Industrial Chemistry Glossary: 30 Terms for Technologists and Engineers

Introduction: Why This Glossary Matters

Industrial chemistry operates with specialized terminology that often creates a communication barrier between supplier and client, or between technologist and buyer. It sounds simple, but understanding the terms is 50% of the success in selecting the right solution for your production.

This glossary contains 30 key terms explained in plain language — for process engineers, procurement specialists, and industrial managers. Working as a technologist at SVK, I daily explain to clients the difference between EP additives and corrosion inhibitors, or between TDS and SDS. This glossary is a compilation of the most frequent questions I receive during technical consultations.

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Metalworking and Lubricant Terms

MWF (Metalworking Fluid)

A fluid used to reduce friction, lower temperature, and evacuate chips during machining operations. It can be mineral (petroleum-based), semi-synthetic (mineral + synthetic), or synthetic. The choice depends on the type of operation and material (steel, aluminum, stainless steel).

*See article: "How to Choose MWF for a CNC Machine"*

Demulsifier

A chemical substance that separates stable water-oil emulsions into distinct phases. It is critical for the oil and gas industry when preparing crude oil for transportation. In MWFs, demulsifying additives prevent the fluid from separating when standing in tanks.

Corrosion Inhibitor

A substance that slows down or stops metal corrosion. It works on the principle of adsorption — creating a thin protective film on the metal surface and preventing contact with oxidants. In MWFs and buffer solutions, it makes up 3–7% of the formula.

*See article: "Corrosion Inhibitors for Oil and Gas Pipelines"*

pH Buffer (Buffer System)

A system of chemical components that maintains a stable pH level when acid or alkali is added. In MWFs, buffers ensure pH stability of 8.8–9.2 for 6+ months. Traditionally, these are boric acids; modern alternatives include organic carboxylates and aminosuccinate complexes.

*See article: "Boron-Free MWFs: Why the EU is Transitioning"*

EP Additive (Extreme Pressure Additive)

An additive that provides extreme pressure performance when cutting tough materials. It contains chlorine, sulfur, or phosphorus. Under the influence of high temperature in the cutting zone, it activates an adhesive film that prevents metal tearing. It is critical for deep drilling and threading.

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Surfactants and Emulsion Systems

Surfactant (Surface-Active Agent)

A molecule with a hydrophilic head (water-loving) and a hydrophobic tail (oil-loving). It reduces surface tension, allows water and oil to mix, and creates foam. It is the foundation of all detergents, emulsifiers, and dispersants. They are classified into anionic (negatively charged), cationic (positively charged), and nonionic (uncharged).

*See article: "Eco-Friendly Detergents: Labeling and Certifications"*

Emulsion

A stable mixture of two immiscible liquids (water + oil) created by a surfactant. It appears homogeneous but actually contains microscopic droplets of one liquid dispersed in another. MWF is an emulsion of mineral oil in water.

Dispersant

A substance that distributes solid material (pigment, filler) evenly in a liquid, preventing settling and agglomeration. These are critical components in the paint and coatings industry, and they distribute active substances in dietary supplements.

Working Solution Concentration (Dilution Ratio)

The percentage of concentrate in the finished working solution. Example: an MWF with an 8% concentration means 1 part concentrate to 12 parts water. Incorrect concentration is the cause of most quality problems.

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Testing and Measurement

TDS (Technical Data Sheet)

A technical product passport containing characteristics (viscosity, pH, flash point), application methods, recommendations, and limitations. It is a mandatory document from the supplier prior to procurement.

SDS (Safety Data Sheet)

A safety document with 16 sections: composition, classification, physicochemical properties, potential hazards, first aid measures, storage, and disposal conditions. It is mandatory for all B2B deliveries in the EU and increasingly in Ukraine.

Refractometer

A device for measuring solution concentration based on the refractive index of light. For MWFs and industrial fluids, it is a fast way to control concentration on-site without sending samples to a laboratory.

Viscosity

A fluid's resistance to flow. It is measured in cP (centipoise) or mm²/s (kinematic viscosity). High viscosity means a thick, oily fluid (for heavy cutting); low viscosity means a thin fluid that easily penetrates gaps (for grinding).

Flash Point

The temperature at which a liquid evaporates enough for its vapors to ignite from an open flame. For MWFs, the minimum is 150–200°C for safety. It indicates the flammability risk when heated on a machine.

Acid Number

The amount of free fatty acids or their equivalent in 1 gram of liquid. It is measured in mg KOH/g. During MWF operation, the acid number slowly increases — this is an indicator of component oxidation and the need for replacement.

