Potassium lauryl sulfate

Potassium lauryl sulfate (CAS 4706-78-9), also known as potassium dodecyl sulfate, is an anionic surfactant.

Where is Potassium lauryl sulfate used?

• Personal care: primary or co-surfactant in shampoos, body washes and facial cleansers, where a potassium-based salt is preferred over sodium alternatives for texture or solubility profiles
• Textile processing: wetting and scouring agent that removes oils, sizing agents and contaminants from fiber and fabric before dyeing or finishing
• Leather processing: supports degreasing and preparation steps requiring consistent emulsification of natural fats
• Paper and pulp: dispersing agent that controls fiber distribution and improves sheet formation
• It delivers foaming, emulsification and detergency.

Commercial specifications

• Active content typically 30% to 95% depending on grade
• Technical and cosmetic grades; cosmetic-grade material meets purity standards for personal care
• Packaging: drums and bulk quantities