Electro Plating, High-Purity Solvents

2-Ethylhexylsulphate Sodium Salt (TC-EHS)

2-Ethylhexylsulphate Sodium Salt, identified by CAS number 126-92-1 and frequently referred to as TC-EHS, is a powerful anionic surfactant characterized by its exceptional low-foaming properties and high electrolyte stability. This specialty chemical serves as a critical wetting agent in numerous industrial processes where traditional surfactants might fail due to high alkalinity or concentrated salt environments. Structurally derived from 2-ethylhexanol and sulfuric acid, followed by neutralization with sodium hydroxide, it exhibits unique surface-active characteristics. Unlike many long-chain alkyl sulfates, TC-EHS provides rapid wetting and significant surface tension reduction without generating excessive stable foam, making it ideal for high-speed mechanical applications. It remains chemically stable across a broad pH spectrum, particularly under highly alkaline conditions found in metal cleaning and textile processing. Its solubility in concentrated solutions of electrolytes makes it indispensable for formulating industrial-strength cleaners, alkaline degreasers, and electroplating additives. This versatile compound ensures uniform surface coverage and improved penetration worldwide.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

High alkali stability ensures performance in concentrated caustic solutions.
Rapid wetting capabilities significantly reduce surface tension for immediate coverage.
Low-foaming profile prevents mechanical interference in high-pressure spray applications.
Excellent electrolyte tolerance allows use in brine and concentrated mineral acids.
Biodegradable nature meets stringent environmental regulations for industrial disposal.
Superior hydrotropic properties help solubilize other less soluble surfactants in complex formulations.
Chemical resistance to oxidation makes it suitable for bleaching processes.
Non-corrosive behavior protects sensitive metal substrates.
Efficient penetration enhances the removal of stubborn oily soils and industrial contaminants during cleaning processes now.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Chemical Formula: C8H17NaO4S with a molecular weight of approximately 232.27 g/mol.
Physical state: Clear, yellowish liquid with a characteristic mild odor.
Active content: Typically standardized at 40% to 50% aqueous solution for stability.
pH range: Maintains functionality within pH 2.0 to 12.0 without hydrolytic degradation.
Cloud point: Exhibits high thermal stability and remains clear in concentrated electrolytes.
Surface tension: Effectively reduces aqueous surface tension to below 30 mN/m at critical concentrations.
Density: Approximately 1.10 g/cm³ at room temperature.
Viscosity: Low dynamic viscosity ensures easy handling and rapid dilution in processing environments today now.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Metal finishing: Acts as a wetting agent in alkaline degreasing and pickling baths.
Textile industry: Enhances mercerization processes by ensuring deep penetration of caustic liquors.
Industrial cleaning: Formulation of high-pressure spray cleaners and hard surface degreasers.
Electroplating: Provides uniform wetting of metal surfaces to prevent pitting and uneven coating.
Agrochemicals: Functions as an adjuvant to improve the spreading and efficacy of herbicides.
Oil and gas: Used in secondary oil recovery and well stimulation fluids.
Firefighting: Component in aqueous film-forming foams for rapid spreading on liquid fuel fires across surfaces to ensure fast extinguishment completely.