Classification of Detergents:

Most common types of detergents are-

01. Anionic detergent-

Those detergents which produce anion (R-) in water or solution are called anionic detergents. Anionic detergents dissociate into a long chain anion which acts as the ‘hydrophilic’ end and the long chain carbon as the ‘hydrophobic’ end.

Examples- Alkyl benzene sulphonates (ABS), Alkyl sulphates, Alkyl benzene ether sulphonates (ABES), Sulphated fatty alcohols.

02. Cationic detergent-

Those detergents which produce cation (R+) in water or solution are called cationic detergents. These detergents have no strong detergent characteristics but have strong germicidal properties.

Examples- Quartenary ammonium compounds.

03. Non-ionic detergent-

It don’t contain any ionic molecule. They produce little foam. They possess excellent soil removal and grease emulsification characteristics.

Examples- Alkyl aryl ethylene oxide derivatives, fatty acid amides, aliphatic polyhydric alcohols esters.

04. Amphoteric detergent-

Those detergents which contain both cationic as well as anionic groups are called amphoteric detergents. They are used in the manufacture of paste, shampoos, cosmetics, emulsion, paints etc.

Examples- Lauryl sarcozinate.