Car-care chemicals — explained
Every chemical class we track on CarCareTruth, with plain-English notes on what each one actually does, when it's a concern, and which products use it. Filter products by ingredient class on the products page.
VOC = volatile organic compoundProp 65 = listed by CaliforniaAsthmagen = triggers asthmaEPA Safer = on the EPA Safer Choice list
Solvents
What carries the active ingredients. Solvent choice determines flammability, smell, skin irritation, and how fast a product flashes off.
Alcohol solvents
- EthanolCarrier solvent, surface prep, quick-dry agent; also used in glass cleaners and surface wipes for fast-evaporating clean finishVOCSafer10×
- Isopropyl AlcoholCarrier solvent and surface degreaser; flash-evaporates to leave actives on the surfaceVOC25×
- MethanolFreeze-point depressant and primary cleaning agent in windshield washer fluids; industrial solventVOCP653×
Aliphatic solvents
- 1,1-Difluoroethane (HFC-152a)Hydrofluorocarbon aerosol propellant — a non-flammable propellant alternative to propane/butane in some pressurized aerosol formulas; sometimes blended with hydrocarbons to lower overall flammability
- Alkanes, C10–C20, Branched and LinearAliphatic-hydrocarbon co-solvent — extends the solvent range of the primary distillate fraction; technically equivalent to a refined kerosene/diesel cut.VOC1×
- ButaneAerosol propellant — used with propane to pressurize and atomize aerosol products; higher boiling point than propane provides better spray performance at lower temperatures2×
- Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated heavy paraffinicHigh-viscosity carrier oil and lubricant base; used in fuel additives, industrial lubricants, and engine treatments2×
- Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated light paraffinicCarrier solvent and lubricating oil base in polishes and rust preventivesVOC2×
- Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated middleMiddle-distillate carrier solvent and lubricating fluid in polishes, glazes, and rust preventivesVOC1×
- Distillates, Petroleum, Hydrotreated Heavy NaphthenicCarrier solvent and viscosity modifier in lubricants and penetrating oils4×
- Distillates, Petroleum, Hydrotreated Light NaphthenicCarrier solvent and viscosity modifier in lubricants and penetrating oilsVOC1×
- HeptaneVolatile carrier solvent for coatingsVOC3×
- Hydrocarbons, C10–C12, isoalkanes, <2% aromaticsPrimary carrier solvent in petroleum-based tire dressings and trim coatings; provides low-viscosity spreading and surface wetting, flashes off during cureVOC1×
- Hydrocarbons, C11-C14, n-alkanes, isoalkanes, cyclics, <2% aromaticsCarrier solvent in tire dressings and surface treatments; aids spreading and surface wettingVOC6×
- Hydrogenated FarneseneSynthetic C15 branched aliphatic hydrocarbon used as a co-solvent and lubricant carrier in penetrating oils and specialty lubricants. Derived from bio-based farnesene via hydrogenation.1×
- Isoalkanes (C11-C14 Isoparaffinic Hydrocarbon Solvent)Carrier solvent in metal polishes, tire dressings, and surface treatments; aids spreading and product wetting on metallic surfacesVOC
- IsobutaneAerosol propellant — branched four-carbon alkane gas used alongside propane and n-butane to pressurize aerosol cans3×
- KeroseneCo-solvent in heavy-duty degreasers and parts cleaners — extends the solvent range of the primary aliphatic distillate into lower-molecular-weight hydrocarbons for faster initial grease-cutting.VOC1×
- Mineral SpiritsCarrier solvent, abrasive dispersant, cleaning and degreasing agent in polishes and waxesVOCP652×
- Naphtha (Petroleum), Hydrotreated HeavyCarrier solvent and diluent in ceramic coating and other solvent-based formulationsVOC2×
- Naphthenic oil, severely hydrotreatedHeavy lubricating oil base in polishes, glazes, and metal-protective productsVOC2×
- Odorless Mineral SpiritsCarrier solvent, wax dispersant, degreasingVOC1×
