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Hexadecylphosphocholine

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Identification
Molecular formula
C40H84Cl2NO4
CAS number
290304-44-4
IUPAC name
(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-[6-[(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonio]hexyl]-dimethyl-ammonium;dichloride
State
State

In its pure form at room temperature, Hexadecylphosphocholine is typically a solid state compound. However, due to its surfactant properties, it can be found in a liquid crystalline state when in colloidal dispersions or formulations.

Melting point (Celsius)
240.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
513.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
420.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
693.15
General information
Molecular weight
579.52g/mol
Molar mass
579.5220g/mol
Density
1.0100g/cm3
Appearence

The compound is typically a white or off-white solid. It may appear as a crystalline powder, highly hygroscopic in nature, meaning it can absorb moisture from the environment easily. Due to its polar and lipoidal properties, it can form colloidal solutions in water and other solvents.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of (2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-[6-[(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonio]hexyl]-dimethyl-ammonium;dichloride

The solubility of the compound (2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-[6-[(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonio]hexyl]-dimethyl-ammonium;dichloride can be influenced by several factors, primarily due to its complex structure. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Components: The presence of long hexadecyl chains indicates a significant hydrophobic nature, while the dimethyl ammonium and chloride ions contribute to its hydrophilic characteristics.
  • Solvent Interaction: This compound may exhibit variable solubility in water. It is likely to be more soluble in organic solvents such as alcohols or acetone, where the hydrophobic tails interact favorably.
  • Temperature Dependency: Solubility can also change with temperature. Generally, an increase in temperature increases solubility for many organic compounds.
  • Ionic Strength: The presence of chloride ions in the structure can enhance solubility in ionic solutions where positive ammonium ions can stabilize interactions.

In conclusion, the solubility of this compound may be characterized as complex and highly dependent on environmental factors. It showcases the balance between its hydrophobic and hydrophilic segments, making it important to consider the specific conditions when assessing its solubility.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about (2-Hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-[6-[(2-hexadecoxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-dimethyl-ammonio]hexyl]-dimethyl-ammonium; Dichloride

This fascinating compound, a member of the class of quaternary ammonium compounds, presents a unique structure that makes it particularly interesting in various scientific applications. Let's explore some intriguing aspects:

  • Quaternary Ammonium Compound: As a quaternary ammonium salt, this compound embodies properties that are beneficial in antiseptic and disinfectant formulations, showcasing its utility in health care.
  • Biological Significance: Its cationic nature ensures it interacts effectively with negatively charged biological membranes, which is a crucial feature for drug delivery systems, enhancing bioavailability.
  • Surface Activity: Due to its surfactant properties, this compound is often utilized in formulations that require lowering the surface tension of liquids, making it attractive for various industrial applications.
  • Versatile Structure: The long hexadecyl chains impart hydrophobic characteristics, leading to interesting behaviors in both aqueous and organic environments, facilitating phase transfer capabilities.

Moreover, this compound's complex structure can serve as a foundation for synthesizing derivatives with modified functionalities, propelling research in areas such as nanotechnology and material sciences. Its role as a cationic surfactant also encourages innovation in enhancing drug formulations, demonstrating a cross-disciplinary significance.

In a nutshell, this compound embodies a blend of structural elegance and functional versatility, making it a subject of continued interest in both academic and industrial fields. As stated by chemists around the globe, “The best chemistry lies in the details – and this compound is certainly no exception!”

Synonyms
18277-83-3
Ammonium, hexamethylenebis((carboxymethyl)dimethyl-, dichloride, dihexadecyl ester
Hexamethylenebis((carboxymethyl)dimethylammonium), dichloride, dihexadecyl ester
1,6-Hexanediamine, N,N'-dicarboxymethyl-N,N'-dimethyl-, dimethochloride, dihexadecyl ester
DTXSID40939628
N~1~,N~6~-Bis[2-(hexadecyloxy)-2-oxoethyl]-N~1~,N~1~,N~6~,N~6~-tetramethylhexane-1,6-bis(aminium) dichloride