Components:
- Deck non-slip cleaners commonly contain surfactants such as non-ionic and anionic ones. Non-ionic surfactants like alkylphenol ethoxylates can reduce the surface tension of the liquid, enabling better penetration and wetting of the dirt on the deck surface. Anionic surfactants, for example, sodium lauryl sulfate, assist in emulsifying grease and oil, making them easier to be washed away. These surfactants work together to allow the cleaner to effectively contact and break down various types of dirt, including dust, food residues, and secretions of marine organisms.
- They also include organic solvents, such as turpentine or citrus-based solvents. Turpentine is very effective in dissolving stubborn grease, bitumen, and old paint. Citrus-based solvents, which are extracted from citrus fruit peels, are a more environmentally friendly option. They can decompose and remove some organic stains while having a relatively pleasant smell. In addition, a small amount of water-miscible solvents like propylene glycol may be added to help dissolve some water-soluble dirt and adjust the volatility of the cleaner.
- Some deck non-slip cleaners contain mild abrasive particles. These are usually fine-grained silica or plastic micro-beads. Their role is to gently abrade the deck surface during the cleaning process, helping to remove stubborn stains without overly damaging the non-slip texture of the deck. This design can enhance the cleaning effect, especially for areas with long-term accumulated dirt.
- To prevent corrosion of deck materials such as wood or metal, corrosion inhibitors are added to the cleaner. For example, benzotriazole is often used to prevent metal parts from rusting. For wooden decks, preservatives such as copper-azole compounds are added, which can extend the service life of the deck and resist the erosion of microorganisms and environmental factors.
Efficacy:
- This type of cleaner can effectively remove various kinds of dirt on the deck. It can get rid of dry dirt like dust and mud, and also decompose and clean grease, oil, and algae. For decks used in a marine environment, the growth of algae is a common problem. The non-slip cleaner can penetrate deep into the roots of the algae and remove them from the deck surface, preventing the deck from becoming slippery. For example, on a wooden deck of a ship, after being covered by algae and oil brought by seawater for a period of time, using this cleaner can restore the cleanliness of the deck.
- It can maintain or even enhance the non-slip properties of the deck while cleaning. During the cleaning process, by removing dirt and algae, the non-slip texture of the deck is exposed again. For decks with a non-slip coating, the cleaner will not damage the coating but instead help maintain its integrity and effectiveness. This ensures the safety of people walking or working on the deck in wet or oily conditions. For example, on a metal deck at a dock, after cleaning, its non-slip performance is improved, reducing the occurrence of slipping accidents.
- It can prevent the formation of stains and odors. By promptly removing dirt and organic matter, it avoids staining and unpleasant smells caused by their long-term presence on the deck. Especially for decks near food processing areas or on ships’ kitchens, this cleaner can effectively eliminate the odors produced by food residues and keep the deck clean and hygienic.
Advantages:
- An important advantage is its safety for deck materials. Whether it is a wooden deck, a metal deck, or a composite material deck, this cleaner is formulated to not cause damage. Unlike some strongly corrosive cleaners, it will not cause wood to rot, metal to rust, or composite materials to decompose. This allows it to be used for a long time without shortening the service life of the deck.
- There are many environmentally friendly options available. These products use biodegradable components such as plant extracts and natural solvents. They will not cause pollution to the surrounding water environment after cleaning, meeting environmental requirements. For example, using this environmentally friendly cleaner at a dock near a marine ecological reserve can reduce the harm to marine life.
- It is usually easy to apply. It can be applied through spray bottles or brushes. The spray-type cleaner can evenly cover the deck surface, while the brush can be used for intensive cleaning of areas with severe dirt. After cleaning, it dries quickly, reducing the waiting time and enabling the deck to be put into use as soon as possible. In some busy ports or ship operation sites, this quick-drying characteristic is very important and can improve work efficiency.