- Petroleum Distillate AliphaticPrimary degreasing solvent — dissolves grease, motor oil, and ATF residue by petroleum-on-petroleum miscibility. Dominant active in classic mechanic-grade engine degreasers.VOC1×
- Petroleum Distillates, Hydrotreated LightCarrier solvent, wax dispersant, penetrating agentVOC30×
- Petroleum Gases, Liquefied (Sweetened)Aerosol propellant in glass cleaner and similar products; pressurizes the can and atomizes liquid contents1×
- Petroleum NaphthaWax/tar solvent carrierVOC7×
- Petroleum Naphtha (Light Alkylate)VOC1×
- PropaneAerosol propellant — pressurizes the can and helps atomize liquid contents into fine mist5×
- Solvent Naphtha (Petroleum), Light AliphaticLight petroleum naphtha carrier solvent; diluent in fuel additives and petroleum-based car care productsVOC1×
- Stoddard SolventLow-boiling petroleum naphtha used as a co-solvent in spray sealants and detailing products to dissolve hydrocarbon residues and aid film formation of silicone/siloxane actives.VOC3×
- Sweetened Middle DistillatePetroleum distillate fraction used as a carrier solvent and fuel additive base in fuel stabilizers and similar productsVOC1×
Aromatic solvents
- 1,2,4-TrimethylbenzeneAromatic hydrocarbon present in petroleum-distillate co-solvents; minor constituent of Stoddard solvent and light aromatic naphtha fractions used in spray sealant formulations.VOC1×
- C9–C15 Heavy Aromatic HydrocarbonsAromatic-solvent fraction — boosts grease-cutting on heavier, more polar hydrocarbon residues (baked-on cooked oils, ATF varnish) that pure aliphatic solvents struggle with.VOC1×
- EthylbenzeneAromatic solvent (trace processing byproduct in some formulations)VOCP651×
- NaphthalenePolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon present as a trace component (<1%) of heavy-aromatic petroleum naphtha solvent cuts used in engine degreasers and other heavy-duty cleaning products. Not added intentionally; persists from the raw petroleum feedstock.VOCP651×
- Para-Chlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF)Exempt solvent, carrier, viscosity reducer3×
- Solvent Naphtha (Petroleum), Heavy AromaticCarrier solvent and penetrating agent in industrial and automotive productsVOC1×
- tert-ButylbenzeneAromatic-solvent component within the heavy-aromatic-hydrocarbons fraction of petroleum-based degreasers. Contributes to penetration of polar grease residues.VOC1×
- TolueneAromatic hydrocarbon solvent for dissolving varnish, gum, and carbon deposits in carburetor and throttle-body cleaners; co-solvent in some bug-and-tar removersVOCP654×
- Trimethylbenzene Mixed IsomersAromatic co-solvent present at trace concentration (<1%) in petroleum-distillate carriers; contributes to solvent polarity and co-solubility with silicone/siloxane actives.VOC1×
- Xylene (mixed isomers)Aromatic hydrocarbon solvent used as a carrier and film-formation aid in petroleum-solvent-based coatings and dressings; provides dissolving power for silicone and polymer actives.VOC2×
Glycol ether solvents
- 1-Propoxypropan-2-olGlycol ether co-solvent — aids wetting, penetration, and grease dissolution in cleaning formulationsVOC1×
- 2-ButoxyethanolSolvent, degreaser, and surfactant aid in engine degreasers, all-purpose cleaners, and car wash concentratesVOC13×
- 2-Ethylhexane-1,3-diol (Octylene Glycol)Co-solvent and film-plasticizer; improves spread and working time during coating application. Also used as a mild antimicrobial agent in cosmetics and industrial formulations.VOC1×
- 2-MethoxypropanolCoalescing co-solvent and coupling agent in water-based cleaning formulas; improves surfactant system stabilityVOC1×
- 2-Propoxy-1-propanolGlycol ether co-solvent — aids wetting and grease penetration in cleaning formulationsVOC1×
- 2-PropoxyethanolGlycol ether co-solvent and grease-cutting aid in alkaline all-purpose cleaners and degreasersVOC2×
- ButoxypropanolGlycol ether co-solvent in fabric cleaners, all-purpose cleaners, and surface degreasers; improves soil penetration and water miscibility with lower volatility than 2-butoxyethanol
