Sodium lignosulphonate is a water-soluble anionic polyelectrolyte polymer. It's derived as a by-product from the wood pulp production process specifically via sulfite pulping. Typically available in a loose powder form, it finds various applications.

In the food industry, it acts as a de-foaming agent for paper production and is a crucial component in adhesives intended for food contact. Its preservative qualities make it a valuable addition to animal feed. Moreover, its versatility extends to construction, ceramics, mineral powders, the chemical sector, textile industry (especially leather processing), metallurgy, the petroleum industry, refractory materials, rubber vulcanisation, and organic polymerisation.