| 摘要 |
2116666 9305013 PCTABS00020 A process for improving dark-colored sulf(on)ated surfactant compositions, and particularly alpha-sulfo fatty acid alkyl ester compositions, without the need for bleaching. The process comprises the steps of (1) forming a solution of a sulf(on)ated surfactant containing dark-colored impurities, in a suitable solvent and (2) separating the dark-colored impurities from the solution. Methyl ester sulfonates and methanol solvent are most preferred. Treatment of the solution with an adsorbent, preferably activated carbon, enhances separation of the dark impurities. The surfactant is thereafter recovered from the solution by known processes, for example, precipitation of the surfactant and/or evaporation of the solvent. After processing in accordance with the invention, the sulf(on)ated surfactant has improved color, odor, and physical properties.
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