Quick Answer — LABSA 90% (Sulphonic Acid) for Liquid Soap & Detergent Making
Sulphonic Acid / LABSA 90% is an industrial-grade viscous brown liquid formulated for surfactants & detergent chemicals applications. KIKI'S Industrial Chemicals supplies commercial volumes from Nairobi to manufacturers and processing facilities across Kenya and the East African region.
Sulphonic Acid / LABSA 90% is a commercial chemical supplied by KIKI'S Industrial Chemicals for industrial manufacturing in Kenya and East Africa.
•Supply Reach: Kenya and East Africa (Dispatched 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 Chemicals
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
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
Nairobi Commercial Hub, Kenya Nationwide Delivery, East Africa Regional Supply
Order together with Caustic Soda Flakes 99% or Soda Ash for complete neutralization in liquid soap batching.
Facility hygiene in commercial bakeries, beverage bottling lines, hospitals, and hospitality properties across Kenya is a critical defense line against microbial contamination and regulatory closure. KIKI'S supplies technical surfactants, descalers, and hospital-grade sanitizers that deliver verifiable hygiene standards.
In manufacturing clusters across Nairobi, Athi River, and Baba Dogo, continuous production depends on reliable supply of process chemicals, boiler water conditioners, and high-flashpoint cleaning solvents. A production stoppage caused by boiler scale or a missing raw material costs millions of shillings per hour. KIKI'S provides the reliable chemical supply that keeps Kenyan manufacturing plants operating at peak output.
manufacturing facilities served across East Africa:200+
•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.
• 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.