Colonial DF-20

• Solubility in concentrated alkaline solutions
• Low foam above the cloud point
• Effective hard-surface detergency
• Potent wetting

• Spray metal cleaners
• Steam Cleaning
• Power floor cleaning
• Paint stripping
• In-place pipeline cleaning
• Electrocleaning
• Bottle washing
• Automatic car wash
• Food process equipment cleaning
• Automatic liquid dishwashing compounds

Compatibility

Colonial DF-20 is compatible with other anionic and nonionic surfactants and most alkaline detergent builders. It is not compatible with cationic materials and not recommended for use in acid solutions.

Solubility

Colonial DF-20, as supplied, is not soluble in water and must be reacted with a strong base, such as potassium or sodium hydroxide, to achieve solubility in alkaline solutions. After reaction with a base, solubility depends on the concentration of alkaline builders in solution, the temperature of the solution, and the concentration of Colonial DF-20.

Solubilization of Colonial DF-20 requires a minimum of 1.5 equivalents of base (NaOH or KOH) in the formulation for an effi cient reaction. At least 0.375 pounds of sodium hydroxide or 0.525 pounds of potassium hydroxide are required for each pound of Colonial DF-20 used in the formulation. Colonial DF-20 and the required base are usually combined with other alkaline builders in the formulation. In certain formulations that are relatively dilute or low in alkalinity, heat may be required to complete the reaction with the base. In these cases, heating a premix of Colonial DF-20 with at least 1.5 equivalents of base in a concentrated solution may be a preferred method of converting the product to a soluble state. Care must be used during this neutralization step to control any heat rise or foam surge.

Solubility in Use Dilutions

Colonial DF-20 behaves like a typical low-foam surfactant in use dilutions and exhibits defi nitive cloud point characteristics. The cloud point varies with the concentration of electrolytes in the use solution, but is generally in the range of 45°C to 58°C.

Foaming Properties

Colonial DF-20 exhibits very low foam in highpressure washing operations. Foam height decreases with increasing temperature. Foam height is also aff ected by the type and amount of electrolyte present. The foam characteristics of formulations are not particularly aff ected by the concentration of Colonial DF-20 in the use solution.

Colonial DF-20 should be stored in closed containers.