Dimethyldioctadecylammonium Bromide (CAS No. 3700-67-2) is a quaternary ammonium compound widely recognized for its unique surfactant properties. This compound plays a significant role in various industrial, pharmaceutical, and chemical research applications due to its amphiphilic structure, which allows it to act as a cationic surfactant, emulsifier, and phase transfer agent.
Chemical Name: Dimethyldioctadecylammonium Bromide
CAS Number: 3700-67-2
Molecular Formula: C₄₀H₈₄BrN
Molecular Weight: ~622.16 g/mol
Chemical Class: Quaternary ammonium compound
This compound features two long hydrocarbon chains attached to a positively charged ammonium center, paired with a bromide counterion. This structure gives it excellent surface activity and the ability to interact with various polar and non-polar substances.
Dimethyldioctadecylammonium Bromide exhibits properties that make it valuable in multiple applications:
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder
Solubility: Soluble in water and polar organic solvents
Stability: Chemically stable under standard conditions
Amphiphilic nature: Can reduce surface tension and form micelles
These properties make it effective as a surfactant, emulsifier, and chemical intermediate in industrial processes.
Due to its cationic nature, this compound is widely used in fabric softeners, detergents, and antistatic agents. Its positive charge allows it to interact with negatively charged surfaces, providing lubrication and reducing static build-up.
It serves as a phase transfer agent in organic synthesis, facilitating reactions between immiscible liquids. This improves reaction efficiency and yield in industrial and laboratory chemical processes.
In pharmaceutical research, it is used as a reagent in the preparation of liposomes and other delivery systems due to its ability to interact with biological membranes.
Dimethyldioctadecylammonium Bromide is employed in colloidal chemistry, micelle formation studies, and surface chemistry experiments. Its cationic properties make it ideal for studying interactions with anionic compounds.
As with most quaternary ammonium compounds, careful handling is required:
Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and heat
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles
Avoid inhalation or ingestion; handle in a well-ventilated area
Follow all instructions on the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Proper handling ensures safe and effective use in industrial and laboratory settings.
3700-67-2 (Dimethyldioctadecylammonium Bromide) is highly valued in industries that rely on surfactants, emulsifiers, and phase transfer catalysts. Its long hydrocarbon chains and cationic nature make it versatile for applications in textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and laboratory research.
Dimethyldioctadecylammonium Bromide is a multifunctional chemical with broad applications in industrial and research settings. From acting as a surfactant in textile and detergent industries to facilitating complex chemical reactions as a phase transfer catalyst, this compound is indispensable in modern chemical processes.
