PRODUCTS

ABSA

ABSA is an anionic surfactant that functions as a cleaning agent and emulsifier in experimental applications.
ABSA acts by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread more easily and penetrate into the fabric or surface being cleaned.
ABSA is widely used as a key intermediate in the manufacture of detergents and cleaning agents, where it is neutralized to form linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), one of the most important biodegradable surfactants.

CAS Number: 27176-87-0
EC Number: 248-289-4
Molecular Formula: C18H30O3S
Molecular Weight: ~326–348 g/mol

Synonyms: alkyl benzyl sulfonate, RefChem:887117, Sodium 4-sec-dodecylbenzenesulphonate, 68628-60-4, Sodium (1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate, 2211-99-6, T2TZZ07610, sodium p-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate, Benzenesulfonic acid, 4-(1-methylundecyl)-, sodium salt, Benzenesulfonic acid, 4-(1-methylundecyl)-, sodium salt (1:1), NSC-152936, sodium;4-dodecan-2-ylbenzenesulfonate, Sodium 4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate, UNII-T2TZZ07610, SCHEMBL2702666, DTXSID00274022, GHRHULTYHYEOQB-UHFFFAOYSA-M, Sodium (2-dodecyl)benzenesulfonate, AT39872, NSC 152936, sodium;4-(1-methylundecyl)benzenesulfonate, SODIUM 4-SEC-DODECYLBENZENESULFONATE, Sodium 4-(dodecan-2-yl)benzene-1-sulfonate, D89883, LINEAR ALKYL BENZENESULPHONATE(MIXTURES), Q27289590, Benzenesulfonic aicd, 4-(1-methylundecyl)-, sodium salt

ABSA is a class of anionic surfactants derived from the sulfonation of linear alkylbenzene, typically containing a C₁₀–C₁₃ alkyl chain attached to a benzene ring with a sulfonic acid group.
ABSA is commonly produced as a viscous brown liquid with strong acidic character and high surface-active properties.

ABSA is widely used as a key intermediate in the manufacture of detergents and cleaning agents, where it is neutralized to form linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), one of the most important biodegradable surfactants.
ABSA exhibits excellent emulsifying, wetting, and detergency performance, making it highly effective in both household and industrial formulations.
ABSA is valued for its cost-effectiveness, high efficiency, and compatibility with various formulation systems, although it requires careful handling due to its corrosive nature.

ABSA is a synthetic surfactant used in the industrial field.
ABSA is an anionic surfactant containing hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups.

ABSA has a carbon number of C10-C13 from its alkyl derivatives.
ABSA refers to a class of anionic surfactants characterized by molecules containing an aromatic ring sulfonated at the para position and attached to a linear or branched alkyl chain, typically with chain lengths ranging from C10 to C14.

At the molecular level, ABSA interacts with hydrophobic substances, such as oils and grease, by surrounding them and forming micelles, which can then be easily rinsed away.
ABSA′s mechanism of action involves disrupting the intermolecular forces between the dirt and the surface, facilitating the removal of contaminants.

Alkylbenzene sulfonates are a class of anionic surfactants, consisting of a hydrophilic sulfonate head-group and a hydrophobic alkylbenzene tail-group.
Along with sodium laureth sulfate, they are one of the oldest and most widely used synthetic detergents and may be found in numerous personal-care products (soaps, shampoos, toothpaste etc.) and household-care products (laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, spray cleaner etc.).

They were introduced in the 1930s in the form of branched alkylbenzene sulfonates.
However following environmental concerns these were replaced with linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) during the 1960s.
Since then production has increased significantly from about one million tons in 1980, to around 3.5 million tons in 2016, making them most produced anionic surfactant after soaps.

Branched alkylbenzene sulfonates:
Branched alkylbenzene sulfonates were introduced in the early 1930s and saw significant growth from the late 1940s onwards in early literature these synthetic detergents are often abbreviated as syndets.
They were prepared by the Friedel–Crafts alkylation of benzene with 'propylene tetramer' (also called tetrapropylene) followed by sulfonation.
Propylene tetramer being a broad term for a mixture of compounds formed by the oligomerization of propene, ABSA's use gave a mixture of highly branched structures.

Compared to traditional soaps, Branched alkylbenzene sulfonates offered superior tolerance to hard water and better foaming.
However, the highly branched tail made ABSA difficult to biodegrade.

Branched alkylbenzene sulfonates was widely blamed for the formation of large expanses of stable foam in areas of wastewater discharge such as lakes, rivers and coastal areas (sea foams), as well as foaming problems encountered in sewage treatment[7] and contamination of drinking water.
As such, Branched alkylbenzene sulfonates was phased out of most detergent products during the 1960s, being replaced with linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), which biodegrade much more rapidly.

Branched alkylbenzene sulfonates is still important in certain agrochemical and industrial applications, where rapid biodegradability is of reduced importance.
For instance, inhibiting asphaltene deposition from crude oil.

Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates:
Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates are prepared industrially by the sulfonation of linear alkylbenzenes (LABs), which can themselves be prepared in several ways.
In the most common route benzene is alkylated by long chain monoalkenes (e.g. dodecene) using hydrogen fluoride as a catalyst.

The purified dodecylbenzenes (and related derivatives) are then sulfonated with sulfur trioxide to give the sulfonic acid.
The sulfonic acid is subsequently neutralized with sodium hydroxide.

The term "linear" refers to the starting alkenes rather than the final product, perfectly linear addition products are not seen, in-line with Markovnikov's rule.
Thus, the alkylation of linear alkenes, even 1-alkenes such as 1-dodecene, gives several isomers of phenyldodecane.

Structure property relationships:
Under ideal conditions the cleaning power of Branched alkylbenzene sulfonates and Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates are very similar, however Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates performs slightly better in normal use conditions, due to it being less affected by hard water.
Within Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates itself the detergency of the various isomers are fairly similar, however their physical properties (Krafft point, foaming etc.) are noticeably different.

In particular the Krafft point of the high 2-phenyl product (i.e. the least branched isomer) remains below 0 °C up to 25% Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates whereas the low 2-phenyl cloud point is ~15 °C.
This behavior is often exploited by producers to create either clear or cloudy products.

Uses of ABSA:
ABSA is primarily used as a key raw material in the production of anionic surfactants, especially linear alkylbenzene sulfonates, which are widely applied in household and industrial detergents.
ABSA is extensively used in laundry powders, liquid detergents, dishwashing liquids, and surface cleaners due to its excellent detergency, foaming, and emulsifying properties.
ABSA is also utilized in industrial cleaning formulations for degreasing and removing organic contaminants in sectors such as textiles, leather processing, and metal cleaning.

ABSA is applied as an emulsifier and wetting agent in agricultural formulations, including pesticides and herbicides, to enhance dispersion and effectiveness.
ABSA is further used in oilfield chemicals, construction chemicals, and polymer emulsions where surface activity is required.
Additionally, ABSA serves as an intermediate in the formulation of disinfectants and specialty cleaning agents, contributing to improved cleaning performance and formulation stability.

ABSA's most common usage area is general cleaning.
ABSA is used in areas such as washing powder, detergent powder, detergent cake, liquid soap, cleaning powder.

Washing unit is an important section in the textile sector.
ABSA is used in mercerization works in textile washing works.

ABSA is used as a wetting agent by using its emulsifier feature in toilet soaps.
ABSA has the ability to provide foaming agent and dirt removal in detergent production.

ABSA is used as a catalyst due to its acidity in the production of ion exchange resins produced for water softening.
Polymer materials are used in fuel cells.

ABSA can be used as a polymer material in this application.
ABSA is an anionic surface active agent activator in detergents in the glass industry.

ABSA is used in the production of pigment polymer materials.

To better remove stains from clothes, ABSA will be used with SLES (Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate) to provide a better cleaning effect.
ABSA is included in the formulas of creams produced in the cosmetics industry to clean dead skin cells.

Advantages of ABSA:
ABSA provides excellent detergency performance, enabling efficient removal of oils, greases, and particulate soils from various surfaces.
ABSA exhibits strong foaming ability, which enhances cleaning perception and effectiveness in household and industrial formulations.

ABSA demonstrates high emulsifying and wetting capacity, improving dispersion of hydrophobic substances in aqueous systems.
ABSA is highly cost-effective compared to many alternative surfactants, making it widely preferred in large-scale detergent production.

ABSA is biodegradable in its linear form (LAS), contributing to improved environmental compatibility.
ABSA shows good compatibility with other surfactants and formulation components, allowing flexible product design.
ABSA maintains effective performance across a wide range of temperatures and water hardness conditions.

History of ABSA:
ABSA has its origins in the early development of synthetic detergents during the first half of the 20th century, when traditional soap-based cleaning agents began to be replaced due to their poor performance in hard water.
Early synthetic detergents were based on branched alkylbenzene sulfonates (ABS), which were introduced in the 1940s and quickly gained popularity because of their superior cleaning efficiency and foaming properties.

However, by the 1960s, environmental concerns arose as branched ABS compounds were found to be poorly biodegradable, leading to persistent foam formation in rivers and wastewater systems.
This environmental issue drove the development of linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), derived from linear alkylbenzenes, which showed significantly improved biodegradability.

As a result, ABSA, the precursor to Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates, became widely adopted as a key intermediate in detergent manufacturing.
Since the 1970s, ABSA-based surfactants have become the global standard in household and industrial cleaning products due to their balance of performance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental acceptability.
Today, ABSA remains one of the most important and extensively produced surfactant intermediates worldwide.

Physical and Chemical Properties of ABSA:
ABSA is a viscous liquid with a yellowish or brown physical appearance.
ABSA does not have oxidizing properties.

