Linear alkyl benzene (LAB)
Linear alkyl benzene is a biodegradable chemical compound consisting of a benzene ring and an alkyl group attached to it. The alkyl group connected to LAB is a straight-chain organic hydrocarbon. In simple terms, this chemical compound comprises two parts: a linear alkyl chain and a benzene ring.
It is also an oily and colorless substance, belonging to the group of aromatic hydrocarbons. Under reaction conditions with SO3 and in the presence of sulfur, this substance is converted into sulfonic acid (LABSA), which is considered the main component of detergents. LAB is flammable but non-toxic. Its density ranges from 0.850 to 0.860 gr/cm3.
This chemical substance belongs to the group of aromatic hydrocarbons. Linear alkyl benzene is commonly known as LAB and is represented by the chemical formula C6H5CnH2n+1.
The term CnH2n+1 represents an unbranched chain primarily used as an intermediate for producing surfactants used in detergent formulations.
Typically, in the chemical formula of linear alkyl benzene, the value of n ranges from 10 to 16, and it is used in heavy cuts such as C12-C13, C12-C15, and C10-C13 for applications like liquid detergents, car wash shampoos, automotive cleaners, and personal care products.
For more accurate information regarding prices or purchasing the product, it is better to contact the sales department of Petro Nour Mehr Company.
Analysis of LAB grades
You can find the list of LAB products in the table below:
LAB Manufacturers Worldwide:
Some of the major manufacturers of linear this material worldwide include:
- Sasol: Based in South Africa, Sasol is one of the largest producers of LAB globally.
- CEPSA: This Spanish multinational oil and gas company is also a significant producer of this material.
These are just a few examples of this material manufacturers globally, and there are several other companies involved in the production of this material around the world.
Advantages and Disadvantages of LAB:
LAB, with the chemical formula C6H5NH2, is a vital chemical compound in various industries and offers significant advantages. This compound plays a crucial role in producing a wide range of chemical products, including dyes, plastics, resins, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, this material serves as a fundamental material for producing different colors and is widely used in the plastic industry. However, this material also has its drawbacks. For instance, its toxicity can harm the environment and the health of humans and animals. Moreover, the risk of explosion and combustion associated with LAB is a serious concern that requires careful handling. Therefore, responsible and intelligent use of this material, while adhering to safety protocols and environmental regulations, is necessary to leverage its advantages and mitigate its disadvantages.
Physical and Chemical Properties of LAB:
This material, which can include compounds like toluene, ethylbenzene, propylbenzene, etc., have unique physical and chemical properties. Some of these properties include:
- The melting and boiling points of this material vary depending on the type of alkyl group and the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl chain.
- The density of these compounds also varies depending on the type of alkyl group and the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl chain.
- One of the most important chemical properties of it is their ability to undergo reactions such as nitration, sulfonation, and alkylation, where alkyl groups or other groups are attached to the benzene molecule.
- This material can be derivatized through various chemical reactions, such as halogenation, alcoholysis, acidification, etc.
- This material, like pure benzene, are susceptible to oxidation, which can lead to the formation of carboxylic acids and other oxidized compounds.
In general, this material, as functional compounds in chemistry and various industries, possess important physical and chemical properties that are examined based on the specific type and intended use.
Comparison between LAB and HAB:
This material and heavy alkyl benzene are two types of chemical substances used in various industries, and they have significant differences in their properties and applications. It is a type of aromatic hydrocarbon produced from the reaction of benzene with linear alkylates such as polypropylene. This substance exists due to the linear structure of alkyl chains and exhibits different physical and chemical properties compared to heavy alkyl benzene.
On the other hand, heavy alkyl benzene (HAB) is a type of alkyl benzene produced in the alkylation process of ethylene with benzene. These compounds are primarily composed of high molecular weight alkyl chains and are used as main or by-products in the petroleum and petrochemical industries.
The fundamental differences between these two substances include molecular weight, thermal stability, viscosity, and applications. For example, this material is mainly used as a raw material for producing pharmaceuticals, detergents, and various types of motor oils, while heavy alkyl benzene is primarily used in the petroleum and gas industries, chemical industries, and plastic industries for producing raw materials and final products.
In the Iranian petrochemical industry, Bisotun Petrochemical and Iran chemical industries and other domestic factories are producers of this polymer material in Iran.
These units are among the largest LAB producers in Iran and play a significant role in supplying domestic needs and exporting this material to global markets.
Applications of LAB:
This material finds various applications across different industries due to its unique properties. Some of the key applications of LAB include:
- Detergent Industry: It is primarily used as a key raw material in the production of linear alkyl benzene sulfonic acid (LAS), which is a major surfactant used in the formulation of laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, household cleaners, and industrial cleaning products.
