Characteristics of S-acid and its derivatives, as biosurfactants, were investigated. Sodium salt of S-acid(S-lNa) effectively decreased the surface tension to near 30 dyne/cm and showed superior dispersing ability than commercial surfactants such as SDS and Tween 80. The emulsion made by S-lNa could be maintained even with increased concentration of calcium ion. Also the penetratlng ability of S-lNa was observed as effective as that of LAS. All derivatives of S-acid were degraded by microorganisms much faster than conventional surfactants. Among the derivatives, S-3Na prevented rust formation as effectively as commercial anti-rust agents did.