Anionic surfactants

LAS and SLES are the largest volume surfactants in laundry and dishwashing products, while SLS, SLES and milder anionics dominate shampoos and body washes. Anionics give strong cleaning and foam, and they are often combined with amphoteric or nonionic surfactants to improve mildness and performance in hard water.

Specifications include active matter, unsulfonated matter, sodium sulfate and chloride, pH, colour, free oil, and for ethoxylated sulfates the 1,4-dioxane content. LABSA is a corrosive acid that is neutralised by the formulator, while SLES is often supplied as a 70 percent paste that needs care when diluted to avoid gel formation. Organic anionic surfactants fall under HS subheading 3402.31 or 3402.39.