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Trimethyloctylammonium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
C11H26ClN
CAS number
5117-74-6
IUPAC name
trimethyl(octyl)ammonium;chloride
State
State

At room temperature, trimethyloctylammonium chloride can be found in a solid or liquid state depending on its crystallinity and formulation methods. It is often used in its liquid form in various applications such as phase-transfer catalysis.

Melting point (Celsius)
186.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
459.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
280.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
553.00
General information
Molecular weight
277.92g/mol
Molar mass
277.9190g/mol
Density
0.9150g/cm3
Appearence

Trimethyloctylammonium chloride is typically a colorless to pale yellow liquid or solid, depending on its purification and processing. It may appear as a waxy solid under certain conditions. The clarity of the compound can vary, but when in pure form, it is usually relatively clear without significant coloration.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trimethyl(octyl)ammonium Chloride

Trimethyl(octyl)ammonium chloride, often referred to as a quaternary ammonium salt, exhibits unique solubility characteristics primarily influenced by its structure. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Polar and Non-polar Interactions: Due to the presence of both a hydrophobic octyl chain and a hydrophilic ammonium group, trimethyl(octyl)ammonium chloride demonstrates amphiphilic behavior. This allows it to solubilize in various environments.
  • Solubility in Water: The compound is generally highly soluble in polar solvents like water, thanks to the ion-dipole interactions between the ammonium ion and water molecules.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: In contrast, it tends to have less solubility in non-polar solvents. However, its hydrophobic octyl tail can provide some degree of solubility in organic media.

The solubility properties of trimethyl(octyl)ammonium chloride make it particularly useful in applications such as surfactants and emulsifiers, where both solubilizing and dispersing capabilities are essential. As stated, "the balance of hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity is key to understanding solubility."
This compound's unique solubility profile is valuable in various chemical processes, making it a compound of interest for researchers and industries alike.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Trimethyl(octyl)ammonium Chloride

Trimethyl(octyl)ammonium chloride, often referred to as a quaternary ammonium compound, plays an essential role in various industrial and chemical applications. Here are some engaging insights:

  • Chemical Classification: This compound belongs to the category of quaternary ammonium salts, known for their unique properties and extensive usage.
  • Surfactant Properties: Trimethyl(octyl)ammonium chloride is primarily utilized as a surfactant, which means it can reduce surface tension between liquids. This property makes it valuable in many cleaning and emulsifying applications.
  • Biocidal Activity: Many quaternary ammonium compounds exhibit biocidal properties. Trimethyl(octyl)ammonium chloride is often employed in disinfectants, thanks to its effectiveness against a broad spectrum of microorganisms.
  • Phase Transfer Catalyst: This compound can act as a phase transfer catalyst, facilitating the transfer of reactants between immiscible phases, which is crucial in organic synthesis and reactions.
  • Applications in Pharmaceuticals: Trimethyl(octyl)ammonium chloride is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as an excipient, helping to improve the solubility and stability of several drug formulations.

In summary, trimethyl(octyl)ammonium chloride demonstrates a diverse range of features that highlight its significance in both industrial applications and scientific research. As a student or researcher, understanding such compounds enhances the appreciation for their multifaceted roles in chemistry and everyday life.

Synonyms
10108-86-8
Octyltrimethylammonium chloride
n-Octyltrimethylammonium Chloride
Trimethyloctylammonium chloride
N,N,N-Trimethyloctan-1-aminium chloride
trimethyl(octyl)azanium;chloride
Caprylyltrimethylammonium chloride
1-Octanaminium, N,N,N-trimethyl-, chloride
1-Octanaminium, N,N,N-trimethyl-, chloride (1:1)
N,N,N-TRIMETHYL-1-OCTANAMINIUM CHLORIDE
VU3D41H988
UNII-VU3D41H988
trimethyl(octyl)azanium chloride
Ammonium, trimethyloctyl-, chloride
CATIOGEN 08
SCHEMBL93736
octyltrimethyl ammonium chloride
CAPRYLYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE
DTXSID90905939
AQZSPJRLCJSOED-UHFFFAOYSA-M
Trimethyl-n-octylammonium Chloride
QTA 8111
MFCD00059977
AKOS024437442
CS-W015252
HY-W014536
AS-67707
DB-321331
N,N,N-Trimethyloctan-1-aminium (chloride)
O0178
F15452
Trimethyloctylammonium chloride, >=97.0% (AT)
Q27292020