Sodium 4-dodecylbenzenesulfonate | Solubility of Things

Identification

Molecular formula

C₁₈H₂₉NaO₃S

CAS number

25155-30-0

IUPAC name

sodium;4-tetradecylbenzenesulfonate

State

At room temperature, sodium 4-tetradecylbenzenesulfonate is generally in a solid state. It is stable and assumed to be dry unless otherwise processed into a solution or mixture for formulations in industrial applications, especially in detergents and cleaners.

Melting point (Celsius)

300.00

Melting point (Kelvin)

573.15

Boiling point (Celsius)

400.00

Boiling point (Kelvin)

673.15

General information

Molecular weight

348.52g/mol

Molar mass

348.5190g/mol

Density

1.0600g/cm³

Appearence

Sodium 4-tetradecylbenzenesulfonate typically appears as a white to light yellowish powder. It may also be found as flakes or granules depending on its preparation and processing methods. The compound is often marketed as a surfactant and thus, might be distributed as a part of a formulated product where it can have various appearances depending on additional ingredients.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium 4-Tetradecylbenzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-tetradecylbenzenesulfonate, often abbreviated as NaTDBS, is a surfactant that exhibits interesting solubility characteristics. This compound is soluble in water which is a notable feature for surfactants, enabling it to reduce surface tension and stabilize emulsions. However, its solubility can be affected by several factors, including:

Concentration: As the concentration of NaTDBS increases, it can lead to the formation of micelles, which are aggregates that enhance its solubilization properties.
Temperature: Higher temperatures often improve the solubility of organic compounds like NaTDBS, allowing for better interaction with water molecules.
pH Levels: The solubility may also vary depending on the pH of the solution. Typically, surfactants perform better in neutral to slightly alkaline conditions.

Moreover, the hydrophobic tetradecyl chain contributes to its ability to solubilize non-polar compounds, whereas the sulfonate group ensures compatibility with polar solvents. In practice, this makes NaTDBS a valuable component in various applications, from detergents to pharmaceuticals.

In summary, the solubility of sodium 4-tetradecylbenzenesulfonate is a complex interplay of numerous factors that makes it an intriguing subject of study in the field of surfactants.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium 4-Tetradecylbenzenesulfonate

Sodium 4-tetradecylbenzenesulfonate, commonly abbreviated as STBS, is a fascinating compound with a variety of applications in both industrial and research settings. Here are some interesting insights about this compound:

Surfactant Properties: STBS is a type of surfactant, which means it has the ability to reduce surface tension between liquids. This makes it particularly useful in formulations for emulsions, detergents, and foaming agents.
Biocompatibility: This compound is often studied for its biocompatibility, making it a candidate for various biomedical applications, including drug delivery systems and bioengineering.
Self-Assembly: One of the intriguing features of STBS is its propensity for self-assembly. When dissolved in aqueous solutions, STBS can form micelles, which are important in various chemical and biological processes.
Environmental Consideration: Being a sulfonate, STBS also raises interest in environmental chemistry, particularly in how it behaves in aquatic systems and its potential impact on ecosystems.
Applications in Laboratories: In laboratory settings, STBS can be used as a stabilizer in biochemical assays, where it helps maintain the solubility of hydrophobic compounds.

This compound demonstrates how chemistry intersects with technology and nature, showcasing the versatility of synthetic compounds in solving real-world problems and expanding scientific understanding. As researchers continue to explore its properties, Sodium 4-tetradecylbenzenesulfonate remains a compound of significant interest.