Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES)
Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) is an anionic surfactant primarily derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, used to reduce surface tension and enable effective cleaning and foaming.
Technical Specifications
Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) — Specifications, Uses & Availability
Product Overview
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Available Packaging Options
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About Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES)
Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) is an anionic surfactant primarily derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, used to reduce surface tension and enable effective cleaning and foaming. It is presented as a viscous, pale yellow to amber liquid suitable for industrial formulations. The typical industrial-grade SLES offered contains an active matter concentration of approximately 28-30%, facilitating consistent performance in detergent manufacturing. This chemical is supplied in 170kg drums and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), with bulk supply options available to accommodate various procurement scales. Buyers should note that SLES must be stored in cool, dry, and well-ventilated environments, separated from acids due to potential incompatibility. Handling precautions include avoiding exposure to temperatures exceeding 40°C to maintain its stability and effectiveness.
Why Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) Matters
In detergent and cleaning formulations, SLES provides efficient dirt removal by lowering water's surface tension, allowing formulation of products with high foam volume and stability. Its foaming and emulsifying properties contribute to the performance of shampoos, body washes, and industrial cleaners by enhancing cleaning action without excessive harshness on surfaces or skin. Additionally, the use of SLES helps manufacturers create products with improved sensory properties such as smooth texture and easy rinsing, essential for consumer acceptance and regulatory compliance in hygiene product manufacturing environments. Controlling the dosage, typically between 10-30% in formulations, is critical to optimizing cost and ensuring formulation stability.
Applications
Benefits
Features
Industries Served
Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) is supplied by Finstar to industrial buyers across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Read our chemical safety guides for handling best practices.
Delivery Coverage Across Kenya’s Counties
Finstar is a leading supplier of industrial chemicals across Kenya’s counties. Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES) is dispatched from our Nairobi Industrial Area warehouse to businesses nationwide — including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru counties — plus cross-border delivery to Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Towns we regularly supply include:
Delivering to a different town or county? Request a quote and our logistics team will confirm delivery timelines to your location.
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