Skip to main content

Bis-quaternary ammonium compound

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C28H54N2O3
CAS number
51229-78-8
IUPAC name
trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium
State
State

At room temperature, this compound is generally a liquid. However, depending on its specific formulation, it can also appear as a solid crystalline material due to its ionic nature and likely existence as a salt or in a formulated product.

Melting point (Celsius)
175.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
448.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
250.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
523.00
General information
Molecular weight
456.77g/mol
Molar mass
456.7650g/mol
Density
0.9000g/cm3
Appearence

Trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium, commonly seen as a component of surfactants and antimicrobial agents, typically appears as a light yellow viscous liquid. It may also be found as a crystalline solid, usually in a fine powdery form, depending on the specific formulation or salt form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium

The solubility of trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium (C28H54N2O3) is an intriguing subject due to its complex molecular structure. This quaternary ammonium compound exhibits distinct solubility characteristics that can be summarized as follows:

  • Polarity and Solubilization: The presence of multiple amine groups significantly enhances the compound's polarity, leading to increased interactions with polar solvents.
  • Water Solubility: While many quaternary ammonium compounds are known for their solubility in water, trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium is expected to have limited solubility. Its large hydrophobic hydrocarbon chains often resist full dissolution in aqueous solutions.
  • Organic Solvents: This compound demonstrates better solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone, which can accommodate its hydrophobic segments more effectively.
  • Concentration Factor: The solubility can be dependent on concentration; at high concentrations, solubility issues may arise, leading to precipitation.

In summary, while trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium displays some ability to interact with polar solvents through its ammonium groups, its overall water solubility remains limited, making it more compatible with organic solvents. This behavior is a classic example of the balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions in complex chemical structures.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium

Trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium is a fascinating compound that embodies the intriguing interface of organic chemistry and material science. This quaternary ammonium compound is known for its unique structure and a variety of applications.

Key Features

  • Cationic Nature: Due to its trimethylammonio group, this compound carries a positive charge, making it a cationic surfactant. This property imparts significant functional versatility in various applications.
  • Surfactant Properties: Its ability to lower the surface tension of liquids allows for its use in formulations, enhancing wetting and spreading. This makes it valuable in industries ranging from cosmetics to pharmaceuticals.
  • Biological Applications: Its structural characteristics are useful in drug delivery systems, where it can facilitate the transport of therapeutic agents across biological membranes.
  • Emulsifying Agent: The compound can function as an emulsifier, stabilizing mixtures of oil and water, crucial in many food and cosmetic formulations.
  • Research Interest: The intricate architecture of this molecule makes it a subject of interest in fields such as materials science and nanotechnology, where its interactions at the molecular level are explored.

As noted in research, "the versatility of quaternary ammonium compounds continues to bridge various domains, offering solutions in industrial and medical contexts." The ongoing study of this compound not only enhances practical applications but also contributes to our understanding of molecular interactions and behavior in solution.

In summary, Trimethyl-[4-[4-[4-(trimethylammonio)butoxy]phenoxy]butyl]ammonium showcases the intricate connections between chemical structure and functional properties, making it a compelling subject for continued exploration and application.