- Diethylene GlycolCo-solvent in antifreeze/coolant; improves low-temperature fluidity and inhibitor compatibility
- Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl EtherGlycol ether co-solvent and grease-cutting aid in alkaline cleaners and degreasers; higher boiling point and slower evaporation than 2-butoxyethanolVOC5×
- Dipropylene Glycol Monomethyl EtherCoupling agent; helps water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients coexist in a single aqueous formulationVOC6×
- Dipropylene Glycol n-Butyl Ether (DPnB)Glycol ether co-solvent — used in water-based cleaners and disinfectants as a coupling agent and surfactant aid; helps dissolve oily soils and improves cleaner penetration into porous substratesVOC2×
- Ethylene GlycolPrimary base fluid in automotive antifreeze/coolant; provides freeze and boil protection via freezing-point depressionP65
- Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl EtherCoupling agent and surfactant-booster in glass cleaners and all-purpose cleaners; improves film-free drying and cutting action on greasy soilsVOC1×
- PPG-2 Methyl EtherGlycol ether co-solvent; aids surfactant penetration and soil removal on hard surfacesVOC1×
- Propylene GlycolHumectant and co-solvent — used in air sanitizer formulas as a glycol active that maintains airborne micro-droplets in the cabin atmosphere; in cleaning products as a freeze-resistant co-solvent and humectantVOC1×
- Propylene Glycol Butyl EtherGlycol ether co-solvent — aids penetration, cleaning performance, and formula stability in water-based cleanersVOC1×
- Propylene Glycol n-Butyl EtherGlycol-ether solvent used to dissolve oily soils and improve surfactant penetration into greasy films; common replacement for 2-butoxyethanol in modern cleaner reformulationsVOC1×
Terpene solvents
- d-LimoneneCitrus-derived solvent for grease, adhesive, and sapVOCAsthma7×
- MyrceneNatural fragrance component; present at trace concentrations (<0.001%) as an incidental carry-over from fragrance blendsVOC3×
- TurpentineTerpene co-solvent — wax dispersant, traditional carrier in carnauba paste waxesVOC1×
Other solvents
- 1,4-DioxaneProcess contaminant / trace impurity — not an intentional ingredient; forms as a byproduct during ethoxylation of surfactants (e.g., sodium laureth sulfate, polyethylene glycols)P655×
- AcetaldehydeTrace residual from manufacturing processes; not an active ingredient in car care products. California Prop 65 listed.VOCP653×
- AcetoneFast-evaporating carrier solvent; used in aerosol fresheners and some panel prep products as an acetone-based propellant carrier4×
- AminoalkoxydimethylpolysiloxaneReactive amino-functional silicone polymer; primary film-forming active in trim and plastic coatings. Bonds covalently to hydroxyl groups on plastic, rubber, and metal surfaces via the amino-alkoxy functional groups, forming a durable protective silicone film.1×
- Carbon DioxideNon-flammable aerosol propellant; pressurizes aerosol cans for tire shines, engine degreasers, and similar products where flammability reduction is a formulation goal. In solvent-based engine degreasers, CO2 is the propellant of choice because it does not add flammable mass to an already combustible petroleum-distillate carrier.9×
- Ethylene OxideTrace residual from ethoxylated surfactants; not an active ingredient. California Prop 65 listed.VOCP651×
- Methyl AcetateFast-evaporating carrier solvent in aerosol formulations; co-solvent alongside acetone for cleaning and degreasing1×
- Orange Oil, SweetCitrus-derived fragrance and mild co-solvent/degreaser; provides characteristic citrus scent in alkaline cleanersVOCAsthma2×
- PerchloroethylenePrimary solvent in some chlorinated brake cleaners and degreasersVOCP65
- Tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234ze)Low-GWP aerosol propellant replacing traditional hydrocarbon propellants (butane, propane, isobutane)VOC1×
Surfactants
Soaps. They reduce surface tension so dirt lifts off — but the type matters: anionics strip wax/sealant, amphoterics are gentle, nonionics are workhorses.
