Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)

About This Product

Linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid, LABSA, CAS number 27176-87-0, is the sulfonation product of linear alkylbenzene, supplied here at 96 percent active matter as a dark brown viscous liquid.

In an oleochemical surfactant range LABSA is the reference point rather than the outlier. Its chain comes from kerosene-derived normal paraffins rather than from palm or coconut alcohol, and that single difference explains most of what a formulator weighs up. It is usually the cheapest anionic per unit of active in the market, it detergs well in hard water once built, and it is readily biodegradable because the chain is linear. Against that, it is harsher on skin than the fatty alcohol sulfates and isethionates, it carries no natural-origin or RSPO claim, and its price tracks crude rather than the palm complex. Most real formulations therefore use it alongside oleochemical surfactants rather than instead of them: LABSA for detergency and cost, sodium laureth sulfate or sodium cocoyl isethionate for mildness and foam quality, and an amphoteric such as cocamidopropyl betaine to cut the irritation of the blend. It is bought as the 96 percent acid and neutralised in the customer's own plant, with caustic soda for powders and most liquids, or with potassium hydroxide or triethanolamine for a more soluble salt.

It is used in laundry powders and detergent bars, in dishwashing and hard-surface liquids, blended with soap noodles and fatty acid soaps in combination bars, and as an emulsifier and acid catalyst in industrial formulations.

Bio Green Oleo supplies LABSA at 96 percent minimum active matter in 215 kg drums or IBC tanks, with free oil, colour and sulfuric acid content on the batch certificate of analysis. It is corrosive to skin and eyes; handle to the safety data sheet.