Why would a washing powder of high pH or low pH be difficult to handle?

Since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "'washing powder' pH" to get these possible sources:

http://www.ul.ie/~childsp/CinA/Issue45/what_in_deterg.htm
http://www.greenplumbers.com.au/information/wet/suitable-greywater-washing-agents/
http://www.amazon.com/Dr-Eslee-Enzyme-Washing-Powder/dp/B000JKGA8W
http://biotechlearn.org.nz/what_is_biotech/bioprocessing/information_sheets/enzymes_in_washing_powders
http://www.laboratorytalk.com/news/mea/mea354.html

In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search.

I hope this helps a little more. Thanks for asking.

A washing powder with high pH (alkaline) or low pH (acidic) can be difficult to handle for a few reasons:

1. Skin Irritation: High pH washing powders can be harsh on the skin, causing irritation, dryness, and even burns. Low pH washing powders can also cause skin irritation, although in a different way.

2. Corrosive: Both high and low pH washing powders can be corrosive to certain materials. High pH powders can corrode metals, including washing machine parts or pipes, leading to damage and potential leaks. Low pH powders can have a similar effect, particularly on sensitive materials.

3. Environmental Impact: High pH washing powders can be harmful to the environment, especially if they end up in water bodies, as they can disrupt the pH balance and harm aquatic organisms. Low pH powders can also have negative environmental effects depending on the specific ingredients they contain.

4. Staining: High pH powders can sometimes leave white residues or stains on clothes, especially if they are not properly diluted. Low pH powders can cause similar staining issues, particularly on delicate fabrics.

5. Handling Precautions: Both high and low pH powders may require special handling precautions to avoid personal injury or damage. This can include wearing protective gloves or eyewear while using them and keeping them out of reach of children.

In summary, washing powders with high or low pH levels can be difficult to handle due to the potential for skin irritation, corrosiveness, environmental impact, staining issues, and the need for additional safety precautions. It's important to read the instructions and warnings provided by the manufacturer to ensure safe and proper usage.

A washing powder with a high or low pH can be difficult to handle due to its caustic or corrosive properties. Let's break it down:

A high pH washing powder is alkaline or basic in nature. It can have a pH level above 7, possibly ranging from 8 to 14. Such a high pH can be corrosive, meaning it has the potential to cause damage or wear down certain materials. If you come into contact with it, it can irritate your skin, eyes, and respiratory system. In extreme cases, it may even cause chemical burns. Therefore, it is important to use gloves and handle it with caution.

On the other hand, a low pH washing powder is acidic in nature. It can have a pH level below 7, possibly ranging from 1 to 6. Just like with high pH powders, a low pH washing powder can also be corrosive. It can cause similar effects such as skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory distress. Additionally, it may also corrode or damage certain surfaces, fabrics, or metals. Therefore, it is important to handle it carefully and avoid contact with skin or eyes.

In general, washing powders are formulated to have a relatively neutral pH, close to 7, to provide effective cleaning without causing harm to the user or the items being washed. Always read the product labels and follow the recommended safety precautions when handling any washing powder.

Would it irritate the skin? would residue in the clothes be a problem for the wearer?