Defoamers

Defoamers are chemical substances used to eliminate or prevent the formation of foam in liquids. It is an additive that can control the existing foam in liquids useful in different sectors. Defoamers are used to eliminate the problems related to the foam formed on the surface and the air trapped in the liquid.

Defoamers work by destroying foam-forming air bubbles or reducing liquid surface tension. In this way, foam formation is prevented or existing foam is deflated.

Defoamer Types

Defoamers are divided into various types according to their chemical structure and usage areas:

  • Silicone Based Defoamers: They are resistant to oil and water. They can also be used at high temperatures
  • Vegetable Oil Based Defoamers: They are obtained from vegetable oils and do not harm the environment. They can be used in liquids with different pH values.
  • Mineral Oil Based Defoamers: It is a subcategory of oil-based defoamers and consists of mineral oils, emulsifiers and other auxiliaries. It provides effective removal of foam in oil-based systems without causing sediment and deposits.
  • Water Based Defoamers: Water-based defoamers are a type of defoamer used to prevent foam formation or deflate existing foam. They are offered as an alternative to silicone-based, oil-based defoamers and consist of water-soluble polymers, emulsifiers and other excipients.
  • Polymeric Based Defoamers: Good stability. It has fast and long lasting defoaming properties. Disperses quickly in the environment where it is used. Suitable for wide pH ranges (pH 3-12).
  • Oil Based Defoamers: They are resistant to water. They are effective at low temperatures.

Usage Areas of Defoamers

  • Food Industry: It is used to prevent foam formation in the production and processing of foods such as fruit juice, milk, beer.
  • Chemical Industry: It is used to prevent foam formation in the production and processing of chemicals such as paint, detergent, plastic.
  • Textile Industry: Used to prevent foam formation in textile dyeing and finishing processes.
  • Paper Industry: It is used to prevent foam formation in paper production stages.
  • Waste Water Treatment: It is used to eliminate the foam formed in waste water treatment plants.
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