Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate
[CAS# 126-92-1]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Carboxylic compounds and derivatives >> Salt of carboxylic acid ester and its derivatives
• Name: Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate
• Synonyms: 2-Ethylhexyl sulfate sodium salt; TC-EHS
• Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₇NaO₄S
• Molecular Weight: 232.27
• CAS Registry Number: 126-92-1
• EC Number: 204-812-8
• SMILES: CCCCC(CC)COS(=O)(=O)[O-].[Na+]

Properties

• Density: 1.12 (50% aq.)
• Water solubility: >=10 g/100 mL at 20 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H315-H318
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P280-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P305+P354+P338-P317-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Flammable solids	Flam. Sol.	1	H228
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	1	H330

Discovery and Applications

Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is an organic compound widely used as a surfactant in various industrial applications. It is a member of the sulfate ester family, where the 2-ethylhexyl group is attached to a sulfate moiety. The compound was first synthesized and characterized in the mid-20th century, as part of the broader development of surfactants and emulsifiers for industrial use. Its discovery marked an advancement in the field of chemical engineering, particularly in improving the efficiency and versatility of surfactants.

One of the principal applications of Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is in the formulation of cleaning products. It is utilized in a variety of detergents and degreasers due to its excellent ability to lower the surface tension between liquids and solids. This makes it effective in breaking down oils, fats, and other substances that are difficult to clean. Its performance in both hard and soft water conditions further enhances its utility in domestic and industrial cleaning products.

In addition to its use in cleaning agents, Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is employed in the production of personal care products. It acts as an emulsifying agent in shampoos, conditioners, and body washes, where it helps to stabilize and blend oil and water-based ingredients. The compound’s surfactant properties contribute to the effective cleansing and foaming characteristics of these personal care products, improving their overall performance and user experience.

The compound is also used in various industrial processes, including the manufacture of adhesives, paints, and coatings. In these applications, Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate serves as a dispersing agent, aiding in the even distribution of pigments and other solid components throughout the product. This results in a more uniform application and enhanced performance of the final product.

Despite its widespread use, the environmental and health impacts of Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate are subject to ongoing research. The compound is generally considered safe when used in accordance with established guidelines, but there is a continuous effort to assess its effects and to develop safer alternatives where possible.

References

1965. Kinetic studies of detergency. III. Dependence of the Dupre mechanism on surface tension. Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society, 42(6).
DOI: 10.1007/bf02540100

2017. Occurrence of multi-class surfactants in urban wastewater: contribution of a healthcare facility to the pollution transported into the sewerage system. Environmental science and pollution research international, 24(33).
DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0470-8

2017. Electrochemical Reactions of Sodium 2-Ethylhexyl Sulfate Salt. Electrocatalysis, 8(3).
DOI: 10.1007/s12678-017-0356-z