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Benzalkonium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H38ClN
CAS number
8001-54-5
IUPAC name
benzyl-dimethyl-(2-phenoxyethyl)ammonium;chloride
State
State

At room temperature, benzalkonium chloride typically exists as a solid. It is commonly used in aqueous solution forms (20-50%).

Melting point (Celsius)
50.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
323.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
160.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
433.15
General information
Molecular weight
282.81g/mol
Molar mass
282.8070g/mol
Density
1.0300g/cm3
Appearence

Benzalkonium chloride is typically a white or colorless solid at room temperature, though it can also appear as a gel. It is an odorless and stable compound often encountered in a variety of personal care and household products.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Benzyl-Dimethyl-(2-phenoxyethyl)ammonium Chloride

Benzyl-dimethyl-(2-phenoxyethyl)ammonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound that exhibits a unique solubility profile influenced by its molecular structure. As a general rule, quaternary ammonium salts tend to be soluble in polar solvents due to their ionic nature and ability to interact favorably with solvent molecules.

Key points regarding the solubility of this compound include:

  • Polar Solvent Solubility: It is likely to be soluble in water and alcohols due to its polar functional groups.
  • Influence of Chain Length: The presence of the phenoxyethyl chain may enhance lipophilicity slightly, potentially affecting solubility in non-polar solvents.
  • Temperature Dependency: Solubility may increase with temperature, which is common for many salts.

Overall, the solubility of benzyl-dimethyl-(2-phenoxyethyl)ammonium chloride is expected to be favorable in a range of environments where polar solvents are present. As always, it is essential to conduct empirical tests to ascertain specific solubility limits under varying conditions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Benzyl-Dimethyl-(2-Phenoxyethyl)ammonium Chloride

Benzyl-Dimethyl-(2-Phenoxyethyl)ammonium chloride, often referred to in the scientific community by its systematic name, is a fascinating compound with various applications and characteristics that make it significant in both research and industrial contexts.

Key Applications

  • Antimicrobial Activity: This compound exhibits notable antimicrobial properties, making it useful in various formulations aimed at reducing microbial growth.
  • Biocidal Agent: It is employed as a biocidal agent in products such as disinfectants and preservative formulations, helping to extend the shelf life of products.
  • Surfactant Properties: Its structure allows it to serve as an effective surfactant, promoting emulsification and stabilizing formulations.

Chemical Structure Insights

The structure of benzyl-dimethyl-(2-phenoxyethyl)ammonium chloride is quite intriguing:

  • The presence of the phenoxyethyl group contributes to its hydrophobic characteristics, enhancing its ability to penetrate cell membranes.
  • Its quaternary ammonium structure gives this compound cationic properties, which are crucial for its effectiveness as a surfactant and antimicrobial agent.

Safety and Handling

As with many chemical compounds, safety is a priority:

  • Proper handling procedures should be adhered to, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Understanding the compound’s toxicological profile helps ensure safe usage in both laboratory and industrial settings.

Research Focus

Ongoing research into benzyl-dimethyl-(2-phenoxyethyl)ammonium chloride continues to unveil its potential:

  • Studies are exploring its behavior in biological systems, seeking to understand its efficacy and mechanisms of action.
  • Additional research aims to explore new formulations that could optimize its performance in various applications.

In conclusion, benzyl-dimethyl-(2-phenoxyethyl)ammonium chloride is a compound that embodies the intersection of chemistry and practical application, showcasing the versatility and importance of quaternary ammonium compounds in modern science.

Synonyms
Bephenium chloride
Benzyldimethyl(2-phenoxyethyl)ammonium chloride
13928-81-9
N-Benzyl-N,N-dimethyl-2-phenoxyethan-1-aminium chloride
benzyl-dimethyl-(2-phenoxyethyl)azanium;chloride
B.W.300C55
N-Benzyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-2-phenoxyethylammonium chloride
AMMONIUM, BENZYLDIMETHYL(2-PHENOXYETHYL)-, CHLORIDE
starbld0015477
Benzenemethanaminium, N,N-dimethyl-N-(2-phenoxyethyl)-, chloride
SCHEMBL9118297
DTXSID00930419