Ammonium xylenesulfonate

Ammonium xylenesulfonate (AXS) is an ammonium salt of xylenesulfonic acid, registered under CAS 26447-10-9 and EC 247-710-9. It is commercially available under trade names including Stepanate AM, Stepanate AXS, NAXONATE 4AX, and Cyclophil AXS 40, and carries no assigned E-code.

In personal care formulations, AXS functions as a hydrotrope, reducing the viscosity of concentrated surfactant systems and improving clarity in liquid detergents by increasing the solubility of poorly water-soluble ingredients. In textile and agricultural applications, it acts as a coupling agent and dispersant, stabilising emulsions and improving the homogeneity of active ingredient blends.

AXS is typically supplied as an aqueous solution, with the 40% active grade being the most common commercial form. The substance is registered under REACH and must be handled in accordance with applicable EU chemical regulations. Suppliers generally offer drum and IBC packaging for industrial procurement.