What is Sodium Laureth Ether Sulfate (SLES)?

Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES) is a versatile anionic surfactant widely used in industrial, cosmetic, and household applications. Known for its exceptional foaming, emulsifying, and cleansing properties, SLES is a key ingredient in detergents, personal care products, and specialty chemicals. As a cost-effective and high-performance compound, Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate offers excellent compatibility with other additives, making it a staple in formulations requiring stability and efficacy.

Properties of Sodium Laureth Ether Sulfate (SLES)

Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate is chemically represented as CH3(CH2)10CH2(OCH2CH2)nOSO3Na, where n denotes the number of ethylene oxide units. Key physical characteristics include:

• Appearance: Clear to pale yellow viscous liquid
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water
• pH (1% solution): 7–10
• Viscosity: Adjustable based on concentration and ethoxylation degree
• Active Matter: Typically 28% to 70%

Its anionic nature allows Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate to interact effectively with oils and dirt, enabling superior cleaning performance.

Grades of Sodium Laureth Ether Sulfate (SLES)

Grades and Concentrations

Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate is available in multiple grades tailored to industrial needs:

• SLES 70%: High-concentration grade ideal for detergent manufacturing, reducing shipping costs.
• SLES 60%: Balanced viscosity for cosmetics like shampoos and shower gels.
• SLES 28%: Low-irritancy option for sensitive skincare products.

Selecting the appropriate grade depends on application requirements, solubility needs, and regional regulatory standards.

SLES Application and Usage

Personal Care Applications

1. Shampoos: Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate is a key ingredient in shampoos, offering rich lather and effective removal of dirt, oil, and product buildup.
2. Body Washes: Its mild cleansing action and foaming properties make SLES ideal for body washes.
3. Bubble Baths: Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate creates abundant foam, enhancing the bathing experience.
4. Facial Cleansers: While less common, SLES is used in facial cleansers for its ability to cleanse without over-drying.
5. Toothpaste: Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate helps form foam in toothpaste, though its use is debated due to potential gum irritation.

Household Cleaning Applications

1. Dish Detergents: SLES effectively breaks down grease, making it a staple in dishwashing liquids.
2. Laundry Detergents: Their surfactant properties help remove dirt and stains from fabrics.
3. Floor Cleaners: SLES is used in floor cleaners for its ability to remove dirt, grime, and bacteria.
4. All-Purpose Cleaners: Its versatility makes SLES a common ingredient in multi-surface cleaners.

Industrial Applications

1. Textile Processing: SLES is used to clean and scour fabrics without compromising their quality.
2. Oilfield Chemicals: It serves as a surfactant in drilling fluids and demulsifiers, improving oil-water separation.

Benefits of SLES

• Excellent Foaming: SLES produces a rich and abundant lather, enhancing the cleaning experience.
• Effective Cleaning: Its surfactant properties help remove dirt, grease, and oil from surfaces.
• Emulsifying Properties: SLES can help stabilize emulsions, such as those found in some personal care products.
• Biodegradable: SLES is generally considered biodegradable, making it environmentally friendly.
• Cost-Effective: It’s a relatively inexpensive surfactant compared to some others.

Production Process of SLES

 

The synthesis of Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate involves two primary steps:

1. Ethoxylation: Lauryl alcohol reacts with ethylene oxide to form lauryl ethoxylate.
2. Sulfonation: The ethoxylated alcohol is sulfated using sulfur trioxide, then neutralized with sodium hydroxide.

This process ensures consistent quality and customizable ethoxylation levels for diverse applications.

Packing of SLES

ZÜMRÜT International Kimya Co. supplies Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate in:

• IBC Totes (1,000–1,200 kg)
• HDPE Drums (200–250 kg)

Storage Guidelines:

• Keep containers sealed in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 40°C or direct sunlight.
• Shelf life: 12 months when stored correctly.

Safety of SLES

PPE: Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing to prevent skin/eye contact.

Ventilation: Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of vapors.

Spill Management: Contain spills with inert absorbents; rinse residues with water.

First Aid: Flush affected areas with water; seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Conclusion

Sodium Laureth Ether Sulfate (SLES) is a versatile and widely used surfactant known for its excellent foaming, cleansing, and emulsifying properties. Its affordability, effectiveness, and compatibility with other ingredients make it a popular choice in personal care, household cleaning, and industrial applications. By understanding its properties, grades, and safety considerations, manufacturers and consumers alike can make informed decisions about its use. Whether in shampoos, detergents, or industrial cleaners, SLES continues to play a vital role in modern formulations.

TECHNICAL DATA SHEET OF SODIUM LAURYL ETHER SULFATE