Ethanesulfonic Acid, 2-(Methylamino)-, N-Coco Acyl Derivs., Sodium Salts belong to a group of substances built on a foundation of ethane sulfonic acid, modified by adding a methylamino group and a fatty acid chain known as coco acyl. This derivative, neutralized by sodium, forms a salt. Structurally, its chemical backbone features a sulfonic acid group linked to an ethane base, with methylamino and long-chain fatty acyl groups branching out from the core. These modifications offer unique properties that play important roles in different applications. Looking at its molecular structure, you find a blend of hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, which means it mixes comfortably with water and oils. The chemical formula varies by batch due to the natural variability of coconut fatty acid components, though the consistent aspect is the ethane sulfonic acid skeleton with the methylamino and long-chain coco-acyl attachments, typically ending with a sodium ion for stability and solubility.
This material appears in a range of forms. Some users encounter it as white or off-white flakes, while others receive it as a fine solid powder or small pearls. In industrial settings, suppliers can provide it as a viscous liquid or a crystalline solid, depending on the intended use. The density of solid forms sits around 1.0 to 1.2 grams per cubic centimeter, typical of many sulfonates, with solutions prepared at various concentrations depending on user requirements. It dissolves readily in water, forming a clear to slightly cloudy solution, and its surface-active properties stand out, making it a strong contender in detergents and personal care products. Each physical state, from liquid to solid, offers advantages in processing and blending with other raw materials. In my own experience mixing surfactant blends for small-batch soapmaking, these differences in physical form can make or break the process. Flakes combine smoothly with hot water, leaving fewer clumps than some powders, while liquids offer a reliable way to control concentration down to the milliliter.
Factoring in the variable nature of coco acyl groups, this class of sodium salts generally lands with a molecular weight range from about 350 up to 600 grams per mole, supporting both practical solubility in water and efficient performance as a surfactant. Commercial products hold sodium content in a tight range for consistency, and most manufacturers set minimum purity thresholds above 95% active material, minimizing unreacted raw materials and byproducts. Standard specifications look at moisture content, degree of neutralization, and absence of excess free fatty acids. Sensible storage and transport requirements direct users to keep these salts in sealed containers, away from direct moisture and heat sources, to bring shelf stability up to a year or more. I’ve seen firsthand how lapses in storage—especially letting containers sit open in humid warehouses—can cause clumping or even partial hydrolysis, which undermines product performance and increases waste.
The Harmonized System (HS) code applied to this compound falls under the sulfonates class, often categorized as 3402.13 or similar, marking it as an anionic surfactant or organic surface-active agent. Importers, exporters, and regulatory officers look to this code to determine correct duties, taxes, and paperwork. Chemically, Ethanesulfonic Acid, 2-(Methylamino)-, N-Coco Acyl Derivs., Sodium Salts are not inherently hazardous in consumer quantities, though they can cause skin or eye irritation—typical for surfactants, which disrupt cell membranes with ease. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) recommend wearing basic protective gear like gloves and goggles when handling powders or concentrated liquids. If dust is generated, especially in dry industrial settings, wearing a mask or using dust extraction reduces inhalation risk. No one wants to learn the hard way—much easier to suit up and avoid itching hands or watery eyes.
The performance of this class of sulfonic acid derivatives stands out in the detergent and cleaning sector. They break down dirt and oil through their balanced structure, allowing products to clean effectively without excessive foaming or residue. Beyond cleaning, this surfactant shines in personal care products. Shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers rely on this ingredient for its mildness compared to harsher anionic surfactants like SLS or SLES. Formulators value the ability to adjust viscosity, feel, and cleansing power in one ingredient. Some formulations even turn to the pearlized or crystalline grades to bring texture and a soft, pleasant look to gels and creams.
Handling these chemicals safely rests on well-known steps: proper labeling, use of personal protective equipment, and clear training for warehouse or plant staff. Most mishaps trace straight back to poor communication—a lesson I picked up after a spill at a supplier facility left employees scrambling to contain powder drift. Regular inspection of storage areas, along with routine inventory checks, keep this risk in check. On the environmental side, these coconut-based acyl derivatives typically show better biodegradability than surfactants built from petrochemical sources. Disposal as dilute solutions—provided local regulations approve—keeps aquatic toxicity low, and suppliers increasingly turn to sustainable sourcing for the coconut raw materials. By checking supplier certifications and demanding transparency in raw material sourcing, end customers can help nudge the industry toward greener practices without trading off on performance.
