Question 1

What is LABSA and how is it used in detergent manufacturing in Oman?

Accepted Answer

LABSA (Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid, CAS 68584-22-5) is the world's most widely used synthetic surfactant and the primary raw material for manufacturing household and industrial detergents. In Oman's detergent production sector and soap manufacturing industry, LABSA is neutralised with sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) or triethanolamine to produce the corresponding sulphonate salt, which is the active cleaning ingredient in laundry powders, dishwashing liquids, floor cleaners, and industrial detergents. The resulting linear alkyl benzene sulphonate (LAS) provides excellent hard-surface cleaning, high foam generation, and good compatibility with other surfactants. LABSA at 96% active content is the standard commercial grade — it must be handled and stored above 10°C as it solidifies below this temperature, which is occasionally relevant in Oman's winter months in interior regions. LABSA is readily biodegradable (>90% in 28 days), making LAS-based detergents preferred over branched-chain surfactants from an environmental perspective. Global Chemicals LLC supplies LABSA in drums, IBCs, and bulk tankers for Oman's detergent manufacturers.

Question 2

What is the correct ratio of LABSA to caustic soda for making liquid detergent?

Accepted Answer

The neutralisation ratio of LABSA to caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) depends on the specific LABSA active content and the desired sulphonate concentration. For LABSA at 96% active content (the standard commercial grade), the stoichiometric ratio is approximately 2.2 kg of 98% caustic soda flakes per 10 kg of LABSA to achieve complete neutralisation to sodium linear alkyl benzene sulphonate (SLAS) at pH 7–9. In practice, a slight excess of caustic soda (5–10% over stoichiometric) is used to ensure complete neutralisation and produce a slightly alkaline final product (pH 9–10), which improves cleaning performance and product stability. The neutralisation reaction is exothermic — in Oman's ambient temperatures, the heat generated can raise the temperature to 50–60°C; mixing should be done in a vessel with water cooling capability. For liquid detergent formulation at 15% active content, the LABSA-caustic paste is diluted with water and other ingredients (SLES co-surfactant, salt for viscosity, fragrance, preservative). Global Chemicals LLC provides LABSA with technical support for detergent formulation.

LABSA

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