Question

How is sodium laureth sulfate extraction?

Answer 1

Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), an accepted contraction of sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES), is an anionic detergent and surfactant found in many personal care products (soaps, shampoos, toothpaste etc.). SLES is an inexpensive and very effective foaming agent.[1] SLES, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS), and sodium pareth sulfate are surfactants that are used in many cosmetic products for their cleaning and emulsifying properties. They behave similarly to soap.

Its chemical formula is CH3(CH2)11(OCH2CH2)nOSO3Na. Sometimes the number represented by n is specified in the name, for example laureth-2 sulfate. The product is heterogeneous in the number of ethoxyl groups, where n is the mean. It is common for commercial products for n= 3.

Contents  [show] 

Production[edit]

SLES is prepared by ethoxylation of dodecyl alcohol. The resulting ethoxylate is converted to a half ester of sulfuric acid, which is neutralized by conversion to the sodium salt.[1] The related surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (also known as sodium dodecyl sulfate or SDS) is produced similarly, but without the ethoxylation step. SLS and ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS) are commonly used alternatives to SLES in consumer products.[1]

Answer 2

I would like to ask your knowledge and ideas on how to best extract Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) from various lotion and ointments. I have been using (pentane:ethyl acetate:ethanol 1.5:1:1) as an extraction buffer with pretty good recoveries. But I am considering to do a more simple approach such as a standard ethyl acetate wash, not sure if the pentane and ethanol need to be in the mix to pull out the surfactant. Our analysis method is HPLC-MS-MS.

Are there any other approaches or somebody with experience in this. For all that do not know SLS is an anionic surfactant, it is a 12 carbon tail attached to head sulfate group.

I would appreciate any comments, tips, or tricks.

Many Thanks