Reference source : BIS
On 15 July 2026, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) issued a wide circulation draft for the Second Revision of Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (Acid Slurry) Specification, prepared by the Soaps, Detergents and Surface-Active Agents Technical Committee (CHD 25).
The proposed revision updates IS 8401:1994, which specifies the requirements for Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (Acid Slurry), a key raw material used in the manufacture of detergents and cleaning products. The revised draft seeks to align the standard with current industry practices and quality requirements.
Comments and suggestions from stakeholders are invited until 13 September 2026.
Background
Linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid (acid slurry) CAS 68584-22-5, produced from alkyl benzene, is a key raw material in the manufacture of synthetic detergents. It is widely used in household and industrial cleaning products, either alone or in combination with other surface-active agents.
Scope
This standard prescribes requirements and methods of sampling and test for linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid (acid slurry).
The draft classifies Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (Acid Slurry) into two types based on active matter content:
The material shall be in the form of a homogeneous viscous liquid, easily pourable and shall not separate into two layers. When neutralized with alkali, it shall form a paste ranging from white to cream in colour.
The material shall comply with the requirements as specified in below Table;
|
Sl. No. |
Characteristic |
Type 1 |
Type 2 |
|
i) |
Active matter as alkyl benzene sulphonic acid, % by mass (Min)
|
95.0 |
85.0 |
|
ii) |
Free alkyl benzene, % by mass (Max)
|
2.0 |
2.0 |
|
iii) |
Free sulphuric acid, % by mass (Max)
|
2.0 |
9.0 |
|
iv) a) |
Colour of 10% alcohol solution (mass by mass) in ¼-inch cell on Lovibond Tintometer, not darker than
|
5 Y + 1 R |
3 Y + 0.5 R |
|
iv) b) |
Colour of solution in distilled water containing 5% active matter on Klett Colorimeter, Max (Klett units) |
950 |
700 |
Packing and Marking