Alcohol Spray Fogging in Air Conditioning
Question
I made an alcohol spray using Alcohol 95% at 80%, DI Water at 20%, and Propylene Glycol at 0.5%. When I place the spray bottle in an air-conditioned room, the bottle surface develops water droplets (fogging). What is causing this issue?
Answer
Subject: Alcohol Spray Fogging in Air Conditioning
Hello,
Regarding the issue of your alcohol spray forming water droplets (fogging) when placed in an air-conditioned room, this is likely due to condensation. When the cold surface of the spray bottle comes into contact with warmer, humid air, moisture from the air condenses on the surface.
Your formulation includes Propylene Glycol at 0.5%. Propylene Glycol is a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture. While the concentration is low, it might contribute to the condensation issue, especially in an environment with fluctuating temperatures and humidity like an air-conditioned room.
To potentially solve this problem, you could try adjusting your formulation:
- Reduce or Remove Propylene Glycol: Try making a small batch without Propylene Glycol or with a lower concentration (e.g., 0.1-0.2%). Removing it might reduce the condensation, but be aware that Propylene Glycol is often added to reduce the drying effect of alcohol on the skin. Without it, the spray might feel more drying.
- Ensure Airtight Container: Make sure the spray bottle is well-sealed to prevent moisture from entering the container itself, although the fogging you describe sounds like external condensation.
Testing the formulation without Propylene Glycol is the most direct way to see if it resolves the fogging issue.
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