Malays. J. Anal. Sci. Volume 29 Number 1 (2025): 1185

Research Article

Synthesis and characterization of methyl ester sulfonate surfactant based on used cooking oil as an active ingredient in laundry liquid detergent

Ilyani Yusmin, and Juliana Jumal^*

Industrial Chemical Technology Programme, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, 71800 Bandar Baru Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

^*Corresponding author: juliana.j@usim.edu.my

Received: 22 April 2024; Revised: 12 November 2024; Accepted: 18 November 2024; Published: 5 February 2025

Abstract

This study presents a sustainable approach to detergent formulation by utilizing used cooking oil (UCO) as a feedstock for methyl ester sulfonate (MES) surfactant synthesis. The MES was produced through a multi-step process involving purification, transesterification, and sulfonation, with optimized conditions identified for each stage. ZnO nanoparticles were incorporated to enhance cleaning performance, while carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) was added to improve stability. However, the study revealed a potential trade-off between zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle stability and MES concentration. This research demonstrates the potential of MES-based detergents as an eco-friendly alternative, highlighting the significance of further optimization to maximize performance and sustainability. Notably, this study provides a comprehensive approach, including the synthesis of the potassium hydroxide (KOH) catalyst used in transesterification, offering a complete and sustainable solution.

Keywords: nanofluid detergent, methyl ester sulfonate, eco-friendly detergent, transesterifications, anionic surfactant

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