Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES, sodium lauryl ether sulfate) is the ethoxylated anionic surfactant that forms the backbone of most shampoos, body washes, hand soaps and liquid cleaning products. PolyBlueChem supplies the standard 70% active grade, a white to yellowish paste used across personal care and household cleaning. CAS 9004-82-4 (also listed as 68585-34-2).
Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product | Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES, 2 EO) |
| Appearance | White to yellowish paste |
| Odour | Characteristic |
| Active matter | 70 ± 2% |
| Sodium sulfate | ≤ 2.0% max |
| Unsulfated matter | ≤ 3.0% max |
| pH value (25 °C) | 7.0 – 10.0 |
| Colour (5% A.M.), Hazen | ≤ 20 max |
Chemical Structure
SLES is a sodium salt of a sulfated fatty alcohol ethoxylate: R–(OCH2CH2)n–OSO3Na, where R is a C12–C14 (lauryl/myristyl) alkyl chain and n is the average degree of ethoxylation (the “N2EO” grade has about 2 ethylene oxide units). CAS 9004-82-4; also listed as 68585-34-2.
Applications
- Shampoos, body washes, hand soaps and bubble baths.
- Toothpaste and oral care surfactants.
- Liquid dish and laundry detergents.
- Industrial and institutional cleaners and surfactant blends.
Packaging and Storage
Supplied in 200 kg plastic drums or 1000 kg IBCs, or as agreed. Store in sealed, corrosion-resistant containers in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight; keep away from strong oxidisers. The 70% paste may thicken at low temperature and should be warmed and mixed before use.
FAQ
What is the CAS number of SLES? Sodium laureth sulfate is commonly listed as CAS 9004-82-4 (also 68585-34-2).
What does N2EO mean? It is the average degree of ethoxylation, about 2 ethylene oxide units per molecule.
Is SLES the same as SLS? No. SLES (laureth sulfate) is ethoxylated and generally milder than SLS (lauryl sulfate, CAS 151-21-3).
Further Information
For the full technical background, see Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): Properties, Production and Applications. To request current specifications, a COA or a quotation, contact the PolyBlueChem team.
