Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate

Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (CAS 25155-30-0), commonly identified in trade as SDBS, is an anionic surfactant derived from the neutralization of dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid with sodium hydroxide. It delivers strong detergency, emulsification, and foam generation across a broad range of industrial and consumer formulations. In household and industrial cleaning products, SDBS functions as the primary active surfactant.

It is used in liquid detergents, dishwashing formulations, and hard-surface cleaners, where it breaks down grease and oils effectively at low concentrations. Textile processors rely on it as a scouring and wetting agent. It helps to remove sizing agents, oils, and contaminants from fiber surfaces prior to dyeing. In water treatment, it supports the dispersion of suspended solids and acts as an emulsifier in effluent treatment processes.

Personal care formulators incorporate it into shampoos and body washes where controlled foaming and cleansing performance are required. Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate is supplied as a white to light yellow powder. It is also available as a viscous liquid slurry, with active matter content typically ranging from 90% in powder form to 30–60% in aqueous paste or slurry grades. Technical grade is the standard commercial specification.

Detergent-grade material meeting defined active content thresholds is available for formulation use. Packaging options commonly include 25 kg bags for powder and IBC totes or drums for liquid grades.