Methyl ester sulphonates (MES) are anionic surfactants that had been extensively studied and formulated since 1950. MES type of anionic surfactants are used as the primary surfactants in powder and liquid laundry detergents as well as in dish washing liquids. MES can be produced from palm methyl ester which is subjected to sulphonation, bleaching, neutralisation, drying, flaking/needle and milling processes. The final product is in the form of flakes or the MES flakes grounded to powder. MES-based powder detergent is prepared either by mixing MES powder with builder-and-filler ingredients or by spray drying the MES slurry with builder-and-filler. 

Researcher: Zulina Abd Maurad
Email: zulina@mpob.gov.my