Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES) is a versatile surfactant widely used in various industries, including personal care, household cleaning, and pharmaceuticals. It is available in below mentioned grades and concentrations to meet diverse application requirements.
Industrial Grade
Analytical Grade
Some manufacturers also offer “ultra-pure grades” of SLES. These grades exhibit higher levels of purity and lower levels of impurities, making them suitable for specific applications in the pharmaceutical industry. Ultra-pure SLES ensures compliance with stringent quality standards required for pharmaceutical formulations.
Concentrations of SLES
SLES concentration can be tailored by manufacturers according to customer requirements. However, it is commercially available in two primary concentrations:
SLES 28% Concentration Grade
This is a lower concentration typically used in formulations requiring a milder surfactant effect.
| Specification | Status |
| Appearance at 25°C | Pale straw pourable paste |
| Freezing point | 10°C |
| Active Matter | 28.0 ± 2.0 % |
| Unsulphated Matter (max) | 3.50% |
| Chloride ion (max) | 0.30% |
| Sodium Sulphate (max) | 1.50% |
| pH (2% solution) | 7.0~9.0 |
| 1,4-Dioxane (max) | 20 ppm |
| Active Matter | 70.00% |
| Unsulphated Matter | 2.00% |
| Sodium Sulphate | 1.00% |
| Chloride ion | 0.10% |
SLES 70% Concentration Grade
This higher concentration is favored for its potent surfactant properties, making it ideal for concentrated cleaning and personal care products.
| Specification | Status |
| Appearance at 25°C | Pale straw pourable paste |
| Freezing point | 10°C |
| Active Matter | 70.0 ± 2.0 % |
| Unsulphated Matter (max) | 3.50% |
| Chloride ion (max) | 0.30% |
| Sodium Sulphate (max) | 1.50% |
| pH (2% solution) | 7.0~9.0 |
| 1,4-Dioxane (max) | 20 ppm |
| Active Matter | 70.00% |
| Unsulphated Matter | 2.00% |
| Sodium Sulphate | 1.00% |
| Chloride ion | 0.10% |
The specifications of SLES also vary depending on the ethoxylation level. Ethoxylation refers to the number of ethoxy (EO) groups attached to the SLES molecule. The most commercially traded SLES typically has an ethoxylation level of 2 (SLES-2). This level balances performance and cost, making it widely accepted in the market.
