Why is LABSA essential for making liquid soap?

LABSA provides high foaming, aggressive grease emulsification, and soil removal power. Neutralized with caustic soda, it forms the active cleaning core of liquid soap.

How do you neutralize LABSA for liquid soap making?

LABSA is acidic (pH ~1.5). It is mixed with water and neutralized with Caustic Soda (NaOH) solution until the pH reaches neutral 7.0.

What happens if liquid soap made with LABSA is too acidic or alkaline?

Un-neutralized acidic soap burns skin, while over-alkaline soap irritates skin. Always test with pH strips or a meter to achieve a skin-safe pH 6.5 - 7.5.

Where can I buy LABSA 90% in 215kg drums in Nairobi?

Kiki's Industrial Chemicals stocks LABSA 90% in 215kg drums and 1,000kg IBCs at our main warehouse in Nairobi Industrial Area.

Is LABSA 90% biodegradable?

Yes, Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid has a linear carbon chain that is readily biodegradable by environmental bacteria.

What is the difference between LABSA 90% and LABSA 96%?

LABSA 90% contains 90% active matter (standard for liquid soap making), whereas LABSA 96% is ultra-concentrated (96% active matter) for large commercial powder plants.

What safety equipment (PPE) is needed when handling LABSA?

LABSA is a strong organic acid. Wear acid-resistant rubber gloves, safety goggles, apron, and rubber boots when pouring.

How should LABSA plastic drums be stored?

Store in original sealed plastic drums in a cool, dry warehouse out of direct sunlight.

Do you supply complete liquid soap making chemical kits in Kenya?

Yes, we supply complete raw material bundles: LABSA 90%, Caustic Soda, SLES 70%, CDEA 86%, Industrial Salt, Fragrance, and Color.

What packaging sizes are available for LABSA?

We supply LABSA 90% in 215kg plastic drums and 1,000kg IBC totes.

Do you ship LABSA to Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda?

Yes, we export LABSA drums to soap and detergent makers across the East African region.

Why is LABSA essential for making liquid soap?

LABSA provides high foaming, aggressive grease emulsification, and soil removal power. Neutralized with caustic soda, it forms the active cleaning core of liquid soap.

How do you neutralize LABSA for liquid soap making?

LABSA is acidic (pH ~1.5). It is mixed with water and neutralized with Caustic Soda (NaOH) solution until the pH reaches neutral 7.0.

What happens if liquid soap made with LABSA is too acidic or alkaline?

Un-neutralized acidic soap burns skin, while over-alkaline soap irritates skin. Always test with pH strips or a meter to achieve a skin-safe pH 6.5 - 7.5.

Where can I buy LABSA 90% in 215kg drums in Nairobi?

Kiki's Industrial Chemicals stocks LABSA 90% in 215kg drums and 1,000kg IBCs at our main warehouse in Nairobi Industrial Area.

Is LABSA 90% biodegradable?

Yes, Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid has a linear carbon chain that is readily biodegradable by environmental bacteria.

What is the difference between LABSA 90% and LABSA 96%?

LABSA 90% contains 90% active matter (standard for liquid soap making), whereas LABSA 96% is ultra-concentrated (96% active matter) for large commercial powder plants.

What safety equipment (PPE) is needed when handling LABSA?

LABSA is a strong organic acid. Wear acid-resistant rubber gloves, safety goggles, apron, and rubber boots when pouring.

How should LABSA plastic drums be stored?

Store in original sealed plastic drums in a cool, dry warehouse out of direct sunlight.

Do you supply complete liquid soap making chemical kits in Kenya?

Yes, we supply complete raw material bundles: LABSA 90%, Caustic Soda, SLES 70%, CDEA 86%, Industrial Salt, Fragrance, and Color.

What packaging sizes are available for LABSA?

We supply LABSA 90% in 215kg plastic drums and 1,000kg IBC totes.

Do you ship LABSA to Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda?

Yes, we export LABSA drums to soap and detergent makers across the East African region.

Quick Answer — LABSA 90% (Sulphonic Acid) for Liquid Soap & Detergent Making

LABSA 90% (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid) is the core anionic surfactant chemical used across Kenya for manufacturing liquid hand soap, dishwashing liquids, multi-purpose cleaners, and detergent washing powders.

Key Facts

•Active Matter Assay: ≥ 90.0% min | Form: Viscous Dark Brown Amber Fluid
•CAS Number: 27176-87-0 | Primary active foaming & cleaning surfactant
•Neutralizes readily with Caustic Soda Flakes to form high-foaming sodium sulfonate
•The single most important chemical ingredient for making commercial liquid soap
•Supplied in 215kg Sealed Plastic Drums & 1,000kg IBCs from Nairobi Warehouse

Primary Use Cases

Core active surfactant in manufacturing liquid hand soap, dishwashing liquid & multi-purpose cleanersPrimary active ingredient in formulated washing powders & commercial laundry detergentsIndustrial degreasing surfactant for heavy vehicle washes & factory floor cleaners

Surfactants & Detergent ChemicalsOut of Stock

LABSA 90% (Sulphonic Acid) for Liquid Soap & Detergent Making

Product Code: KIC-SUR-001

Also known as: LABSA 90%, Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid, Sulphonic Acid

Synonyms: Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid, Laurylbenzene Sulfonic Acid, Anionic Surfactant Acid Base

Premium Linear Alkylbenzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA 90%) anionic surfactant for liquid detergent, washing powder, and cleaning formulations in Kenya.

