For professionals formulating detergents and cleaning products, understanding the nuanced specifications of raw materials like Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) is critical. LAB serves as the essential precursor for Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate (LAS), the most widely used surfactant globally. The quality of the LAB directly dictates the performance, stability, and efficacy of the final LAS product and, consequently, the detergent itself. As a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-grade LAB, we aim to provide clarity on these crucial specifications.

The Chemical Identity of Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB)

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB), often identified by its CAS number 67774-74-7, is an aromatic hydrocarbon consisting of a benzene ring attached to a linear alkyl chain, typically containing between 10 to 13 carbon atoms. This linear structure is the key differentiator from older, branched alkylbenzenes, enabling superior biodegradability of the derived LAS.

Key Specifications for Detergent-Grade LAB

When you buy LAB, pay close attention to the following technical parameters, which are meticulously controlled by reputable manufacturers:

• Appearance: Typically described as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid. Any significant deviation may indicate contamination or degradation.
• Sulfonability: This is perhaps the most critical specification, indicating the percentage of LAB that can be effectively converted into LAS. A minimum of 98.6% is often the benchmark for high-quality, detergent-grade LAB. Higher sulfonatability leads to higher active matter content in the final LAS product.
• Average Molecular Weight: Generally in the range of 238-244 g/mol, this parameter influences the final surfactant properties.
• Bromine Index: A low bromine index (e.g., ≤0.02 g Br/100g for superior grade) signifies minimal unsaturated impurities, which can affect stability and lead to undesirable side reactions during sulfonation.
• Density and Refractive Index: These physical properties are important for quality control and product identification, typically measured at 20°C.

These specifications are meticulously monitored during our production processes. As a dedicated supplier, we ensure that the LAB we provide enables formulators to achieve optimal LAS properties, such as excellent detergency and good foaming profiles.

Why Specifications Matter for Your Detergent Formulations

Adhering to these specifications when you purchase LAB ensures:

• Consistent LAS Quality: Predictable conversion rates and purity of LAS, leading to reliable performance in your detergents.
• Product Stability: Minimizing impurities prevents unwanted reactions and degradation over time.
• Cost Efficiency: Higher sulfonatability means more active surfactant is produced from the same amount of LAB, offering better value.

We are committed to providing formulators with the highest quality Linear Alkyl Benzene. By offering competitive prices and ensuring adherence to critical specifications, we help our clients create superior detergent products. Choose us as your trusted manufacturer and supplier for all your LAB needs.