Anionic surfactants
- Alkylbenzene Sulfonic AcidAnionic surfactant precursor (acid form of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate, LAS) — neutralized by NaOH in formula to yield the sodium salt surfactant1×
- Alpha-Olefin Sulfonate (AOS)Secondary anionic surfactant — boosts foam and cleaning power4×
- Ammonium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (ALES)Primary anionic cleaning surfactant — effective on oils, grease, and body-soil removal from leather and vinyl1×
- C14-16 Alkane Sulfonic Acid, Sodium SaltAnionic surfactant; primary cleaning and emulsification agent; alpha-sulfo fatty acid ester sodium salt1×
- Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate (LAS)Primary anionic surfactant — generates foam and lifts grease/dirt from surfaces2×
- Secondary Alkane Sodium SaltAnionic surfactant providing cleaning and emulsification in iron removers and decontamination sprays2×
- Sodium BenzenesulfonateAnionic surfactant providing soil emulsification and cleaning action in water-based cleaners1×
- Sodium C10-16 Benzenesulfonate (LAS)Primary anionic surfactant — cleaning, foam generation, and soil emulsification in car wash soaps
- Sodium C10-16 Pareth-2 SulfateAnionic surfactant; primary cleaning and foam agent in interior cleaners1×
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin SulfonateAnionic surfactant providing foaming and cleaning in iron removers, car wash, and decontamination products2×
- Sodium Caprylyl SulfonateAnionic surfactant — foaming agent and soil dispersant in alkaline cleaning formulas1×
- Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS)High-alkaline wetting and emulsification agent; effective at dislodging proteinaceous soils and insect residue at high pH1×
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)Primary foaming/cleaning surfactant5×
- Sodium Lauroyl SarcosinateMild anionic surfactant — foaming agent, emulsifier, and secondary cleaner in personal care and cleaning productsSafer1×
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)Anionic surfactant — aids wetting and rinse-off2×
- Sodium XylenesulfonateHydrotrope and solubilizing agent — keeps fragrance and other oil-soluble ingredients in stable solution in water-based formulas; improves cleaning surfactant performance at low concentrations7×
- Sulfonic Acids, C14-16-Alkane Hydroxy, Sodium SaltsAnionic surfactant providing cleaning and wetting in alkaline cleaner formulations; hydroxy-sulfonate structure gives compatibility with high-pH builders like sodium metasilicate
- Triethanolamine DodecylbenzenesulfonateAnionic surfactant — cleaning agent and emulsifier; the TEA salt of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate with mildly alkaline pH character
Nonionic surfactants
- 4-Nonylphenol, Branched, EthoxylatedNonionic surfactant and emulsifier in cleaning formulations1×
- Alcohols, C11-14-iso, C13-rich, ethoxylatedNonionic surfactant for cleaning and surface wetting; soil emulsification in interior products2×
- Alcohols, C12-14-secondary, ethoxylatedNonionic surfactant for cleaning and emulsification; soil-lifting in interior cleaners3×
- Alcohols, C12-15, ethoxylatedNonionic surfactant and wetting agent in water-based spray sealants, coatings, and SiO₂ booster formulations1×
- Alcohols, C9-C11 EthoxylatedNonionic wetting and emulsifying surfactant; broad surface compatibility, low-foaming8×
- Alcohols, secondary C11-15, ethoxylatedNonionic cleaning surfactant; emulsifies oils and lifts ground-in soil from leather and interior surfaces3×
- Alkyl Polyglucoside (APG)Biodegradable nonionic surfactant (cleaning)Safer2×
- AMIDS (Amide Surfactant)Surfactant / wetting agent at trace concentrations in polish formulations1×
- C10-16 Alkyl GlucosidesPlant-derived nonionic surfactant; primary cleaning surfactant in mild leather and interior cleanersSafer
