Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate
[CAS# 1847-58-1]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Carboxylic compounds and derivatives >> Salt of carboxylic acid ester and its derivatives
• Name: Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate
• Synonyms: Dodecyl sodium sulfoacetate; 2-Sulfoacetic acid dodecyl ester sodium salt; Sodium new houttuyfonate
• Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₂₇NaO₅S
• Molecular Weight: 330.41
• CAS Registry Number: 1847-58-1
• EC Number: 217-431-7
• SMILES: CCCCCCCCCCCCOC(=O)CS(=O)(=O)[O-].[Na+]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302-H312-H315-H318-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P354+P338-P317-P319-P321-P330-P332+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412

Discovery and Applications

Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is an organic compound commonly used as a surfactant and cleansing agent in personal care products, household cleaners, and industrial applications. It is a salt formed by the reaction of lauryl alcohol with sulfuric acid and sodium acetate, resulting in a compound that is both effective in reducing surface tension and gentle on the skin.

The discovery and development of sodium lauryl sulfoacetate can be traced to the need for milder alternatives to harsher surfactants, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which has been associated with skin irritation in some individuals. Researchers and manufacturers sought to develop a surfactant that could perform similar functions in cleaning and emulsifying but with a reduced potential for skin sensitivity. Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate was introduced as a mild alternative, combining effective foaming and cleansing properties with a more skin-friendly profile.

Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is primarily used in personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths. Its ability to create a rich lather and remove dirt, oils, and impurities makes it a valuable ingredient in many formulations. Unlike harsher sulfates, it tends to cause less irritation, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to conditions such as eczema or rosacea.

In addition to its use in personal care products, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is also found in household cleaning products, including dishwashing liquids and laundry detergents. Its ability to effectively reduce surface tension and emulsify oils makes it useful for breaking down grease and cleaning surfaces. Furthermore, it has applications in industrial settings where foaming or cleaning agents are required, such as in oil recovery processes or in the production of foamed plastics.

The key advantage of sodium lauryl sulfoacetate over other surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate is its gentleness. It has a similar chemical structure but is considered to be milder on the skin and less likely to strip the skin of natural oils. This characteristic makes it an appealing choice for formulations targeting sensitive skin or individuals with specific skin care needs.

Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is biodegradable and is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. Its mild nature, combined with its effectiveness, has made it a popular choice in the formulation of gentle, non-irritating cleansing products.

In summary, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is a versatile and effective surfactant used in a wide range of personal care and cleaning products. It was developed as a milder alternative to harsher surfactants, providing effective cleansing while minimizing the risk of skin irritation. Its applications span across personal care, household cleaning, and industrial uses, making it a valuable ingredient in many formulations.

References

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