Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS) 151-21-3

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), with the CAS number 151-21-3, is a widely used surfactant. Here's a detailed overview, including its purity aspects:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Overview

Chemical Information:

• Chemical Name: Sodium dodecyl sulfate
• Chemical Formula: C₁₂H₂₅NaO₄S
• Molecular Weight: 288.38 g/mol
• CAS Number: 151-21-3
• Appearance: White to off-white powder or liquid.

Properties:

• Solubility: Highly soluble in water; forms a viscous solution that produces foam.
• pH: Typically alkaline (pH around 7-10 in a 1% solution).
• Boiling Point: Decomposes rather than boiling.

Purity:

• Typical Purity Levels: Commercial SLS typically ranges from 95% to 99% purity. Higher purity grades (like pharmaceutical or cosmetic grade) are available, often around 99%.
• Impurities: Common impurities may include:
  • Sodium sulfate
  • Unreacted lauryl alcohol
  • Water

Analytical Methods for Purity Testing:

• High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC): Often used to determine the purity and identify impurities.
• Titration: Can be used to quantify active ingredients.
• Spectroscopic Methods: Such as NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) or IR (Infrared Spectroscopy) can provide information about the molecular structure and composition.

Applications:

1. Cosmetics and Personal Care:

   • Shampoos, body washes, toothpaste, and facial cleansers.

2. Household Cleaning Products:

   • Laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and surface cleaners.

3. Industrial Uses:

   • Textile processing, oil recovery, and in various formulations in laboratories.

Safety and Handling:

• Irritation Potential: SLS can cause skin and eye irritation. Always conduct patch testing if sensitive.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from strong acids and bases.

Environmental Considerations:

• Biodegradability: SLS is biodegradable, but care should be taken with large quantities to minimize environmental impact.

Summary:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (CAS 151-21-3) is a versatile surfactant known for its cleansing properties, commonly found in many personal care and cleaning products. When assessing SLS for use, consider the purity level and any specific requirements for formulation. If you need further details or specific purity specifications from a supplier, let me know!