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Stearalkonium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
C21H46ClN
CAS number
122-19-0
IUPAC name
dimethyl(octadecyl)ammonium;chloride
State
State

At room temperature, stearalkonium chloride is typically a solid. It is often used in personal care products in solution form due to its solubility in water and alcohols.

Melting point (Celsius)
172.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
445.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
202.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
475.15
General information
Molecular weight
356.07g/mol
Molar mass
356.0650g/mol
Density
0.9785g/cm3
Appearence

Stearalkonium chloride typically appears as a white or off-white solid in its pure form. In commercial formulations, it may sometimes appear in liquid form due to its solubility and use in solutions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Dimethyl(octadecyl)ammonium Chloride

Dimethyl(octadecyl)ammonium chloride, often referred to as DMOAC, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics due to its unique structure. Understanding its solubility is crucial for applications in surfactants, emulsifiers, and various industrial processes.

Solubility in Water

DMOAC is known for its relatively low solubility in water. This limited solubility can be attributed to:

  • The long hydrocarbon tail (octadecyl) which increases hydrophobic interactions.
  • The ionic nature of the ammonium group that often requires a balancing hydrophilic component.
  • Temperature: Higher temperatures may enhance solubility slightly but it remains constrained.

Solubility in Organic Solvents

In contrast, DMOAC exhibits good solubility in various organic solvents, which include:

  • Alcohols (e.g., ethanol, methanol)
  • Chloroform
  • Acetone

This solubility pattern is advantageous for formulation into non-polar environments, making it suitable for diverse applications.

Notes on Behavior

When considering its solubility behavior:

  • DMOAC can form micelles in solution, particularly in higher concentrations, which can aid in solubilizing other compounds.
  • The surfactant properties make it effective in reducing surface tension, which is a key factor in its solubility dynamics.

In conclusion, while dimethyl(octadecyl)ammonium chloride's solubility is limited in water, its favorable dissolution in organic solvents highlights its versatility in different chemical applications. The study of its solubility further underscores the importance of molecular structure in determining solvation capabilities.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Dimethyl(octadecyl)ammonium Chloride

Dimethyl(octadecyl)ammonium chloride is a fascinating compound with a range of applications and characteristics that make it noteworthy in the field of chemistry. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Quaternary Ammonium Compound: This compound belongs to the class of quaternary ammonium compounds, which are known for their surfactant properties. These compounds can reduce surface tension and are often used in detergents and disinfectants.
  • Ammonium Ion Structure: The central ammonium ion is bonded to two methyl groups and a long-chain alkyl group (octadecyl), providing unique characteristics such as hydrophobicity and enhanced stability.
  • Applications: Dimethyl(octadecyl)ammonium chloride is commonly utilized in various industries, including:
    • As a biocide in water treatment.
    • In the formulation of cosmetics and personal care products due to its emulsifying properties.
    • As a modifier in the production of nanomaterials and polymers.
  • Biocompatibility: Owing to its long hydrocarbon chain, this compound exhibits a degree of biocompatibility, making it suitable for certain medical applications.
  • Environmental Impact: It is critical to note that while such compounds are useful, their environmental impact must always be assessed, as they can potentially affect aquatic life if not managed appropriately.

As with many other quaternary ammonium compounds, understanding the structural variation and its effects on functionality can lead to improved applications across various fields of science and technology. This compound exemplifies the balance between utility and environmental consideration.


Synonyms
SCHEMBL131468
dimethyl(octadecyl)azanium;chloride
octadecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride