A guide to DDBSA / LABSA, the highest-volume synthetic surfactant, its applications, grades, and how to source it in a tight market, from a US-based distributor.
DDBSA (dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, CAS 27176-87-0), also sold as LABSA, is an anionic surfactant supplied as an amber to brown liquid, typically 96% active. It is the primary detergent surfactant in liquid laundry, dish, and industrial cleaning products, and is also used in emulsifiers, oilfield fluids, textiles, and agrochemicals. Stratus Chemical supplies DDBSA with COA and SDS provided.
Dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DDBSA), commonly sold as linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid (LABSA), is an anionic surfactant supplied as an amber to brown viscous liquid, typically at 96% active (90% is also available). It is produced by sulfonating linear alkylbenzene (LAB), and it is the highest-volume synthetic surfactant in the world.
In most formulations DDBSA is neutralized with a base, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonia, or an amine, to form the corresponding sulfonate salt (LAS), which is the active detergent in the finished product.
In practice the names are used interchangeably. LABSA (linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid) describes the linear-chain product that dominates today's market because it biodegrades readily; DDBSA (dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid) names the same C12 alkylbenzene sulfonic acid chemistry. When buyers specify DDBSA 96%, they are generally specifying linear material. Confirm chain linearity and active content on the specification if biodegradability matters to your formulation.
DDBSA is supplied in technical and refined grades, most commonly at 96% active. It is a strong acid, corrosive, and hygroscopic, so it should be stored in compatible, sealed containers away from incompatible materials and handled with appropriate PPE. Consult the SDS before use. COA and SDS are provided with shipments.
The US surfactant market has been under sustained supply pressure through 2026, driven by feedstock cost inflation in linear alkylbenzene, constrained sulfuric acid and oleum availability, producer force majeure events, and disrupted import routes. Smaller and mid-size formulators are often the first to be cut when producers move to allocation.
If your current supply is constrained or on allocation, Stratus Chemical can work through a qualified domestic and international supplier network to secure material. Tell us your active content, volume, and packaging, and we will confirm availability, request a quote.
DDBSA (dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid) is an anionic surfactant used mainly in liquid detergents, dishwashing liquids, and industrial cleaners and degreasers. It is also used as an emulsifier, in oilfield drilling and stimulation fluids, as a textile dye-leveling agent, in agrochemical formulations, and as an acid catalyst.
In practice the terms are used interchangeably. LABSA (linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid) refers to the linear-chain material that dominates the market for biodegradability reasons, and DDBSA names the same C12 alkylbenzene sulfonic acid chemistry. Confirm linearity and active content on the specification if it matters to your formulation.
The CAS number for dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid is 27176-87-0.
DDBSA is most commonly supplied at 96% active, with 90% also available. Specify the active content you need when requesting a quote.
DDBSA is typically neutralized with sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonia, or an amine to form the corresponding alkylbenzene sulfonate salt (LAS), which is the active detergent in the finished formulation.
Stratus works through a qualified domestic and international supplier network to secure material when producers are on allocation. Share your active content, volume, and packaging needs and we will confirm current availability.
Tell us the grade, form, and volume. We'll respond with pricing and availability within one business day.
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