Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) is the most widely produced synthetic surfactant globally, encompassing various salts of sulfonated alkylbenzenes. It is extensively used in household cleaning products as well as a range of industrial applications.

LABSA is an anionic surfactant, composed of molecules with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components. It is a nonvolatile compound, produced through the sulfonation process, which involves reagents such as sulfuric acid, chlorosulfonic acid, sulfamic acid, and diluted sulfur trioxide.

Technical specification

LABSA serves as a wetting agent, emulsifier for agricultural herbicides, and in emulsion polymerization. Surfactants, in general, are widely used across industries to enhance interactions between polar and non-polar substances, facilitating the mixing of oil and water or water and minerals.

LABSA is a key component in the production of laundry detergents, cleaning powders, detergent cakes, liquid soaps, oil soaps, scouring bars, and various anionic specialty products. In the textile industry, it is used as a washing and mercerizing agent. Additionally, LABSA is applied in small quantities as a wetting agent/emulsifier, in combination with other surfactants, to produce foaming toilet soaps.