LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate)
The highest-volume anionic surfactant — primary active in laundry detergents, household cleaners, oilfield fluids, and industrial degreasers.
Product Overview
Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) is the most widely produced synthetic surfactant in the world, with global production exceeding 3 million metric tons per year. It is an anionic surfactant produced by sulfonation of linear alkylbenzene (LAB) with sulfur trioxide or oleum, followed by neutralization with sodium hydroxide.
Texas-Chem supplies LAS as the sodium salt in liquid (slurry) and powder forms. The liquid slurry (typically 30-40% active) is the most common form for detergent manufacturing; the powder form is used in powdered detergent and dry-blend applications.
Common Applications
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 68411-30-3 |
| INCI Name | Sodium C10-16 Alkylbenzenesulfonate |
| Active Content | 30-40% (liquid slurry), 90%+ (powder) |
| Appearance | Amber to brown viscous liquid or white powder |
| pH (10% solution) | 7.5-9.5 |
| Biodegradability | >90% — readily biodegradable |
| HLB Value | ~11.7 |
| Grade | Industrial / Technical |
| Packaging | Drums, Totes, Bulk tanker |
Safety & Documentation
LAS is a mild to moderate irritant. Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact. Use gloves and safety glasses when handling concentrated product. Biodegradable — low environmental persistence. Review SDS before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LAS used for in detergents?
LAS is the primary cleaning active in most powdered and liquid laundry detergents, providing the surfactancy, soil removal, and foaming performance that consumers expect. It is typically used at 5-20% active in finished formulations.
Is LAS biodegradable?
Yes. LAS is readily biodegradable (>90% in standard OECD tests), which is one reason it replaced branched alkylbenzene sulfonates (ABS) in the 1960s. The linear carbon chain structure is more easily metabolized by microorganisms than branched structures.
What is the difference between LAS and DDBSA?
DDBSA (dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid) is the acid form of LAS before neutralization. Texas-Chem supplies both — DDBSA for customers who neutralize in-house with their own alkali, and LAS (sodium salt) for customers who want the ready-to-use neutralized form.
What concentration does Texas-Chem supply?
Texas-Chem supplies LAS as liquid slurry (30-40% active) in drums and totes, and as high-active powder (90%+) in bags and super sacks. Contact us for specific concentration and packaging requirements.
Packaging Options
Key Properties
Delivery Info
LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate) vs. Alternatives
LAS is the dominant anionic surfactant in laundry and household cleaning. Here is how it compares to its closest alternatives.
| Attribute | LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate) | Alcohol Ethoxylates | Coco Betaine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charge Type | Anionic | Non-ionic | Amphoteric |
| Foaming | High | Low to moderate | Moderate |
| Hard Water Tolerance | Poor — needs builders | Excellent | Good |
| Biodegradability | Over 90% | Over 90% | Over 90% |
| Relative Cost | Low | Low–Moderate | Moderate–High |
Industries We Supply LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate) To
Detergent Manufacturing
LAS is the primary active in powdered and liquid laundry detergents produced by manufacturers across Texas and the Gulf Coast.
LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate) supply in Houston, TXIndustrial & Institutional Cleaning
Used in floor cleaners, degreasers, and janitorial concentrates for commercial and industrial facilities.
LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate) supply in Dallas, TXOilfield Services
LAS is used in wellbore cleaners, drilling fluid additives, and stimulation fluids for oilfield operations across the Permian Basin.
LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate) supply in Midland, TXAgriculture
Used as a wetting agent and emulsifier in pesticide and herbicide formulations for Texas agricultural operations.
LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate) supply in Lubbock, TX