Can Trisodium phosphate use as cleaner?

I. Introduction

Trisodium phosphate is a chemical inorganic salt, usually in the form of a white powder. Its aqueous solution contains phosphate and hydroxide ions, which are characterized by complexing metal ions and strong alkalinity. Therefore, it is often used as a synergistic ingredient in cleaning agents, and on some occasions its aqueous solution can also be used directly as a cleaning agent.

II. Cleaning Mechanisms

A. As a synergistic component of cleaner

Trisodium phosphate is often added to detergents, hand sanitizers, dishwashing detergents and other cleaning agents as a synergistic component. The main mechanism of action includes three aspects: softening water, removing stains and dispersing scale and stones.

1. Water softening

Trisodium phosphate can combine with metal ions such as calcium and magnesium ions in hard water to form a stable complex, thus reducing the hardness of water. This chelating effect reduces the formation of carbonate precipitation, so that the active agent molecules in the detergent can also work effectively in hard water to improve the washing effect.

2. Stain removal

Trisodium phosphate has good scale and stone dispersing effect, which can quickly remove stains, grease stains and color pigments on the surface of clothes and utensils.

3. Scale and stone dispersion

When using detergents in hard water areas, if trisodium phosphate is not added, white scale marks may appear on the surface of clothes and utensils. This can be avoided by adding Trisodium Phosphate, which effectively disintegrates and removes stubborn stains on clothes and utensils, improving the cleaning efficiency of the detergent.

B. Directly used as the main ingredient of cleaners

Trisodium phosphate as the main ingredient of the cleaner is mainly used for removing grease, limescale and mold, especially for hard-to-clean surfaces, such as boiler, pipes, stainless steel, floors, ceramic tiles, ovens, and walls.

1. Remove grease and oil

• Phosphoric acid ions have strong chelating effect and corrosive, can effectively destroy the surface tension of grease and oil, so that the force of oil adhering to the surface is weakened.
• Trisodium phosphate has penetrating and emulsifying properties, which significantly enhances the wettability of water. This makes it an ideal detergent for removing hard surfaces and metal stains, penetrating deeply and breaking down stains for a more thorough cleaning.
• It effectively protects aluminum and steel from corrosion during the cleaning process.Therefore, Trisodium Phosphate is also the ideal detergent for cleaning these two metal surfaces, effectively removing oxidation, rust and stains.

For the oil removal there is sperate article discussing about “is trisodium phosphate the same as sugar soap“. You can choose the product that suits you according to the actual situation.

2. Scale removal

Trisodium phosphate can remove scale from boilers and pipes.

3. Remove mold

Trisodium phosphate can not only kill mold cells, but also destroy the acidic environment in which mold grows, so as to effectively kill and inhibit the growth of mold. It is an ideal cleaner for pretreatment of walls, furniture and painted surfaces. For detail info please check the article “Does trisodium phosphate kill mold“.

III. Ratios and precautions for use as a direct cleaning agent

A. Proportioning for use

1. Dissolve the solution with water in the ratio of 1:4, i.e. one part of trisodium phosphate mixed with four parts of water.
2. Spray directly on the place to be cleaned, and then wipe or rinse after the trisodium phosphate plays a corrosive and emulsion-breaking role.

Please note the removal operation for boiler scale is different, for the details please check the article “How to use trisodium phosphate correctly for boiler scale removal？“.

B. Precautions

1. trisodium phosphate is exothermic when it meets water, when dissolving, pour water into the container first, and then slowly add trisodium phosphate to avoid violent chemical reaction.
2. When using trisodium phosphate cleaner, you need to wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles and masks to protect your skin, eyes and respiratory tract.
3. Avoid mixing: Trisodium phosphate should not be mixed with other cleaners, especially acids, to avoid violent chemical reactions and the production of toxic gases.
4. When using, apply the cleaner to the surface to be cleaned, wait for a period of time and then rinse it off with water

IV. Conclusion

In conclusion, trisodium phosphate has a unique cleaning effect, it can be used as a synergistic component of general cleaners or can be used alone as a cleaner under appropriate conditions of use. However, due to its strong alkalinity, detailed knowledge of the method of use and precautions should be taken before use, and the safety operation procedures should be strictly followed.