wetting agent

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Noun wetting agent has 1 sense

wetting agent, wetter, surfactant, surface-active agent - a substance capable of reducing the surface tension of a liquid in which it is dissolved
--₁ is a kind of chemical agent
--₁ has particulars: emulsifier; detergent

Wetting Agent

Definition:

A wetting agent, also known as a surfactant, is a substance that reduces the surface tension of a liquid, allowing it to spread more easily on a solid surface or penetrate small cavities.

Senses and Usages:

1. Chemistry:

In the field of chemistry, a wetting agent is commonly used to improve the wettability and spreadability of liquids on various surfaces. It helps to enhance the contact area between the liquid and the surface, improving the efficiency of cleaning agents and reducing the occurrence of beading.

Example Sentence: The wetting agent in this detergent ensures effective cleaning even on greasy surfaces.

2. Agriculture:

In agriculture, wetting agents are often used in irrigation systems to improve water distribution and penetration in soils with low water-absorbing capacity. They help to reduce water runoff and increase the effectiveness of irrigation, ensuring better moisture retention in the soil.

Example Sentence: The farmer applied a wetting agent to the soil to improve water infiltration and prevent dry patches.

3. Printing:

Wetting agents are also utilized in printing processes, specifically in offset printing. They are mixed with ink to enhance its ability to adhere evenly to the printing plate and transfer smoothly onto the paper, resulting in high-quality prints with improved color vibrancy.

Example Sentence: The addition of a wetting agent to the printing ink prevented smudging and produced sharp, vibrant images.

4. Textiles:

In the textile industry, wetting agents are employed during various stages of fabric processing, such as dyeing and finishing. They promote better dye penetration, increase absorbency, and aid in achieving uniform color distribution and desired textile properties.

Example Sentence: The wetting agent allowed the dye to evenly spread through the fabric, resulting in a vibrant and consistent color.

Definitions from WordNet