Sodium Xylene Sulfonate, also known as SXS, is a versatile chemical compound widely used in various industries. In this article, we will explore the properties, benefits, applications, safety considerations and environmental impact of sodium xylene sulfonate.
It is a sulfonated hydrotrope that enhances solubility of surfactants and improves the utilization of optimal amounts of surfactants in the formula. It is used in various industries as an emulsifying agent, hydrotrope, solvent, and anti-cake agent. It also acts as a coupling agent, moisturizer, and gentle anti- grease.
Its primary function in these products is as a hydrotrope. As a hydrotrope, it plays a role in increasing the solubility of other ingredients, particularly in water-based formulations.
Sodium Xylene Sulfonate is also useful in reducing the cloud point (the temperature above which an aqueous solution of a water-soluble substance becomes cloudy) of aqueous products or crystallization temperature of complex blends. It is compatible with a wide range of other ingredients and additives. This product is readily biodegradable.
Applications of Sodium Xylene Sulfonate:
The formulator must therefore include multiple ingredients to achieve an effective level of detergency, wetting, and emulsification for their product. The result is a complex and oftentimes costly formulation. To combat this problem, multifunctional hydrotrope can be utilized, as they are highly effective and also contribute wetting, detergency, and in many cases corrosion inhibition. It is used in different industries such as detergents and cleansing products, personal care products, metalworking, water treatment, paper industry, paints, coatings and adhesives.
Cleansers and detergents: Sodium Xylene Sulfonate is a component in a variety of widely used shampoos and liquid household detergents. In shampoos, because of its ability to serve as a wetting agent that helps a formula spread more easily. SXS enhances the cleaning efficiency by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate and remove dirt and grease effectively.
Metalworking: Sodium Xylene Sulfonate is used for cleaning and preparation of metal surfaces, as it effectively dissolves grease and prevents the aggregation of fine particles into larger particles and their deposition on the surface.
Water treatment: Sodium Xylene Sulfonate is used to bind hydrogen sulfide (a rotten egg smelling compound). It is commonly used in waste water treatment.
Paper industry: It is used to extract pentosans and lignin in the paper industry.
Other applications: Sodium Xylene Sulfonate can serve as an effective additive for glues and adhesives. It is used in degreasing compounds and printing pastes used in the textile industry.
Safety and Environmental Impact:
Sodium Xylene Sulfonate is generally considered safe for use in consumer products when used as directed. It has a low toxicity profile and is not known to cause significant skin or eye irritation at typical usage levels. However, as with any chemical, it is essential to handle it with care and follow safety guidelines to avoid any potential risks.
From an environmental perspective, SXS is biodegradable and does not accumulate in the environment. It meets the criteria set by various environmental agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), for safe use in cleaning products. It has been found to have minimal impact on the survival and reproduction of fish and other aquatic animals.
|
Effect Assessment |
Result |
| Acute Toxicity
Oral / inhalation / dermal |
Low toxicity |
| Irritation / corrosion
Skin / eye / respiratory test |
Not irritating to the skin
Moderately irritating to the eyes No anticipated to cause skin sensitization |
| Genotoxicity / Mutagenicity | Neither mutagenic or genotoxic |
| Carcinogenicity | No carcinogenic effects expected |
| Toxicity after repeated exposure
Oral / inhalation / dermal |
Does not cause significant toxicity to internal
organs after repeated exposure in animal studies by oral or dermal route |
Conclusion
Sodium xylene sulfonate is a versatile and environmentally friendly chemical with a wide range of applications in various industries. Its excellent coupling agent, and hydrotropic properties make it an essential component in cleaning products, personal care items, textiles, and industrial applications. As the world continues to seek sustainable solutions, sodium xylene sulfonate will play a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact of various industries.
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