Synthetic Surfactants
Synthetic surfactants are surface-active agents produced through chemical synthesis processes, with molecular structures precisely engineered from petroleum derivatives or natural oils. Major categories include anionic (e.g., linear alkylbenzene sulfonates), cationic (e.g., quaternary ammonium salts), nonionic (e.g., fatty alcohol ethoxylates), and zwitterionic types (e.g., betaines). These surfactants feature well-defined chemical structures, consistent performance parameters, and controllable interfacial activity, effectively reducing surface tension to deliver exceptional emulsifying, dispersing, solubilizing, and foaming capabilities. They are extensively used in detergents, personal care products, textiles, coatings, and petroleum recovery industries. While some traditional variants pose environmental persistence concerns, modern green synthesis technologies have developed more biodegradable alternatives, offering significant advantages in cleaning efficiency and cost-effectiveness.