About Aerosols
How Aerosols Work
An Everyday Essential in South Africa
Aerosol cans are a part of everyday life in South Africa, from household cleaners to personal care products like deodorant and hairspray. But have you ever wondered how aerosols work?
Inside an aerosol can, the product (whether it’s a Mist, Jet, Foam, Gel or cream) is dissolved or suspended in a liquid solvent. A key part of the system is a liquified gas, which serves as the propellant.
Aerosol Types: Mist, Jet, Foam, Gel and Cream
Aerosol technology is not just about convenience – it ensures that products are delivered evenly and effectively, whether you’re using it in your home, at work, or on the go.The way an aerosol product is released which propellant is used, and which valve and actuator is used.
For Fine Mists:
A larger amount of propellant is added to break the product into tiny particles, creating a smooth spray. Products like air fresheners and hair sprays use this system.
Jet-Like wet sprays:
Suited for insecticides, self-defence sprays and any other application where the target is some distance away.
For Foams:
Products like shaving creams and hair mousses have less propellant. When released, the liquified gas forms bubbles, allowing the product to expand into foam.
For Gels:
For gels, like hair styling products, minimal propellant creates a thick, controlled substance that’s easy to apply precisely where needed. Gel Dispensing: Used in items such as shaving gels. Uniform delivery until the product is completely empty.
Aerosol Types: Mist, Jet, Foam, Gel and Cream
Aerosol technology is not just about convenience – it ensures that products are delivered evenly and effectively, whether you’re using it in your home, at work, or on the go.The way an aerosol product is released which propellant is used, and which valve and actuator is used.
For Fine Mists:
A larger amount of propellant is added to break the product into tiny particles, creating a smooth spray. Products like air fresheners and hair sprays use this system.
Jet-Like wet sprays:
Suited for insecticides, self-defence sprays and any other application where the target is some distance away.
For Foams:
Products like shaving creams and hair mousses have less propellant. When released, the liquified gas forms bubbles, allowing the product to expand into foam.
For Gels:
For gels, like hair styling products, minimal propellant creates a thick, controlled substance that’s easy to apply precisely where needed. Gel Dispensing: Used in items such as shaving gels. Uniform delivery until the product is completely empty.
The Science Behind It
In a typical aerosol can, part of the propellant remains as gas under pressure at the top of the can. This gas creates pressure on the liquid mixture of product and propellant, forcing it upwards through a tube (called a dip tube) when the valve is opened by pressing the button (called an actuator). As the product exits the can, the liquid propellant evaporates, turning into gas and allowing the product to disperse evenly.
This process helps maintain consistent performance and pressure, ensuring the aerosol sprays efficiently from start to finish.
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