Process for the preparation of secondary alkyl sulfate-containing surfactant compositions

This invention relates to a process for preparing secondary alkyl sulfate-containing surface active compositions substantially free of unreacted organic matter and water, which process comprises: a) sulfating a reactant selected from the group consisting of a detergent range olefin having from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms, a detergent range alcohol having from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof, with a sulfating agent, b) neutralizing the product of step a) with a base dispersed in a non-surfactant carrier, c) saponifying the product of step b) , d) passing the product of step c) through a thin film evaporator to evaporate unreacted organic matter from said product and recovering a secondary alkyl sulfate-containing product.