Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: Anionic Surfactant and Wetting Agent
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS, sodium dodecyl sulfate) is an anionic surfactant with strong wetting, emulsifying, and solubilising properties. In pharmaceutical formulation, it is used as a tablet lubricant enhancer, a wetting agent to improve dissolution of hydrophobic drugs, and an emulsifier. It is also one of the most common surfactants in personal care products, providing foaming action in toothpastes, shampoos, and cleansers.
Product Profile
| CAS Number | 151-21-3 |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₁₂H₂₅NaO₄S |
| Appearance | White to cream-coloured powder or crystals |
| Function | Surfactant / wetting agent / emulsifier / tablet lubricant enhancer |
| Typical Use Level | 0.5–2.0% in tablets; 1–3% in capsule fills; 10–30% in cleansing products |
| Compendial Grade | EP / USP-NF |
Formulation Applications
In tablet formulations, SLS is often added at 0.5–2% to counteract the hydrophobic barrier created by magnesium stearate, improving disintegration and dissolution. It is routinely included in capsule formulations of poorly wettable drugs (e.g., certain NSAIDs) to ensure rapid drug release. In emulsion-based systems, it stabilises oil-in-water emulsions and microemulsions. For dissolution testing, SLS is widely used as a biorelevant medium additive (typically at 0.5–2%) to simulate surfactant conditions in the GI tract. In personal care, it is the primary foaming agent in shampoos and body washes.
Why Source from TCS
TCS supplies Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in pharmaceutical and technical grades to formulators across Europe. Available in standard packaging with flexible quantities for R&D through production scale. Contact us with your application and volume requirements.
FAQ
What information should be included in an inquiry for Sodium Lauryl Sulfate -151-21-3?
A useful inquiry normally includes the product name, target application, estimated quantity, destination market, and any specific documentation or packaging requests.
How is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate -151-21-3 usually evaluated for sourcing?
This product is positioned for excipient sourcing where formulation fit, dosage form, handling, and repeat purchasing requirements need to be reviewed together with commercial supply conditions.
What documentation and commercial points are commonly reviewed before buying Sodium Lauryl Sulfate -151-21-3?
For excipient sourcing, teams usually discuss the intended dosage form, formulation role, packaging format, order volume, and the routine documentation needed for qualification and purchasing.
Request a Quote
If your team already has a target application, estimated quantity, destination market, or documentation requirements, send those details so the commercial response can be prepared more efficiently.