaller parts by a biological process. Many plastics are not biodegradable. Bleach