The results of studies of the properties of lignosulfonates of various molecular weight and functional composition are given. The oxidation of lignosulfonates with oxygen in an autoclave was found to be accompanied by a decrease in the hydroxyl groups number and an increase in the carbonyl groups number in the products. Under the rigid conditions, lignosulfonates undergo the chemical destruction to form the low-weight carboxy-derivatives. Surface activity of the lignosulfonates is consistent with the features of their composition, depending on the extent of the oxidation-reduction reactions.