TS EN ISO 862

TS EN ISO 862 is a terminology standard that brings together the definitions of key terms used in the field of surface active agents. Such standards establish a shared technical language for surfactants, detergents, emulsifiers, wetting agents, foam-related products and dispersing agents, helping users apply the same concepts consistently in formulation work, quality control, research and commercial communication.

Why surfactant terminology matters

Surface active agents are compounds whose molecular structure contains both water-affine and oil-affine portions. Because of this dual character, they can reduce surface tension, modify the behaviour of immiscible phases and assist in cleaning, emulsification or particle dispersion. A terminology standard helps reduce ambiguity in this technical field by giving precise meanings to commonly used expressions such as surfactant, wetting, emulsification and related concepts.

What this standard covers

According to the supplied scope, this standard provides definitions for terms frequently used in the field of surface active agents. It is therefore a vocabulary document rather than a test method standard. Users rely on it to interpret material descriptions, classify products and maintain consistent technical wording, while the document itself does not by the supplied scope specify product performance limits or mandatory test procedures.

• Provides shared terminology for detergency and cleaning chemistry.
• Helps distinguish functional concepts such as emulsifiers, wetting agents, dispersants and foam-control terms.
• Supports consistent language in research, manufacturing and technical documentation.
• Clarifies core concepts linked to surface tension and interfacial behaviour.