| Abstract: | Light and heavy alkylated benzene accumulated as by-products during dodecyl benzene production were studied. The chemical structures of these by-products were established via various spectroscopy and chromatography techniques. Results showed their suitability for sulphonation and formulation of liquid surfactants. The light by-product, with its high eicosyl benzene content and likely orthosulphonation, was used satisfactorily to formulate wetting agents and emulsifiers. On the other hand, the heavy alkylated benzene was found to contain a high percentage of C12-C18 branched side chains. Surfactants formulated from it gave high detergency power and can be recommended for heavy duty applications. |
