27176-87-0

Chemical Composition and Structure

Dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3(CH2)11C6H4SO3H. It consists of a dodecyl (C12) alkyl chain attached to a benzene ring, with a sulfonic acid group (-SO3H) attached to the benzene ring.

Production Methods

DBSA is primarily synthesized through the sulfonation of dodecylbenzene (DDB), typically using sulfur trioxide (SO3) as a sulfonating agent in various reaction conditions. For example, DBSA can be synthesized by liquid-liquid sulfonation using concentrated sulfuric acid, silica sulfuric acid, or sulfuryl chloride as sulfonating agents in stirred tank reactors. Alternatively, liquid-gas sulfonation with sulfur trioxide diluted in air or nitrogen in falling-film reactors can also be employed.

Mechanism of Action

In the sulfonation process, DDB reacts with SO3 to form dodecyl-phenyl-pyrosulfuric acid as an intermediate, which then further reacts to produce DBSA. The formation and interaction of DBSA micelles in aqueous solutions are crucial for its surfactant properties and applications.

General Description

Dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid is a colorless liquid. Dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid is soluble in water. Dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid is corrosive to metals and tissue. Dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid is used to make detergents.

Air & Water Reactions

Soluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Dodecylbenzenesulphonic acid is corrosive. When heated to decomposition or on contact with strong acids produces highly toxic fumes of oxides of sulfur. The toxicity and hazards of individual alkylbenzene sulfonic acids must be assessed individually [Kirk-Othmer, 3rd ed., Vol. 22, 1978, p. 45].

Health Hazard

EYES AND SKIN: A 0.5% to 1% concentration in water caused significant irritation. The technical grade is corrosive and may cause irreversible damage to eyes and skin. INGESTION: Irritation of the mouth, esophagus and stomach. Diarrhea, intestinal distention and occasional vomiting.

Fire Hazard

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: May give off SO 3 , SO 2 and H 2 S

Flammability and Explosibility

Notclassified

Agricultural Uses

Insecticide, Adjuvant, Biocide: Dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid and its salts are used as degreasers in meat-cutting rooms. Also used as a laboratory chemical, to make detergents, and in electronically cleaning and pickling baths. Not listed for use in EU countries. Approved for use in the U.S. and other countries. There are 30 global suppliers.

Trade name

ACCOMPLISH?[C]; ACIDET?; ACIDISOL?; CALSOFT LAS 99?; E 7256?; ELFAN WA sulphonic acid?; NACCONOL 98 SA?; RHODACAL ABSA?