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Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H17SO4Na
CAS number
126-92-1
IUPAC name
sodium;2-ethylhexyl sulfate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is usually found as a liquid. It can be slightly viscous, and due to its nature as a surfactant, it is often dissolved in water to form solutions.

Melting point (Celsius)
0.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
0.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
272.37g/mol
Molar mass
272.3660g/mol
Density
1.0100g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is typically found as a pale yellow to amber, viscous liquid. It may be also available as a semi-solid form. The compound has a characteristic mild odor depending on the concentration and form in which it is used.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 2-Ethylhexyl Sulfate

Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate, often referred to in discussions of surfactants, exhibits intriguing solubility characteristics that are essential for its applications in various industrial processes. This compound is known for its anionic nature, which heavily influences its interaction with solvents.

Key Solubility Properties:

  • Soluble in water: Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is highly soluble in aqueous solutions due to its ionic structure, which allows it to interact effectively with water molecules.
  • Solubility in organic solvents: While it boasts excellent solubility in water, its solubility in organic solvents may vary significantly, often resulting in lower dissolution capabilities.
  • Temperature dependence: The solubility can also be affected by temperature; higher temperatures often enhance solubility, promoting greater interaction with the solvent.

In many applications, such as in detergents and emulsifiers, this solubility profile renders it particularly valuable, allowing for effective formulation and performance. However, it is noteworthy that, as with many surfactants, the specific conditions of concentration, temperature, and presence of other chemicals can also impact solubility dramatically.

Understanding the solubility of sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is crucial for optimizing its use in formulations, ensuring needed efficacy while preventing potential precipitation challenges in industrial settings.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 2-Ethylhexyl Sulfate

Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is a fascinating compound known for its versatile applications in both industrial and laboratory settings. Here are some key highlights:

  • Surfactant Properties: This compound serves as an effective anionic surfactant, making it useful in cleaning products and detergents. Its ability to reduce surface tension allows it to emulsify oils and fats.
  • Biological Applications: In the field of biochemistry, sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate is often utilized as a reagent in protein purification processes, particularly when studying membrane proteins.
  • Environmental Impact: As a surfactant, it is essential to monitor sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate in the environment, as excessive use can lead to potential ecotoxicological risks. Scientists assess its behavior in aquatic systems to ensure safety.
  • Analytical Chemistry: This compound is also employed in analytical chemistry for chromatography techniques. It assists in separating compounds during high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
  • Regulatory Status: Given its widespread use, sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate falls under regulatory scrutiny, with guidelines established for safe handling and usage to mitigate any health risks.

In summary, sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate stands out due to its multifunctionality, serving as both a practical compound in various scientific applications and a subject of environmental and safety considerations. Researchers continue to explore its properties and broaden its applications in different fields.