Linear Alkylbenzene (LAB) CAS 67774-74-7

Linear Alkylbenzene (LAB) – Key Intermediate for Anionic Surfactants and Detergents

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 67774-74-7

• Molecular Formula: C₆H₅–CₙH₂ₙ₊₁ (n typically 10–13)

• Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid

• Density: ~0.86–0.87 g/cm³ at 20°C

• Boiling Point: 280–310°C

• Flash Point: >100°C

• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents and oils

Overview
Linear alkylbenzene (LAB) is a family of organic compounds consisting of a benzene ring substituted with a linear (unbranched) alkyl chain. The alkyl chain length typically ranges from C₁₀ to C₁₃, with common commercial cuts including C₁₀–C₁₃, C₁₂–C₁₃, and C₁₂–C₁₅. LAB is primarily produced as an intermediate in the manufacture of linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid (LABSA), which is neutralized to produce linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) – the most widely used anionic surfactants in household and industrial detergents.

Applications

• Surfactant production: Sulfonated to produce LABSA, which is neutralized to form sodium, ammonium, or calcium salts of LAS – the workhorse surfactants in laundry powders, liquid detergents, dishwashing liquids, and hard surface cleaners.

• Household detergents: Powders, liquids, and tablets for laundry and dishwashing.

• Industrial cleaning: Formulations for textile processing, metal cleaning, and institutional cleaning.

• Emulsifiers and wetting agents: Used in various industrial and agricultural applications.

Key Benefits

• High detergency – excellent removal of oily and particulate soils.

• Synergistic effect with nonionic and other anionic surfactants – improves overall cleaning performance.

• Readily biodegradable – meets environmental standards for surfactant safety.

• Cost‑effective – balances performance and production costs.

• Stable and safe under normal handling conditions.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from strong oxidizers and acids.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent contamination and moisture ingress.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, protective clothing) when handling.

• Avoid skin contact and inhalation of vapors.

• In case of spillage, contain and absorb with inert material; dispose of according to local regulations.

Packaging
Available in ISO tanks, 200 L drums, and bulk quantities. Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for linearity, alkyl distribution, color, and bromine index to ensure consistent surfactant performance.