ASTM D3049-89(2024)

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the amount of synthetic anionic ingredient in a surfactant by direct titration with a standardized cationic reagent. The test method is a simple and convenient means for the quantitative estimation of the anionic material. The end point is detected by the transfer of a colored complex from an organic solvent phase to an aqueous phase. The colored complex is formed by the addition of a solution of dye to a solution of the anionic surfactant. This complex is soluble in the organic-solvent phase and insoluble in the aqueous phase. When this solution is titrated with a standardized solution of a cationic reagent, the dye is displaced from the colored complex and, being water-soluble, migrates to the aqueous phase. Therefore, a cationic titrating solution that has been standardized against a characterized anionic agent can be used to analyze for other anionics of known molecular mass.

1.2 This test method is applicable to alkylaryl sulfonates, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl sulfates and hydroxy-sulfates, alkylphenol- and fatty alcohol ethoxy-sulfates and dialkylsulfosuccinates. It applies to active materials containing one hydrophilic group per molecule.

1.3 The analytical procedures appear in the following order:

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. A precautionary statement appears in Section 7. Material Safety Data Sheets are available for reagents and materials. Review them for hazards prior to usage.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.