The principle ingredient of anti-freeze is glycol. The glycol family are fairly strong solvents. I had always presumed that this was the reason the anti-freeze method works. Interesting that William Robison says it is the additives, any idea which one?

Dishwasher detergent used to be made of a phosphate but that degraded the lakes and streams. It was then changed to an acid. Hence the reason that some cheaper glasses turn cloudy. I think I would be careful of leaving it on any engine parts for a protracted time.