A NOVEL DIANIONIC SURFACTANT FROM THE REACTION OF C-14 ALKENYLSUCCINIC ANHYDRIDE WITH SODIUM ISETHIONATE

A novel derivative of alkenylsuccinic anhydride has been developed. Wh en the anhydride is opened with sodium isethionate, a difunctional sur factant, alkenyl carboxysulfonate (ACS), is produced. This product has a unique combination of properties: moderate foaming, effective deter gency, as well as the capability to function as a hydrotrope and as a co-builder in formulated cleaning systems. This paper briefly reviews some past studies with ACS. The utility of ACS in hard-surface cleanin g is also examined, especially the capacity of this molecule to act bo th as a low-streaking surfactant and a hydrotrope. This combined funct ion should allow formulators to diminish or eliminate volatile solvent s in a variety of cleaning products. ACS has shown merit as an agent t o reduce soil redeposition in three different heavy-duty liquid formul ations. Additionally, heavy-duty liquid detergents containing ACS can be formulated to high surfactant and organic builder levels.