| abstract |
Compositions containing surfactant compounds according to formula (I)n nROCH 2 CH(OH)CR 1 R 2 ZCR 1 R 2 CH(OH)CH 2 OR (I),n nwherein Z is S, SO, or SO 2 , can have a range of equilibrium and/or dynamic surface tensions and a range of foaming performance attributes, depending upon the particular values of Z, R, R 1 , and R 2 . The compounds of formula (I) may be prepared by a process that includes reaction of a sulfide source such as a metal sulfide or bisulfide with an alkyl glycidyl ether. The compounds may be useful in any of a broad range of applications requiring the use of a surfactant. |