Final answer:
High alkaline detergents can damage materials like china by causing fading and are corrosive to dishwasher components. They contain strong bases and may include abrasives like sand. Phosphate-free detergents are environmentally safer alternatives.
Step-by-step explanation:
High alkaline detergents can affect certain materials due to their strong basic nature. These detergents contain substances like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, which are capable of dissolving fats, oils, and protein-based substances. Overusing high alkaline detergents may harm materials like china, which can experience fading on its patterns, especially if the detergent includes abrasive components such as sand often found in inexpensive powdered detergents. Additionally, these detergents can be damaging to dishwasher parts due to their corrosive nature.
Modern detergents are often formulated to minimize environmental impact, for instance, by excluding phosphates, which can cause eutrophication when released into water bodies. Instead, they contain alternative complexing agents to mitigate environmental risks. It is important to use detergents as directed to prevent damage to items being cleaned as well as to the environment.