Sodium dodecyl alcohol ether sulfate: A versatile surfactant
Sodium dodecyl alcohol ether sulfate (SDS) is a common surfactant used in various industrial and consumer applications. It is also known by several other names, including Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate, (C10-C16) Alcohol ethoxylate sulfated sodium salt, Sodium lauryl ether sulfate, and SLES. INNO SPECIALTY CHEMICALS is a leading manufacturer and supplier of SDS from China. In this article, we will discuss the properties, uses, and benefits of SDS.
Properties of Sodium dodecyl alcohol ether sulfate
SDS is a water-soluble anionic surfactant that belongs to the family of alkyl ether sulfates. It is derived from a mixture of fatty alcohols, such as lauryl alcohol, and ethylene oxide. The number of ethylene oxide units in the molecule can vary, depending on the manufacturing process, and ranges from 1 to 40. The average molecular weight of SDS is around 400-500 g/mol.
SDS is a viscous, clear to yellowish liquid that has a mild odor. It is compatible with most anionic, cationic, and nonionic surfactants, as well as with many other chemicals. SDS is stable in acidic and alkaline solutions, but can be partially hydrolyzed at high pH values. It is also sensitive to temperature, and can lose its effectiveness at very low or high temperatures.
Uses of Sodium dodecyl alcohol ether sulfate
SDS is a versatile surfactant that is widely used in various applications, such as:
- Personal care products: SDS is a key ingredient in many shampoos, body washes, and toothpastes. It acts as a foaming agent, emulsifier, and cleanser, and helps to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin and hair. SDS is also used to improve the texture, viscosity, and stability of these products.
- Household cleaners: SDS is a common ingredient in many household cleaning products, such as dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents, and all-purpose cleaners. It helps to dissolve grease, stains, and soils, and to enhance the cleaning power of other ingredients. SDS also helps to reduce the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread more easily and penetrate into the fibers.
- Industrial applications: SDS is used in many industrial processes, such as oil and gas drilling, mineral processing, and textile manufacturing. It acts as a wetting agent, dispersant, and emulsifier, and helps to improve the efficiency and quality of these processes. SDS is also used in the production of paper, leather, and rubber, as well as in the formulation of pesticides and herbicides.
Benefits of Sodium dodecyl alcohol ether sulfate
SDS offers several benefits as a surfactant, such as:
- Effective cleaning: SDS has a strong cleaning power, and can remove a wide range of soils and stains from different surfaces. It also helps to prevent redeposition of dirt and grime, and to leave a clean and shiny surface.
- Mildness: SDS is considered a mild surfactant, and is generally well-tolerated by the skin and hair. It does not cause irritation, dryness, or itching, and can be used in products for sensitive or baby skin.
- Compatibility: SDS is compatible with many other surfactants and ingredients, and can be easily incorporated into various formulations. It also has good stability and shelf life, and does not tend to degrade or deteriorate over time.
- Sustainability: SDS is a biodegradable and renewable surfactant, and has a lower environmental impact than many other surfactants. It can be derived from natural sources, such as coconut oil, and can be recycled or reused in some applications.
Conclusion
Sodium dodecyl alcohol ether sulfate is a versatile and effective surfactant that is widely used in personal care, household, and industrial applications. It offers several benefits, such as strong cleaning power, mildness, compatibility, and sustainability. INNO SPECIALTY CHEMICALS is a reliable and experienced manufacturer and supplier of SDS from China, and can provide high-quality and customized products to meet the specific needs of customers.
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