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Industrial Processes and Phenomena

Biostability

The resistance of a fluid to the proliferation of bacteria and fungi. In MWFs and process fluids, this is a critical parameter. Poor biostability equals an unpleasant odor within 2–3 weeks, corrosion, and operator dermatitis. It is tested according to the IP 529 standard — artificial inoculation of microorganisms and observation for 28 days.

Biocide

A substance that kills or prevents the reproduction of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi). In industrial fluids, it is a critical component for extending operational life. There are tank-side biocides (added when a problem occurs) and those built into the formula.

Coagulation

The process of agglomerating suspended particles under the action of coagulants. The particles form large clumps that settle. In water treatment and the oil and gas industry, it is the primary method for removing solid impurities.

Flocculation

A process similar to coagulation, but involving the controlled formation of flake-like clumps using flocculants. The clumps are strong, do not break apart during transport, and are easily removed by filtration.

Phosphating

Chemical treatment of a steel surface to form a protective phosphate film. It creates a foundation for subsequent painting. It requires specialized fluids — demulsifiers, pH regulators, and accelerators.

*See article: "Phosphating vs. Nanoceramics"*

Electrolysis

The separation of a chemical substance into ions using an electric current. In industry, it is used for electrogalvanization, electropolishing, and removing contaminants from parts.

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Regulations and Certification

REACH

Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals — the EU system for controlling all chemical substances. If a substance is imported into the EU in quantities exceeding 1 ton per year, it must be registered with ECHA. For formulated products, it is critical to verify that all components are registered by the raw material supplier.

*See article: "Household Chemistry Requirements for Export to the EU"*

GHS (Globally Harmonized System)

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. It involves pictograms (black symbols on white backgrounds with red borders), signal words, and hazard statements. The EU implemented GHS through the CLP Regulation.

CLP Regulation (1272/2008)

The EU regulation on the classification, labeling, and packaging of chemical substances. It requires GHS pictograms, H-phrases (hazard), and P-phrases (precautionary) in the language of the recipient country. An SDS is mandatory in B2B.

EC 648/2004

The primary regulation for detergents in the EU. It requires a minimum surfactant biodegradability of 90% within 28 days, and restricts phosphates, microplastics, and unacceptable raw materials. This is a baseline requirement for exporting household chemicals to the EU.

EC 1107/2009 (Biocidal Products Regulation)

The regulation for biocidal products (disinfectants, preservatives for industrial fluids). It requires bioassays and data on environmental and human health impacts. It is stricter than REACH.

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FAQ

Who is this glossary for?

The glossary is useful for process engineers, procurement specialists, sales managers, and anyone working with industrial chemistry. Understanding the terms reduces the communication barrier between supplier and client and helps in selecting the right product.

What is the difference between TDS and SDS?

TDS (Technical Data Sheet) is a technical passport containing product characteristics and application methods. SDS (Safety Data Sheet) is a safety document with 16 sections covering composition, hazards, first aid, and disposal. A TDS is needed for operation, while an SDS is mandatory for B2B deliveries in the EU.

What is biostability and why is it important?

Biostability is a fluid's resistance to the proliferation of bacteria and fungi. In MWFs and process fluids, poor biostability means an unpleasant odor within 2-3 weeks, corrosion, and dermatitis. It is tested according to the IP 529 standard over 28 days.

Why check the acid number of an MWF?

The acid number indicates the amount of free fatty acids in a fluid (mg KOH/g). During MWF operation, this number slowly increases due to component oxidation. An increase in the acid number is an indicator of fluid aging and the need for replacement or adjustment.

Terminology as a Quality Control Tool

SVK prepared this glossary for its clients, partners, and team. Understanding these terms is the key to:

• Selecting the right product for your task
• Effective communication with the supplier
• On-site quality control
• Compliance with regulations and certifications

As Anna Nikiforova emphasizes: "The most dangerous mistake is when a buyer confuses a TDS with an SDS. A TDS is about performance, an SDS is about safety. Without the correct SDS, your delivery to the EU will be blocked at customs." If you have questions about any of these terms or need a consultation on industrial chemistry technology, contact our team.

Extended version of the glossary with examples and links: svk.ua/knowledge/glossary

Industrial chemistry is a language, and if you do not speak it correctly, it is impossible to find the right solution.

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Read also:

• How to Choose MWF for a CNC Machine: A Complete Guide
• Corrosion Inhibitors for Oil and Gas Pipelines
• PFAS Ban in the EU: What It Means for Your Production
• Household Chemistry Requirements for Export to the EU
• Phosphating vs. Nanoceramics: Technology Comparison