Organosulfate
Organosulfates are a class of organic compounds sharing a common functional group commonly with the structure R-O-SO3−. The SO4 core is a sulfate group and the R group is any organic residue. All organosulfates are formally esters derived from alcohols and sulfuric acid, although many are not prepared in this way. Many sulfate esters are used in detergents, and some are useful reagents. Alkyl sulfates consist of a hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain, a polar sulfate group (containing an anion) and either a cation or amine to neutralize the sulfate group. Examples include: sodium lauryl sulfate (also known as sulfuric acid mono dodecyl ester sodium salt) and related potassium and ammonium salts.
Applications
Alkyl sulfates are commonly used as an anionic surfactant in liquid soaps, detergents to clean wool, surface cleaners, as active ingredients in laundry detergents, shampoos and conditioners. They can also be found in other household products such as toothpastes, antacids, cosmetics and foods. Generally they are found in consumer products at concentrations ranging from 3-20%. In 2003 approximately 118,000 t/a of alkyl sulfates were used in the U.S.
