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Didecyldimethylammonium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
C22H48N+
CAS number
7173-51-5
IUPAC name
6-[dimethyl(nonyl)ammonio]hexyl-dimethyl-nonyl-ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, didecyldimethylammonium chloride can exist as a solid or liquid depending on its formulation and concentration. In its pure state it's typically a solid, but in solutions, especially in commercial and industrial settings, it is in a liquid form due to its surfactant nature.

Melting point (Celsius)
-5.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
268.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
205.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
478.15
General information
Molecular weight
326.65g/mol
Molar mass
326.0680g/mol
Density
0.8850g/cm3
Appearence

Didecyldimethylammonium chloride typically appears as a light yellow liquid or a white solid when isolated. It is often in solution form for commercial applications due to its surfactant properties. As a liquid, it has a characteristic amine-like odor.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 6-[dimethyl(nonyl)ammonio]hexyl-dimethyl-nonyl-ammonium

The solubility of the compound 6-[dimethyl(nonyl)ammonio]hexyl-dimethyl-nonyl-ammonium can be particularly intriguing due to its unique structure and the presence of quaternary ammonium groups.

This compound's solubility is influenced by several factors:

  • Hydrophobic Chains: The presence of long hydrophobic nonyl chains typically decreases water solubility, as hydrophobic interactions tend to resist dissolution in polar solvents.
  • Ionic Nature: As a quaternary ammonium compound, it is likely to exhibit good solubility in polar organic solvents but may show limited solubility in water compared to smaller ammonium compounds.
  • Temperature Dependence: Solubility can vary with temperature, where higher temperatures might increase the solvent's capability to dissolve certain nonpolar substances.
  • pH Levels: The solubility may also be affected by the pH of the solution, which could potentially ionize the ammonium groups, helping to enhance solubility in aqueous environments.

In general, one could expect that while this compound may have limited solubility in water, it could readily dissolve in nonpolar solvents, making it valuable for various applications where phase separation is utilized. Therefore, understanding its solvability characteristics is crucial for its effective application in different chemical syntheses and formulations.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 6-[Dimethyl(nonyl)ammonio]hexyl-dimethyl-nonyl-ammonium

6-[Dimethyl(nonyl)ammonio]hexyl-dimethyl-nonyl-ammonium is a fascinating compound that showcases the versatility and complexity of ammonium surfactants. These surfactants play essential roles in various industrial and scientific applications due to their unique molecular structure and properties.

Historical Significance

This compound is part of a broader class of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), which have been used since the early 20th century. Their development marked a significant advancement in the field of chemistry, especially for applications in:

  • Antimicrobial agents: Many QACs possess antibacterial properties.
  • Emulsifiers: They are crucial in stabilizing emulsions in foods and cosmetics.
  • Disinfectants: Used in various cleaning products for their ability to break down dirt and kill germs.

Molecular Structure

The structure of this compound is particularly interesting due to the presence of:

  • Ammonium groups: The quaternary ammonium structure contributes to its surfactant properties.
  • Hydrophobic nonyl chains: These long hydrocarbon tails enhance its ability to interact with oils and non-polar substances.
  • Dimethyl groups: These contribute to the steric hindrance and overall stability of the molecule.

Applications

Due to its structure, 6-[Dimethyl(nonyl)ammonio]hexyl-dimethyl-nonyl-ammonium finds various applications in:

  • Cosmetic formulations: Utilized as a conditioning agent for skin and hair products.
  • Industrial cleaners: Effective in removing oils and greases from surfaces.
  • Biocidal formulations: Its antimicrobial properties make it useful for disinfecting surfaces.

Environmental Considerations

As with many synthetic compounds, there is ongoing research into the environmental impact of QACs like this one. Some important points to consider include:

  • Bioaccumulation: Studies are being conducted to assess how such compounds affect aquatic life.
  • Toxicity levels: Understanding the toxicity to human health and the environment is critical for safe use.

In conclusion, 6-[Dimethyl(nonyl)ammonio]hexyl-dimethyl-nonyl-ammonium exemplifies the intricate balance between chemical innovation and environmental responsibility. As scientists continue to explore its potential, this compound remains a key player in surfactant chemistry and industrial applications.