Merck, 8.22050.1000, Sodium dodecyl sulfate

Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is a conventional anionic surfactant. An amphiphilic surfactant consists of polar hydrophilic head groups and non-polar hydrophobic tail groups. Surfactants are characterized by their ability to form micelles, i.e., their ability to self-aggregate above a critical micelle concentration (CMC). Due to its amphiphilic nature, the surfactant is used as a detergent in industries. They are useful for cleaning, wetting, dispersing, emulsifying, foaming, and antifoaming.