BIO-TERGE® AS-90 (Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate): High-Performance Foaming Surfactant for Personal Care & Cleaning Applications

BIO-TERGE® AS-90, a powdered form of Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, is a versatile, anionic surfactant known for its excellent foaming, wetting, and cleaning properties. With a high active matter of 88%, it’s suitable for a wide range of applications, from personal care products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers to household detergents and industrial cleaners. BIO-TERGE® AS-90 is sulfate-free and biodegradable, making it a popular choice for eco-friendly and sulfate-free formulations.

It offers mild cleansing, effective in both hard and soft water, and creates an instant, rich foam known as "flash foam." Its mild yet effective formulation makes it ideal for products targeting oily skin and hair, providing a thorough cleanse without harshness. With a pH of 9-10, this surfactant is suitable for bubble baths, syndet bars, and foaming cleansers but may need pH adjustment for sensitive applications.

This ingredient’s unique ability to emulsify light oils allows for flexible formulations with essential or fragrance oils without the need for additional solubilizers.

Key Features & Benefits of BIO-TERGE® AS-90

• High-Performance Foaming: Generates quick, stable foam, ideal for bubble baths, body washes, and hand soaps.
• Sulfate-Free: An eco-friendly, sulfate-free alternative to traditional surfactants.
• Mild Cleansing: Effectively removes sebum and impurities, suitable for oily skin and hair.
• Hard Water Tolerance: Performs well even in the presence of hard water minerals.
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for a wide range of personal care and household cleaning products.
• Oil Compatibility: Can incorporate up to 2-3% essential or fragrance oils without additional solubilizers.

Ingredients

• Common Name: BIO-TERGE® AS-90
• INCI Name: Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
• CAS No: 68439-57-6

Physical Characteristics

• Appearance: Coarse Powder
• Odor: Mild, soapy scent
• Solubility: Water-soluble (additional mixing required for complete dissolution)
• Source: Derived from Alpha Olefin Sulfonate
• Country of Origin: USA

Suggested Uses for BIO-TERGE® AS-90

• Shampoos: Adds mild, effective cleansing to formulations, especially for oily hair types.
• Body Washes & Shower Gels: Provides luxurious foam and gentle cleaning, making it perfect for sulfate-free and pH-balanced washes.
• Facial Cleansers: Ideal for oily or acne-prone skin, removing sebum gently without stripping.
• Solid Bubble Bars & Bath Bombs: Enhances foam and lather, creating a pleasant bath experience.
• Hand Soaps & Dish Detergents: Generates stable foam for effective cleaning in household applications.
• Industrial Cleaners: Useful in car washes, truck washes, and even as a firefighting foamer.

Recommended Usage

• Usage Rate: 10-20% in most personal care applications; can be used up to 15-20% for optimal foaming in solid bars or bubble bath products.
• Formulation Tips: BIO-TERGE® AS-90 should be added slowly and thoroughly mixed after the wet phase in formulations. To reduce potential irritation, combine with amphoteric surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine or anti-irritants such as Crothix or glycol distearate.

How to Use BIO-TERGE® AS-90 in Formulations

• Shampoo Bars & Syndet Bars: Use at a concentration of 10-20%. Combine with other surfactants or a thickener for better consistency.
• Liquid Body Washes: Use 5-15%, adjusting pH for gentler formulas. Dissolve at temperatures below 50°C to prevent irritation.
• Bubble Baths & Shaving Products: Add to formulations for an instant foam boost and a rich lather experience.
• Cleaning Solutions: Excellent as an emulsifier in formulations with essential oils, adding up to 2-3% light oils without additional solubilizers.

Storage Guidelines

• Storage: Store BIO-TERGE® AS-90 in a cool, dry, and airtight container, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keeping it at room temperature will maintain its stability and efficacy.

Safety Guidelines

• Safety: For external use only. As a powdered surfactant, wear a dust mask when handling to prevent inhalation. Avoid contact with eyes and ensure proper ventilation when working with this ingredient.