alkilbenzenesulfonates

Alkylbenzenesulfonates are a class of synthetic anionic surfactants. They consist of a benzene ring substituted with an alkyl chain and a sulfonate group. The general formula is R-C6H4-SO3Na, where R is an alkyl chain typically containing 10 to 14 carbon atoms and C6H4 represents the benzene ring. The sulfonate group (-SO3Na) is hydrophilic, meaning it attracts water, while the alkyl chain is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water and is attracted to oil and grease. This dual nature makes alkylbenzenesulfonates effective at reducing surface tension and emulsifying oils and greases, which is why they are widely used as detergents and cleaning agents.

Linear alkylbenzenesulfonates (LAS) are the most common type. They are synthesized through the sulfonation of linear alkylbenzenes. LAS surfactants are biodegradable, which was a significant improvement over earlier surfactants like branched alkylbenzenesulfonates that persisted in the environment. Their production involves alkylation of benzene with an olefin or alcohol to form alkylbenzene, followed by sulfonation. Alkylbenzenesulfonates are found in laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, household cleaners, and industrial cleaning formulations. Their performance can be fine-tuned by altering the length and branching of the alkyl chain.