what type of Surfactant can i use besides soap?

Answer 1

Surfactants have many uses. The most obvious is probably soaps and detergents as the packaging will normally mention the amount of ionic and non-ionic surfactants in the product. You'll often see something called sodium laureth sulphate or sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) mentioned - this is the surfactant in the product and is normally the main ingredient after water (normally listed as aqua because it sounds better).

Surfactants are also used in waxes such ski and snowboard wax, paints, dyes and inks, adhesives, insecticides and herbicides and is also found in products such as spermicides and laxatives.

Soap itself isn't a surfactant so it's hard to suggest an alternative. Your question is kind of like saying 'what kind of sugar can I use besides chocolate'.

Perhaps post another question with more details.