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Cetyl Phosphate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C16H35O4P
CAS number
2624-91-1
IUPAC name
hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate
State
State

At room temperature, cetyl phosphate is a solid with a waxy consistency.

Melting point (Celsius)
80.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
353.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
300.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
573.15
General information
Molecular weight
320.45g/mol
Molar mass
320.4530g/mol
Density
1.0300g/cm3
Appearence

Cetyl phosphate appears as a white, waxy solid. It is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol and most organic solvents. The compound has a characteristic waxy texture.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hexadecyl Dihydrogen Phosphate

Hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate (C16H33O4P) is an intriguing compound when it comes to its solubility characteristics. Its solubility is primarily influenced by its long hydrocarbon chain and phosphate group, leading to a unique profile:

  • Solubility in Water: Hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate is generally considered poorly soluble in water due to the hydrophobic nature of the long alkyl chain. This hydrophobicity significantly reduces its ability to interact with polar solvent molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: Conversely, this compound exhibits a much higher solubility in non-polar organic solvents such as hexane or toluene. The alkyl tail allows for favorable interactions with similarly non-polar solvent molecules.
  • Emulsifying Properties: While its solubility in water is limited, hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate can function as an excellent emulsifier, making it valuable in formulations that require a mix of polar and non-polar components.

In summary, the solubility of hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate is a prime example of how molecular structure affects solvent interactions. As noted, "the longer the hydrocarbon chain, the less soluble it becomes in water," emphasizing its classification as an amphiphilic molecule with a preference for organic environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Hexadecyl Dihydrogen Phosphate

Hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate is a fascinating compound with a variety of applications and characteristics that make it particularly noteworthy in the fields of chemistry and materials science. Here are some intriguing aspects:

  • Chemical Structure: This compound is an organophosphate, boasting a long hydrophobic tail of sixteen carbon atoms (hexadecyl) which plays a crucial role in its amphiphilic nature.
  • Emulsifier: Hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate is often utilized as an emulsifying agent in various industrial applications. It helps to stabilize mixtures of oil and water, which is essential in formulations ranging from cosmetics to food products.
  • Surface Activity: Due to its molecular structure, this compound exhibits significant surface activity, making it effective in reducing surface tension. This property is vital for applications in detergents and surfactants.
  • Biocompatibility: Hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate is noted for its compatibility with biological systems. This quality makes it a subject of interest in biomedical applications, including drug delivery systems and tissue engineering.
  • Self-Assembly: In solution, it has the capability to form micelles and vesicles, structures that resemble cell membranes. These self-assembled systems are important for nanocarrier development in drug delivery.
  • Research and Development: Ongoing research is being conducted to explore its potential in green chemistry. Its applications in sustainable technologies highlight how chemical compounds can contribute positively to environmental goals.

In conclusion, hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate exemplifies how a single compound can bridge multiple disciplines—from industrial applications to biomedical innovations. Its unique properties emphasize the importance of chemical compounds in advancing technology and science.

Synonyms
Hexadecyl dihydrogen phosphate
CETYL PHOSPHATE
Hostaphat CC 100
cetyl dihydrogen phosphate
VT07D6X67O
MACKESTER CEP
CRODAFOS MCA
Phosphoric acid monohexadecyl ester
EINECS 222-581-1
1-Hexadecanol, 1-(dihydrogen phosphate)
DTXSID1045039
CETYL PHOSPHATE [INCI]
DTXCID9025039
3539-43-3
1-Hexadecanol, dihydrogen phosphate
monocetyl phosphate
UNII-VT07D6X67O
monocetylphosphoric acid
SCHEMBL63748
CHEMBL479322
DAA53943
DB-048793
NS00013446
Q27292009