Active foam is a highly concentrated alkaline detergent designed for touchless washing. When applied through a foam lance or dispenser, it creates a thick layer of chemically active foam that clings to the vehicle surface, dissolving organic dirt, traffic film, and insect residue without any mechanical contact.
How active foam works:
- Surfactants lower surface tension and penetrate the dirt layer.
- Alkalis break the chemical bonds holding grime to the paint.
- The foam blanket keeps the solution wet, extending contact time for better results.
- A high-pressure rinse flushes everything away.
Choosing the right active foam depends on water hardness, typical contamination levels, and ambient temperature. Products like Fortis Foam PRO are formulated with chelating agents to perform consistently even in hard water, while Fortis Foam ECO prioritises biodegradability for sites with strict environmental requirements.
Key parameters to evaluate include pH, recommended dilution ratio, and foam stability. For a comprehensive buying guide, see our article on how to choose active foam.