Sodium cumene sulfonate 40 is a white, hygroscopic powder, characterized by its high solubility in water. Its chemical structure consists of a cumene ring, which contributes to its hydrophobic properties, while the sulfonate group imparts hydrophilicity. This dual nature allows it to function effectively as a surfactant, enabling the compound to reduce surface tension between different phases, such as oil and water, making it useful in emulsification and wetting applications.