Sodium tetradecyl sulfate

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate (CAS 1191-50-0), also known as STDS, sodium myristyl sulfate, or by trade names such as Texapon K 14, is an anionic surfactant with the molecular formula C14H30O4S.Na. It carries no assigned E-code. The compound is produced by sulfation of tetradecanol and subsequent neutralisation with sodium hydroxide.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, STDS functions as an emulsifying agent in topical formulations by reducing interfacial tension between oil and water phases, stabilising droplet size distribution. In personal care production, it acts as a primary or co-surfactant in cleansing systems, generating controlled foam through micelle formation at low concentrations.

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is supplied as a micro-crystalline powder and is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU. Procurement teams should confirm compliance with Ph.Eur. or in-house pharmacopoeial standards depending on end-use classification. The product is classified under HS code 29041000 for customs and import documentation purposes.