A waterless car wash or dry wash is a technique used to wash a vehicle without the use of water. A solution is used that contains a mix of ingredients, including wetting agents, lubricants, surfactants and protectants. The surfactants enable the wetting agents to surround dirt particles, leading to emulsification (the dirt is dispersed into the liquid). In some products, a protectant, such as carnauba wax or a form of silicone polymer is left on the surface, which provides glaze. The product may also contain a polishing ingredient, such as kaolin clay, a super fine abrasive that buffs out small surface scratches.
After the product is sprayed on, it is wiped off with a clean, dry towel. After the wipe-down, some polishing agent and some glazing or waxing agent may remain on the surface. A second towel is used to polish the car by buffing the agents that remain behind.
|
