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Triethanolamine stearate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C24H51NO4
CAS number
102-71-6
IUPAC name
octadecanoate;tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, triethanolamine stearate is typically found in a solid state. The compound is used widely in formulations where it can act as a surfactant and emulsifying agent, owing to its ability to connect oil and water phases. It is valued in the cosmetic and detergent industries for this property.

Melting point (Celsius)
34.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
307.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
266.67
Boiling point (Kelvin)
539.82
General information
Molecular weight
391.64g/mol
Molar mass
391.6430g/mol
Density
0.9700g/cm3
Appearence

Triethanolamine stearate is a white to off-white solid that can also present as a waxy material. It typically forms flaky solids or powder-like texture, often utilized in its solid form in various industrial and cosmetic applications. The compound is known for its surfactant properties.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Octadecanoate;Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium

The solubility of octadecanoate;tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium presents an interesting profile due to its unique structure, combining long-chain fatty acid characteristics with ammonium functionalities. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Hydrophobic Nature: The long octadecanoate tail is hydrophobic, which suggests limited solubility in water, as hydrophobic compounds tend to aggregate to minimize their exposure to aqueous environments.
  • Hydrophilic Ammonium Groups: The presence of tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium introduces hydrophilic characteristics, which may enhance solubility in polar solvents or potentially facilitate solubilization in water.
  • Potential for Amphiphilicity: This compound can be seen as amphiphilic, having both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, which may allow it to form micelles or other aggregates in solution, especially at different concentrations.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility can also be affected by temperature, where increased temperatures may enhance solubility due to increased molecular motion.

In summary, while octadecanoate;tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium may have limited solubility in water due to its long hydrophobic chain, the inclusion of ammonium groups provides a potential pathway for enhanced solubility in polar environments. Consequently, understanding the balance between its hydrophobic and hydrophilic components is essential for predicting its behavior in various solvents.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium Octadecanoate

Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium octadecanoate, often referred to as a quaternary ammonium compound, is an intriguing substance with various applications in the field of chemistry and beyond. Here are some fascinating insights:

  • Biocompatibility: This compound is known for its biocompatibility, making it suitable for various biomedical applications, including drug delivery systems and as a stabilizing agent in pharmaceutical formulations.
  • Surfactant Properties: As a quaternary ammonium salt, it possesses excellent surfactant characteristics. This means it can significantly lower surface tension, making it valuable in detergents and cleaning solutions.
  • Emulsification: It acts as an emulsifying agent, facilitating the mixing of oil and water. This property is crucial in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries where stable emulsions are required.
  • Antimicrobial Activity: Research has shown that compounds like tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium octadecanoate can exhibit antimicrobial properties, providing potential uses in disinfectants and preservatives.
  • Environmental Impact: Given the trend toward eco-friendliness, the biodegradability of such compounds is being studied to ensure they do not adversely affect aquatic ecosystems.

The compound’s unique architecture, characterized by the presence of both long-chain fatty acids (octadecanoate) and cationic ammonium groups, gives rise to its multifunctional roles. In the words of chemists, it is “a bridge between hydrophobic and hydrophilic environments,” showcasing the versatility of quaternary ammonium compounds in advancing technology and sustainable practices.

Whether utilized in scientific research or industrial applications, tris(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium octadecanoate represents the convergence of chemistry with practical solutions, elucidating how compounds can significantly impact our daily lives.

Synonyms
4568-28-9
TEA-Stearate
octadecanoate;tris(2-hydroxyethyl)azanium
DTXSID9026219
octadecanoic acid - 2,2',2''-nitrilotriethanol (1:1)
CCRIS 6278
Stearic acid, triethanolamine soap
Triethanolamine, stearic acid salt
EINECS 224-945-5
Octadecanoic acid, triethanolamine salt
UNII-1J6JM3JE61
DTXCID906219
EAA56828
Stearic acid, compound with 2,2',2''-nitrilotriethanol (1:1)
Tox21_200858
NCGC00248977-01
NCGC00258412-01
CAS-4568-28-9