Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate | Solubility of Things

Identification

Molecular formula

C₁₂H₂₅NaO₄S

CAS number

68585-34-2

IUPAC name

sodium;2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate

State

Liquid at room temperature, though it can also be found as a semi-solid paste depending on concentration.

Melting point (Celsius)

-5.00

Melting point (Kelvin)

268.15

Boiling point (Celsius)

100.00

Boiling point (Kelvin)

373.15

General information

Molecular weight

376.48g/mol

Molar mass

376.4840g/mol

Density

1.0500g/cm³

Appearence

Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) usually appears as a white to slightly yellow paste or liquid. It can also be found in powdered form. The concentration and physical form can make it look translucent or opaque.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 2-Dodecoxyethyl Sulfate

Sodium 2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate, anionic in nature due to its sulfate group, exhibits intriguing solubility properties that are essential for various applications. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

Water Solubility: This compound is generally soluble in water, owing to the presence of the hydrophilic sulfate ion, which facilitates interactions with water molecules.
Influence of Chain Length: The solubilizing ability can change with the length of the dodecyloxy chain; longer alkyl chains can result in lower solubility due to increased hydrophobic character.
Temperature Dependence: The solubility may also vary with temperature; as temperature increases, the solubility of many ionic surfactants tends to rise.
Organic Solvents: Sodium 2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate is likely to be less soluble in non-polar organic solvents, again, due to its polar sulfate group, which interacts more favorably with polar solvents like water.

In summary, sodium 2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate displays considerable solubility in polar environments, driven by its ionic structure. As noted, the balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics can influence its overall solubility profile.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 2-Dodecoxyethyl Sulfate

Sodium 2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate is a fascinating compound primarily utilized in the fields of biochemistry and material science. Here are some intriguing facts about this compound:

Surfactant Properties: This compound is known for its surfactant abilities, meaning it can reduce the surface tension between liquids or between a liquid and a solid. This property is essential in various applications, including detergents and emulsifiers.
Biological Role: Sodium 2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate can play a significant role in biological research. Its surfactant characteristics help in membrane studies, where it can disrupt lipid bilayers or interact with proteins, making it a valuable tool in exploring cell membrane dynamics.
Environmental Impact: As a synthetic surfactant, the environmental persistence of sodium 2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate is crucial to understand. The potential effects on aquatic life and its degradability have been subjects of evaluation in environmental chemistry.
Industrial Applications: Beyond its biological relevance, this compound is used in the formulation of coatings, plastics, and cosmetics, providing stability and enhancing the properties of these materials.
Research Importance: In laboratory settings, the compound serves as a reagent in various chemical reactions, catalyzing processes that might otherwise require more costly or complicated methods.

Overall, sodium 2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate is a versatile compound with a multitude of applications, highlighting its importance in both scientific research and industry. As one dives deeper into its properties and uses, it is evident that understanding such compounds unlocks the doors to innovations in chemistry and technology.