The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of a low viscosity alkyl toluene or alkyl xylene sulfonate.
Alkyl toluene and alkyl xylene sulfonates have utility as surfactants for use in enhanced oil recovery. However, these sulfonates are often highly viscous and therefore can be difficult to handle and transport except in highly dilute form. Since the selection of a particular surfactant which can be utilized in petroleum recovery techniques is based in part upon economic considerations, it would be advantageous to have a method for obtaining a low viscosity alkyl toluene or alkyl xylene sulfonate.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,957,671 describes a low viscosity detergent acid mix containing alkyl benzene sulfonic acid which is prepared by sulfonating alkyl benzene in the presence of benzoic acid.