In 2010, about 13.1 million tonnes of surfactants were used globally, where 56% were anionic surfactants. Almost 49% of the surfactant produced was used in the household product category. Sulphonation plants which mainly produce anionic surfactants are scattered around the globe with capacities varying from 3000 to 50 000 t yr-1. It is estimated that at least 800 sulphonation plants are in operation worldwide. About 20% of the global production of 2 500 000 t yr-1 of sulphonated anionic surfactants is concentrated in the United States, Western Europe and Japan.

Main Research: Zulina Abd Maurad