Sodium lignosulfonate

Sodium lignosulfonate (CAS 8061-51-6), also known by the trade designations Maracell C and FL41055, is a water-soluble anionic polymer derived from sulfite pulping of wood.

Commercially abbreviated as SLS, it functions as a dispersant, binder, and rheology modifier across a broad range of industrial processes. In concrete and cement production, it acts as a plasticizer.

It serves as a water reducer, improving workability without increasing water content, which is a critical factor in ready-mix and precast applications. Agrochemical formulators use it to disperse active ingredients.

It is utilized in wettable powder and suspension concentrate pesticide formulations, ensuring uniform particle distribution. In mining, it serves as a dust suppressant and ore flotation aid.

This chemical reduces operational dust loads on haul roads and processing sites. Tanneries and textile dyehouses rely on it to disperse tanning agents and dyes evenly across substrates.

This process improves penetration and reduces batch variation. Sodium lignosulfonate is supplied as a spray-dried tan to brown powder and as a concentrated liquid solution for industrial use.

Technical grade is the standard commercial form, with purity and performance typically defined by dispersibility, pH, and sulfonate content rather than pharmacopeial standards like USP or FCC.

Specifications vary by molecular weight distribution and degree of sulfonation, which directly affect performance in specific applications such as concrete admixtures versus agricultural dispersants.