Sodium Lauryl Sulfate(K12)

Sodium lauryl sulfate, also known as sodium dodecyl sulfate, is an anionic surfactant with powerful detergency-boosting properties, characterized by strong decontamination, emulsification, and foaming performances.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Chemical name:  Sodium Lauryl Sulfate(K12)

CAS No.: 68439-57-6

Molecular formula: C12H25NaO4S

Standard executed: GB/T 15963-2008

Packaging: in 20KG/25KG kraft paper bag with PE liner

Contents

Technical specification

Items Standards:
(White powder)
Standards:
(White needle)
Classification
Anionic surfactant
Anionic surfactant
Appearance(25℃)
White to yellowish powder
White to yellowish needle
Active matter content, %
95 MIN
92 MIN
Petroleum ether soluble substance,%
1.5 MAX
3.5 MAX
Sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) content, %
3.0 MAX
5.0 MAX
Water content, %
3.0 MAX
5.0 MAX
Color, Hazen (5%Am.aq.sol)
10.0 MAX
10.0 MAX
pH value (25°C, 1% Am.aq.sol)
7.5-9.5
7.5-9.5

Description

Sodium lauryl sulfate, also known as sodium dodecyl sulfate, is an anionic surfactant with powerful detergency-boosting properties, characterized by strong decontamination, emulsification, and foaming performances. Chemically, it is an organosulfate and a salt, comprising a 12-carbon tail attached to a sulfate group. Being a negatively charged surfactant, its key functional role is to work as a wetting agent and reduce the surface tension of a liquid.

Other notable characteristics of Sodium lauryl sulfate are water solubility, biodegradability, resistance to alkalis, excellent performances in hard water, stability in a broad range of pH aqueous solution, and easy synthesis. On top of that are also availability and affordable price.

A broad range of SLS commercial applications include cosmetic, textile, paper, building materials, chemical, oil, and other industries. It can be typically found in the form of an emulsifying and cleaning agent in various household cleaning products, including laundry detergents, dishwashing detergents, and spray cleaners. Its standard concentrations vary by product and manufacturer. However, the average intensity range for cosmetic products is between 0.01% and 50%, while its representation in cleaning products fluctuates from 1% to 30%.

Due to its potent antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, Sodium lauryl sulfate is suitable for inhibiting the growth of disease-causing pathogens. For that reason, its applications include mouth rinses, hand soaps, and a multitude of other care products.

Sodium lauryl sulfate disintegrates cell membranes by binding to the hydrophobic portion of membrane proteins and separating them. In high concentrations, it can destroy ionic bonds and hydrogen in proteins, changing their conformation. These features are often used in the pharmaceutical industry.

In the role of a processing aid for the food industry, Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient of cakes, beverages, fruit drinks, protein powders, edible oils, and others.

Sodium lauryl sulfate is considered a sustainable chemical compound. It features 100% biobased content with a low potential for bioaccumulation. The biodegradability of Sodium lauryl sulfate is over 90% within 24 hours, according to research. Once the process begins, it will rapidly break down into non-toxic formations.

In spite of the persisting controversy, toxicological data confirms that SLS is safe for use in cleaning products, as long as it is adequately formulated and dosed to minimize its irritancy potential. Due to its low bioaccumulation properties, Sodium dodecyl sulfate is unable to persist in the environment or become concentrated in living organisms. 

Stability/Shelf life

Two years under proper storage.

Store in a dry, cool place, away from moisture and heat.  

Manufacturing

In order to produce Sodium dodecyl sulfate, lauryl alcohol is treated with either sulfur trioxide gas, chlorosulfuric acid, or oleum. The process results in forming hydrogen lauryl sulfate, which is then neutralized by adding sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate in the next step.

Lauryl alcohol can be used in pure form. However, it can also be acquired through hydrolysis of palm or coconut or palm kernel oil, followed by hydrogenation. The resulting compound is a mixture of various sodium alkyl sulfates.

Lauryl alcohol can be used in pure form. However, it can also be acquired through hydrolysis of palm or coconut or palm kernel oil, followed by hydrogenation. The resulting compound is a mixture of various sodium alkyl sulfates.

Industry use

Sodium lauryl sulfate is commercially available in several forms with different dissolution rates, including powder, pellet, and a variety of aqueous solutions. Its commercial applications are extensive and include pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Sodium dodecyl sulfate is a common ingredient in the manufacturing of engine degreasers, industrial-strength machine wash detergents, synthetic rubbers, resins, and plastics.

Other uses of Sodium lauryl sulfate include its application as a food additive. Marshmallows, dried eggs, and dry beverage bases are some of the products where it can be typically found as a thickener or emulsifier.

Consumer use

As a highly effective surfactant, Sodium lauryl sulfate is widely used for the removal of greasy stains and various residues. It works by trapping oil and dirt, making them easily washed away. In low concentrations, Sodium dodecyl sulfate is a common ingredient in a multitude of care and cosmetics formulas, such as toothpaste, shaving foams, shower gels, shampoos, bubble baths, liquid hand soaps, and hand sanitizers. Moreover, it’s a regular component of nail treatments, makeup removers, exfoliants, creams, lotions, and sunscreens.

K12 is also found in car wash liquids and home care products – floor cleaners, disinfectants, washing detergents, and others.

Solubility

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate(K12) is characterized by good solubility, suitable for use in liquid detergents. 

Common synonyms

  • Sodium dodecyl sulfate;
  • Sodium monododecyl sulfate;
  • Sodium monolauryl sulfate;
  • Hydrogen sulfate;
  • Sodium dodecanesulfate;
  • Sodium coco-sulfate;
  • Dodecyl alcohol

Ask an expert

Did we forget something? Do you have a specific issue that needs a solution? Consider it done! Our professionals are at your service 24/7, ready to answer every question in a clear and concise manner.

No, they are not the same chemical. 

SLS stands for Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, also known as SDS, Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate. However, SLES is short for Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate. 

It depends on your product application and manufacturing method. 

The powder form has higher purity, but the needle form has better solubility and free flowing property.

Yes Sodium Lauryl Sulfate(K12) has very good compatibility with LABSA in detergent solution.  

Commonly, K12 is used as the secondly surfactant in a detergent formula, as complement of LABSA, to boost the foaming property of the formula.

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