How to Choose a Cleaner: Material → Contamination → Chemistry
Choose a cleaner by matching substrate tolerance and contaminant type — this decides neutral, alkaline, high-alkaline or solvent chemistry.
1Step 1: Substrate tolerance
Material tolerance to pH differs greatly: PC carriers cannot take hot alkaline (haze above pH 10), PEI tolerates higher alkaline, PFA/PTFE withstand nearly any chemistry (pH 12.8-13.2 hot alkali). Aluminum pads corrode above pH 9, copper accelerates oxidation above pH 10.
2Step 2: Identify the contaminant
Particles need low surface tension and wetting; organics (adhesives/oils/resist) need hydrolysis, saponification or solvent penetration; ionic metals need chelation; mixed soils need multi-component synergy.
3Step 3: Match your process window
Spray lines require low-foam grades; ultrasonic/immersion allows more latitude. Confirm equipment and cycle time, then lock the concentration and dilution ratio.