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DODAC (Dioctadecyldimethylammonium chloride)

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Identification
Molecular formula
C38H80NO4Cl
CAS number
1649-13-4
IUPAC name
(2-dodecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-[6-[(2-dodecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonio]hexyl]-dimethyl-ammonium
State
State

Solid at room temperature. It is typically used in flake or powdered form and can absorb moisture from the air, exhibiting hygroscopic properties. Solubility in water is limited due to its long hydrocarbon chains, but it is readily soluble in organic solvents.

Melting point (Celsius)
50.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
323.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
420.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
693.15
General information
Molecular weight
761.40g/mol
Molar mass
761.4000g/mol
Density
1.0000g/cm3
Appearence

DODAC is a colorless to pale yellow solid. It often appears as a waxy or crystalline substance at room temperature. The compound has a greasy feel, resembling common surfactants and detergents. Due to its surfactant nature, it can form emulsions when mixed with water, leading to its use in various formulations.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (2-dodecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-[6-[(2-dodecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonio]hexyl]-dimethyl-ammonium

The solubility characteristics of the compound (2-dodecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-[6-[(2-dodecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonio]hexyl]-dimethyl-ammonium are influenced by several factors due to its complex structure, which includes both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions.

Key Factors Influencing Solubility:

  • Hydrophobic Chain: The presence of long hydrophobic dodecyl chains tends to lower the solubility in polar solvents, such as water.
  • Ammonium Groups: The dimethyl-ammonium groups may enhance solubility in polar solvents owing to their ionic nature, which promotes interaction with water molecules.
  • Temperature: Increased temperature usually facilitates solubility, allowing the compound to dissolve more readily in solvents, especially if the solvent's temperature is also elevated.
  • pH Levels: The solubility can be affected by pH, as the ammonium moiety may be more soluble in basic conditions where it remains protonated.

In general, the competing hydrophobic and hydrophilic characteristics create an intriguing solubility profile where the compound may be:

  1. Partially soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol or acetone.
  2. Less soluble in water, likely requiring specific conditions or concentration adjustments to enhance solubility.

As a result, understanding the solubility of this compound is crucial for applications in different fields such as pharmaceuticals and materials science, where specific solubility properties dictate its behavior in various environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (2-dodecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-[6-[(2-dodecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonio]hexyl]-dimethyl-ammonium

This compound is a fascinating example of a quaternary ammonium compound, commonly known for its surfactant and antibacterial properties. The presence of long-chain alkyl groups, such as dodecyl, contributes significantly to its surfactant capabilities, making it highly effective in reducing surface tension.

Key Characteristics:

  • Quaternary Structure: The compound features quaternary ammonium groups, which are known for their ability to interact with biological membranes, presenting potential applications in drug delivery systems.
  • Amphiphilic Nature: Its structure imparts amphiphilicity, allowing it to interact with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances, which is particularly beneficial in emulsion stabilization.
  • Cationic Activity: As a cationic surfactant, this compound exhibits antimicrobial properties, making it useful in formulations aimed at disinfection and antibacterial applications.

The synthesis of such compounds often involves complex organic reactions; thus, it serves as an excellent case study in advanced organic chemistry and synthetic methodologies. “The beauty of organic chemistry lies in the diversity of compounds and their potential applications,” as one might say in a lecture on chemical synthesis.

Applications:

  • Cosmetic formulations: Enhancing stability and providing conditioning properties.
  • Textile industry: Used in the treatment of fabrics for their antimicrobial properties.
  • Biomedical applications: Potential use in drug delivery mechanisms due to their membrane interaction.

Overall, this compound stands as a testament to the intricate relationship between chemical structure and function, indicative of the countless possibilities within the field of chemistry.