ABSA consists of 2 parts.
One end is polar and hydrophilic.

The other end is apolar and hydrophobic.
ABSA's density is 1.06 g/cm³.

ABSA's boiling point is 315°C.
ABSA has an irritating feature if exposed to the skin for a long time.

Stability and Reactivity of ABSA:

Chemical stability:
Stable under normal storage conditions.

Reactivity:
Strong organic acid.
Reacts exothermically with bases.
Reacts with alkaline materials.

Conditions to avoid:
Excess heat.
Moisture.
Direct sunlight.

Incompatible materials:
Strong bases.
Oxidizing agents.
Reactive metals.

Hazardous decomposition products:
Sulfur oxides (SOₓ) may be released.
Carbon monoxide (CO) may form.

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) may be generated.
Irritating fumes may also be produced.

Handling and Storage of ABSA:

Handling:
Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
Do not inhale vapors or mists.

Use appropriate protective equipment.
Ensure good ventilation.

Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Keep container tightly closed.

Protect from moisture.
Store away from alkalis and incompatible materials.

First Aid Measures of ABSA:

Inhalation:
Move to fresh air immediately.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

Skin contact:
Remove contaminated clothing.
Wash skin thoroughly with plenty of water and soap.

Eye contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Seek immediate medical attention.

Ingestion:
Rinse mouth.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek immediate medical assistance.

Firefighting Measures of ABSA:

Suitable extinguishing media:
Foam.
Dry chemical.
Carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Water spray.

Hazards:
Not highly flammable.
May decompose under fire conditions.
Toxic sulfur oxides and irritating fumes may be released.

Protective equipment:
Firefighters should use self-contained breathing apparatus.
Wear full protective gear.

Accidental Release Measures of ABSA:

Personal precautions:
Wear protective equipment.
Avoid contact and inhalation.
Ensure adequate ventilation.

Environmental precautions:
Prevent entry into drains, soil, and water systems.

Methods for cleaning up:
Neutralize with suitable alkaline material such as sodium carbonate.
Absorb with inert material such as sand or earth.
Collect in appropriate containers for disposal.

Exposure Controls / Personal Protection of ABSA:

Engineering controls:
Provide local exhaust ventilation.
Use general ventilation if necessary.

Respiratory protection:
Use approved respirator if exposure limits are exceeded.
Use respiratory protection in case of insufficient ventilation.

Hand protection:
Wear acid-resistant gloves such as nitrile, neoprene, or PVC.

Eye protection:
Use safety goggles or face shield.

Skin protection:
Wear protective clothing.
Use chemical-resistant apron if necessary.

Hygiene measures:
Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling.
Wash hands thoroughly after use.

Identifiers of ABSA:
CAS Number: 27176-87-0
EC Number: 248-289-4
IUPAC Name: Linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid
Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₀O₃S
Molecular Weight: ~326–348 g/mol
InChI: Not uniquely defined
InChIKey: Not uniquely defined
SMILES: Not uniquely defined
PubChem CID: 24836337
ChemSpider ID: 22992882
UN Number: 2586

RTECS: DB4290000
PubChem CID: 29249
MDL Number: MFCD00147445
EC Number: 271-528-9
SMILES: CCCCCCCCCC(CC)C1=CC=C(C=C1)S(=O)(=O)O

Chemical Formula: C18H30O3S
Cas No: 27176-87-0
EINESC No: 248-289-4
UN No: 2586
Physical Properties: Brown Liquid
Odor: Characteristic
Molecular Weight: 326.54 g/mol
Density: 1.06-1.2 g/cm3
Solubility: Soluble in water

Molecular Formula (Labsa): C18H30O3S
Molecular Weight: 158.18 g/mol
Chemical Name: Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulfonic Acid
CAS Number: 27176-87-0

Properties of ABSA:
Appearance: Brown to dark brown viscous liquid
Odor: Characteristic pungent acidic odor
Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₀O₃S
Molecular Weight: ~326–348 g/mol
Density: ~1.03–1.07 g/cm³ (at 25°C)
pH: < 2
Active Matter: Typically 90–96%
Viscosity: High
Solubility in Water: Highly soluble; forms clear to slightly hazy solutions
Solubility: Soluble in alcohols; partially soluble in organic solvents
Flash Point: >100°C
Boiling Point: >300°C
Free Sulfuric Acid Content: Typically ≤ 1–2%

Molecular Weight: 348.5 g/mol
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 0
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 3
Rotatable Bond Count: 11
Exact Mass: 348.17351024 Da
Monoisotopic Mass: 348.17351024 Da
Topological Polar Surface Area: 65.6 Å²
Heavy Atom Count: 23
Complexity: 370
Isotope Atom Count: 0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 1
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 2
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes

Physical State: Liquid
pH: 1
Storage: Store at room temperature
Melting Point: -12° C
Density: 1.05 g/mL at 20° C
Refractive Index: n20D 1.51 (Predicted)
pK Values: -0.45 (Predicted)