- C12-15 Alcohols EthoxylatedNonionic surfactant — emulsifier and wetting agent in alkaline cleaning formulas1×
- C12-16 Alcohol EthoxylatesNonionic surfactant and emulsifier in water-based cleaning and coating formulations2×
- C9-11 Alcohols EthoxylatedNonionic surfactant for emulsification and soil removal in cleaning productsSafer3×
- Decyl GlucosideMild plant-derived nonionic surfactant; foaming and cleaning agent in low-irritation formulationsSafer
- Dinonylphenol EthoxylateNonionic surfactant / emulsifier2×
- Iso-Tridecanol Ethoxylate (Alcohols C11-14-iso-, C13-rich, ethoxylated)Nonionic surfactant — emulsifier and wetting agent that helps the formula spread evenly across paint surfaces1×
- Isotridecyl Alcohol EthoxylateNonionic surfactant; emulsifier for leather conditioner actives1×
- Laureth-10Nonionic surfactant; wetting and solubilizing agent for oil, grease, and soil1×
- N,N-Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)oleamideEmulsifier, slip agent, foam booster
- Nonylphenol Polyethylene Glycol EtherNonionic surfactant / emulsifier in silicone-water emulsions3×
- Octylphenol EthoxylateNonionic alkylphenol ethoxylate surfactant; emulsification and cleaning in legacy formulations
- Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), α-(2-propylheptyl)-ω-hydroxy-Nonionic surfactant / wetting agent2×
- Poly(oxyethylene) Sorbitol HexaoleateNonionic emulsifier — bridges petroleum-solvent actives with water during the water-rinse step, allowing solvent-based degreasers to be rinsed off rather than left as oily residue.1×
- Polyoxyethylene Dinonylphenyl PhosphateCorrosion inhibitor, wetting agent1×
- Surfactants (Trade Secret Mixture)Cleaning surfactant mixture — trade secret formula; identity withheld by manufacturer1×
- Tridecyl Alcohol EthoxylateNonionic surfactant and emulsifier in iron removers, degreasers, and cleaning formulations1×
- Undecan-1-ol EthoxylatedEmulsifier, wetting agent, surfactant — aids dispersion of abrasive particles and improves wettability on glass surfacesP651×
Amphoteric surfactants
- Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)Secondary surfactant / foam boosterSafer3×
- Cocamidopropyl HydroxysultaineAmphoteric co-surfactant and foam stabilizer; improves foam quality and mildness vs. primary anionic surfactants
- Cocamine OxideAmphoteric surfactant — foam booster and wetting agent; behaves as anionic in alkaline formulas, cationic in acidic formulas1×
- Decylamine Oxide (Decyl Dimethyl Amine Oxide)Amine oxide surfactant — foam booster and co-surfactant with mild cleaning action2×
- Lauramine OxideAmphoteric surfactant — foam booster, viscosity modifier, and co-surfactant in cleaning productsSafer1×
Acids, bases & redox
How aggressive the chemistry is. The most dangerous ingredients in car care live here.
Acids
- Citric AcidpH-adjusting agent and mild chelating agent in cleaning products; lowers pH and helps sequester mineral ionsSafer1×
- Phosphoric AcidRust converter, pH adjuster, and surface prep agent in wheel cleaners and rust converters1×
- Sulphuric AcidCatalyst or pH modifier in some glass treatment and rust-removal formulas at low concentrations (1–2%)1×
- Urea MonohydrochlorideControlled-release HCl acid source for mineral deposit removal; used in patented water spot remover formulas1×
Bases
- AmmoniapH adjuster and alkaline cleaning agent — raises pH for grease-cutting and soil emulsification in cleaning productsAsthma1×
- Ammonium HydroxideAlkaline cleaning agent and pH adjuster — surfactant booster in glass cleaners; commonly called 'ammonia'1×
- Diethanolamine (DEA)pH buffer, emulsifier, and foam stabilizer in wax and polish formulations; trace pH co-buffer in alkaline cleaners and engine degreasersP652×