- Textile Industry: LAB-derived LAS is used in the textile industry as a wetting agent, detergent, and emulsifier in textile processing and finishing operations.
- Personal Care Products: LAB-derived LAS is also used in the formulation of personal care products such as shampoos, bath gels, hand soaps, and cosmetics as a foaming agent and cleansing agent.
- Industrial Cleaners and Degreasers: LAB-derived LAS is utilized in the manufacturing of industrial cleaners, degreasers, and solvent cleaners due to its excellent cleaning properties.
- Emulsions and Dispersions: LAB-based surfactants are used to stabilize emulsions and dispersions in various industries, including paints, coatings, adhesives, and agricultural chemicals.
- Oilfield Chemicals: LAB-derived surfactants are employed in the oil and gas industry for applications such as enhanced oil recovery, drilling fluids, and production chemicals.
- Plastics Industry: This material is used as a processing aid and lubricant in the production of polyolefin resins and other plastics to improve flow properties and mold release.
- Paper Industry: LAB-based surfactants are used in the paper industry for wet-end additives to improve paper strength, water retention, and drainage properties during papermaking.
- Metalworking Fluids: LAB-derived surfactants are used in metalworking fluids as emulsifiers, corrosion inhibitors, and lubricants to enhance machining operations and protect metal surfaces.
- Construction Industry: LAB-derived surfactants are utilized in the construction industry for applications such as concrete admixtures, waterproofing agents, and mortar additives to improve workability and performance.
These are just a few examples of the diverse applications of this material across various industries, highlighting its importance as a versatile chemical intermediate in the manufacturing sector.
Storage Conditions for LAB
This material is a chemical compound with a wide range of applications in various industries, including the production of oils and industrial lubricants. Below are the storage conditions for this substance:
- Storage of this material should be in a cool environment.
- It should be stored in sealed containers.
- Contact with the skin and eyes may cause irritation; therefore, the use of safety goggles and personal protective equipment is recommended.
- Although linear alkyl benzene is not inherently flammable, it can ignite under certain conditions.
- Ensuring adequate ventilation in the working environment to reduce the concentration of vapors in the air is important.
Overall, it is essential to observe safety precautions when working with this material. In case of contact with the eyes, wearing protective goggles to prevent severe irritation is advisable. Additionally, using gloves specifically designed for chemical substances is useful to prevent skin irritation and inflammation from repeated contact. Ingestion of this substance can pose serious risks, including loss of consciousness, lung accumulation, and damage to the liver and kidneys. Inhaling thick vapors can damage the lungs, although breathing the liquid and its odor is harmless. Concerning LAB, the substance is susceptible to combustion when exposed to heat or sparks and should be extinguished using carbon dioxide gas capsules and fire extinguishing mats. Typically, LAB is transported in iso tanks and barrels and should be stored at temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius without packaging waste.
These guidelines are based on general knowledge of linear alkyl benzene and relevant safety standards. It is recommended to consult with occupational health and safety professionals to obtain guidelines that are precisely compatible with the specific conditions of your workplace.
Packaging for LAB
LAB is packaged for export in bulk, IBC (Intermediate Bulk Containers), and 220-liter plastic drums. Drums and closed containers are suitable for packaging these chemical substances. Typically, this substance is placed in drums weighing 220 or 230 kilograms. It is essential to use containers that prevent leakage, provide ventilation, and minimize substance evaporation. The containers should also be resistant to transportation damage. When storing these substances in warehouses, ensure the absence of flammable materials in the environment. LAB should be stored in dry, cool, and well-ventilated warehouses.
The packaging of linear alkyl benzene (LAB) depends on its destination and final use. When used as a raw material for petroleum products, it is typically stored in large tanks with standing storage containers and does not require special packaging. However, if LAB is used as a raw material or feedstock for other industries such as petrochemicals or chemicals, it may be presented in liquid form in large tanks or in large bags with suitable packaging. In any case, the packaging must comply with safety and environmental standards and prevent the possibility of blockage and leakage. It should also be noted that LAB is considered a hazardous substance, so packaging and transportation should comply with safety regulations and standards.
- Buy from a reputable and authorized supplier that holds necessary certifications and guarantees quality.
- Compare the prices of these materials in different markets and compare them with the global market price.
- Examine the sales conditions regarding quantity, delivery time, packaging, transportation methods, and payment terms.
- If you intend to import LAB from foreign countries, investigate customs and legal regulations and comply with export and import regulations.
- Contact Petro Nour Mehr Company to obtain the most suitable export price based on your conditions.
- After signing the contract, you can place your order.
- Secure and suitable payment methods according to customer preferences are provided by the company.
- Then, the loading stage is completed by selecting and introducing a transport company.
- Necessary documents for customs clearance at the destination city are also provided to customers by Petro Nour Mehr Company.