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Sodium para-cumene sulfonate

  • Anionic surfactants
  • CAS 15763-76-5
  • IUPAC: Sodium 4-isopropylbenzenesulfonate

Sodium para-cumene sulfonate (CAS 15763-76-5) appears in 1 of the 1,812 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026). It is readily biodegradable.

Mild eye irritant at high concentrations per SDS ingredient classification (H319). No carcinogenicity, no reproductive toxicity, no respiratory sensitization. Widely used in commercial detergent and cleaning products.

Sodium para-cumene sulfonate (CAS 15763-76-5) is an anionic hydrotrope — a surfactant-related compound that improves the water solubility and phase stability of other anionic surfactants in concentrated liquid cleaning formulas. It is commonly paired with SLES and similar ethoxylated sulfate surfactants.

Biodegradability is confirmed by OECD 301B test data (60–100% biodegradation). The ingredient contributes to EU Detergent Regulation (EC 648/2004) compliance for ultimate biodegradability. At typical in-product concentrations (1–3%), it is below eye and skin irritation thresholds in use. No PFAS, no endocrine disruption concern, no Prop 65 listing.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
4/5
Purpose: Hydrotrope; improves solubility and stability of anionic surfactant systems in aqueous cleaning formulas

Common questions about Sodium para-cumene sulfonate

What is Sodium para-cumene sulfonate used for in car care?
Hydrotrope; improves solubility and stability of anionic surfactant systems in aqueous cleaning formulas
Is Sodium para-cumene sulfonate a VOC?
No. Sodium para-cumene sulfonate is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Sodium para-cumene sulfonate on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Sodium para-cumene sulfonate is not on California's Proposition 65 list.
Is Sodium para-cumene sulfonate biodegradable?
Yes. Sodium para-cumene sulfonate has a confirmed biodegradable profile.

1 product contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.