- Disodium MetasilicateAlkaline builder used in cleaners; raises solution pH to improve soil removal; provides metasilicate-based cleaning action1×
- Monoethanolamine (MEA)Alkanolamine pH builder and emulsifier in cleaners and degreasers; provides mild alkalinity and improves surfactant performanceVOC1×
- Pentasodium TriphosphateBuilder / sequestrant — chelates hard water minerals (calcium, magnesium) to enhance surfactant effectiveness; provides mild alkaline buffering (pH 9–10 at 1% concentration)4×
- Potassium HydroxideStrong alkaline builder — raises pH for saponification of grease and oils in cleaning formulations2×
- Potassium SilicateAlkaline builder and corrosion inhibitor in heavy-duty cleaners and degreasers; provides buffering capacity and helps protect metal surfaces1×
- Sodium BicarbonatepH buffer and mild abrasive in cleaning and personal care productsSafer1×
- Sodium CarbonateMild alkaline builder used in cleaners and detergents; raises pH and assists surfactants in lifting organic residue from surfaces1×
- Sodium HydroxidepH adjuster, degreaser, and saponifier in strong degreasers and engine cleaners7×
- Sodium MetasilicateAlkaline builder and pH booster in degreasers and all-purpose cleaners; provides corrosion inhibition for some metal substrates9×
- Sodium SilicateAlkaline builder and detergency enhancer in cleaning products; acts as a corrosion inhibitor on metal surfaces2×
- TriethanolaminepH buffer and emulsifier in cleaning and conditioning formulations; mildly alkaline4×
Reducers
- Ammonium ThioglycolateIron decontamination (brake dust indicator)5×
- Monoethanolamine ThioglycolateIron decontamination active — reacts with ferrous iron oxide (brake dust, rail dust) to form a soluble iron-thioglycolate complex, producing the characteristic purple color-change reaction2×
- Sodium ThioglycolateIron decontamination (brake dust indicator)4×
Coatings, polymers, waxes
What stays on the paint after the carrier evaporates — the actual protection layer.
Silicones
- Aminoalkyl-methoxysilyl-terminated dimethyl siloxaneFunctionalized polydimethylsiloxane with aminoalkyl-methoxysilyl end groups; the bonding active in SiO₂ wet-on-wet spray toppers and several aminoalkyl-silane coating chemistries1×
- Aminoethylaminopropyl Methyl SiloxaneReactive amino-functional siloxane polymer — the hydrophobic film-forming active in spray sealants and SiO₂ boosters. The aminoethylamino side chains bond covalently to hydroxyl groups on paint and glass surfaces, anchoring the silicone backbone in place to produce a durable water-repellent film.1×
- Aminofunctional Fluid (Amino-functional Polydimethylsiloxane)Aminofunctional silicone copolymer used as a paint-bonding film former and hydrophobic finish-enhancer in ceramic sealant sprays. The amine groups anchor the silicone polymer to clearcoat hydroxyl/carbonyl sites; the polysiloxane backbone delivers the water-shedding finish.
- Aminosilicone (3-[(2-Aminoethyl)amino]propyl methyl, dimethyl, methoxy-terminated)Functional silicone active; the amine groups promote adhesion to fabric fibers while the siloxane backbone forms a hydrophobic film that causes liquids to bead and roll off treated fabric surfaces1×
- Aminosiloxane (Aminoethylaminoisobutyl Methyl Siloxane)Film-forming ceramic active; bonds to paint and glass surfaces via hydrolysis of methoxy/hydroxy terminal groups to create hydrophobic, scratch-resistant protection1×
- Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5)Volatile carrier solvent; delivers active glaze/silicone ingredients to the surface, then evaporatesVOC6×
- Dimethicone (PDMS)Surface conditioning, UV protection, hydrophobic layer4×
- Dimethyl Siloxane (PDMS)Silicone polymer; provides lubrication, gloss, and water-repellency19×
- HexamethyldisiloxaneVOC2×
