2016-CH-403

2016-CH-418
Group 5 2016-CH-421
2016-CH-435
2016-CH-442

Project Advisor: Co-Advisor:

Sir Abdul Rehman Sir Khalid Mehmood
 Production of Linear Alkyl Benzene
Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) Via Sulphonation
of Linear Alkyl Benzene
What is LABSA?
• Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (sometimes also known as LABSA) is a
family of organic compounds with the formula (RC6H4SO3H).
• Average carbon number of alkane is about 12 (C12), so its also called dodecyl
benzene sulfonate.
• It is the largest-volume synthetic anionic surfactant with molecules
characterized by a hydrophobic and a hydrophilic group.
• Biodegradable

• W. Herman de Groot, Sulphonation Technology in detergent industry. 1st ed.

Kulwer Academic Publishers, 1991.
Properties of LABSA
Name Linear AlkylBenzene Sulphonic Acid
Chemical Formula C18H29S03H
Molecular Weight 326
Viscosity 0.6 Ns/m2
Appearance Amber viscous liquid
Specific Heat 1.6 KJ/Kg 0C
Heat Conductivity 0.13 W/ m 0C
Density 1045 Kg / m3

• W. Herman de Groot, Sulphonation Technology in detergent industry. 1st ed.

Kulwer Academic Publishers, 1991.
Scope of LABSA
• Raw material for detergents
• Emulsifier in Polymer industry
• Washing agent in textile industry
• Degreasing agent in leather industry
• De-coloring agent in paper industry
• In pesticides to improve quality of sprays
• Cleaning agent in household cleaners, Laundry products, Dishwashing etc.

• W. Herman de Groot, Sulphonation Technology in detergent industry. 1st ed.

Kulwer Academic Publishers, 1991.
Capacity Selection
• LABSA Import overall in the world
• 150,000 ton per anum
• LABSA manufacturing in Pakistan
• 100,000 ton per anum
Process Selection
• LABSA (Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid) is produced by the
sulphonation reaction of Alkyl Benzene with Sulphur trioxide (SO).
Some other processes might desire the use of Oleum or Sulphuric
acid. The final decision will depend on various factors which might
include the availability of raw material, location of the plant, the size
of the plant, operation mode of the plant, to mention a few.
Nevertheless, considering major factors such as cost, availability,
flexibility and safety, SO still remains the preferential reagent for the
reaction which is as shown on the flowsheet.
Process Flow Diagram
Thank You