Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) is a foundational chemical in the global detergent industry, playing a pivotal role in the creation of cleaning agents that power households and industries worldwide. Its significance stems from its efficient conversion into Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate (LAS), a highly effective and biodegradable anionic surfactant. For procurement managers and formulation chemists, understanding LAB's properties and its role is key to optimizing detergent performance and cost-effectiveness. As a prominent supplier and manufacturer, we are committed to providing high-quality LAB to meet these demands.

Understanding Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB)

LAB is an organic compound characterized by a linear alkyl chain (typically C10-C13) attached to a benzene ring. Its chemical formula is often represented as C6H5CnH2n+1, where 'n' denotes the length of the alkyl chain. This structure is critical for its subsequent sulfonation into LAS, which exhibits excellent surfactant properties: good detergency, foaming, and emulsification. The biodegradability of LAS, a direct benefit of using linear alkyl chains in LAB, has made it the preferred choice over earlier branched alkylbenzene sulfonates.

Key specifications buyers look for when sourcing LAB include:

  • Appearance: Colorless to light yellow transparent liquid.
  • Sulfonability: A high percentage (e.g., 98.6% min) ensures efficient conversion to LAS.
  • Purity: Low levels of impurities like bromine index and free oil are crucial.

As a dedicated manufacturer of LAB, we ensure our product meets these demanding specifications, offering a reliable foundation for your surfactant production. We are a leading supplier in China, capable of meeting large-scale requirements.

LAB's Contribution to Detergent Formulations

The primary function of LAB is as a precursor for LAS. LAS is the workhorse surfactant in a vast array of cleaning products, including:

  • Laundry Detergents: Powder, liquid, and pods rely on LAS for effective stain removal and fabric care.
  • Dishwashing Liquids: LAS provides the necessary grease-cutting and foaming properties for efficient handwashing of dishes.
  • Household Cleaners: All-purpose cleaners, floor cleaners, and surface cleaners benefit from LAS's broad cleaning capabilities.
  • Industrial and Institutional Cleaners: Heavy-duty cleaning applications also utilize LAS for its robust performance.

Beyond LAS production, LAB finds applications in personal care products and as a chemical intermediate in other industries, underscoring its versatility.

Sourcing LAB: What Buyers Need to Consider

When looking to buy LAB, consider these factors:

  • Supplier Reliability: Partner with established manufacturers with a proven track record and strong quality control systems.
  • Pricing and Value: Obtain competitive prices, especially for bulk orders, without compromising on quality.
  • Supply Chain Efficiency: Ensure the supplier can guarantee timely delivery and manage logistics effectively.

We are a premier manufacturer and supplier of Linear Alkyl Benzene, dedicated to offering superior products at competitive prices. Our commitment to quality and reliability makes us your ideal partner for securing this essential detergent raw material. Purchase your LAB from us and enhance your product's performance.