- Hydroxypropylheptamethyltrisiloxane, ethoxylated, hydroxy-terminatedSilicone-based surfactant (trisiloxane) — wetting agent and surface modifier that lowers surface tension and enhances spreading of aqueous formulas on hydrophobic surfaces
- Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4)Volatile cyclic methylsiloxane carrier — delivers polymer/wax actives to the surface and evaporatesVOC2×
- Polyalkylsiloxane with Functionalized SilicaSilica-based protective polymer that delivers water-beading and durable paint protection in one-step polish products1×
- Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)Linear silicone polymer — forms a protective, non-greasy film on plastics, vinyl, and rubber. Provides UV screening and surface conditioning without the greasy residue of silicone oils.11×
- Silanol Terminated PolydimethylsiloxaneReactive linear silicone polymer — surface modifier that deposits a smooth, slick film on paint and glass; contributes to lubricity and water beading
- TrimethylsiloxysilicateSilicone resin film-former; provides adhesion and durability in spray coatings, glazes, and sealants1×
Waxes
- BeeswaxWax matrix / binder — consistency, workability, shine
- Carnauba WaxNatural protection wax — gloss, depth, water repellency9×
- Carnauba WaxNatural plant wax; provides gloss, hardness, and surface protection4×
- LanolinLeather moisturizer and conditioner
- Microcrystalline WaxSynthetic wax for durability and flexibility
Polymers
- Acrylic PolymerFilm former and surface protectant in interior protectants and coatings1×
- Hydrocarbons, C4, 1,3-butadiene-free, polymerized, triisobutylene fraction, hydrogenatedPrimary film-forming agent and bonding substrate in petroleum-based tire coatings; provides the durable, flexible polymer film that adheres to rubber sidewallsVOC1×
- Oxidized Polyethylene WaxWax film hardener, slip modifier, buffer release aid
- PolybuteneClay bar matrix (contaminant capture medium)
- Polyether Amine (PEA / Polyetheramine)Primary active detergent in fuel system cleaners. Polyetheramines dissolve and remove carbonaceous deposits from fuel injectors, intake valves, and combustion chambers. PEA is the most independently studied class of fuel detergent chemistry, with multiple SAE technical papers confirming deposit-removal efficacy.1×
- Polyethylene GlycolHumectant / viscosity modifier / emulsion stabilizer5×
- PolyisobuteneFilm-forming conditioning agent and protective barrier in leather care products1×
- Sodium PolyacrylateThickener, formula stabilizer, and rheology modifier in liquid detergent and car care formulas1×
Ceramic (SiO₂)
- DimethoxydimethylsilaneVOC1×
- Ethyl silicate (TEOS)Alkoxysilane crosslinker — hydrolyzes in the presence of atmospheric moisture to deposit a silica (SiO2) network on the paint surfaceVOC1×
- Polysilazane (Perhydropolysilazane)Ceramic glass-coating active. Reacts with atmospheric moisture and surface silanol groups on glass to crosslink into a Si-O-Si (silica-like) ceramic network — produces a transparent hard hydrophobic film with claimed 9H pencil hardness2×
- Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂)Ceramic coating active — forms hard hydrophobic layer2×
- Titanium Tetraisopropanolate1×
Graphene
Fluoropolymers
- Heptadecafluorodecyl TrimethoxysilaneFluoroalkylsilane glass-coating active. Hydrolyzes on application to release methanol and bond to silica-rich substrates (glass, ceramic). Forms a fluorine-rich hydrophobic and oleophobic film with high contact angles for water and most polar liquids.1×
- Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)Solid lubricant additive that leaves a low-friction, dust-shedding film on treated surfaces1×
Functional additives
Smaller-percentage ingredients that adjust performance, smell, color, or shelf life.
