Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid is an anionic surfactant that can be effectively used (once neutralised) as an ingredient of liquid or powder washing, cleaning and laundry agents. Its use in detergents is so popular due to very good dispersing, emulsifying, wetting and foaming properties. Moreover, Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid is used in coating or metalworking products, in the production of laboratory chemicals and to regulate pH.
Benzene sulfonic acid or ABS acid are the chemical names of the surfactant whose INCI name is Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid. The substance acts as an emulsifier, wetting agent and dispersant. It belongs to the group of compounds called alkylbenzenesulfonates. It is obtained through alkylation of benzene with dodecane and substitution of sulfonic acid. The CAS number for Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid is 85536-14-7.
Physical and chemical properties:
Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid is used in the production of cosmetic products. It is capable of thorough cleansing. Further, it features excellent degreasing and foaming properties, which enhances the cleansing process. Once neutralised, ABS acid shows excellent wetting properties. Despite its good washing properties, it is used relatively rarely in products dedicated for face, body or hair cleansing and care. The main applications of Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid are washing and cleaning agents for household use. Most frequently, Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid is an ingredient of liquid cleaners, washing powder or toilet blocks, where it emulsifies and disperses various impurities. Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid is also suitable for producing strong alkaline laundry washing and cleaning agents dedicated for industrial use. This is due to the resistance of this surfactant to hydrolysis in alkaline media.
Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid is also used in a range of other applications. The textile industry uses its good wetting properties (following neutralisation). The chemical industry uses Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid mostly to produce different types of alkylbenzene sulfonic acid salts – sodium or ethanolamine salts. Bear in mind that Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid requires neutralisation prior to its use. Besides, the compound is an excellent ingredient of dedicated mixtures for metal surface treatments such as machining coolants or cutting agents. The compound is also used as an ingredient of fire-resistant hydraulic fluids.
