Odtuszczajce

Odtuszczajce are cleaning agents designed to remove fats, oils and grease from various surfaces. The term is commonly used in Polish to refer to products that perform degreasing, though in everyday language the more standard form odtłuszczacze is often preferred. These substances can be liquids, gels or wipes and are applied in industrial, commercial and household settings.

Chemistries range from solvent-based to detergent-based formulations. Solvent-based degreasers rely on hydrocarbon or chlorinated solvents to dissolve oily soils and are effective on metal and machinery parts but can be flammable and emit volatile organic compounds. Alkaline degreasers use caustic substances or silicates to saponify and detach fats, suitable for heavy soils but requiring careful handling due to skin and eye irritation. Emulsifying or detergent degreasers contain surfactants that suspend oily residues in water, enabling rinsing away. Citrus-based and terpene-based degreasers use naturally derived solvents like limonene for milder cleaning, often with pleasant odors. Enzymatic degreasers employ lipases to break down fats, finding use in food industry or specialized cleaning where gentle action is needed.

Applications span automotive and metalworking shops, manufacturing and electronics assembly, food service, and household cleaning. Safety considerations include using appropriate PPE, good ventilation, and compatibility with surfaces to prevent damage. Environmentally conscious choices favor biodegradable surfactants and low-VOC formulations, with proper disposal in accordance with local regulations.