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Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C18H29NaO3S
CAS number
25155-30-0
IUPAC name
sodium;4-(1-pentylheptyl)benzenesulfonate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate is commonly found in a light solid powder or gel-like liquid form. It may also be available as a paste or concentrated liquid, depending on its formulation and water content.

Melting point (Celsius)
-10.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
263.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
300.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
573.15
General information
Molecular weight
348.48g/mol
Molar mass
348.4810g/mol
Density
0.8627g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate typically appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid or a white to cream-colored powder. It may form a gel-like consistency when in its aqueous form. The compound is known for its high solubility in water, which results in a milky, foamy appearance when diluted.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 4-(1-pentylheptyl)benzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-(1-pentylheptyl)benzenesulfonate, a member of the sulfonate family, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics primarily due to its ionic nature and hydrophilic sulfonate group. Here are some key points about its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: This compound is typically highly soluble in water owing to the presence of the sodium ion and the sulfonate group, which readily interacts with water molecules.
  • Organic Solvents: While it is designed to be soluble in aqueous solutions, its solubility in organic solvents may be limited. As a result, it may be less effective in non-polar solvents.
  • Temperature Effects: The solubility may increase with temperature, which is a common trait for many ionic compounds.
  • Applications: The solubility profile plays a crucial role in its applications as a surfactant, where it can reduce surface tension in solutions.

Additionally, it is important to note that the long alkyl chain (1-pentylheptyl) contributes to the hydrophobic character of the molecule, which can influence its overall interaction with various solvents. This balance between the hydrophilic sulfonate and the hydrophobic alkyl tail makes sodium 4-(1-pentylheptyl)benzenesulfonate an intriguing compound in terms of solubility behavior.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 4-(1-Pentylheptyl)benzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-(1-pentylheptyl)benzenesulfonate, often abbreviated in the scientific community, is a fascinating compound particularly noted for its surfactant properties. Here are some intriguing aspects that make this compound worthy of attention:

  • Surfactant Properties: This compound acts as a surfactant, greatly enhancing the ability of liquids to spread and wet surfaces. Surfactants are crucial in various applications, from detergents to emulsifying agents in food and pharmaceuticals.
  • Applications: Due to its amphiphilic nature, it finds employment in diverse fields including:
    • Industrial cleaning
    • Cosmetics and personal care products
    • Food processing as an emulsifier
  • Structure and Function: The unique structure, featuring a long hydrophobic alkyl chain, allows it to interact with both oil and water, making it efficient in stabilizing emulsions.
  • Biocompatibility: Many studies have explored its compatibility with biological systems, highlighting potential uses in drug delivery systems due to its non-toxic nature.

In addition to its functional capabilities, researchers are also interested in the environmental impact of surfactants like sodium 4-(1-pentylheptyl)benzenesulfonate. Its biodegradability is a key focus, ensuring that it does not accumulate in ecosystems, which aligns with modern sustainability goals.

Overall, sodium 4-(1-pentylheptyl)benzenesulfonate stands out as a compound that brings practical benefits to numerous industries while also promising exciting avenues for future research and development.