3D Super Citrus APC: ChemCX Analysis
Ranked Performance
Pricing
Quick Answer
3D Super Citrus APC sits at pH 12.5, matching a few other alkaline cleaners in the category, with a dilution range of 28:1 to 45:1 that stretches the $0.86/oz concentrate cost significantly. At nearly double the category average price, this targets professionals who need consistent alkaline cleaning power and prefer citrus-scented formulations over standard degreasers.
What It Is
At pH 12.5, the Super Citrus APC formula uses strong alkalinity combined with citrus solvents to break down organic soils and grease. Sold as a concentrate with 28:1 to 45:1 dilution ratios, one gallon yields 28-45 gallons of working solution, making the $0.86/oz price point more economical in practice.
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| pH | 12.5 |
| Dilution Ratio | 28:1 to 45:1 |
| Key Actives | Sodium Hydroxide |
| Signal Word | Danger |
| Transparency | good |
Category Context
| Metric | This Product | Category Average | Category Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 12.5 | 11.1 | 7 - 13.6 |
| Price/oz | $0.86 | $0.46 | $0.13 - $1.22 |
Where It Lands
The neat pH of 12.5 places this among the more alkaline APCs in the category. At the recommended 28:1 to 45:1 ratio, working pH drops to approximately 11.1, right at the category average. This means you get flexibility: use stronger dilutions for engine bays and heavy grease, or weaker mixes for interior plastics and routine cleaning without risking damage to trim or coatings.
At $0.86 per ounce neat, this sits in premium territory. At 28:1, each ounce yields nearly a quart of working solution. For similar alkaline chemistry at lower cost, you could consider Koch-Chemie Green Star at $0.35 per ounce or Meguiar's Citrus Power Cleaner Plus D107 at $0.44 per ounce.
How It Compares
Closest Alternatives
Jescar All Purpose Cleaner matches the pH 12.5 alkaline strength at roughly half the price.
Meguiar's Citrus Power Cleaner Plus D107 offers the same citrus-based alkaline approach at 49% lower cost. The trade-off is Meguiar's more limited dilution flexibility.
Koch-Chemie Green Star delivers identical pH 12.5 cleaning at 59% savings. Budget-focused detailers could consider this when citrus solvency isn't required for the task.
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How the Chemistry Works
Sodium hydroxide at 5-10% creates the alkaline foundation here, driving a pH of 12.5 that attacks organic soils through saponification. This process converts oils and greases into water-soluble soaps that rinse clean. At this concentration, the sodium hydroxide provides substantial degreasing power while remaining manageable at the recommended 28:1 to 45:1 dilution ratios.
The dual surfactant system pairs sodium xylenesulfonate
(anionic) with C9-11 ethoxylated alcohol (nonionic). The xylenesulfonate also functions as a hydrotrope, keeping the formula stable and preventing ingredient separation in this concentrated product. The ethoxylated alcohol reduces surface tension and lifts dirt without excessive foaming, while performing consistently regardless of water hardness.Tetrasodium EDTA
rounds out the formula as a chelating agent, binding calcium and magnesium ions that would otherwise interfere with cleaning. D-limonene appears at under 2%, contributing citrus fragrance and mild solvent action rather than serving as a primary cleaner.What We Like
- EDTA chelation built in — maintains cleaning performance in hard water areas where calcium and magnesium ions would otherwise reduce surfactant effectiveness
- Dilution range from 28:1 to 45:1 — at 45:1 for light cleaning, effective cost drops to around $0.02/oz, making it economical for high-volume shop use
- Full ingredient disclosure with CAS numbers — lets you verify compatibility with specific coatings or identify potential sensitizers before use
What to Know
- The 'Danger' signal word reflects pH 12.5 alkalinity, so gloves and eye protection make sense when working with this product, especially at stronger dilutions
- Citrus-solvent chemistry paired with high alkalinity handles greasy engine bays and grimy door jambs well, but keep it off bare aluminum and anodized trim where it can etch or discolor
- Concentrate format at $0.86/oz looks pricey until you factor in dilution ratios up to 45:1 for lighter tasks, which stretches a gallon considerably
Who Should Buy This
This concentrate fits detailers who want dilution flexibility for jobs ranging from engine bays to interior plastics. The pH 12.5 formula handles greasy buildup and embedded grime across multiple surfaces. Budget-conscious buyers could consider Jescar All Purpose Cleaner or Meguiar's Citrus Power Cleaner Plus D107, both at 49% lower cost with identical pH.
Want to see how this stacks up? Compare these 3 all purpose cleaners
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3D Super Citrus APC safe on ceramic coatings or delicate surfaces? At pH 12.5 with a "Danger" signal word, this is a highly alkaline cleaner. Avoid contact with waxes, sealants, and ceramic coatings. Use on hard surfaces like engine bays, wheel wells, and heavily soiled plastics where aggressive cleaning is needed.
What dilution ratio works best for 3D Super Citrus APC? The recommended range is 28:1 to 45:1. Use 28:1 for heavy grease and engine degreasing. Use 45:1 for lighter interior cleaning tasks like door jambs or vinyl surfaces.
Why does citrus-based APC work well on grease? D-limonene, the active citrus solvent, dissolves petroleum-based oils and greases on contact. Combined with the pH 12.5 alkaline base, it breaks down both organic soils and oily residue simultaneously.
How does 3D Super Citrus APC compare to similar cleaners? Jescar All Purpose Cleaner and Meguiar's D107 share the same pH 12.5 but cost 49% less per ounce. If citrus scent matters, 3D offers that, but budget-focused buyers could consider those alternatives.