Problems of Acid / Alkali Neutralization Theory in Cleaning

Abstract

  The “acid-base neutralization theory in cleaning” is the theory that (1) stains can be classified into acidic stains and alkaline stains, and (2) acidic stains and alkaline stains can be neutralized and removed with alkali and acid, respectively. The theory is widespread among Japanese consumers, but it contains scientific errors. Therefore, in this study, we collected and analyzed related information from the Internet and investigated the process by which false information was created and spread. As a result, it was confirmed that there was a problem in the method of classifying acid stains and alkaline stains, and that excessive acidification and alkalization were expressed as neutralization. The reason for the dissemination of this information is that various definitions of neutralization originally existed and that it is difficult to strictly understand the terms related to acids and bases. It is also involved that acid and oxidation as Japanese terms are easily confused. The expression “neutralization of acid and alkali” may have been accepted by many because it is simple and easy to understand.