Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS) Molecular Structure | Surfactant Chemistry #279112 (License: Personal Use)

This diagram illustrates ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS), an anionic surfactant composed of a 12-carbon alkyl chain (lauryl), an ethylene oxide linker, a sulfate group, and an ammonium ion as the counterion. The polar sulfate head provides hydrophilicity, while the long hydrocarbon tail enables lipid solubilization-key to its foaming and cleansing properties. ALS is commonly found in shampoos, body washes, and toothpastes due to its strong detergency.

Used in chemistry education, cosmetic formulation guides, and ingredient transparency pages for personal care brands. Matches user intent for understanding surfactant mechanisms, comparing ALS vs SLS, or verifying molecular composition for regulatory or formulation purposes.