tetradesylsulfat

Tetradesylsulfat, also known as tetradecyl sulfate, is an alkyl sulfate used primarily as an anionic surfactant. The molecule features a C14 alkyl chain linked to a sulfate group, and it commonly exists as a salt such as sodium tetradecyl sulfate (NaC14H29SO4). The corresponding acid form is tetradecyl hydrogen sulfate.

Production of tetradecyl sulfate typically involves the sulfation of tetradecyl alcohol with sulfuric acid, followed by neutralization to form the sodium salt. This process yields a surface-active compound suitable for various detergent and emulsifying applications.

Properties of tetradecyl sulfate include strong surface activity, emulsifying capabilities, and foaming behavior characteristic of alkyl sulfates. Its solubility in water is influenced by the salt form and concentration, and it generally functions well as a surfactant across a range of pH levels. In formulation, it acts as a cleansing, emulsifying, and thickening agent in both consumer and industrial products.

Applications are broad and include household detergents, shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and industrial cleaners. It is also used as an emulsifier in oil-in-water systems and in other formulations requiring an anionic surfactant.

Safety and regulation: tetradecyl sulfate can be an irritant to skin and eyes at higher concentrations, so standard safety precautions apply in handling and formulation. In cosmetics, it is used under INCI naming conventions appropriate to the jurisdiction, with concentration limits governed by local regulations. Environmental considerations note that alkyl sulfates are generally designed to be biodegradable, with fate influenced by chain length and conditions.