Product: Sulphonic Acid
Rchem Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) is a high-active, brownish viscous liquid, produced by the sulphonation of Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB). This powerful anionic surfactant is the workhorse of the detergent and cleaning product industry. Renowned for its excellent foaming, wetting, and emulsifying properties, it serves as the primary active ingredient in the formulation of a vast range of household and industrial cleaning products, effectively removing grease and dirt.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
Property
Detail
Apperance
Scent
Solubility
Uses
pH
Charge
Used In
Usage Rate
Product Origin
PALM DERIVATIVES STATUS
VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why must LABSA be neutralized in detergent formulations?
In its acid form, LABSA is highly corrosive and not suitable for consumer products. Neutralization with a base like caustic soda (NaOH) converts it into its salt form (Sodium LABS), which is water-soluble, stable, non-corrosive, and provides the desired cleaning and foaming properties.
Both are anionic surfactants, but they have different structures and properties. LABSA is derived from Linear Alkyl Benzene and is known for its high detergency and cost-effectiveness. AOS is derived from alpha olefins and is generally considered milder on the skin, with better performance in hard water and high foam volume. AOS is often used in personal care products like body wash and shampoo.
What is the difference between LABSA and Alpha Olefin Sulphonate (AOS)?
LABSA is a strong acid and is highly corrosive. Handling requires: Full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, face shield, and protective clothing. Adequate Ventilation: To avoid inhalation of mists. Immediate Wash Facility: In case of skin or eye contact, flush immediately with plenty of water. Neutralizing Agent: Have a neutralizing agent like soda ash or a weak base readily available for spills.
What are the critical safety precautions for handling LABSA?
Yes, but it requires careful formulation. When neutralized, LABSA forms a salt that can make the solution opaque or cloudy. To achieve transparency, formulators often use hydrotropes (like sodium xylene sulphonate) and solvents to keep the surfactant in solution and create a clear, stable product
Can LABSA be used to make transparent liquid detergents?
Modern LABSA, with its linear alkyl chain, is considered readily biodegradable, a significant improvement over the old branched alkyl benzene sulphonates (ABS) which caused persistent foam in rivers. It is a standard and accepted surfactant in terms of environmental impact when wastewater is properly treated.
