In the realm of chemical procurement, particularly for a widely used ingredient like Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES) 70%, understanding precise specifications is not just beneficial – it's essential for successful formulation and product consistency. For research chemists and product development scientists, a deep dive into these parameters ensures that the SLES 70% sourced from a manufacturer meets the exact requirements of their application.

The most fundamental specification for SLES 70% is its active matter content. Typically specified as 68-72%, this indicates the percentage of the actual surfactant present. A higher active matter content generally means greater cleaning and foaming efficiency per unit of product, making it a key factor in formulation calculations and cost-effectiveness. Buyers should always verify this specification on the Certificate of Analysis (CoA).

Another critical parameter is the pH value. For SLES 70%, the pH is usually in the range of 7.0-9.5. This slightly alkaline pH is suitable for many applications, particularly in cleaning products. Deviations from this range can indicate impurities or processing issues and might affect product stability or compatibility with other ingredients. Formulators need to account for this pH when designing their final product to ensure it aligns with desired characteristics, such as mildness for personal care items.

The presence of impurities can significantly impact product performance and safety. Key impurities to monitor include unsulfated matter and sodium sulfate. Unsulfated matter refers to organic compounds that did not undergo sulfation, while sodium sulfate is an inorganic salt. Low levels of these impurities (e.g., ≤ 3.5% for unsulfated matter and ≤ 1.5% for sodium sulfate) are desirable, signifying a well-purified product. Additionally, levels of 1,4-dioxane, a potential byproduct of the ethoxylation process, are often monitored, especially for personal care applications, with strict limits usually imposed by regulatory bodies and conscientious manufacturers.

Color is also an important visual indicator. SLES 70% is typically described as white to yellowish paste or liquid. While color itself may not always impact functionality, a significant deviation or inconsistency can suggest processing variations or degradation. A spectrophotometric measure, like the Klett value (often ≤ 20 for 5% aqueous solution), provides a quantitative assessment of color.

When sourcing SLES 70%, engaging with a supplier that provides detailed CoAs for each batch is crucial. This documentation assures that the product meets agreed-upon specifications. For buyers looking to purchase SLES 70%, understanding these technical details empowers them to make informed decisions, negotiate effectively with manufacturers, and ensure the consistent quality of their end products. Always confirm the CAS number (68585-34-2) and the purity grade to avoid misunderstandings. For bulk price inquiries, having these specifications clear will streamline the process with global suppliers.