Trimethylhexadecylammonium Chloride: A Comprehensive Overview
Trimethylhexadecylammonium chloride, also known as cetyltrimethylammonium chloride or CTAC, is a quaternary ammonium surfactant that is widely used in various industrial and cosmetic applications. It is commonly used as an emulsifier, conditioner, and preservative due to its excellent surface-active properties and antimicrobial activity. In this article, we will explore the properties, applications, and manufacturing of trimethylhexadecylammonium chloride.
Properties:
Trimethylhexadecylammonium chloride is a white to off-white powder with a characteristic odor. It is soluble in water and ethanol and insoluble in most organic solvents. The molecular formula of CTAC is C19H42ClN, and its molecular weight is 320.0 g/mol. CTAC has a cationic charge due to the presence of a quaternary ammonium group, which gives it excellent surfactant properties.
Applications:
Trimethylhexadecylammonium chloride is widely used in various industrial and cosmetic applications due to its excellent surfactant properties and antimicrobial activity. Some of the major applications of CTAC are:
1. Emulsifier: CTAC is commonly used as an emulsifier in various industries, such as personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food. It is used to stabilize emulsions, such as creams, lotions, and ointments, by reducing the surface tension between the oil and water phases.
2. Conditioner: CTAC is a popular ingredient in hair conditioners and shampoos due to its cationic charge, which helps to neutralize the negative charge of hair fibers. This results in smoother and softer hair that is easier to comb.
3. Preservative: CTAC has good antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is commonly used as a preservative in personal care and household products to prevent the growth of microorganisms.
4. Industrial applications: CTAC is used in various industrial applications, such as oil recovery, paper production, and textile processing. It is used as a wetting agent, dispersant, and antistatic agent in these industries.
Manufacturing:
Trimethylhexadecylammonium chloride is manufactured by the reaction of cetyl alcohol with dimethyl sulfate or methyl chloride in the presence of a base, such as sodium hydroxide. The reaction produces cetyltrimethylammonium hydroxide, which is then neutralized with hydrochloric acid to produce CTAC. The purification of CTAC involves recrystallization from water or ethanol.
INNO Specialty Chemicals is a leading manufacturer and supplier of trimethylhexadecylammonium chloride and other specialty chemicals from China. INNO offers a wide range of CTAC grades with different purity levels, particle sizes, and packaging options to meet the diverse needs of its customers.
Conclusion:
Trimethylhexadecylammonium chloride is a versatile and widely used quaternary ammonium surfactant that finds applications in various industrial and cosmetic applications. It is an effective emulsifier, conditioner, and preservative, and has good antimicrobial activity. The manufacturing of CTAC involves the reaction of cetyl alcohol with dimethyl sulfate or methyl chloride in the presence of a base, followed by neutralization with hydrochloric acid. INNO Specialty Chemicals is a leading manufacturer and supplier of CTAC from China, offering high-quality products and excellent customer service.
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