Linear Alkyl Benzene(LAB)

❓ What is the difference between LAB and LABSA?

LAB (Linear Alkyl Benzene) is the raw material, while LABSA (Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulfonic Acid) is produced by sulfonating LAB with SO₃ or oleum. LABSA is then neutralized with NaOH to form LAS (Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulfonate) - the actual surfactant used in detergent formulations.

Production Chain: LAB → LABSA (sulfonation) → LAS (neutralization) → Detergent

❓ Why is high linearity important for LAB?

High linearity (≥92%) ensures the final LAS surfactant is readily biodegradable, meeting EU REACH and Japanese environmental standards. In the 1960s, branched alkyl benzene caused persistent foam pollution in rivers and waterways. Linear structures solved this environmental problem and became the global standard.

❓ What does sulfonatability mean and why does it matter?

Sulfonatability (≥99%) indicates the percentage of LAB that converts to LABSA during the sulfonation process. Higher sulfonatability means:

• Less unreacted LAB waste

• Lower production costs

• Higher quality LABSA output

• Better overall process efficiency

❓ What is the role of 2-Phenyl Isomer content?

The 2-Phenyl Isomer content (15-20%) affects solubility and cleaning performance. Higher 2-phenyl content improves water solubility (better for liquid detergents), while balanced content provides optimal cleaning power for both liquid and powder formulations. Royalchem's LAB is optimized for versatile detergent applications.

❓ What packaging options are available for LAB?

Royalchem offers flexible packaging to suit different order sizes:

• Bulk: ISO Tank (20-22 MT), Flexibag, Bulk Vessel

• Drums: New Steel Drums

Contact us for customized packaging and shipping solutions.