Abrasives
- Aluminum Oxide (Alumina)Micro-abrasive cutting agent in compounds and polishes10×
- Amorphous SilicaMicro-abrasive polishing agent in rubbing compounds and light-cut polishes1×
- China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin)Mild abrasive filler and polishing agent; provides body to paste/cream formulations1×
- Kaolinite (Kaolin Clay)Clay abrasive and thickener in rubbing compounds and polishing products1×
- Natural Diatomaceous EarthSilica-based secondary abrasive and polishing aid in polish formulations1×
Fragrances
- BenzaldehydeFragrance ingredient (almond/cherry note)VOC
- CitralLemon-scented natural fragrance compound used at trace concentrations (<0.2%) to mask petroleum-solvent odors in detailing chemistry.VOC2×
- DecanalFragrance ingredient; citrus/orange-peel top-note in cleaning product fragrancesVOC1×
- Ethyl AcetoacetateFragrance component — sweet, fruity scent noteVOC
- Ethyl MethylphenylglycidateFragrance — strawberry/fruity scent note1×
- FragranceScent additive at trace concentrations in consumer product formulations4×
- n-Butyl AcetateFragrance component — fruity, banana-like scent note; also a mild solvent at higher concentrationsVOC2×
- VanillinFragrance — vanilla scent note
Preservatives
- Benzisothiazolinone (BIT)Broad-spectrum biocide preservative for water-based formulations; replaces older formaldehyde donors and isothiazolinones2×
- CMIT/MIT (Methylchloroisothiazolinone/Methylisothiazolinone 3:1)Broad-spectrum biocide preservative for water-based formulations; effective at very low concentrations (typically <0.0015%)4×
Humectants
Corrosion inhibitors
- MorpholineSolvent and corrosion inhibitor in aerosol cleaning formulations — acts as a co-solvent and pH buffer that helps surfactants penetrate soiled fibersVOC1×
- Sodium BenzoateCorrosion inhibitor and antimicrobial agent in coolant formulations; protects aluminum and ferrous metals
- Sodium Tetraborate (Borax)Corrosion inhibitor in HOAT coolant formulations; protects ferrous metals and solder alloys
Chelators
- Disodium 4,5-dihydroxybenzene-1,3-disulphonateCatechol-based iron chelating agent and color-change indicator in iron removers; chelates ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) to form a colored complex; also known as Tiron1×
- Tetrapotassium PyrophosphateWater-softening chelator and alkaline builder in heavy-duty cleaners; sequesters calcium and magnesium ions to boost surfactant performance in hard water1×
- Tetrasodium EDTAChelating agent that binds calcium, magnesium, and other metal ions to prevent water spotting and improve cleaner performance in hard water6×
- Tetrasodium Glutamate DiacetateChelating agent and builder that improves cleaning performance by binding calcium and magnesium ionsSafer2×
Biocides
- 2,4-XylenolPhenolic preservative / antimicrobial agent; used at trace concentrations in personal care and leather care formulas1×
- Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride (ADBAC / Benzalkonium Chloride)Quaternary ammonium antimicrobial active — EPA-registered disinfectant ingredient that kills bacteria by disrupting microbial cell membranes; used in cleaners, disinfectants, and odor eliminators to reduce bacterial counts and the biological odors they produceAsthma1×
Other
Everything we haven't classified yet.
Other
- Alkyl PolysilicatesCrosslinking curing agent in ceramic coatings and ceramic trim restorers; source of H314 skin corrosion and H318 serious eye damage hazards1×
- Ammonium BifluorideActive fluoride agent in wheel cleaners and rust removers; dissolves iron brake dust and aluminum oxide via fluoride chemistryP651×
- Ammonium ChlorideMild buffering agent and surfactant booster in cleaners; pH adjustment1×
- Boiled Linseed OilPrimary film-forming and restoring agent in trim restorers; penetrates and cross-links in porous plastic and rubber1×
- C.I. Solvent Black 29Black dye colorant in penetrating trim restorers; provides dark color to UV-faded plastic and rubber surfaces1×
- Corrosion Inhibitors (Trade Secret Mixture)Corrosion inhibitor mixture — trade secret formula; identity withheld by manufacturer2×
- Diluent (Trade Secret)Primary diluent / base carrier — trade secret formula; identity and composition withheld by manufacturer1×
- DMDM HydantoinFormaldehyde-releasing preservative; antimicrobial at trace concentrations13×
- MDM HydantoinFormaldehyde-releasing preservative co-agent; antimicrobial at trace concentrations4×
- Polyurea PolysilazaneCeramic binder in trim coatings and ceramic restorers; crosslinks to form a durable, UV-resistant film on plastic and rubber surfaces1×
- Silicic Acid, Lithium Magnesium Sodium Salt (Laponite)SiO2 ceramic / silicate component — synthetic nanoclay that imparts hydrophobicity and gloss enhancement in ceramic wash soaps and coatings1×
- Zinc Dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP)Primary anti-wear additive in motor oils; forms a protective tribofilm on metal surfaces
- Zirconium tetrabutanolateCrosslinking agent and adhesion promoter in tire coatings and surface treatments; reacts with surface hydroxyl groups to form durable zirconate bonds1×