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Measuring the pH of shampoo can be difficult when using a standard pH sensor. This is because of shampoo’s viscous nature and the presence of a diverse range of chemical ingredients. Some of the common measurement challenges include long measurement times, inaccurate results, and sensor junction clogging, which ultimately reduces sensor life.
This application note describes how using an InLab® Viscous Pro-ISM sensor from METTLER TOLEDO produces greater accuracy and ease in these pH measurements. The SteadyForce™ reference system prevents any possibility of sample contamination and provides stable readings quickly. Also, the sensor does not require periodic refilling of electrolyte and is practically maintenance-free.
Download this application note to learn about the advantages of InLab Viscous Pro-ISM that can help you accurately measure the pH of shampoo. The note also shares some good measuring practices that must be followed to ensure accuracy when measuring shampoo pH.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Measuring the pH of Shampoo
What is shampoo?
Shampoo is a common hair care product found in many households globally. It is a viscous liquid that primarily uses a cleansing agent such as a surfactant to remove dirt and oil, cleaning the hair and scalp. In addition to the traditional viscous paste form, shampoos are also available in forms such as dry powders or aerosols.
What are the basic components of a shampoo?
A typical bottle of shampoo contains surfactants or soapy substances in the form of sulfates, water as a medium to mix the shampoo ingredients, salts, conditioning agents such as silicones, and preservatives including methylparaben. Shampoos may also contain special additives such as essential oils, vitamins, herbal extracts, fragrances, and dyes.
What is the commonly observed pH of shampoo?
Generally, because shampoo comes into contact with skin, a balanced pH would be in the range of 4 to 7. However, some shampoos containing acids or quaternary ammonium salts would deviate from this normal range and move towards either extreme.
What challenges are commonly encountered when measuring shampoo pH?
Some common shampoo pH measurement challenges include long measurement times, inaccurate results, and clogging of the sensor junction, which ultimately reduces sensor life.
What are the advantages of using InLab Viscous Pro-ISM for measuring the pH of shampoo?
The InLab Viscous Pro-ISM has a SteadyForce reference system which prevents sample contamination and provides stable readings quickly. Also, the sensor does not require periodic electrolyte refilling and is essentially maintenance-free.
