Dishwashing Detergent

Phosphates: Bind calcium and magnesium ions to prevent 'hard-water' type limescale deposits. They can cause ecological damage, and have been partially banned or phased out. Oxygen-based bleaching agents (older-style powders and liquids contain chlorine-based bleaching agents): Break up and bleach organic deposits. Non-ionic surfactants: Lower the surface tension of the water, emulsifies oil, lipid and fat food deposits, prevents droplet spotting on drying. Alkaline salts: These are a primary component in older and original-style dishwasher detergent powders[citation needed]. Highly alkaline salts attack and dissolve grease, but are extremely corrosive (fatal) if swallowed. Salts used may include metasilicates, alkali metal hydroxides, sodium carbonate etc.[3] Enzymes: Break up protein-based food deposits, and possibly oil, lipid and fat deposits.[4] The enzymes used are similar to the ones used in laundry.[5] Anti-corrosion agent(s): Often sodium silicate, this prevents corrosion of dishwasher components.[citation needed] Dishwashing detergent may also contain:[citation needed] Anti-foaming agents:[citation needed] Foam interferes with the washing action. Foam may affect operation of the machine's water-level sensors and will leak past the door seals. Additives to slow down the removal of glaze & patterns from glazed ceramics Perfumes Anti-caking agents (in granular detergent) Starches (in tablet based detergents) Gelling agents (in liquid/gel based detergents) Dishwasher detergents are generally strongly alkaline (basic).[6] Inexpensive powders may contain sand[citation needed]. Such detergents may harm the dishes and the dishwasher. Powdered detergents are more likely to cause fading on china patterns.[7] Besides older style detergents for dishwashers, biodegradable detergents also exist for dishwashers. These detergents may be more environmentally friendly than conventional detergents. Hand-washing dish detergent (washing up liquid) creates a large foam of bubbles which will leak from the dishwasher