DBSA - Dodecyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA)

DBSA - Dodecyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA)

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SKU: RD116293

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Dodecyl benzene sulphonic acid (DBSA)

Technical grade

Dodecylbenzene Sulphonic Acid (DBSA or LABSA) is a widely used anionic surfactant and detergent intermediate. It is an organic acid derived from linear alkylbenzene (LAB) sulfonation, typically with a dodecyl (C12) alkyl chain, hence the name.

The sulphonic acid group provides strong negative charge → excellent cleaning, wetting, and foaming power. The linear dodecyl group provides compatibility with biodegradation, making LABSA more environmentally acceptable than older branched-chain versions.

 

  • CAS No: 27176-87-0 / 85536-14-7
  • Other names: Dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid, NA, DBSA, LABSA, DDBSA
  • Purity: 96%
  • Appearance: thick brown liquid
  • Mol formula: CH3(CH2)11C6H­4SO3H
  • Structural formula: R-C6H4-SO3H

 

Uses for Dodecyl benzene sulphonic acid:

1. Detergent & Cleaning Formulations

  • Main raw material in manufacturing household and industrial detergents after neutralization with an alkali (e.g. sodium hydroxide, ammonia, or triethanolamine)

  • Used in:

    • Laundry liquids and powders

    • Dishwashing liquids (see below for example formula)

    • Toilet and surface cleaners

    • Car wash and truck wash chemicals

2. Emulsifiers and Wetting Agents

  • In agrochemical formulations (e.g. herbicides) to improve emulsification of oils

  • In textile and leather processing for scouring and wetting

3. Industrial Applications

  • Degreasing and defoaming agents

  • Oil field chemicals and drilling fluids

 

Click here for MSDS safety data sheet

Click here for Specification Sheet

 

PLEASE NOTE: This product is not for human or animal consumption.



Formula for Viscous Dishwashing Liquid

(Approx. 20% active)


Phase
Ingredient
% w/w
Function
A
Water (deionized)
50.00%
Solvent / base
B
Dodecylbenzene sulphonic acid (DBSA)
10.00%
Primary surfactant (high cleaning)
C
Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES 27%)
25.00% (≈6.75% active)
Foam booster, secondary surfactant
D
Alcohol ethoxylate (AE 7EO, C9–C11)
4.00%
Grease cutter, foam stabilizer
E
Triethanolamine (TEA) or NaOH (50%)
~1.50% (q.s.)
Neutralizes DBSA to pH 6.5–7
F
Sodium chloride (NaCl)
1.5–2.0%
Thickening agent
G
Preservative (e.g., Phenoxyethanol)
0.50%
Microbial protection
H
Fragrance / dye
q.s.
Aesthetics

Total: ~100%

  1. In main vessel, add water and begin slow stirring.
  2. Add DBSA slowly — stir until dissolved.
  3. Begin neutralizing with TEA or NaOH solution (check pH frequently).
    • Target pH: 6.5–7.0
    • Mixture will become clearer and more viscous.
  4. Add SLES, stir gently.
  5. Add alcohol ethoxylate, mix thoroughly.
  6. Add salt slowly, in increments, until desired viscosity is reached.
    • Do not exceed 2.5%, or product may thin out again.
  7. Add preservative, then fragrance and dye.
  8. Adjust final pH if necessary and top up water to 100%.