How do surfactants work?

When surfactant molecules are added to a solution in sufficient quantities, they start to cluster together, forming structures known as micelles. The structure of micelles is such that the hydrophilic heads of the surfactant molecules face outward towards the water, while the hydrophobic tails come together in the center, shielded from the water.

These micelles can take various shapes, such as spherical or cylindrical, depending on the chemical structure of the surfactants, particularly the balance between the hydrophilic head and the hydrophobic tail.

Surfactants function by disrupting the interface between oils, water, and dirt, effectively breaking them down. This action helps to keep oils and dirt suspended in the water, making them easier to remove.

Surfactants are found in many everyday products, including detergents, foaming agents, dispersants, wetting agents, and emulsifiers. They are an especially useful addition to cleaning products, helping to remove dirt from clothes, skin, and household items, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Surfactants are also widely used in various industrial applications.