Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is an organic compound that acts as a surfactant, with a long hydrophobic tail and a negatively charged sulfate group. When SDS is added to a protein sample, it binds to the proteins in a specific manner, imparting a uniform negative charge to them. This characteristic is particularly important in the context of gel electrophoresis, where proteins need to be separated based on size rather than charge.
In addition to enhancing the lifespan of plastics, antioxidants can also improve processing characteristics. During manufacturing processes, such as extrusion and injection molding, the heat and shear forces can lead to the formation of free radicals in the polymer matrix. By incorporating antioxidant additives, manufacturers can minimize the degradation of plastics during production, thereby ensuring that the final products retain their desired properties.