Mastering Auto Detailing Science: Choosing the Right Car Cleaning Products
Introduction
Learn the science behind auto detailing supplies to ensure effective cleaning and protection for your vehicle. This article explores the types of soil and the chemistry of cleaners, empowering you to make informed choices for optimal car care.
Understanding Soil Types
- Organic Soil:
- Definition: Contains carbon.
- Examples: Proteins, animal fat, body oil, mold, yeast, insects, bacteria, and excrement.
- Scenario: Organic stains like spilled hot French fries.
- Non-organic Soil:
- Definition: Lacks carbon molecules.
- Examples: Water spots, acid rain spots.
- Location: Often found on the vehicle’s exterior.
- Petroleum Soil:
- Characteristics: Derives from substances not mixable with water.
- Examples: Motor oil, grease, road tar, chewing gum.
Exploring Automotive Cleaners
- Complex Compositions:
- Challenge: No true all-purpose automotive cleaner exists due to diverse surfaces and soils.
- Chemicals Used: Surfactants, solvents, wetting agents, saponifiers, and chelators.
- Surfactants in Soaps and Detergents:
- Composition: Two compounds – hydrophile (water-attracting) and hydrophobe (soil-attracting).
- Function: Hydrophile surrounds soil, while hydrophobe breaks up the soil for removal.
- Role of Solvents:
- Purpose: Dissolve dirt and facilitate its removal.
- Common Solvent: Water, widely used in cleaners.
pH Levels in Cleaners
- Understanding pH:
- Scale: 0 to 14.
- Acids: Below 7; alkalis (bases): Above 7.
- Neutral: Water, with a pH of 7.0.
- pH in Cleaners:
- Guidance: Cleaner pH determines usage.
- Examples: Carpet shampoo (pH 8-9), all-purpose wheel cleaner (pH 12-14).
Making Informed Choices
- Applying Basic Protection:
- Exterior: Regular waxing.
- Interior: Use appropriate protective products.
- Ultimate Protection Measures:
- Outdoor: Employ an outdoor car cover or a waterproof car cover for parking outside.
Understanding these basics enables you to comprehend the variety in car cleaning products and auto detailing supplies. By choosing wisely based on your vehicle’s surfaces and their cleaning requirements, you can avoid harsh cleaners and ensure effective protection.
