α-Olefin sulfonate

[1] The compounds contain a - mostly linear, primary - alkyl R and a monovalent cation M, preferably sodium.

[4][5] In addition to a longer hydrocarbon chain in which there must be at least one double bond (hence the name "olefin"), it has an anionic sulfonate headgroup with a sodium ion as a counterion.

[4] α-Olefin sulfonates with linear alkenyl radicals from C12 to C18 are used as anionic surfactants in various areas of application due to their pronounced foam formation[clarification needed] and foam stability (even with high water hardness), excellent fat-dissolving power and oil dissolving power as well as a favorable ecological profile and low aquatic toxicity and human toxicity.

[6][7] They are typically used in detergents and cleaning agents, for degreasing, in the emulsion polymerization, the conditioning of concrete and mortar as well as in the formulation of pesticides.

Some groups and sellers suggest that it is healthier, but this claim lacks evidence.