How do chemical drain cleaners destroy clogs?

Question

How do chemical drain cleaners destroy clogs?

In: Chemistry

Answer 1

By chemically corroding them. Alkaline drain cleaners cause fats (including soap) to chemically break down in such a way that they can then be washed away, while hair and other proteins are also ripped apart. (Keep in mind, they’ll do the exact same thing to your flesh because drain clogs are often made out of the same stuff as people.)