CAS Number: 27176-87-0
Formula: C18H30O3S
IUPAC Name: 4-Dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid
Molecular Weight: 326.49 g/mol
EC Number: 248-289-4
UN Number: 2586
Chemical Family: Organic Sulfonic Acids
Grade: Detergent / Industrial Surfactant Grade
Purity: 90.0% min Active Matter
Physical Form: Viscous Brown Liquid

Available Packaging

215kg Blue HDPE Plastic Drum1,050kg IBC Tote

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Product Overview

Sulphonic Acid (LABSA 90%) is the foundational anionic surfactant used in the detergent industry. When neutralized with alkalis such as Caustic Soda (NaOH) or Soda Ash, it converts into Sodium Alkylbenzene Sulfonate, providing powerful detergency, high foaming, grease emulsification, and stain removal.

Technical Description

Dark brown viscous liquid produced via continuous sulfonation of linear alkylbenzene (LAB) with sulfur trioxide. High active content (96% active sulfonic acid, ~90% min active matter specification) with low free oil and low free sulfuric acid to maximize detergent clarity.

Complete Chemical Specifications

Active Matter (LABSA): 90.0% min (typically 96.0%)
Free Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4): 1.5% max
Free Oil (Unsulfonated Matter): 1.5% max
Color (Klett, 5% active sol): 50 max
Water Content: 1.0% max
Specific Gravity (20°C): 1.050 – 1.070

Physical & Chemical Properties

Appearance: Dark brown viscous liquid
Odour: Pungent, characteristic acidic sulfur smell
pH: < 1.0 (highly acidic)
Density: 1.05–1.07 g/cm³ at 20°C
Boiling Point: > 300 °C
Melting Point: 10 °C
Solubility: Completely soluble in water

Commercial Availability

Stock Status: In Stock
Lead Time: Immediate dispatch in Nairobi; 1-3 days regional delivery
MOQ: 215 kg (1 Plastic Drum)
Delivery Regions: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC

Order together with Caustic Soda Flakes 99% or Soda Ash for complete neutralization in liquid soap batching.

Suitable Applications

Liquid Detergent Manufacturing Anionic Surfactant Formulation

Target Industries

Chemical Raw Materials for Detergent, Soap & Cleaning Product Manufacturing in Kenya Industrial Chemicals for Manufacturing & Chemical Blending in Kenya

Use Cases

•Multi-purpose liquid detergent and dishwashing liquid production
•Washing powder (detergent powder) dry-mix & spray-drying
•Industrial degreaser and heavy-duty surface cleaner formulation
•Car wash shampoo and commercial laundry detergent synthesis

Storage Guidelines

Store in plastic-lined drums, HDPE containers, or stainless steel tanks. Protect from freezing (pour point ~10°C). Avoid direct contact with mild steel or carbon steel due to acidity.

Handling Advisory

DANGER: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage. Harmful if swallowed. Wear rubber apron, chemical face shield, and heavy-duty nitrile/butyl gloves when pouring or mixing.

Safety & Chemical Handling Advisory

Safety Advisory

Eye Contact: Immediately flush eyes with running water for 20+ mins. Skin: Remove contaminated clothing and drench skin with water. Swallowed: Do NOT induce vomiting; drink milk or water and seek immediate medical attention.

GHS:Skin Corrosion Cat 1C, Serious Eye Damage Cat 1, Acute Toxicity (Oral) Cat 4

Signal Word:DANGER

Transport:UN 2586, Class 8 (Corrosive Liquid), PG III

Packing Group:Packing Group III

Hazard Statements

• H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
• H302: Harmful if swallowed
• H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects

Precautionary Statements

• P280: Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection
• P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
• P310: Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor

PPE Requirements

Nitrile / Neoprene Heavy Duty GlovesFull Face Shield & Splash GogglesAcid-Resistant Rubber Apron & Boots

COMMERCIAL & TECHNICAL GUIDANCE

Frequently Asked Questions — LABSA 90% (Sulphonic Acid) for Liquid Soap & Detergent Making

Technical, regulatory, and supply guidance for LABSA 90% (Sulphonic Acid) for Liquid Soap & Detergent Making.

LABSA 90% is the core surfactant chemical used in Kenya to manufacture liquid hand soaps, dishwashing liquids, washing powders, and industrial degreasers.

Alternative Products

Cocodiethanolamine / CDEA 86%

Complementary Products

Caustic Soda Flakes 99%Cocodiethanolamine / CDEA 86%

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