Sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate

Sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate (CAS 68439-57-6), commonly known as AOS, is an anionic surfactant derived from the sulfonation of alpha-olefins.

Where is Sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate used?

• Personal care: primary surfactant in shampoos, body washes and liquid hand soaps, generating dense, stable foam even in hard water
• Home care: dishwashing liquids and laundry detergents
• Surface cleaners: cost-effective alternative or co-surfactant to SLES
• Textile processing: scouring and wetting, removing oils and sizing agents from fabric prior to dyeing
• Industrial and institutional cleaning: tolerance to high-electrolyte environments
• It maintains compatibility with a broad range of co-surfactants and remains stable across various pH levels.
• Bar soap.
• Leather processing: increases penetration speed in wetting and degreasing stages.
• Sulfate-free personal care and detergent products.
• Paper production: surface treatment applications requiring foam-controlled dispersion.

Formulation notes

• More stable than alcohol sulfates over a wide pH range.

Typical specification

• Active content of ≥85.0%.
• Commonly available as an aqueous solution with 38-40% active matter; a powder form is also on the market.
• Active matter content, colour and pH vary from supplier to supplier, so technical data sheets should be compared before purchase.
• pH of 8.5-10.5 in 5% aqueous solution.

Regulatory status

• Based on concerns about irritation, use in leave-on products is limited to 2%.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Store in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances and direct sunlight.
• Available in packaging from research to bulk quantities, including drums, IBCs, sacks or one-time bulk supply.

Frequently asked questions about Sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate

In which industrial applications is it used beyond personal care?

It is used in construction chemicals, and in upholstery and carpet foam cleaners due to its low tackiness.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.